Press Room |
Press Room |
HARTFORD – State Sen. Christine Cohen (D-12) , who led the passage of Connecticut’s landmark Clean Air Act as chair of the Senate Environment Committee in the 2022 legislature, continued her environmental advocacy in the 2023 session and earned a 93% score on this year’s Environmental Scorecard published by the CT League of Conservation Voters.
The 2023 Environmental Scorecard, published annually, is intended to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policy. The final score for each legislator represents an average of their votes on specific bills. Cohen, who represents Branford, Durham, East Haven, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, Middlefield, North Branford & Rockfall, cast pro-environment votes on 12 key bills that came before committees on which she served or in the full Senate. Chief among these was due to Cohen’s leadership as co-chair of the Transportation Committee for Senate Bill 904, which included a “Carbon Budget.” This legislation sets a maximum amount of carbon dioxide emissions allowed from the transportation sector and holds the Department of Transportation to this “carbon budget” as a mechanism to help the state reach its climate goals. Among other provisions, this bill also initiated a study of the DOT’s tree-cutting practices to prevent the unnecessary loss of trees. This support continues Cohen’s work on the Clean Air Act. “Sen. Cohen established the foundation for many pro-environment bills as Chair of the Environment Committee in 2022, and to say that the CT Clean Air Act will be an important part of her legacy is not an overstatement,” said CTLCV Executive Director Lori Brown. “We know that Sen. Cohen will continue her advocacy by remaining vigilant in the face of current attempts to thwart passage of regulations previously endorsed when the Clean Air Act was approved.” Cohen also voted to provide grants to towns for PFAS testing and remediation to help improve drinking water quality. Cohen voted in favor of the Carbon-Free Schools bill to provide cleaner, healthier schools for our children and teachers. This bill would have leveraged state and federal funding to carry out cost-saving energy projects, fund solar and other energy efficiency studies, and provide technical assistance to evaluate and implement these projects. Wildlife management was another legislative priority as evidenced by the passage of a bill to protect migrating birds from artificial night lighting. Cohen also supported the Seabird and Shorebird Protection Program which allows the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to designate and identify protected areas for nesting shore birds within the state’s coastal area along Long Island Sound. Cohen also voted to prevent the overharvesting of Horseshoe Crabs and to restore eel grass for climate resiliency and critical habitat. This year’s Scorecard covers 31 bills affecting the environment and 3 bills advancing voting rights. This was the first year CTLCV included a separate “Democracy” score for all lawmakers based on voting rights legislation, and Sen. Cohen scored 100% in this category. These and other important initiatives were deliberated and voted on at the CT General Assembly this year. More information about CTLCV’s work on behalf of the environment can be found at CTLCV.org The public is also invited to attend CTLCV Education Fund’s annual Environmental Summit set for Jan. 23 where advocates, lawmakers, and policy experts will preview upcoming legislative priorities for the 2024 legislative session. The day-long session will be held in person at the CT Science Center with an online option, and limited free access for young people. # # # Rep. Demicco’s Pro-Environment Support Earns High Marks onCTLCV 2023 Environmental Scorecard12/12/2023
HARTFORD – State Rep. Mike Demicco (D-21; Farmington, Unionville) earned one of the
highest scores on the 2023 Environmental Scorecard published annually by the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters. The Environmental Scorecard is intended to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policy. The final score for each legislator represents an average of their votes on specific bills. Demicco, a longtime member and former House Chair of the Legislature’s Environment Committee, earned 98% on the Scorecard and high praise from CTLCV’s Executive Director Lori Brown. “Rep. Demicco is one of our top go-to leaders on environmental issues at the State Capitol. He has consistently fought for policies to protect our land, air, water, and wildlife for future generations,” said Brown. As Deputy Majority Leader, Rep. Demicco is well positioned to advance policies in support of the environment and has been a strong supporter of clean energy to address climate change. Among key votes in support of the environment, Rep. Demicco voted to establish a statewide decarbonization plan to help Connecticut reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The plan would provide a broad set of policies across multiple state agencies, and take an economy-wide approach to address climate change with long and short term goals and benchmarks. He also voted in favor of a statewide Carbon Budget that requires the state Department of Transportation and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to jointly establish a maximum level of greenhouse gasses emitted by the transportation sector. In an effort to provide cleaner, healthier schools for our children and teachers, Rep. Demicco voted in favor of the Carbon-Free Schools bill. This bill would have leveraged state and federal funding to carry out cost-saving energy projects, fund solar and other energy efficiency studies, and provide technical assistance to evaluate and implement these projects. While this