I urge the governor to abandon this unlawful and irresponsible effort to withdraw from the RGGI. Virginia's participation was enacted through lawful legislation, passed by the Commonwealth General Assembly. It is a purposefully obtuse interpretation to say that the law only authorized Virginia's participation without requiring it. The legislation clearly states that "the department shall implement" this program (section B). There is no interpretation of the word "shall." It simply means that it will happen.

This program is necessary to ensure future generations can live healthy and fulfilling lives not only in Virginia but across the entire northeast. Pollution doesn't care about state boundaries. We are not an island. We must coordinate with other states in the region to mitigate the effects of climate change, including the increased effects of flooding, and to create a better future.