It’s hard to believe that two years have passed since the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was enacted. This legislation has brought transformative changes to Colorado’s Eastern Plains, creating over 2,200 new jobs, particularly along the I-25 north corridor. These jobs are not just statistics; they represent real opportunities for families to secure their futures and strengthen our communities. Additionally, the IRA has driven more than $480 million in economic investment into our state, bolstering local economies and preserving our way of life.
As someone who grew up in the Great Plains of western Nebraska and now calls Fort Morgan home, I’ve seen the challenges faced by close-knit communities like ours. The IRA has brought renewed hope and energy, focusing on job creation, community building, and ensuring that our farms thrive. The clean energy projects it has sparked are game-changers, helping us save money, become more self-sufficient, and pave the way for sustainable farming for future generations.
Colorado is emerging as a leader in clean energy. Just this past July, the Colorado Energy Office and the Denver Regional Council of Governments secured $328 million in climate funding grants thanks to the IRA. This investment highlights our commitment to tackling climate change while ensuring that communities like ours are part of the clean energy movement. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency is providing $156 million to help low- and moderate-income families install rooftop solar. It’s clear that every Coloradan has a role to play in this transition.
The IRA’s clean-energy rebates are a fantastic opportunity for rural families. Whether upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or making home improvements, these rebates help us save money while protecting the environment. For northeastern Colorado, these benefits are particularly impactful, bringing positivity and opportunity to our communities.
Colorado’s story in Congress reflects two distinct approaches. Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo has been a dedicated advocate for clean energy manufacturing jobs, with the IRA, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act all contributing to job creation in her district. A prime example is the $22.3 million in federal funding she secured for Golden Aluminum in Fort Lupton. This funding, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the IRA, will boost sustainable aluminum production, reduce greenhouse gasses, save water, and create high-quality jobs in Weld County. Congresswoman Caraveo’s efforts remind us that environmental protection and economic growth can go hand in hand.
In contrast, Congresswoman Lauren Boebert has been vocal in her opposition to the IRA. Since voting against it two years ago, she has made her stance clear, opposing the positive changes it has brought to Colorado. Boebert has resisted funding that would improve infrastructure and expand rural broadband in places like Brush, Julesberg, Wray or Akron.
Recently, Boebert chose not to join over a dozen fellow Republicans in urging Speaker Mike Johnson to protect the clean energy tax credits established by the IRA. While some Republicans have their critiques of the IRA, they recognize that eliminating these credits could harm critical jobs for their districts. Without these credits, the billions already invested might not yield the expected benefits. Boebert seems to be overlooking the economic challenges that many businesses and hardworking individuals in her district and across Colorado are facing.
As we mark two years since the IRA’s debut, it’s clear that this legislation has been a game-changer for Colorado. It’s not just about lowering healthcare costs; it’s about creating well-paying jobs and positioning our state at the forefront of the clean energy movement. As we celebrate this milestone, let’s continue to support and build on the successes of the IRA.
Jarrod Munger is a resident of Fort Morgan.
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Publish date : 2024-09-11 01:44:00
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