The RGGI is a valuable tool to fight the menace of climate change.  It also provides millions of dollars in relief to Virginian's who are impacted by climate change such as flood mitigation efforts.  It is a no brainer to remain in this program.  The only reason leaving is even being considered is politics - and not even Virginia politics.  The Governor is hurting Virginia in an effort to play to a national audience of Republican Presidential primary voters.

Also telling is the fact that all the comments I was able to read on this site in favor of pulling out are simply based on denying that climate change is even an issue.  

Finally, the General Assembly voted to enter the RGGI so this action is illegal.  If the Governor wants to pull out, he needs to find a legislator willing to carry, and successfully pass, legislation to do it.  Of course, if the Governor goes through with it despite the law, there will be litigation that will cost Virginia taxpayers millions.  In the end, the courts are certain to block it but not before the Governor is able to use the issue for his 2024 Presidential ambitions.  It is shameful and wasteful behavoir.