legislation did not make it over the finish line, it is expected to be raised again in 2024. Some of the environmental successes that Rep. Demicco helped to pass this year include grants to towns for PFAS testing and remediation to help improve drinking water quality; stronger laws to protect shoreline nesting birds; banning the overharvesting of Horseshoe crabs; and reducing “light pollution” that is detrimental to migratory birds. This year’s Scorecard covers 31 bills affecting the environment and three bills advancing voting rights. This was the first year CTLCV included a separate “Democracy” score for all lawmakers based on voting rights legislation. Rep. Demicco earned a Democracy Score of 100%. These and other important initiatives were deliberated and voted on at the CT General Assembly this year. More information about CTLCV’s work on behalf of the environment can be found at CTLCV.org. The public is also invited to attend CTLCV Education Fund’s annual Environmental Summit set for Jan. 23 where advocates, lawmakers, and policy experts will preview upcoming legislative priorities for the 2024 legislative session. The day-long session will be held in person at the CT Science Center with an online option, and limited free access for students. Day-long session features panels, online option, limited free access for students HARTFORD – The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters will host its 2024 Environmental Summit on Tuesday, Jan. 23, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Connecticut Science Center, 150 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford.
CTLCV’s Education Fund’s annual Environment Summit is a unique event designed to bring together citizen advocates, environmental leaders, lawmakers, and policy experts. The summit will feature panel discussions and informational briefings regarding critical environmental issues as legislators prepare for the 2024 General Assembly session, which opens Feb. 8. Registration for the event is currently open online. Tickets are $50 for members and will include lunch and refreshments. Virtual live stream registration is available for all for an access fee of $20. Lawmakers are encouraged to RSVP in advance. Students are also advised to register ahead as a limited number of complimentary tickets are available for those 25 and under. While this year’s panels continue to be finalized, those interested in attending can get a sense of the event by reviewing an archive of the 2023 agenda and panelists here: 2023 Environmental Summit. Interested sponsors may direct inquiries to Connor Yakaitis, Development Director at CTLCV Education Fund, at (860) 236-5442 or connor@ctlcv.org. Tier information on funding opportunities is provided here. The Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action, a broad-based group of health care providers, scientists, environmental organizations, religious groups and others, promotes cleaner transportation options that get Connecticut residents to where they live, work, learn, and play with fewer emissions.
Toward this goal, the Connecticut General Assembly adopted emission standards back in 2004 that have reduced air pollution and brought more fuel-efficient cars to our state. This legislative action put us on the path toward cleaner air, improved health, and better choices for Connecticut residents, and the legislature has recognized this success by repeatedly updating the standards. Last year, this body again reaffirmed its support, adding clean truck standards to the program. Unfortunately, Connecticut’s progress is now threatened with the withdrawal of the Clean Car regulations that were under consideration by the Regulation Review Committee. This action will put residents’ health at risk and lead to dirtier air and fewer options for Connecticut drivers. If Connecticut does not adopt these updated regulations, we will be the only Clean Cars state from Virginia to Vermont not to do so. If we listen to the misinformation spread by the fossil fuel industry, we will be out of step with the direction of the vehicle market and jeopardize the well-being of state residents. Clean vehicles are coming to Connecticut, with or without these regulations. Our current market share for EVs is 9.3%—more than NY, VT, ME, and RI, all states that have adopted or are in the process of adopting the clean vehicle regulations. What we’ll miss without these regulations is all the consumer benefits they contain, such as incentives to manufacturers to provide lower-priced vehicles (targeted at $20,275) to jurisdictions participating in the regulations, providing vehicles to low-income populations, and enhanced manufacturer warranties for batteries and other components. It is clear that all states will need to invest in our grid and EV charging capacity to meet growing market demand. Connecticut recognizes this and has a plan. The state already established an EV Managed Charging Program three years ago to expand the EV charging network and access to that network. Connecticut is also slated to receive approximately $52 million over the first five years of the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program. Connecticut has long been a leader on clean transportation, setting policy on both clean air and consumer protection. We can be again. We urge the Connecticut General Assembly to work together to adopt the California Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII), Low Emission Vehicle (LEV IV), Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT), and Heavy-Duty Omnibus regulations no later than the first 30 days of the 2024 legislative session to get Connecticut moving in the right direction again. ### The Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action, a broad-based group of health