The Senate Environment & Public Works Committee passed the Clean Energy Jobs & American Power Act yesterday on an 11-1 vote. Committee Republicans boycotted the vote, but even if all had voted against it, the bill would've passed comfortably. Even the one Democrat who voted against the bill, Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT), went out of his way to emphasize he hoped to vote for a final bill when the full Senate considers it.

Here's how National Wildlife Federation Senior VP Jeremy Symons reacted to the vote:

The bill’s success in committee today, combined with yesterday’s announcement by Senators Graham, Kerry and Lieberman of plans for a bipartisan bill, add up to a big boost for action in the Senate. A month ahead of the global climate talks in Copenhagen next month, Senators have sent a signal to the President and the nations of the world that Congress is getting closer to the finish line.

The National Wildlife Federation thanks Sen. Boxer for her unwavering leadership and the bill’s supporters for their commitment to clean energy jobs, energy security, and protecting America’s natural resources for our children and grandchildren. It’s unfortunate Senator Inhofe kept his team on the bench for today’s markup, proving once again he’s the oil industry’s biggest ally in Congress. But the focus now shifts to Senators Graham, Kerry and Lieberman as they work to deliver bipartisan clean energy and climate solutions.

Learn more about the Clean Energy Jobs & American Power Act in NWF's Climate Action Center!