WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Biden-Harris Administration Celebrates Two Years of the Inflation Reduction Act
Two years ago today, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act, with Vice President Harris casting the tie-breaking vote in Congress. The Inflation Reduction Act makes the largest investment in climate and clean energy in world history, lowers costs for millions of Americans, and is already creating more than 330,000 good-paying jobs. The law is a key part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda, which has driven the fastest and most equitable recovery on record – creating good-paying jobs, expanding opportunity, and lowering costs in every corner of the country.
Leaders and organizations from across the country praised the progress that has been made in the past two years of implementing the Inflation Reduction Act:
Members of Congress
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY): "2 years ago today
The Inflation Reduction Act I proudly delivered in the Senate became law with @POTUS's signature!
We're celebrating this major investment in good-paying jobs, in the middle class, in reviving manufacturing, in bringing down costs, in a greener & cleaner future." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"With the Inflation Reduction Act we delivered 2 years ago—we took on Big Pharma & won!
Gave Medicare power to negotiate lower Rx prices
Capped seniors' drug costs at $2k/yr
Capped insulin at $35/mo for Medicare
Made vaccines free for seniors
And we're working for more!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"With the Inflation Reduction Act that became law 2 years ago today:
We delivered the boldest climate package in US history—working to fight the climate crisis, bring manufacturing back to America, create hundreds of thousands of clean, good-paying jobs, and improve public health." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"Today marks two years of the Inflation Reduction Act delivering for New York!
In climate and clean energy alone, it's brought $115 billion in investment and almost 30,000 good-paying jobs!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL): "Two years ago, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law. It's the largest investment to combat the climate crises and gave Medicare the power to negotiate drug prices, saving billions. In two years, Americans have seen lower health care costs, more jobs, & cleaner power." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Tom Carper (D-DE): "The Inflation Reduction Act is delivering a brighter future for our planet, for Delaware and for our nation. Today, let's celebrate two years of this transformational law and recommit to the work ahead in the fight against climate change." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA): "Today, we're celebrating two years since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law by the Biden-Harris Administration, which:
Brought inflation down
Lowered healthcare costs
Created good-paying jobs
Invested in clean energy projects
We're just getting started!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI): "Two years ago, Democrats took on Big Pharma and passed the Inflation Reduction Act.
Today, Americans are seeing real savings:
$35 insulin for seniors
$35 inhalers for asthma
$2,000 a year cap on prescription drugs for seniors in 2025 and beyond
And we're not done yet!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"When we passed the Inflation Reduction Act two years ago, Democrats made the largest investment in history to tackle the climate crisis. We don't have to choose between protecting our planet and creating jobs – we're doing both thanks to this legislation!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD): "Two years ago, we changed the course of history.
The IRA has made it easier for American families to afford health insurance coverage and prescription drugs, while lowering energy costs and boosting job creation in the growing clean energy sector.
And we're still not done." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH): "Two years since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, New Hampshire continues to see benefits." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Mark Warner (D-VA): "Today marks two years of the Inflation Reduction Act – a seismic law that invested in job creation and domestic energy production. Just this week, we watched as it made progress to lower prices for 10 critical drugs…but there's a lot more to come." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR): "The historic investments in the Inflation Reduction Act have made a difference in Oregon over the past two years! Our school districts are rolling out electric buses, our freight companies are plugging in more electric trucks, and we're making progress on our climate goals." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Chris Coons (D-DE): "Two years ago, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This transformative law will stand as one of the most important pieces of @POTUS' legacy." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI): "It's been two years since our Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law! Today, I'm celebrating:
Lower prescription drug costs
Capping the cost of insulin
Growing our Made in WI economy." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA): "Today's the anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act! This historic law:
Lowered the cost of prescription drugs
Took monumental action on climate change
Accelerated our transition to clean energy
Created good-paying jobs in Virginia
I'm proud to have voted for it." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"Happy birthday to the Inflation Reduction Act! The IRA has lowered health care costs, capped insulin prices, and created clean energy jobs in VA. It also allowed Medicare to negotiate drug prices, which will save Americans billions. I was proud to cast a deciding vote for it." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL): "Two years ago, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law—delivering lower prescription drug costs, creating clean energy jobs and helping ensure the ultra-wealthy pay their fair share in taxes.
Every single Republican in Congress voted against it." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV): "It's been TWO YEARS since the Inflation Reduction Act became law!
