Hochul Must Act Quickly to Help New York Reach its Clean Energy Goals
Opinion Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the author/producer’s interpretation of facts and data.
The recent election raises important questions about how to build on the hard-won climate progress of the past four years. Congressman Pat Ryan’s win over Republican climate denier Allison Esposito in the 18th Congressional District is a positive sign that voters in the Hudson Valley care deeply about climate change.
New York has one of the most ambitious climate laws in the nation. While we’ve faced significant challenges in meeting its mandates due to supply chain disruptions, inflation and a relentless campaign of disinformation from the fossil fuel industry, this year must be one of resolve. The overwhelming scientific consensus is that delay will exacerbate the dangers facing our planet.
Now that the election is over, Gov. Kathy Hochul must work to restore New York’s commitment to clean energy. She should swiftly reinstate the congestion pricing plan for New York City, which would reduce emissions while generating crucial funding for public transit, including Metro-North. The governor should sign the Climate Change Superfund Act, the ban on CO2 fracking and support passage of the NY HEAT Act, which would gradually eliminate our reliance on fossil fuels for home heating and cooking. Additionally, she should urge NYSERDA to select the most impactful projects in the state’s upcoming offshore wind solicitation.
In the face of President-elect Trump’s dismissal of climate science, our elected leaders at every other level must prioritize the fight against the climate crisis.
Laura Burkhardt
Sleepy Hollow
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