View Public Input on TCI-P

We support a strong TCI-P Model Rule that moves Virginia toward a cleaner, healthier and more equitable transportation system as quickly as possible. We must address transportation as the largest source of CO2 emissions in the state and we must do so within a timeframe which will address the magnitude of the climate crisis. We call for the Model Rule to ensure that overburdened and underserved communities in Virginia receive a greater-then-proportional share of investments from the program, integrates air quality commitments across Virginia, and empowers Virginia's Equity Advisory Body.

I wholeheartedly support the collaborative effort by TCI-P to reduce carbon emissions and invest in cleaner, more equitable and sustainable transportation systems. Multi-jurisdictional programs can help assure that projects are implemented and funded. We urgently need this kind of collaboration to save our earth and way of life.

The Southern Environmental Law Center supports the general concept and framework that has been established for the TCI program (TCI-P), as we have stated in previous joint comment letters that we have signed onto as well as comments we have submitted on our own behalf throughout the development of TCI-P.

The regional approach reflected in TCI-P offers significant potential to reduce the outsized climate impact of our transportation system by redirecting investments and policies toward cleaner vehicles, less auto-dependent development patterns, and more accessible and equitable transportation alternatives. As noted in the April 7, 2021 joint comment letter that SELC and more than 80 other transportation, health, environmental, business, labor, and community groups signed onto, there are aspects of the draft Model Rule that need to be strengthened to ensure TCI-P delivers an ambitious and equitable program. To be successful, TCI-P must result in meaningful emissions reductions and public health benefits while simultaneously redressing persistent inequities built into our current transportation system, inequities that too often result in a disproportionate distribution of transportation services—and pollution—among different communities based on race and income levels. In addition to strengthening the draft Model Rule, these aspects will also need to be squarely addressed in the state-specific implementation programs that each participating jurisdiction develops.

We look forward to continuing to participate in the development of TCI-P, both at the regional level and in the individual states within SELC’s region that are considering signing the Memorandum of Understanding.

I support a strong TCI-P Model Rule that (1) ensures meaningful climate action to address Virginia's largest driver of our climate crisis, (2) directs significant investments to correcting historic inequities in overburdened and underserved communities; and (3) affords Virginia the opportunity for a cleaner, healthier transportation system.

In addition, I call for the TCI-P Model Rule to include (1) a minimum investment amount to ensure overburdened and underserved communities in Virginia receive a greater-then-proportional share of investments from the program, (2) integration of air quality commitments across Virginia, and (3) robust empowerment of Virginia's Equity Advisory Body.

Individual choices for driving electric are good, and states need to work together to make bigger, better choices for our collective future. The electrification of transportation in the TCI region and the pricing of pollution will go a long way to cleaning the air and combating climate change.

I oppose Virginia joining the TCI. The policies of the TCI to reduce carbon emission will result in increased costs for energy and gasoline. These costs will be a burden to businesses and consumers, costs which will impact negatively on low income Virginia residents. The resulting increases in taxes and consumer prices will be a act as a flat tax on all residents. More businesses and residents will leave Virginia for low-tax, business friendly states.

I am against Virginia joining the Transportation Climate Initiative. I believe it would have a negative impact on consumers and especially small businesses.