I oppose the attempt to remove Virginia from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). Virginia deserves the same benefits that RGGI has brought to other states, including better public health, substantial reductions in climate-warming greenhouse gasses and an influx of funds to states’ budgets.

RGGI works. The data is clear: RGGI reduces emissions. Even this administration admitted as much in a recent report, concluding that RGGI “has a long track record of emission reductions since the beginning of the program.”

Virginia needs RGGI. Without RGGI, Virginia’s emissions have not declined over the last decade and Virginia will not be able to achieve carbon free power by 2050 as set forth in the Virginia Clean Economy Act.

RGGI improves public health. Decreased air pollution means fewer asthma attacks, premature births, and missed days of school and work. In just 10 years, participating states realized $5.7 billion in public health benefits thanks to RGGI.

Thank you for your consideration.