Moments ago, the U.S. Senate voted to proceed with debate on a historic bipartisan infrastructure plan. The plan represents a major investment in America’s roads, bridges, water lines, ports, and internet connections. It is also one of the most significant climate policies ever, representing the largest investment in history in clean energy transmission and electric vehicle infrastructure.

In response, Rev. Mitchell C. Hescox, President and CEO of the Evangelical Environmental Network, released this statement:

“With its vote to proceed to debate, the U.S. Senate is on the cusp of passing the most consequential climate and environmental policy in a generation. As evangelical Christians who are pursuing a world where all our kids can breathe clean air, drink clean water, and rest in the sur inheritance of a safe and stable climate, we applaud the bipartisan group of Senators who have brought the bipartisan infrastructure plan to this point, and we urge all Senators to vote for its final passage.

“This package is no mere messaging bill. It delivers the goods. The $39 billion committed to updating our aging public transit system; the $55 billion earmarked to replace every lead service line in the country; the $71 billion investment in resilient, clean energy transmission; the $21 billion dedicated to cleaning up toxic pollution, reclaiming abandoned mines, and plugging orphaned gas wells, the $7.5 billion to build out a national network of electric vehicle charging stations; and the $5 billion to replace thousands of diesel-powered school buses with electric and low-emission buses all represent the largest federal investment in these programs in history. What’s more, these commitments are welcomed good news for the health of our kids, for frontline communities disproportionately harmed by fossil-fuel pollution, and for God’s creation.

“As people of good news, we applaud this historic investment in America’s kids and America’s future. Jesus once said that he came to give life and to give it abundantly (John 10:10). This infrastructure deal offers more abundant life to more Americans. And while we must continue to do even more to defend our children from the threats posed by a dangerously changing climate, this deal is a necessary start. We urge Senators to seize this moment to secure healthier air, cleaner water, and a brighter future for all by approving this historic bipartisan infrastructure deal.”