care providers, scientists, environmental organizations, religious groups and others, promotes cleaner transportation options that get Connecticut residents to where they live, work, learn, and play with fewer emissions. Toward this goal, the Connecticut General Assembly adopted emission standards back in 2004 that have reduced air pollution and brought more fuel-efficient cars to our state. This legislative action put us on the path toward cleaner air, improved health, and better choices for Connecticut residents, and the legislature has recognized this success by repeatedly updating the standards. Last year, this body again reaffirmed its support, adding clean truck standards to the program. Unfortunately, Connecticut’s progress is now threatened with the withdrawal of the Clean Car regulations that were under consideration by the Regulation Review Committee. This action will put residents’ health at risk and lead to dirtier air and fewer options for Connecticut drivers. If Connecticut does not adopt these updated regulations, we will be the only Clean Cars state from Virginia to Vermont not to do so. If we listen to the misinformation spread by the fossil fuel industry, we will be out of step with the direction of the vehicle market and jeopardize the well-being of state residents. Clean vehicles are coming to Connecticut, with or without these regulations. Our current market share for EVs is 9.3%—more than NY, VT, ME, and RI, all states that have adopted or are in the process of adopting the clean vehicle regulations. What we’ll miss without these regulations is all the consumer benefits they contain, such as incentives to manufacturers to provide lower-priced vehicles (targeted at $20,275) to jurisdictions participating in the regulations, providing vehicles to low-income populations, and enhanced manufacturer warranties for batteries and other components. It is clear that all states will need to invest in our grid and EV charging capacity to meet growing market demand. Connecticut recognizes this and has a plan. The state already established an EV Managed Charging Program three years ago to expand the EV charging network and access to that network. Connecticut is also slated to receive approximately $52 million over the first five years of the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program. Connecticut has long been a leader on clean transportation, setting policy on both clean air and consumer protection. We can be again. We urge the Connecticut General Assembly to work together to adopt the California Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII), Low Emission Vehicle (LEV IV), Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT), and Heavy-Duty Omnibus regulations no later than the first 30 days of the 2024 legislative session to get Connecticut moving in the right direction again. ### HARTFORD – David Bingham, a dedicated state and national advocate for pro-environment policies for decades, was recently honored by the CT League of Conservation Voters with its Lifetime Achievement Award.
Bingham, of Salem, is a retired physician who joined the National League of Conservation Voters during the first Earth Week in 1970. Bingham comes from a political family with elected members representing both sides of the aisle. He currently serves as Co-Chair of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, having served as a founding board member since the League’s inception in 2000. He currently chairs CTLCV's Political Action Committee, participating in hundreds of endorsement interviews with political candidates for the Connecticut General Assembly over the years, and supporting their candidacies for elected office. A founding member of the Salem Land Trust, Bingham is also a member of the Eightmile River Wild and Scenic Coordinating Committee. He was an elected member of the Salem Planning and Zoning Commission for 36 years. As a life-long activist on state policy issues and electoral politics, Bingham has advocated and testified on behalf of the Sierra Club, NARAL Pro-Choice America, Planned Parenthood, Population Connection, Rivers Alliance, CT Land Conservation Council and Audubon CT. During CTLCV’s Environmental Achievement Awards ceremony in October, CTLCV Executive Director Lori Brown referred to Bingham as a champion for the environment and an inspiration for all who work to protect our water, air, and open spaces for the safety and enjoyment of future generations. “David has significantly shaped the mission and goals of CTLCV’s work in his role as Board Chair and as an active advocate at the Capitol,” Brown said. “He is our go-to person for electoral work that helps build the next generation of climate champions, and his knowledge and passion for policy is immediately evident to anyone he talks to. Anyone who has seen his beautiful property in Salem and met his wonderful wife Annie knows that David practices what he preaches when it comes to environmental stewardship.” Bingham was also presented with a proclamation from the CT General Assembly by State Sen. Martha Marx (D-20th) of New London, who commended Bingham for his stewardship of the environment through the legislative process. Marx, elected in 2022, is also a strong advocate for the environment, having earned a score of 94 percent on the 2023 Environmental Scorecard and voting in favor of key bills endorsed by CTLCV. The Environmental Scorecard is published annually by the CTLCV as a way to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policy in the state legislature. ### HARTFORD – Sen. Mae Flexer (D-29; Representing Brooklyn, Canterbury, Killingly, Mansfield, Pomfret, Putnam, Scotland, Thompson & Windham) earned high marks on the Environmental Scorecard, published annually by the CT League of Conservation Voters.
