Contact: Mollie Michel, mmichel@momscleanairforce.org, (267) 981-1648
(For Immediate Release) Today, Governor Tom Wolf vetoed HB 2025, a bill that would effectively disable Pennsylvania’s ability to reduce carbon and toxic pollution from the power sector by linking to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). In response to the announcement of the Governor’s veto, Patrice Tomcik, Butler County resident and Project Manager for State Campaigns for Moms Clean Air Force, had this to say:
“Moms across the Commonwealth are thankful to Governor Wolf for his veto of HB 2025, which further shows his commitment to reducing climate pollution and protecting the health and future of Pennsylvania’s children. Linking to RGGI will protect our children from the power sector’s dirty air pollution that impacts health and contributes to climate change.
“Pennsylvania’s children and other vulnerable communities deserve to breathe clean air. Reductions in carbon and the associated harmful air pollution from the power sector can improve children’s health. A recent children’s study showed that by lowering harmful pollution from power plants, RGGI has helped to avoid asthma attacks, preterm births, low birth weight, and more. The health benefits were quantified between $191 million and $350 million. In addition, Pennsylvania’s participation in RGGI is critical to achieving the Governor’s greenhouse gas reduction goals.”
An analysis by the state Department of Environmental Protection indicates that participation in RGGI will result in a reduction of up to 639 premature deaths from respiratory illnesses and 30,000 fewer hospital visits for respiratory illnesses like asthma for children. Pennsylvania is the third largest greenhouse gas–polluting state and is home to the fifth dirtiest power sector in the nation. Linking to a program such as RGGI is critical to achieving reductions in greenhouse gas pollution outlined in Governor Tom Wolf’s 2019 Executive Order.