I am glad to see Virginia taking steps to cut carbon pollution in an effort to comply with the Paris Climate Accord. As a resident of the Commonwealth, I am very excited for the state to create a plan that provides an equitable and just cap that will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To ensure that the policy best benefit Virginians, the DEQ should:

• Create a rule based on the strongest available science that significantly reduces carbon pollution from Virginia’s new and existing power plants;

• Ensure that Virginians — not utilities — benefit from any profits from carbon regulations especially our frontline communities;

• Address the disproportionate environmental effects experienced by our most vulnerable communities;

• Grow the economy and reduce carbon pollution by maximizing investments in zero-carbon wind, solar, and energy efficiency;

• Provide a transparent and accessible public hearing process where all concerned Virginians can fully participate in the rulemaking process.