Sen. Flexer scored 95% on the Environmental Scorecard, which is intended to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policy. The final score for each legislator represents an average of their votes on specific bills. This year’s Scorecard covers 31 bills affecting the environment and three bills advancing voting rights. This was the first year CTLCV included a separate “Democracy” score for all lawmakers based on voting rights legislation. Sen. Flexer earned a Democracy Score of 100%. As Senate Chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee, Sen. Flexer holds a key position in passage of voting rights legislation. She was instrumental in getting all three voting rights bills out of her committee and over the finish line: establishing laws for Early Voting; taking the next step for a constitutional amendment to allow No-Excuse Absentee Voting; and the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act. These successful initiatives will all make a difference in our State’s democratic process. With regard to the environment, Sen. Flexer cast pro-environment votes on 15 bills that came before committees on which she served and/or in the full Senate. Chief among these was Sen. Flexer’s critical support for strengthening and providing transparency in the state’s Land Conveyance process. Her efforts this past session greatly enhanced the review process to ensure that property owned by the state was not sold before a detailed environmental evaluation. Furthermore, Sen. Flexer was a strong supporter of House Bill 6483, which calls for increasing the bond authorization to $10 million annually for the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program administered by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. “Sen. Flexer has once again proven to be a champion for pro-environment legislation and we value her support, which carries significant influence based on her years in both chambers of the legislature,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of the CTLCV. Sen. Flexer voted in favor of Senate Bill 904, a multi-pronged transportation bill that established a “Carbon Budget.” This legislation sets a maximum amount of carbon dioxide emissions allowed from the transportation sector and holds the Department of Transportation to this “carbon budget” as a mechanism to help the state reach its climate goals. Among other issues, the bill also initiated a study of the DOT’s tree-cutting practices which many citizens feel has been overly aggressive and unresponsive to community concerns. In the Government Administration and Elections Committee, Sen. Flexer voted to enact a state Decarbonization Roadmap, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions to meet the state’s goals under the Global Warming Solutions Act. This vital bill would have developed a comprehensive plan to establish policies across multiple agencies to guide state action toward these goals rather than requiring lawmakers to vote on every new program or update. CTLCV will make passage of the Decarbonization Roadmap a priority in the 2024 session. In keeping with her concern for residents of low-income neighborhoods, Sen. Flexer supported Senate Bill 1147, the Environmental Justice Program of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. The law now gives DEEP authority to deny permits for new polluting facilities in already overburdened communities based on the cumulative impact on public health and the environment. Sen. Flexer also voted to provide grants to towns for PFAS testing and remediation to help improve drinking water quality. She voted in favor of the Carbon-Free Schools bill to provide cleaner, healthier schools for our children and teachers. This bill would have leveraged state and federal funding to carry out cost-saving energy projects, fund solar and other energy efficiency studies, and provide technical assistance to evaluate and implement these projects. In addition, Sen. Flexer supported new laws to help restore eelgrass, protect shoreline nesting birds, halt the overharvesting of horseshoe crabs, and protect migrating birds from artificial night lights. These and other important initiatives were deliberated and voted on at the CT General Assembly this year. For the full array of environmental bills that CTLCV tracked and included in the Scorecard, visit CTLCV.org. State Rep. Devin Carney (R-23) (Lyme, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook) was among those legislators earning top scores on the 2023 Environmental Scorecard published annually by the CT League of Conservation Voters.
