The New York Public Interest Research Group , 1Sky, and Interfaith Power and Light want an end to what they say is America's dependence on dangerous and dirty sources of fuel.

The groups are calling on New York Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer to spur fellow congressmen to pass measures that will prevent the worst consequences of climate change, create jobs, improve the public health, and prevent future tragedies like the BP Oil Spill.

NYPIRG's Laura Haight urges Congress to focus on climate change. Haight wants Gillibrand and Schumer to convince their colleagues that action on green issues is needed now, and shouldn't be placed on "the back burner."

Pointing to the weak economy, Albany County legislator Doug Bullock says changes need to be made, without further delay.

Senator Gillibrand responded to a request for comment by email - quote ::: "By fostering new energy technology, we will not only limit the pollution that harms the air we breathe and the water we drink, but we will create the new good-paying jobs of the future that we need to get our economy thriving again."

The groups hope other members of Congress will adopt Gillibrand's position and pass comprehensive climate and clean energy legislation.