This is a Moms Clean Air Force exclusive interview with North Carolina Senator Josh Stein:
What is unique about North Carolina natural resources?
During the summer, my children often attend camps in the Blue Ridge Mountains or on the coast. At both locations, the geography and scenery is stunning, which reflects one of the great things about North Carolina: We are one of a few states that boast such geographic diversity. From the mountains, through the piedmont and sandhills, all the way to the coast, our state is rich in beauty and natural resources. It is our obligation to take care of this gift.
How can the General Assembly work to protect our natural resources and meet the challenges brought about by climate change?
The General Assembly needs to be mindful of the environmental impact our legislation may have. The environment cannot advocate for itself, so we as citizens and legislators must not put an undue strain on the environment, which supports us daily.
Is there anything more you would like to add about your support for clean energy, clean air and children’s health?
In past legislative sessions, I worked to strengthen the clean energy economy here in North Carolina. The clean energy economy produces good paying jobs that cannot be shipped overseas. It reduces our dependence on foreign oil. And it also helps us combat the climate crisis by reducing carbon emissions. One of the first bills I introduced was a tax credit to reward investment in renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, hydropower, biomass and geothermal. Had the General Assembly not enacted that proposal, the state would have lost approximately 100 businesses employing more than 3,000 workers. But because we took action, in the next year alone, more than 3,500 jobs will be created and $700 million in investment unleashed in North Carolina, in a clean and sustainable manner.
Senator Josh Stein has represented Senate District 16 since 2009. His priorities are job creation, public education, transportation, clean water, and clean energy. Josh’s career has been dedicated to public service. Josh and his wife Anna Harris Stein have three children.