The Environmental Scorecard is intended to hold lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policy. The final score for each legislator represents an average of their votes on specific bills. This year’s Scorecard covers 31 bills affecting the environment. Carney’s score of 95% earned high praise from CTLCV Executive Director Lori Brown. “We applaud Rep. Carney’s commitment to a cleaner environment through strong policies that will benefit future generations,” Brown said. “Rep. Carney’s knowledge and experience in clean energy and environmental issues are an asset to the legislature, and we look forward to his bipartisan leadership in advancing pro-environment policies in the 2024 session and beyond.” Carney is a former co-chair of the bipartisan Clean Energy Caucus, and at the start of the 2023 legislative session was named Policy co-chair of the House Republican caucus by House Minority Leader Vincent Candelora. In addition to his work as a state lawmaker, Carney serves as Treasurer of the Board of the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators. Among key votes in support of the environment, Rep. Carney voted to establish a state decarbonization plan to guide state agencies toward goals prescribed by the Global Warming Solutions Act. The plan would provide a broad set of policies intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across multiple agencies. This economy-wide approach would include long and short-term goals and benchmarks. Rep. Carney also voted to provide grants to towns for PFAS testing and remediation to help improve drinking water quality. He also voted in favor of a statewide Carbon Budget calling for the state Department of Transportation and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to jointly establish a maximum level of greenhouse gases emitted by the transportation sector. In an effort to provide cleaner, healthier schools for our children and teachers, Rep. Carney voted in favor of the Carbon-Free Schools bill as a member of the House Finance Committee. This bill would have leveraged state and federal funding to carry out cost-saving energy projects, fund solar and other energy efficiency studies, and provide technical assistance to evaluate and implement these projects. The legislation passed in the Senate with unanimous consent, but never made it to a House vote. These and other important initiatives were deliberated and voted on at the CT General Assembly this year. For the full array of environmental bills that CTLCV tracked and included in the Scorecard, visit CTLCV.org # # # CTLCV releases 2023 Environmental Scorecard of lawmakers’ votes on environmental policies10/25/2023
Wildlife, open space, voting rights made gains; significant work remains on climate action, toxins, pollution HARTFORD – In advance of the upcoming 2024 Connecticut Legislative session, the CT League of Conservation Voters today released its 2023 Environmental Scorecard which holds state lawmakers accountable for their votes on environmental policies.
“CTLCV is a voice for the environment and we publish an annual Environmental Scorecard to let voters know what kind of actions their state representatives and senators take – or do not take – to protect the environment, to retain open spaces, and to end the practice of locating dirty industries in the same neighborhoods year after year,” said CTLCV Executive Director Lori Brown. “Connecticut was a leader among New England states in environmental protection laws, but we have lost ground and we are falling behind.” The CTLCV 2023 Environmental Scorecard highlights successes in legislation to protect wildlife, such as new laws to help restore eelgrass, protect shoreline nesting birds, halt the overharvesting of horseshoe crabs, and reduce light pollution that harms migratory birds. The concept of Environmental Justice moved forward with passage of Senate Bill 1147, providing greater emphasis on the cumulative health and environmental effects on communities during the permitting process for new facilities that will add to environmental pollution. The measure gives the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection the ability to deny permits to such facilities in communities already overburdened by pollution. The 2023 General Assembly also endorsed considerable funding in the state’s biennial budget for land conservation and public access to open space, including bond authorizations up to $10 million annually for the Open Space and Watershed Land Acquisition Grant Program, $10 million annually for the Connecticut Recreational Trails Program, and $3 million for the Recreation and Natural Heritage Trust Program. Unfortunately, these gains were outnumbered by considerable losses for the environment. The Scorecard reveals that climate action and environmental protection were not priorities for lawmakers this year, as many bills failed to be called for a vote. “We cannot protect the environment by dwelling on the past and lost opportunities, but we can double down -- with support from our many environmental partners across the state – and prepare for the 2024 session,” Brown said. “The General Assembly failures of 2023 are now opportunities for 2024.” As the only device to hold state lawmakers accountable for their actions on environmental policy, the Scorecard is intended to let voters know how their local representatives and senators perform when called upon to protect the environment. It is the only document that makes this information readily available to the average voter, and it provides a mechanism to open a dialogue between constituents and lawmakers around environmental issues. Based on the recent, overwhelming lack of action on broad-based