Why HB5004 is Critical for Connecticut’s Future: A Call to Action for Legislators and Communities

Connecticut is at a crossroads. As climate impacts intensify and economic inequality deepens, HB5004 offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to tackle both — by creating good green jobs, lowering energy costs, and investing in communities most harmed by pollution. This bill is not just a climate bill — it’s a roadmap for a green economy that puts working people and frontline communities first.

In the face of increasing climate-related challenges, such as rising temperatures, severe flooding, and pollution, Connecticut must take bold action. The clean energy economy represents a massive opportunity — one that will not only safeguard our environment but also generate economic prosperity for years to come.

What HB5004 Will Do

HB5004 includes vital provisions to accelerate Connecticut’s transition to a clean energy future while supporting the communities that have historically shouldered the burden of environmental degradation without receiving the benefits of green solutions. The bill will:

     

      1. Create Jobs in Clean Energy: HB5004 will establish new job opportunities in the rapidly growing green energy sector, providing good-paying, union jobs for workers across the state. It will also create workforce development programs to ensure that workers transitioning from fossil-fuel industries are supported and empowered.

      1. Lower Energy Costs for Families and Businesses: The bill incentivizes energy efficiency investments, helping families and businesses reduce their energy bills. Additionally, it establishes an affordable heat pump program and updates efficiency standards for appliances and fixtures, leading to long-term cost savings.

      1. Invest in Environmental Justice: By addressing environmental concerns in historically disadvantaged communities, HB5004 ensures that those who have faced the brunt of pollution and climate change impacts will receive the resources and protection they need. The bill focuses on initiatives like solar canopies on public buildings and schools, creating sustainable energy solutions where they’re needed most.

      1. Promote Energy Independence: The bill expands in-state clean energy production, insulating Connecticut residents from the volatile prices of fossil fuels and building greater energy security.

    The Urgency of Passing HB5004

    Delaying climate action means delaying economic development. The clean energy transition is not only about combating climate change but also about strengthening Connecticut’s economy. HB5004 positions Connecticut as a leader in green innovation, creating jobs, improving public health, and promoting racial and economic equity in the process.

    Now is the time to act. Connecticut’s future prosperity depends on taking decisive steps toward a clean, sustainable, and inclusive economy — and HB5004 is a critical piece of that puzzle.

    How You Can Help: Contact Your Legislators

    This bill won’t pass without your voice. We urge all labor unions, environmental justice advocates, and community members to take immediate action. Contact your legislators today and ask them to vote YES on HB5004. Your support will help ensure that Connecticut leads the way in creating a just and sustainable future.

    Share the Message on Social Media
    We’ve also put together a social media toolkit to make it easy for you to share this message with your networks. By spreading the word, you’ll help amplify the call for bold climate action. Together, we can ensure that Connecticut becomes a leader in clean energy, good jobs, and environmental justice.

    Let’s work together to pass HB5004 — for our economy, our communities, and our future.

    #HB5004 #GreenJobs #CleanEnergy #ClimateAction #CTLeg #EnvironmentalJustice #UnionStrong #SustainableFuture #CTClimateAction

    sydney
    Author: sydney