As a Pennsylvania resident, one of the things that makes me most proud is our abundant natural energy resources. While there are many forms of energy available, we have relied on traditional sources that generate high carbon emissions.

The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative is a cooperative program across the northeastern and mid-Atlantic states to ensure that we achieve revenue growth through energy sources that significantly reduce carbon emissions. The economic benefits to those states are documented by the Analysis Group in an independent report issued in April 2018 on RGGI program implementation’s economic impacts.

To quote one of the observations in the report, “As in its first six years, the RGGI program’s third three-year compliance period continued to generate substantial economic benefits for the states while reducing CO2 emissions.”

Given the current economic situation in Pennsylvania, new revenue streams are more important than ever, and I urge our elected officials to support participation in RGGI. We must not take our natural resources for granted. The opportunity to increase jobs and revenue while reducing carbon emissions is truly a win-win for our economy and environment, now and for the future.

One day, I hope that Pennsylvania will lead the country in job creation, health and wellness, arts and culture, and the best places to live! The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative is key to making this dream a reality.

Thank you.

Carol Etheridge

Mahoning Valley