bills supported by CTLCV and its partners, CTLCV initiated its Climate, Coffee & Conversations program to encourage this dialogue within each legislator’s district in an informal, local setting. While several CTLCV-backed bills made it out of committee, many of those never saw further action. Simply put, the system failed the environment. And many of those bills had the benefit of significant public support, but, as in the case of legislation to ban pesticides, “industry interests were prioritized over the vital need to protect pollinators and bird populations,” according to the Scorecard. Chief among other “failures” was the lack of action to address the state’s waste problem. Despite proposals offered by the CT Coalition for Sustainable Materials Management, which included municipalities and the Administration, House Bill 6664 faced strong opposition from waste haulers. After multiple revisions, the bill still failed and worse, legislators eliminated support for food waste diversion programs that would have reduced the volume and cost of each municipality’s refuse streams. This issue remains a huge concern for municipalities and state leaders and has an impact on every taxpayer’s checkbook. Efforts to address climate change were similarly turned back. Senate Bill 1145 sought to update the state’s Global Warming Solutions Act. This initiative would have implemented strong policies to reduce emissions, granted DEEP the authority to implement programs, and held our state accountable for achieving our climate goals. When lawmakers derailed that legislation, advocates intensified their efforts on another bill that would have declared a “climate crisis” and called for a comprehensive plan to reach our state’s emissions targets. House Bill 6397 would have established a “Decarbonization Roadmap” putting us on a path to reach zero-carbon emissions by 2050. We commend leaders in the House for passing this legislation, but the Senate allowed the bill to die without action. While the Environmental Scorecard is a significant, public-facing initiative of CTLCV, it represents a small portion of the year-round work of CTLCV and its allies. As an example, in 2022, CTLCV celebrated the passage of legislation calling for the adoption of vehicle emissions standards that are the strongest allowed by law and would have supported the process of meeting the zero-carbon emissions goal mentioned above. Yet, total victory could not be declared because the Assembly’s Regulations Review Committee has to take action on the regulations and opponents have renewed their efforts to delay this progress. Meanwhile, our neighboring states have already adopted such regulations or are in the process of doing so. Continuing to remind lawmakers of the public support for this initiative and the consequence of delay is a significant part of CTLCV’s daily role as a watchdog for the environment. This is the first year that CTLCV has included a separate Democracy Score as well as the legislator’s Environmental Score. In that regard, CTLCV is celebrating a victory for voting rights with the passage of Early Voting legislation and the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act. According to the League, the more voices heard in our democratic process, the better it is for our democracy, and for electing leaders who will act on important environmental and climate initiatives. These new laws will help Connecticut build a stronger, more inclusive democracy infrastructure in our state. CTLCV urges voters to review the 2023 Environmental Scorecard along with Scorecards from previous years available at CTLCV.org . It is the only way to know whether your representatives in the General Assembly truly support a cleaner environment for future generations. The Lamont administration is considering new emissions standards for road vehicles. Today, advocates urged the committee to choose cleaner air.
Hartford — Advocates from across Connecticut joined together with legislators in the Legislative Office Building to call on the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to swiftly adopt stronger standards for clean cars and trucks. If adopted, the new rules would give consumers more opportunities to buy zero-emission vehicles and slash toxic tailpipe pollution that causes lung disease and exacerbates climate change. State legislators, public health experts, faith leaders, climate advocates and community members traveled from across the state to show their support for cleaner vehicles in Connecticut. DEEP’s consideration period for written comments on the proposed regulations was recently extended through today, August 30th at 5pm. Connecticut has long been a national leader in the adoption of stronger-than-federal clean car standards. The proposed Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) and Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rules would require automakers to steadily and gradually increase their sales of new electric vehicles, helping households and businesses reduce their dependence on expensive and harmful fossil fuels. Earlier this summer, advocates applauded Governor Lamont and DEEP for announcing that Connecticut would move forward with both life-saving regulations. The transportation sector is responsible for 40% of emissions in Connecticut. Communities located near major roadways and trucking routes suffer from high exposure to toxic particles in the air that cause asthma, lung disease and cancer. Air pollution is associated with more annual deaths in Connecticut than in any other New England state, and low-income areas and communities of color are disproportionately impacted. In addition to providing clean air benefits, businesses agree that