Thanks to this historic legislation I proudly helped pass, we're lowering prescription drug costs for Nevada seniors & making HISTORIC investments in clean energy in Nevada – creating good-paying jobs." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Tina Smith (D-MN): "Just today we announced 86 clean energy projects across Minnesota thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration and the work we put in two years ago." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
"Clean energy tech is being installed across rural Minnesota thanks to the IRA. These projects alone will save businesses thousands - even tens of thousands of dollars on their energy bills.
For one business in Albert Lea, it's projected to save them $172,000 per year." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ): "Two years on, the Inflation Reduction Act continues to improve the lives of Arizonans. From driving investment in clean energy, creating good-paying jobs, and lowering health costs for families, see how it's making a difference for our state." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senate Democrats: "It's been two years since Senate Democrats passed and President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act. The law is delivering for Americans—lowering costs for families, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, and making historic climate investments." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works Democrats, Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE): "Two years ago, @POTUS signed into law the most consequential climate action and clean energy legislation in our nation's history." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Democrats, Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI): "Two years ago today, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law. This was a historic investment in the voluntary tools farmers and ranchers want, use, and need to make their operations more resilient while tackling the climate crisis!"
Senator Ed Markey (D-MA): ""In Georgia, in Arizona, in state after state, in North Carolina — these benefits are already deeply embedded in the economy and the culture of those states." " [Article, 8/16/24]
Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11): "Two years ago, @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. I'm proud to have voted for the IRA, which has created clean energy jobs, lowered insulin and prescription drug prices for Ohio seniors, and lowered ACA premiums. That's meant real savings for people." [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA-49): "Over the past two years, we've made the largest ever investment in combatting climate change in our nation's history. It's a critical step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. I'm looking forward to keeping up the momentum and continue fighting for our planet! #IRA" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-07): "Two years ago, the Inflation Reduction Act made history by being the largest ever investment in climate and clean energy. Today, the Biden-Harris administration is putting those investments to work by building out a future that is cleaner, safer, and more affordable, all while creating good-paying jobs and strengthening communities' resilience to climate change. I'm especially proud of Natural Resources Democrats' climate wins in both the IRA and Infrastructure Law, which are helping to restore coastlines, secure clean water for the West, strengthen our response to wildfire, support Indigenous communities, and clean up abandoned mines and wells, among other initiatives.
Even my Republican colleagues — not one of which voted for the IRA — seem to be overjoyed at the influx of investments their districts are receiving…I hope my Republican colleagues start listening to the majority of Americans who want bold climate action and stop taking orders from the former president's favorite industry billionaire friends." [Statement, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ-06): "The Inflation Reduction Act is transformative legislation that will continue to create jobs and lower costs for Americans for years to come. At its core, it's about growing the middle class and giving hardworking Americans a hand up.
The landmark law is already making a difference in the lives of millions of people by lowering monthly health insurance premiums and capping the cost of insulin at $35 per month. Additionally, it finally empowered Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors and starting next year will cap seniors' annual out-of-pocket costs on prescription drugs at no more than $2,000.
The Inflation Reduction Act is also growing our middle class with new, good-paying clean energy jobs right here at home – jobs that would be shipped overseas to our competitors if we hadn't made such a historic investment in America's workers. These are jobs in construction, clean technologies, and American manufacturing, and in just two short years we have created more than 334,000 of these jobs.
Its investments are bringing more clean, affordable power to people's homes, lowering energy bills, revitalizing communities, and protecting our families from dangerous climate pollution. The Inflation Reduction Act is the single-largest investment in climate action in American history and it is driving a cleaner, more prosperous future for all of us.
In no uncertain terms, the Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most consequential pieces of legislation in decades and I was honored to stand beside President Biden when he signed it into law." [Statement, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD-02): "It has been 2 years since @POTUS signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law – and it's working! By cutting climate pollution, creating jobs, improving public health and boosting the clean energy economy, the IRA is the greatest climate investment in history. #ClimateWinsHere" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY-20): "2 years since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, this historic bill is driving clean energy innovation, supporting good, union jobs & boosting our economy." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06): "The Inflation Reduction Act - the single largest investment in clean energy and climate actions in American history - has already created thousands of good-paying jobs in Michigan in the last two years, is ensuring our communities are stronger and more resilient to the effects of the climate crisis, and is making significant progress toward our clean-energy future. I'm proud of all we have accomplished so far – Michigan is the national leader for the most clean energy projects announced in the last two years – and I look forward to continuing to work with our partners at every level to bring additional investments to our state." [Press Release, 8/15/24]
Rep. Dan Kildee (D-MI-08): "News laws passed by Vice President Harris and Democrats in Congress are helping to boost wages, lower costs and bring back manufacturing jobs back to Michigan. Families are seeing lower prescription prices after we capped the cost of insulin at $35 a month for seniors and for the first time ever allowed Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices for consumers. And we are investing in American manufacturing to grow our economy here in America, not in countries like China." [Press Release, 8/15/24]
Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02): "Today marks 2 years since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. This law:
Caps insulin at $35/month
Lowers Rx drug prices
Reduces out-of-pocket costs
Promotes clean air & water
Let's build on this progress and make the economy work for working people."
Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA-02): "It's been two years since the #InflationReductionAct was signed into law. I'm proud to have helped craft and voted for this monumental legislation that continues to create #CleanEnergy jobs, caps prescription costs, and lowers costs for families." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO-01): "2 years ago, @HouseDemocrats & I fought hard to pass the Inflation Reduction Act - the largest climate investment in history. Today, the IRA has delivered millions in climate wins to CO to lower energy costs, support environmental justice, & bring us closer to net zero by 2050. [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL-14): "Two years ago, I stood next to @POTUS as he signed the most historic clean energy & health care savings legislation into law.
Since then, we have created thousands of good-paying jobs, prioritized the health of our planet and people, and lowered costs for American families." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC-02): "2 years ago today, @POTUS signed the historic Inflation Reduction Act into law. This transformative package has done a lot already, including: helped us combat the climate crisis lowered the cost of life-saving medications?invested in clean energy development" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Andy Kim (D-NJ-03): "For two years, the Inflation Reduction Act has secured savings for seniors, lowered everyday costs for American families, and taken historic steps to combat climate change. We are proud of its progress and hard at work to make sure it continues to deliver for New Jerseyans." [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA-03): "Two years ago, I voted for the #InflationReductionAct to help families. Already the bill has: Capped health care and prescription drug costs for seniors Created thousands of good-paying clean energy jobs Cracked down on billionaires who cheat on their taxes." [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Anne Kuster (D-NH-02): "2 years in, the #InflationReductionAct continues to deliver for NH! This legislation has:Lowered health care premiums for millions of Americans Slashed Rx drug costs for seniors Powered clean energy investments to grow our economy Created thousands of good-paying jobs" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA-28): "2 years ago, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest clean energy investment in U.S. history. We've since: strengthened energy security created jobs reduced costsmade the tax code fairer. Can't wait to continue this progress for all Americans." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL-11): "Two years ago, Democrats delivered the largest investment in clean energy in history. We empowered Medicare to negotiate drug prices and we secured lower health care costs. And we did it by making rich corporations finally start to pay their fair share. #InflationReductionAct" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rep. Richie Neal (D-MA-01): "It's only been two years since President Biden changed the course of history with the Inflation Reduction Act, and we are already achieving what we set out to do. With inflation reaching its lowest level since March 2021, and employment remaining near record lows, we've proven the recession wish-casters wrong. Our economy is the envy of the world—and by no accident. So much of this historic law came right from Ways and Means Democrats, who never stop believing in the strength of the American worker while lighting the way for progress and prosperity.
"Despite our accomplishments, if given the chance, Republicans won't even balk at taking good-paying jobs away from their constituents, increasing health care costs, and protecting wealthy tax cheats so long as they can give another round of tax cuts to billionaires and big corporations. While we have proof of concept for a healthier, fairer, and more successful America, all they can offer is a one-way ticket backward. The Inflation Reduction Act represents the promise of tomorrow, with today shining much brighter thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration and Congressional Democrats." [Statement, 8/16/2024]
"The legislative achievements we have witnessed under @POTUS and @VP envy those of the Great Society. The Inflation Reduction Act marked our nation's largest investment to combat the climate crisis, all while proving the recession wish-casters wrong with an economy that is the envy of the world - a feat that was never guaranteed.
I am proud that much of this legislation was written under my chairmanship in the
@WaysMeansCmte
and continues to benefit working families in MA-01 and throughout the nation." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07): "Two years ago today, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law to...
Allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices
Cap out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000/year and insulin costs at $35/month
Prevent premium hikes for families
I was proud to vote for this historic legislation that continues to deliver for Virginians by keeping more money in their pockets and giving them the peace of mind they deserve." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA-11): ".@JoeBiden and Democrats delivered the #InflationReductionAct with @KamalaHarris
casting the decisive vote. Inflation reduction to pre-covid levels, Rx drug costs lowered for millions of patients and climate action jobs for a clean energy future—all without 1 Republican vote!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI-02): "From lowering the costs of prescription drugs to investing in creating a 21st century Clean Energy Economy, the Inflation Reduction Act is truly a landmark law.
Thank you to @POTUS for signing it in to law & @VP for casting the tie breaking vote in the Senate. #DemocratsDeliver." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07): "I am proud to have supported and voted for the Inflation Reduction Act, signed into law 2 years ago today, which, among other things, helps seniors and people with diabetes in #TX07 afford insulin." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA-36): "Happy 2nd anniversary to the #InflationReductionAct!
@POTUS and @HouseDemocrats' efforts to create a cleaner and healthier environment for our children are making a lasting impact and lowering costs. Together, we're leaving a better world for generations to come." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Marc Veasey (D-TX-33): "It's been two years since Democrats in Congress passed and
@POTUS signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act!
The law is delivering for Texans—lowering costs for families, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, and making historic climate investments." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01): "2 years ago we passed the Inflation Reduction Act—the biggest climate action investment in our nation's history. Millions of dollars in federal funding accelerated Oregon's clean energy future and reduced pollution from fossil fuels. We must continue to build on this accomplishment and quickly transition to a green economy." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05): "2 years of the Inflation Reduction Act and this is what progress looks like:
Largest climate investment in U.S. history
Lowered prescription drug costs for seniors
Made big corporations pay their fair share
Reduces the deficit by $175 billion
We're tackling climate change, cutting costs for families, and building a fairer economy — all at once." [Tweet. 8/16/2024]
Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA-03): "Two years after the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, the contrast between House Democrats and House Republicans couldn't be clearer. Alongside President Biden and Vice President Harris, Democrats took bold action to lower health care costs and create good-paying manufacturing jobs. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, we've secured more affordable health care for 19 million Americans, taken on Big Pharma's unconscionable price gouging, and delivered over 330,000 new clean energy jobs." [Statement, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL-05): "Two years ago, @POTUS signed into law the biggest climate investment in history and it's working – cutting climate pollution, creating jobs, improving public health and turbocharging the clean energy economy.
Let's build on these accomplishments! #ClimateWinsHere" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05): "Two years ago, we signed the Inflation Reduction Act, one of the most important pieces of legislation of my lifetime.
From capping insulin to $35 a month for seniors to unleashing clean energy, I am proud that Democrats are delivering for our country." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT-AL): "The Inflation Reduction Act has been transformational for so many working families in the last 2 years.
It capped insulin at $35/month. Assisted 43,000 farmers. It's creating good-paying jobs. And it's the most significant piece of climate legislation passed in history." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA-17): "Two years ago the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law. It has since created over 334,565 jobs, reduced insulin to $35 per month and began the renewable energy moonshot.
The IRA created a new era of climate action and now it's vital we keep working to protect the planet." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20): "I am proud to have fought for the #InflationReductionAct which puts millions of dollars back in the pockets of more than 1.2 million Medicare beneficiaries in Florida. I will never stop fighting to help the hardworking American taxpayers in our district breathe easier!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Kathy Manning (D-NC-06): "Two years ago, @POTUS signed the #InflationReducationAct I helped pass to lower health care costs for NC families and seniors.
Now, thanks to Democrats' cap on out-of-pocket costs, #NC06 Medicare beneficiaries are paying hundreds of dollars less for the prescriptions they need." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. John Sarbanes (D-MD-03): "Two years ago, Democrats enacted the #InflationReductionAct to hold Big Pharma accountable and lower costs for Americans.
Now, seniors are spending less on prescriptions and individuals with marketplace coverage are saving on premiums.
Let's build on this historic progress." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA-08): "For two years, the Inflation Reduction Act has been delivering results for the American people. It's lowering health care costs, driving a clean energy boom, improving tax fairness, and strengthening our economy – and we're just getting started!" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08): "Two years ago, Democrats delivered a generational investment in the American people in the #InflationReductionAct.
