The Commonwealth of Virginia should continue as a partner in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.  State law mandates that Virginia participate in RGGI.  The benefits of the program far exceed its costs, making the Commonwealth more resilient against catastrophic climate change.

RGGI is a cooperative government program that works.  Emissions of greenhouse gases have been reduced.  Without RGGI, Virginia cannot achieve its own goals for a clean, vibrant economy.  Reduced pollution as a direct result of RGGI has demonstrably improved public health:  fewer asthma attacks, premature births, and missed days of school and work, saving billions of dollars of costs for participating states.

Funds generated through RGGI benefit Virginians now, improving our homes’ energy efficiency, and helping local governments avoid or cope with flooding that ensues with our changed climate.

Thomas R. Busiahn

3153 Siron Street

Falls Church, VA  22042