WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) issued the following statement in response to the release of the third National Climate Assessment:

"The release of the third National Climate Assessment confirms global warming is no longer a problem for just New Jersey's future, but also a problem right now.Today's report provides scientific proof that climate change is responsible for many crises in New Jersey. In the past few decades we've seen an increase of heat waves, flooding, storm surges, intense precipitation, and an overall shift in our state's ecosystem and these problems will continue - and unfortunately get worse - if we do not take action.

"New Jersey has become increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather, and Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy are the two most recent disastrous examples.During and after these extreme weather events, New Jersey's infrastructure was crippled, homes were destroyed, and lives were lost.If we do not take action on climate change, we'll continue to see an increase in extreme weather events and continue to risk the safety of New Jersey residents.

"I pledge to continue pushing for legislative options at the federal level to combat climate change and urge officials in Trenton to take immediate action. It's imperative we take steps to address this growing national crisis that threatens the planet."

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