This is a Moms Clean Air Force exclusive interview with Virginia’s 71st House District, Jennifer McClellan:
What is unique about protecting Virginia’s resources?
Virginia has bountiful and diverse natural resources – from the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay to the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. Here in Richmond, we are blessed to have the James River run through our city. It is important that we protect these natural resources for future generations to enjoy. To this end, I have supported increased funding for cleanup of the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia’s park system, and conservation of Virginia land.
As a parent mom are you worried about the effects of climate change on your children and the children of Virginia?
As the mother of two, I am committed to protecting Virginia’s environment. I want my children to be able to enjoy all that Virginia has to offer, and in order for this to be we must recognize the real impact that climate change is making to our natural resources. Climate change threatens our communities through rising sea levels, an increase in severe storms and flooding, and threats to ecosystems that impact not only certain species of animals and plants, but the agricultural and aquaculture economies that rely on them. Climate change is also beginning to have an impact on public health, as we are seeing an increase in pollen, algae, and bacteria in the air and water. Climate change is an issue we need to address now as the threats it poses will only grow worse over time.
Why is a bipartisan effort so important, and how can these efforts be achieved in our politically polarizing culture?
It is increasing important for our legislators to put partisanship aside and do the work the people of Virginia elected us to do. As a member of the Commerce & Labor Committee, I have focused on efforts to conserve Virginia’s natural resources, promote renewable energy and green jobs, and protect our environment. I believe that these efforts are naturally bipartisan because we must protect our resources for future generations, and the opportunities presented by renewable energy and green jobs to continue to boost our economy.
Is there anything you’d like to share that is important for Moms Clean Air Force members to know?
I encourage Moms Clean Air Force to continue to work with legislators and elected officials in an effort to educate and promote policies that will protect Virginia’s natural resources for generations to come. It’s truly through grassroots efforts like yours that we learn about the issues that important to Virginians and gain insight toward progressive policies. My door is always open if you would like to express your thoughts on legislation before the General Assembly. You can contact my office at 804.698.1171 or deljmcclellan@house.virginia.gov You can also stay informed of the House of Delegates’ activities by following me on twitter @JennMcClellanVA and liking my facebook page DelJenniferMcClellan.
Delegate Jennifer McClellan represents Virginia’s 71st House District, which includes parts of the City of Richmond and Henrico County. She serves on the House Courts of Justice, Commerce & Labor, and Education Committees. Jenn has received a 100% rating from the Virginia League of Conservation Voters each year since 2011 and a cumulative rating of 98% since taking office in 2006. She and her husband David Mills live in the Fan District of Richmond with their son Jackson and daughter Samantha.