SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – A coalition of state lawmakers, youth, and organized labor today announced a new proposal of one-time appropriations to address the climate crisis. The new investments will reduce greenhouse gases and benefit public schools, homeowners, local governments, and nursing homes. A fact sheet with more information is available here. A video recording will be made available later today here.
Rep. Patty Acomb (DFL-Minnetonka), who chairs the Minnesota House Climate Action Caucus, says the new proposal uses “carrots, not sticks” and will preface a comprehensive policy plan expected to be introduced in coming weeks.
“Minnesotans have been telling legislators about the urgent need to address climate change,” said Rep. Acomb. “The new investments we are proposing today would enable Minnesotans to participate directly in solutions like energy efficiency, solar, electric vehicles, and conservation.”
Mona Meyer, President of the CWA State Council, says she supports the proposal because it expands Minnesota’s fleet of electric buses manufactured by her union’s members.
“This proposal includes significant investments in new electric buses for schools and public transit,” said Meyer. “We’ve got highly-skilled working men and women who would see a positive impact on their livelihoods if it gets signed into law.”
Anna Grace Hottinger, a high school student from Shoreview and a steering committee member of the 100% Campaign, says Minnesota’s youth want their elected officials to take immediate action to protect the health of the planet they will inherit.
“The decisions made by elected officials today have major consequences for my generation and future generations,” said Hottinger. “Me and my peers are confused and scared about what our future will look like. I’m here to thank state lawmakers who are listening to us and working hard to put our ideas into action.”
Minnesotans can visit www.house.mn/ClimateActionCaucus to sign up for email updates and learn more about the work state lawmakers are doing to address the climate crisis.