RGGI saves Virginians money and improves the local economy. Other RGGI states have added billions in net economic value from participation in RGGI, as well as decreased air pollution and increased the health of local residents. RGGI increases job availability, grows economic output, and decreases overall electricity cost for both businesses and individuals. After Virginia joined RGGI in 2020, more than a dozen companies with significant operations or headquarters in VA, including Ikea, Nestle, and Mars, wrote to express their support for the program. 

RGGI benefits our health, the environment, strengthens our communities, and helps fight for the people who’s livelihoods have been wrecked by the effects of climate change. Youngkin’s plan to withdraw Virginia from RGGI is baseless and reflects the priorities of the administration; instead of with the people they are supposed to support, their loyalty lies with the interest groups who pay them to keep oil going. 

To withdraw Virginia from RGGI would be a betrayal of the Youngkin administration to all Virginians, the ecosystems, and the economy.