Virginia’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) has significantly benefited Virginians.  Therefore, as a Virginia resident, I am writing to urge you to OPPOSE repeal of the RGGI.

With RGGI in place, harmful emission from power plants have decreased in Virginia since 2020.  Reducing air pollution has wide ranging benefits for all , especially our children.  Air pollution contributes to illnesses such as asthma, emphysema, heart disease, stroke, premature births, and cancer.  Pollutants from power plant emission include carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, mercury and other toxins. Air pollution is now one of the biggest contributors to early death in the U.S.  Why would we end a program that is working to improve the health and welfare of our citizens??

In addition to beneficial health impacts, RGGI is helping Virginians protect themselves and their communities in other ways, such as providing supports for infrastructure improvements for flood mitigation.  These funds are vital for communities as they prepare to meet future challenges and will save the state even more money in the long run.  

In addition to RGGI being a common- sense, win-win program, pulling out of the RGGI is illegal.  Virginia’s participation in RGGI is mandated by Virginia law.

Please oppose repeal of the RGGI, for sake of health and safety or Virginia’s citizens.