I disagree strongly with Gov. Youngkin’s proposal to remove Virginia from RGGI.  The legislature voted to join this program, and the the governor does not have legal authority to override the legislature.  Regardless, RGGI has provided a significant amount of funding to the commonwealth, approximately $450 million in 18 months.  Most important of all is that these funds have been used for flood mitigation and housing repairs that are are not funded under any other program.  These programs assist front-line communities that are particularly harmed by climate change, as well as those who have been harmed because of their economic and racial status.

I reside in Old Town, Alexandria and know first-hand the effects of constant flooding.  It is damaging to our economy and to people’s homes and livelihoods.  We cannot make believe that this is going away without our intervention.  RGGI is a meaningful way to gather funding for essential environmental repairs, not to mention cutting greenhouse gases to prevent ongoing damage to the environment.

Stay in RGGI!