An increase in greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere which produces a warming effect (global warming). Anyone who has witnessed our current climate changes should understand the significance of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Long time exposure to carbon dioxide emissions and other environmental air pollutants can produce a variety of health effects including chronic respiratory diseases. These emissions have been transforming our planet over the years and the levels will continue to dramatically increase pollution and related diseases.

As scientists and health care professionals, we are constantly looking for causes of conditions that may potentially alter or slow down the cognition in humans. There is evidence that over time, carbon dioxide emissions slows cognition. And we have witnessed the deadly heat waves and other extreme weather events that have been occurring in recent years caused by greenhouse gases which impacts our patients who have respiratory conditions. Please do not withdraw Virginia from the RGGI. Efforts and decisions should be based on an all inclusive, equitable person-centered agenda. If anyone is thinking withdrawal of RGGI will only harm some, let me remind you; it ultimately harms all. In addition, it can be financially overwhelming.