Virginia has always been a leader in protecting and advocating for common sense legislation that preserves the values of a democracy.  One of those obvious values is the right of its citizens to be protected.  The right to clean air and water is a human right that today needs more government oversight, not less.

When considering carbon dioxide emissions, we need to take into account both carbon's effects on the economy and its impact on public health. Carbon emission increases global warming, which is devastating the economy as a result of increasing more severe weather.  Coastal areas are especially susceptible to destruction from global warming.  Carbon emission has been linked to heart and lung disease, especially in children and the elderly. 

At a time when more countries around the world are making commitments to lower carbon emissions, it is a disgrace that the United States is shirking its responsibility to do the same.  Virginia legislators have been role models for our nation from its inception in the 18th Century; now is not the time for Virginia to change that pattern.  The only responsible and moral action is to reduce carbon emissions.