This is a Moms Clean Air Force exclusive interview with Virginia Delegate, Eileen Filler-Corn:
What is unique about protecting Virginia’s resources?
Virginia is unique because we have so many different types of natural resources and valuable environmental assets. We enjoy a coastal line, the Chesapeake Bay, national parks, historic battlefields, mountains, rivers, lakes and farmland that all contribute to Virginia’s beauty, economy and preservation efforts. We must have a robust, comprehensive plan that takes into effect the many valuable assets that we in the Commonwealth enjoy.
As a parent are you worried about the effects of climate change on your children and the children of Virginia?
As a mother, I am very concerned about the future of the Commonwealth in the years to come. I currently serve on the Governor’s Climate Change and Resiliency Commission that is looking at ways to mitigate and combat the effects that climate change is having on Virginia. Currently, Hampton Roads is the 2nd most at risk community facing significant flooding behind New Orleans. This is a direct impact on one of the largest communities in Virginia, including a major military installment. The future success of our children will rely on what do today to educate and prepare Virginians about climate change.
Why is a bipartisan effort so important and how can these efforts be achieved in our politically polarizing culture?
As someone who brings over two decades of experience in both the public and private sectors, working across party lines to make a difference in the lives of all Virginians, I know the importance of a bipartisan effort in any endeavor that goes through the political process. This is an issue that effects all Virginians, regardless of party, race or socioeconomic status – meaning it should be a collaborative process to determine what we do to protect the Commonwealth. Like all issues I face in the General Assembly, I come in with an open mind, listen to both sides of the issue and determine how we can move forward with a compromise and a solution that is beneficial and pragmatic for both sides. I encourage my colleagues to use this same approach and work towards a bipartisan solution.
Is there anything you’d like to share with Moms Clean Air Force members?
In addition to my role on the Governor’s Climate Change and Resiliency Commission, I serve on the Board of Director for the Clean Air Partners. The Clean Air Partners is a nonprofit (501 c-3) partnership chartered by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Baltimore Metropolitan Council. We strive to improve public health and the environment by working with businesses, organizations and individuals throughout the region to raise awareness and reduce air pollution through voluntary actions. You can learn more about this organization here.
Additionally, my door is always open for a meeting and to hear ideas about helping Virginia fight climate change. Feel free to also follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/DelegateEileenFillerCorn or on twitter @efillercorn.
Eileen Filler-Corn has served in the Virginia House of Delegates, representing the 41st District, since 2010. The 41st District, located in Fairfax County, includes Burke and parts of Fairfax, Fairfax Station and West Springfield. For over 26 years, Eileen and her husband Bob have lived in Fairfax County along with their children, Jeremy and Alana. Eileen has over two decades of experience in both the public and private sectors, working across party lines to make a difference in the lives of all Virginians.