Its historic climate, energy and health care provisions are lowering costs, making government work for the common good and paving the way for our sustainable future." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05): "Two years ago today, Democrats passed the #InflationReductionAct lowering health care and household costs, powering the new green economy, and investing in tax fairness. Under the #IRA, seniors do not have to make a choice between food and Rx drugs by:
• FINALLY allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prices
• Capping annual Rx costs at $2,000
• Capping insulin at $35/month
• Penalizing companies for unfairly hiking prices" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV-01): "Today we celebrate the two-year anniversary of the #InflationReductionAct which is helping Nevadans by:
Creating Good-Paying Jobs
Reducing Energy Costs
Keeping Water in Lake Mead" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34): "On the 2nd Anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, we celebrate investments in water infrastructure, lower insulin & prescription drug prices for our seniors, and so much more. How South Texans benefit from the IRA: 1,800 Medicare beneficiaries who rely on insulin are saving on average $410 annually, 129,000 ACA enrolles save $420 in premiums this year, and IRA caps out-of-pocket insulin costs for Medicare beneficiaries at $35 per month." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA-04): "Two years ago, @POTUSsigned into law the biggest climate investment in history & it's working - cutting climate pollution, creating jobs, improving public health & turbocharging the clean energy economy across the country & right here in GA-04! #ClimateWinsHere" [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Rep. Mark Takano (D-CA-39): "Today marks two years since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. I am proud to have voted for this landmark legislation which equips the Biden-Harris administration with programs to invest in our communities and make a greener and healthier future. California's South Coast Air Quality Management District will receive nearly $500 million to decarbonize goods movement from the Ports of LA and Long Beach. This will improve air quality in the IE by lowering emissions from transportation. The IRA also helps families save money on energy bills through rebates for upgrading appliances and improving home efficiency. California has been hard at work getting this program ready to launch, and I look forward to seeing these rebates soon! Californians have paid triple the cost for medications compared to people in other countries. By 2030, 80 medications will be eligible for Medicare price negotiation thanks to the IRA. The first round of negotiations on 10 of the most commonly prescribed medications just concluded. The Biden-Harris administration just announced the negotiated prices, which will take effect in 2026. We will continue to see the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act for years to come. @POTUS, @VP, and @HouseDemocrats put people over politics and will continue delivering for the American people." [Tweet, 8/16/2024]
Climate Leaders
Gina McCarthy, Managing Co-Chair of America Is All In, former White House National Climate Advisor:
"I can see, feel, and taste that a clean energy future is not only possible – it's underway thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. In two years, we've created more than 330,000 jobs - all while helping hard-working families breathe cleaner air and save money on their energy bills. Just imagine what we can do in ten years of this law.
"Republicans, Democrats, and business leaders all across the country support the IRA because we're bringing Made in America back. Skills are growing. Companies are growing. Local economies are growing. Hundreds of new manufacturing facilities are being built and investments are pumping in throughout the supply chain.
"This progress is proof that we can achieve our climate goals, cut pollution, and improve health when the federal government, cities, states, and businesses are working together." [Press Release, 8/16/24]
Federation of American Scientists:
"In just two years, the Inflation Reduction Act has driven down costs of energy and transportation for everyday Americans while reining in catastrophic climate change" says Hannah Safford, Associate Director of Climate and Environment. "This legislation proves that when we invest in a better future, everyone wins." [Article, 8/16/24]
"The IRA enables the country to move toward ambitious climate goals. We already see the effects with new policy proposal ideas that could supercharge pursuit of these goals," says Kelly Fleming, Associate Director of Clean Energy. "The Department of Energy finds that with the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we can double the share of clean electricity generation to 80% in 2030." [Article, 8/16/24]
Anne Kelly, Vice President of Government Relations at Ceres:
"The Inflation Reduction Act is the largest investment in world history to fight climate change, and on its second anniversary the impressive returns on that investment are leading to American industrial and economic growth. By unleashing hundreds of billions of dollars in private investment to build and deploy clean technologies and infrastructure, the IRA has proven itself as an anchor for the US manufacturing renaissance, a motor for U.S. competitiveness and energy security, and a crucial tool to lower costs for families and businesses." [Article, 8/16/24]
Third Way:
"Over the past four years, landmark laws like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) have slashed home energy costs for millions of households. These measures have supercharged existing programs that help low- and middle-income Americans weatherize their homes, purchase energy-efficient appliances, and lower their utility bills." [Blog, 8/14/24]
"In just two years, the IRA has driven billions in investment and set the US on a path to lead the clean energy economy." [Tweet, 8/14/24]
Ben Jealous, Executive Director of Sierra Club:
"On August 16, 2022, our grassroots effort for unprecedented action to combat the climate crisis was realized with the signing of the Inflation Reduction Act. Two years later, we see the benefits of this law each and every day. Our air is more clean, our drinking water is more safe, families and businesses are taking advantage of the tax credits available to them in record numbers, and hundreds of thousands of good, well-paying clean energy jobs have been created along the way. Our fight to end the use of deadly fossil fuels and embrace the clean energy economy of the future is nowhere near complete, but today we celebrate the meaningful steps we've taken toward protecting public health and preserving a livable planet for generations to come.
