I support reducing CO2 levels by 30% ideally through the use of renewables and closure of coal power plants. The reduction of CO2 by 30 percent will help Virginia improve air quality and decrease human health impacts. I grew up (from 1995-2012) within 30 miles of two coal fire power plants, the Spruance Genco LLC plant on the edge of Richmond and the Dominion - Chesterfield Power Station. I have had asthma growing up and now require medicine that cost me $350 every two months. I can’t afford it all the time due to college bills I am required to pay back for my degree. The reduction of CO2 and other pollutants from power plants can decrease the chances that other Virginias will develop asthma like me.

I can’t say with 100% certainty that the two coal plants I grew up close to caused my asthma but it is a very plausible reason with the science and research that have shown pollution from power sources causes health problems. This is why I support the reduction in CO2. This reduction will also directly lead to improved air quality here in Virginia. Finally, it can also lead us to transitioning to a renewable energy producing state which is now recognized by the Department of Energy as a large job producer.