It’s time to turn a new leaf. In America today, we are on the cusp of a major paradigm shift encompassing how we think about the environment, the economy and the way that these important areas of our lives interact. In the clean energy, carbon-constrained future, economic stability and job stability will grow together as we change the way we use and make energy.

In Pennsylvania, there are two critical pieces of legislation currently in the state Senate that are essential to us making the shift. Special Energy Session House Bill 1 (SHB1, the clean energy funding bill) and House Bill 2200 (the energy savings bill) will position Pennsylvania as a leader in the field of renewable energy development, at the same time spurring thousands of new family-sustaining jobs.

To inspire this change, PennFuture has launched our Campaign for Great Green Jobs this week, together with dozens of businesses, community groups, faith-based organizations, and environmental/conservation groups. Passing this legislation as soon as possible will not only enable Pennsylvanians to begin to reap the energy savings benefits such as lower electricity bills, rebates for energy efficient appliances, and grants for solar energy, it will enable the Commonwealth to compete with neighboring states for thousands of outstanding new jobs. And it will begin to significantly curb our state's massive contribution to the crisis of global warming.

Citizen action is essential. Contact your state senator today, and tell them that you want a “yes� vote on both SSHB1 and HB2200. Passing House Bill 2200 and Special Session House Bill 1 by the Senate would be a one-two punch against an economy sliding into recession, skyrocketing fuel prices and pollution.

Listen in to this week’s podcast, as John Hanger discusses the importance of the green economy and Pennsylvania’s clean energy future. PennFuture knows that a thriving economy depends on a healthy environment and healthy communities. Help us achieve this mission by joining us as a PennFuture member. Membership with PennFuture offers the opportunity to become a part of the solution to the challenges Pennsylvania is facing. Your voice counts: let it be heard loud and clear.