"On this anniversary, I thank all of the Sierra Club members and movement partners who helped lead this fight from their own communities to the halls of Congress, and I thank President Biden and Vice President Harris for their courage in not only seeing this law across the finish line, but ensuring that this landmark law's implementation is executed equitably and with the urgency it demands." [Press Release, 8/16/24]
Center for American Progress:
"Two years ago, the Biden-Harris administration signed the landmark Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law. This historic legislation, key to the administration's ambitious climate agenda, is the largest clean energy investment in U.S. history. Since 2022, the IRA has saved Americans money, limited greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and boosted clean energy. Its total benefits by 2030 are projected at $49 billion domestically and $5.6 trillion globally…. The Biden-Harris administration targets net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, with a 50 percent to 52 percent reduction by 2030, requiring annual 6 percent reductions from 2021—four times faster than Obama-era targets. Current federal policy, namely the IRA and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the bipartisan infrastructure law, put this goal within reach." [Report, 8/16/24]
Mayra Macias, Executive Director of Building Back Together:
""Just two years after the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, this historic legislation continues to lower costs, create a fairer tax system and combat the threat of climate change — all while creating good-paying union jobs for hardworking families in Wisconsin and across the nation. This law provides significant relief to middle-class families by enabling Medicare to negotiate prescription medication costs, including capping insulin and inhaler prices at $35 a month and making historic investments in clean energy manufacturing."" [Press Release, 8/16/24]
Abigail Dillen, President of Earthjustice:
""Two years after President Biden signed the biggest climate investment in history, the Inflation Reduction Act is transforming communities, our economy, and the global fight on climate change. In a short time, it has accelerated investments in long underserved communities, catalyzed our clean energy buildout, and created over 300,000 new jobs. From our coastal ports to our nation's heartland, the impacts are reaching communities everywhere. New clean energy manufacturing projects are a new economic force, with billions of dollars flowing to projects in urban and rural communities, including low-income communities. Meanwhile, consumers have saved billions in tax credits to put clean energy solutions to work in their homes."" [Statement, 8/16/24]
Ari Matusiak, CEO and Co-Founder of Rewiring America:
"Two years after the passage of this landmark law the receipts are in: the Inflation Reduction Act is working and helping Americans save on their energy bills. What we're seeing is that if policies are designed to help Americans' pocketbooks, they will succeed, and we should celebrate them just like we celebrate jobs and economic impact on communities. We're grateful to everyone who is opening their homes to the public to tell their success stories and the story of the IRA's ongoing nationwide impact." [Statement, 8/16/24]
Governors and Mayors
Mayor Andrew Ginther (D-Columbus, OH), President of U.S. Conference of Mayors:
"The IRA is a testament to what can be accomplished when federal leaders prioritize solutions to the major challenges facing American cities and the people who call them home. This law marks a turning point in our fight against climate change, and since its passage the rate of inflation in this country has plummeted. American mayors were strong supporters of the legislation, and in the two years since its enactment, mayors and cities have worked with the administration to implement the law and direct resources to build cleaner, more sustainable communities. We thank President Biden, his administration and the congressional leaders who worked to make this law a reality.
"The IRA targeted many of the costs that have been painful for families like drug prices and energy bills. Above all, this law will be remembered for its momentous effort to be tackling climate change. As mayors, we see the impact of extreme weather events on our cities every day. The IRA allows for critical investments that help us combat the effects of climate change and make the transition to a clean energy future. Mayors are always ready to work with federal partners and across the aisle to make a lasting difference in our cities, and we remain committed to implementing this landmark law in the years to come."
