Congressman Earl Blumenauer, who represents Oregon’s 3^rd district, is probably best known for authoring the 2005 “Water for the Poor Act,” which provides the world’s poorest populations with clean water and sanitation. He recently passed an amendment to the bill, securing an extra $25 million for clean water.

In true Oregonian fashion, Blumenauer’s most recent bill, the “OUTDOOR Act,” alleviates hefty tariffs for manufacturers of active wear and outdoor apparel. With a reduction in overhead for small businesses, the bill hopes to create more local job opportunities. The companies that benefit from the reduction in tariffs are, in turn, required to donate a portion of their savings to research initiatives that target ways to keep America’s apparel industry competitive and environmentally responsible.

Congressman Blumenauer’s environmental initiatives are admirable, but rare. Are your local representatives driving toward sustainability? You can locate and write to your local representative on the U.S. House of Representative website.