WASHINGTON, DC (July 16, 2014) – Today, President Obama announced several initiatives that will support state, local, and tribal leaders in preparing their communities for the impacts of climate change. The actions announced today include investments in the rural electricity infrastructure, funding to assist drought-affected communities and support that help communities build stronger and safer after disaster. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director Kim Glas:

“President Obama should be commended for taking action where Congress has failed. America’s infrastructure—like our stormwater systems and electric grid—is the first line of defense against natural disasters. Storm-related flooding and power outages can have serious impacts on communities and it makes sense to prioritize these investments. We can’t forget these are also the investments that can have a positive economic impact. For example, every $1 billion invested in water infrastructure is estimated to create more than 20,000 new jobs.

“Communities cannot and should not have to shoulder the burden of severe weather alone. This climate action plan is a product of the State, Local and Tribal Leaders Task Force on Climate Preparedness and will help communities better prepare for the worst impacts of climate change and become more resilient. We hope to see many more of these good ideas come from this important task force and more leadership like this from the president.”