these programs can unlock long-term savings while spurring the widespread build out of charging infrastructure necessary to meet increased demand for zero-emission vehicles. Recently a coalition of 31 major companies and fleet operators, many of whom have existing operations in Connecticut, sent a letter to Governor Lamontsupporting ACCII and ACT and urging the state to adopt them this year. In advance of the deadline for written comments on the proposed standards, Connecticut state legislators and clean air advocates released the following statements: "The overwhelming majority of scientists agree - climate change is happening, it's a serious threat and our greenhouse gas emissions play a large contributing factor," said State Senator Christine Cohen, who represents Connecticut’s 12th District and co-chairs the Transportation Committee "We have to rise above the partisan fray and come together to create solutions. Governor Lamont's proposals to bring us in line with stricter emission standards and lean in on EV sales is exactly the next step we need to take, and I look forward to working with all of my colleagues in the legislature to build upon Connecticut's strict environmental protections to secure a cleaner, greener future." “When smog clogs the air of our major cities, wildfire smoke streams south from Canada and our state continues to experience weather extremes causing damage and devastation, it cannot be clearer that we must take action toward a cleaner future,” said Dr. Saud Anwar, a physician and a state senator who represents Connecticut’s 3rd District and co-chairs the Public Health Committee. “Electric vehicles will help us get there – and when we’re already seeing the impacts that will only increase in the future, we must redouble our efforts to fight for our future generations.” “There’s no stopping the EV revolution. Advances in the next several years will dwarf the progress made in the past five, as every major manufacturer devotes resources and innovation to drive down costs, increase range, and reduce charging times,” said State Representative Jonathan Steinberg, who represents Connecticut’s 136th district, and co-chairs the Energy & Technology Committee. “By the time these rules go into effect, EVs will be the dominant, cost-effective automotive technology in general use and we’ll have a robust and reliable national charging network. Which is all to the good as we seek to achieve our Zero Carbon goals. Our biggest challenge will be to grow the renewable energy sources needed to fuel this transition.” “Look no further than the summer we just experienced to know that we are in a crisis that is rapidly accelerating,” said State Representative Eleni Kavros DeGraw, who represents Connecticut’s 17th District and co-chairs the Planning & Development Committee. “We cannot allow outdated talking points provided by oil companies and promoted by certain media outlets to prevent the necessary progress of building out infrastructure to support EVs.” "We'll never be able to look our grandchildren in the eyes if we don't do everything we can now to make their future sustainable," said Representative Christine Palm, who represents Connecticut’s 36th District and is vice chair of the Environment Committee. "The technology for electric cars had its prototype in 1830 -- and now, nearly 200 years later -- the naysayers are saying the technology isn't there yet? It's been clear since at least the 1970s -- which President Nixon ushered in as the "environmental era" when he created the EPA -- that airborne particulate carbon is a serious problem. If they're so opposed to electric vehicles, what have they been doing for the past 53 years to solve the problem? It's high time to be part of the solution or step aside." "The science is clear: poor air quality has profound effects on the respiratory health of children. Infants, children with asthma, and those living near major roadways are particularly at risk for such breathing problems." said Dr. Sanjiv Godse, a Pediatric Pulmonology Fellow and the Chair of the Connecticut Health Professionals for Climate Action. "This summer, marked by historic flooding, wildfires, and extreme heat is only a preview of what our future will look like if we don't take swift action today. Decarbonizing our transportation sector is a win for the health of our children and the health of our planet." “As a business at the forefront of e-mobility solutions, we see firsthand that technology and market demand are ready to support the transition to clean vehicles,” said Ryan Dalton, Siemens Head of External Affairs and Policy—Northeast/Mid-Atlantic. “Strong state standards that set clear expectations for market growth over the coming years are key to managing the transition and meeting escalating consumer demand. We applaud Governor Lamont and Commissioner Dykes for their support of the Advanced Clean Cars II and Advanced Clean Trucks rules because it is the best way to attract investment and provide predictability for manufacturers, companies, workforces, and consumers alike." “From an environmental justice point of view, adopting strong clean cars and clean truck rules are critically important,” said Dr. Mark Mitchell, Founder and Senior Policy Advisor of the Connecticut Coalition for Economic and Environmental Justice. “My neighborhood, for example, is one of the lowest wealth neighborhoods in the State of Connecticut. Almost half of the households here do not have automobiles, yet we have some of the highest traffic-related air pollution in the state due to the proximity to highways and the heavy traffic from suburbanites and others who work in nearby businesses. We need these drivers to switch to electric vehicles in