I am appalled that Governor Youngkin would propose Virginia withdraw from the REGGI. It is clear that human GHG emissions are driving climate change, hitting Virginians with dangerous heat, drought, floods, and health impacts. Virginia can't solve this problem alone. The reductions must come at the regional, national, and global levels. REGGI supports an equitable transition from a fossil fule-based economy to clean renewable energy sources and consumption. A recent administration stated that RGGI “has a long track record of emission reductions since the beginning of the program.” Without RGGI, Virginia’s emissions will not decline and Virginia will not be able to achieve carbon-free power by 2050 as set forth in the Virginia Clean Economy Act.

I support nuclear power as a clean energy source. I am familiar with nuclear reactor technology. Governor Youngkin is right to encourage small reactors in Virginia, but any new power plant is a decade or more away. We need the immediate actions that REGGI promotes.

The transition REGGI encourages from fossil fuels to clean power sources will improve Virginians' health. Decreased air pollution means fewer asthma attacks, fewer premature births, and fewer missed days of school and work. Participating states have realized $5.7 billion in public health benefits thanks to RGGI.

In addition to the floods, drought, and heat-related deaths Virginia can expect from climate change, Virginians' health will suffer. Warmer winters and higher average temperatures will bring new insects and diseases from the south and intensify existing pests, affecting the health of our crops, forests, animals, and people.

Stay in REGGI!