Hello DEQ,

As a resident of far southwest Virginia, I appreciate the opportunity to voice my support for the proposed Virginia Clean Energy Initiative. The air pollution from power plants has drastically reduced the quality of life for many residents and I am proud to see the State of Virginia taking action.

I would like to see the base budget for 2020 be 34 million tons and think it is doable. Exemptions should not be made for individual facilities as people work there, people live around there, and the pollution is still significant. We need a sweeping, conscientious action to reduce pollution all over VA. Perhaps smaller businesses need tax relief for their efforts, or better incentives to switch to clean energy. The job creation alone with energy efficiency industries is a huge bonus.

The cost of the proposal is a very, very bleak future if we don't do it. I am very happy Virginia is stepping into the lead with this Clean Energy Initiative to cut carbon pollution.

Sincerely,

Karen Shaffer, Bristol, VA