SMART statement on Inflation Reduction Act anniversary

One year ago today, President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law, rewarding the efforts of the SMART members and union workers who pushed Congress to pass legislation that invested in America’s green energy economy.

“The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most important pieces of legislation passed in recent memory – both for the workers of today, and for future generations,” said SMART General President Michael Coleman. “Since the IRA was passed, clean energy projects have been announced or advanced in 44 states, creating more than 170,000 new jobs and putting SMART members to work in Nevada, Michigan, Ohio, North Carolina, Georgia and beyond.  

“In the wake of the tragic fires that have devastated Maui just this last week, we know that investing in America’s green energy economy and combatting climate catastrophe is more crucial than ever. SMART members have been working the jobs of our clean energy future for generations: cutting emissions by transporting passengers on public transit, maximizing energy efficiency in buildings, constructing manufacturing facilities using sustainable building practices, and ensuring the quality of the air we breathe. With the IRA’s emphasis on the crafts in which our members make their living – and our country’s much-needed focus on making sure future generations are able to live happily on a healthy planet – we look forward to building the economy of our nation’s future.”