Four important measures to take into account in November

In November, climate Protection measures are taking center stage in the United States as voters head to the polls. From California to Rhode Island, major climate-related measures are up for vote, reflecting the urgent need for action on climate change. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly apparent – ​​impacting coastal areas and wildlife – state legislatures are stepping up their efforts to fund research and resilience efforts. Here’s a closer look at some of the most pressing climate issues voters will face election season.

California: Proposition 4

Statement 4: Measure for parks, environment, energy and water binding

In California, Proposition 4 proposes to grant authorization $10 billion in bonds focused on water conservation, wildfire prevention and land protection. Advocates, including the National Wildlife Federation and CALFIRE Firefighters, argue that this funding is crucial to conserving natural resources and mitigating the effects of climate change. If passed, Proposition 4 would enable a shift to renewable energy sources, improve water quality and help communities cope with extreme heat.

However, critics raise concerns about the financial implications for taxpayers, noting that bond repayments could cost about $400 million a year over the next four decades, as reported by the California Legislative Analyst’s Office.

Washington: Initiative Measure No. 2066

Initiative Measure No. 2066: Natural Gas Policy Measure

In Washington, Initiative Measure No. 2066 has drawn criticism from environmental justice advocates Earth justice. This initiative aims to prevent regulatory actions that would limit access to natural gas, potentially reversing years of progress toward a clean energy future. It would also eliminate customer rebates for energy efficiency and incentives for clean energy upgrades, which would likely lead to higher energy costs for residents.

Minnesota: Amendment 1

Amendment 1: Continue to provide lottery revenues to the Environmental and Natural Resources Fund amendment

In Minnesota, voters will decide on Amendment 1, which aims to extend the allocation of lottery revenue to the Environment and Natural Resources Fund through 2050. This amendment would increase annual expenditures from the fund for environmental projects and establish a grant program for environmental education and training. conservation of resources. Since 1991, the Lottery-sponsored fund has funded more than 1,700 projects, demonstrating its significant impact on local environmental initiatives.

Rhode Island: Question 4

Question 4: Environmental and recreational infrastructure bond measure

Question 4 from Rhode Island proposes a bond measure $53 million for environmental infrastructure, local recreation projects and land conservation. This funding is for several climate resilience projects, including flood prevention and habitat management, demonstrating Rhode Island’s commitment to addressing climate challenges.

Federal considerations

While there are no direct federal initiatives this election, the outcome of the presidential race will have a significant impact on future climate policy. The candidates present very different approaches to climate change. Former President Donald Trump has a history of rolling back environmental protections, while the Biden-Harris administration has made progress on the Inflation Reduction Act, one of the largest federal climate initiatives to date.

Vice President Harris has championed clean vehicle legislation and supported substantial funding for electric vehicle production, in stark contrast to Trump’s plans to reduce electric vehicle subsidies. The controversial Project 2025, proposed by conservative groups, aims to dismantle key environmental agencies, raising concerns about the future of climate policy under a Republican administration.

As voters head to the polls, the decisions made at both the state and federal levels will determine the future of climate action in America. It is critical that eligible voters understand these measures and their potential impact on environmental sustainability.