Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Environmental Quality
 
Board
Air Pollution Control Board
 
chapter
Regulation for Emissions Trading [9 VAC 5 ‑ 140]
Action Repeal CO 2 Budget Trading Program as required by Executive Order 9 (Revision A22)
Stage Final
Comment Period Ended on 8/30/2023
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8/9/23  9:01 am
Commenter: Susan G. Anderson

Oppose the Repeal CO 2 Budget Trading Program as required by Executive Order 9 (Revision A22)
 
I am opposed to the repeal of CO 2 Budget Trading Program as required by Executive Order 9 (Revision A22). Virginia needs to continue to be part of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
  • People all over Virginia have benefited from RGGI.
  • Flood damage is increasing across the Commonwealth and, by law, 45% of RGGI.
  • Revenue addresses flooding.
  • Revenue from RGGI has surpassed half a billion dollars, far outstripping projections by state officials.
  • No sustainable funding source has been proposed to replace the revenue from RGGI needed to address flooding. And no funds have been proposed to replace the 50% of RGGI revenue mandated to permanently reduce the energy burden on low-income households through weatherization.
  • Only the General Assembly can repeal a law, it is not within the power of a governor or a state board. Attempts to circumvent the legislature will end in court and taxpayers will have to pay to defend an action they oppose.
  • RGGI uses cap-and-trade, a proven, market-based system that reduces emissions.   It is an essential part of Virginia’s Clean energy future.  
 
CommentID: 218558