order to reduce the high pollution and asthma rates in our neighborhood. In addition, we need clean trucks, buses, and fleets, as well as additional state incentives to enable lower-income residents to purchase new and used EVs.” "Now is the time for Connecticut to continue its legacy of strong action for clean air," said Sierra Club Connecticut Chapter Director Samantha Dynowski."Several of our neighbors across New England have, for good reason, already adopted ACCII and ACT standards. If Connecticut fails to do the same, not only will our air remain heavily polluted by dangerous tailpipe emissions but our economy will grow more dependent on costly, volatile gas prices. Connecticut residents deserve the chance to access the safest, most cost-efficient vehicles for their families and the cleaner air EVs provide." “Two decades ago, Connecticut became a leader on clean transportation by adopting the Clean Cars I standards,” said Charles Rothenberger, climate and energy attorney at Save the Sound. “These updated regulations reflect the evolution of clean vehicle technology and build on Connecticut’s long-standing commitment to reducing the harmful effects of motor vehicle pollution on our residents and addressing climate change. Approval of these standards, which have already been adopted by New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Jersey and other states across the country, will ensure more rapid reductions in polluting emissions from conventional vehicles, as well as ensuring that zero-emissions vehicles will be available for sale and use in our state and that our citizens will share in the benefits of reduced emissions and cleaner air.” “Connecticut residents across the state—especially our younger citizens—are frustrated with our lack of action on climate. Opponents of stronger vehicle emission standards are not serving the needs of Connecticut residents, but are simply propping up the oil industry so that we continue to rely on their polluting product: gasoline,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of the CT League of Conservation Voters. “We are calling on all our state lawmakers to step up and be counted in support of clean air, improved public health, and strong action on climate.” “The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut strongly supports federal and state efforts to adopt clean, affordable, and equitable transportation policies. Last year we strongly supported the passage of PA 22-25, which was a critical step towards reducing Connecticut’s transportation emissions and gave the state authority to adopt California’s emission standards,” said Nathan Frohling, Director of External Affairs, The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut. The Advanced Clean Truck rule and the Advanced Clean Car II rule will accelerate the necessary, large-scale transition to zero-emission vehicles across the state. Such a step is critical towards lowering Connecticut’s transportation emissions.” ### New Haven, CT — CTLCV enthusiastically supports Governor Lamont's proposed regulations for clean vehicle standards, marking a significant milestone in combating pollution and protecting public health.
These regulations aim to enforce stricter tailpipe emission standards and mandate a higher proportion of zero-emission vehicles for sale within the state: Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII), Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT), and the Heavy-Duty Omnibus regulations. Medium and Heavy Duty vehicles are defined as weighing over 7500 lbs, such as large trucks and buses. Light Duty vehicles weigh less, such as cars and pickup trucks. While the proposed regulations primarily focus on Medium and Heavy-Duty vehicles, they hold crucial significance for car dealers as well. In 2021, California updated their light-duty vehicle standards, so Connecticut has also put forward these standards to remain in sync with the stronger laws as required. These regulations do not apply to consumers. Rather, they primarily address emissions standards and regulations for vehicles being manufactured and sold, ensuring cleaner and more sustainable transportation options for the future. "The adoption of these standards is critical, and we commend the collaborative efforts between Connecticut and other states like California, Massachusetts, and New York, who have been implementing similar standards successfully for two decades. These standards have already been embraced by many states, showcasing the potential for nationwide progress. Collaboration with other states is key to creating a unified market," said CTLCV Executive Director, Lori Brown. The proposed regulations will undergo a thirty-day public comment period before final approval by the Connecticut General Assembly's Regulations Review Committee. “The legislation that our state lawmakers and the Lamont Administration put together last year to tackle climate change put us on a path to reduce tailpipe emissions from heavy duty vehicles like trucks and buses. The public comment phase on these proposed regulations will help everyone understand the responsibilities and public benefits that will come with these updated vehicle standards. We don’t need endless debate and more studies to know what a positive impact this will have on every community across Connecticut and the region.” said Brown. CTLCV is calling on all citizens and stakeholders to participate in the public comment period to express strong support for these vital clean vehicle standards. Comments must be submitted no later than 5 pm on August 23, 2023, via theeRegulations System (PR2023-020). MORE PLANS TO REDUCE EMISSIONS
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