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA):
"Over the past two years, California has experienced countless climate extremes – going from record drought to record rains in a matter of weeks, historic heat waves, and massive wildfires. The Inflation Reduction Act couldn't have come at a more pivotal time, bringing billions of dollars in investments to California, creating thousands of green jobs and cutting costs for Californians. The Biden-Harris Administration is helping California build more, faster – and we're already seeing the benefits in our communities." [Press Release, 8/15/24]
Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI):
"Thanks to the strong partnership of the Biden-Harris administration, Michigan is building a strong economy, driven by our world-class manufacturing capabilities, talented workers, and unmatched grit. The Inflation Reduction Act and other landmark federal resources are helping us create high-skilled, good-paying jobs, bring supply chains home, lower our dependence on foreign fuels, and build the future of cars, chips, and batteries. We are a national leader in the battery and clean energy race, a top state for energy sector job growth, and home to the #1 emerging startup ecosystem. Construction jobs are at a 22-year high as Michiganders roll up their sleeves to transform communities across our state. We will remain laser-focused on securing projects, lowering energy costs for Michigan families, and building a bright future for our state. Let's get it done." [Press Release, 8/15/24]
Labor
Liz Schuler, President of AFL-CIO:
Two years ago, VP Harris cast the tie-breaking vote for the Inflation Reduction Act – finally allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices with Big Pharma. Now 10 popular drugs just got more affordable. This is what real change looks like. [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Rick Levy, President of the Texas AFL-CIO:
"I don't think people have a sense of the scale and the scope of what this law has done and is going to do. From our perspective, putting community well-being and labor standards in the very fabric of this industrial expansion is going to pay dividends for generations." [Article, 8/15/24]
Mike Fishman, Executive Director of the Climate Jobs National Resource Center:
"[The IRA] creates a sense that there's a future for everyone — an economic future, as well as a climate future." [Article, 8/15/24]
Ethan Link, Assistant Business Manager for the Southeast Laborers' District Council:
"The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most consequential and, I think, also most innovative ways of inducing the market to have broad based benefits for the community. The way I've experienced it, it's changed the landscape on the ground with these developers within a matter of months, rather than a matter of years." [Article, 8/15/24]
Laborers' International Union of North America (LiUNA):
"DYK the #InflationReductionAct happened thanks to @VP 's crucial tie-breaking vote? Two years in and the #IRA law is: Creating green jobs with good paychecks Supporting union apprenticeships Combating climate change And it's doing even more to support working families!" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
North American Building Trades Unions (NABTU)
"Two years since the #InflationReductionAct, union workers are on the frontlines of America's clean energy revolution. From solar to hydrogen, we're building the infrastructure that powers our future" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART)
"Two years ago today, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act — a law that will put SMART members to work ensuring the quality of the air we breathe, the efficiency of our HVAC systems and much more. Our green energy future is #UnionStrong!" [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Economic Leaders
Brian Deese:
"The Inflation Reduction Act turns two this week. Here's what we know:
- Clean investment is up 71% ($493bn);
- Clean investment = *more than half* of total private investment growth
- Private investment is 5-6x public investment
Not bad for a toddler." [Tweet, 8/9/24]
Dr. Rakeen Mabud, Chief Economist of Groundwork Collaborative:
"The Inflation Reduction Act delivered jobs, lowered prescription drug costs, cracked down on wealthy tax cheats, and put us on a path to a clean, sustainable economy. Putting everyday people at the center of our policymaking is not just the right approach – it's the most effective one." [Statement, 8/14/24]
Elizabeth Pancotti, Roosevelt Institute:
"Two years ago today, after 27 hours of continuous consideration, the Senate passed the Inflation Reduction Act, the biggest investment in clean energy and union jobs in my lifetime and it was the coolest thing I'll ever touch a tiny little part of." [Tweet, 8/7/24]
Ali R. Bustamante, Roosevelt Institute:
"Two years ago, President Biden signed into law the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Enacted with the dual goals of addressing inflationary pressures and climate change, the IRA represents one of the most ambitious and comprehensive pieces of legislation in recent history. This anniversary provides an opportune moment to reflect on the profound impact this landmark law has had on the US economy, public health, and the environment—and to ensure its benefits can be distributed equitably." [Article, 8/15/24]
Noah Smith:
"Yes. Biden was the first President of my lifetime to actually DO SOMETHING about manufacturing, instead of just running his mouth." [Tweet, 8/15/24]
Jesse Jenkins:
"Two years ago today, President Biden signed into the law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act, supercharging the clean energy transition." [Tweet, 8/16/24]
Joseph R. Biden, Jr., WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Biden-Harris Administration Celebrates Two Years of the Inflation Reduction Act Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/373870