“The Chicago Climate Exchange appreciates the hard work put in by Chairmen Waxman, Markey, Peterson and others to pass this important legislation. This bill is a great first step for creating green jobs, reducing carbon emissions and securing America’s energy independence. It recognizes the valuable role a market mechanism can play in achieving emissions reduction goals at least cost to consumers.

“As the process moves forward CCX stands ready to provide input based on the insights gained through years of practical experience built by CCX’s diverse group of industrial, governmental, academic and nonprofit members, verifiers, and expert advisors. The thousands of individuals who have been implementing rules-based carbon audits, reduction and trading in CCX since 2003 offer a national resource that can help assure successful policy and American leadership.”