TCI Regional Policy Design Stakeholder Submissions

Reducing transportation sector emissions and modernizing our transportation sector is something that cannot wait. It can and must be dealt with now! Sufficient data shows that emissions contribute 38% of green house gases and have long been known to impact people of all ages, most notably the young and those with compromised health issues. Epidemiological models reveal associated health problems from vehicles.

On many fronts, the fallout from Climate Change is being recognized as an existential threat to humans. Transportation pollution is an added factor to the Climate Change equation. Rising sea levels, warmer temperatures, loss of wildlife habitats, devastating earthquakes and tornadoes, increased forest fires, land erosion, and polluted air are a mega threat to all of us.

We are beyond the need for more studies and reasons to procrastinate. Leaders must show they are on top of meeting the exigencies affecting our health and that they care. Can we justify why we are polluting their air of our children and diminishing their future?

I entreat you to take action. My appreciation to Governor Lamont for taking the initiative.

With all due respect and regard
Cordially,
Ann Beaudin

I am a citizen in the rapidly developing city of Biddeford, Maine. Although Biddeford and Saco are adding many residential units in formerly vacant mills they are not adequately anticipating the transportation emergency that may result with no clear public transportation adaptations. Extended diesel spewing bus routes will not be enough or good for our environment. Low cost electric shuttles might be an answer in addition to bikeways and pedestrian malls. Alternatives need to be proposed.

This note is in strong opposition the the TCI (Transportation and Climate Initiative).

Let's start with the tax increase to fund Climate Change. The issue of climate change is up for serious debate with respect to that fact it is caused by humans, and (apparently cows now too). We know we used to be in an ice age. We know that volcanos are the largest contributors to CO2. We also know that it is not the USA alone that affects the atmosphere. We know that climate is changing. We recognize and know there is a difference between climate and atmosphere. What about the other countries. What about the other states. There is too much speculative information as well as too much misinformation to strap the states to this TCI, a localized version of Cap and Trade via the REGGI (Regional Green House Gas Initiative).
To those of us watching, and keeping an eye on the hot topics of government we see this as all small bites of the same apple. Government overreach and a way to shackle us in the chains of tax burdens in an attempt to limit and restrict our actions.

Let's look at the other states relative to this silly notion of implementing the TCI. So far, we have Vermont, Connecticut, and New Hampshire governors pulling out of the TCI. They clearly understand for a variety of reasons, that the TCI is at best a regressive tax that will negatively affect the economy of their states. This will put a financial burden on the public, & the business community, the very essence of what keeps the states economies moving.

We live in the state of Maine, a pretty rural state with many roads and bridges. Currently our politicians-(ex:Bill Diamond state senator from Windham) are already considering a raise in the full tax, and possibly adding new tolls to our highway and road system, all in the name of bridge and road repair. I get we need the keep the infrastructure in good shape. This all should be done through our massive state budget. Things important items need to be prioritized & funded appropriately in the State budget.

Now imagine being hit by these two taxes on fuel at the same time. I say this will cripple the Maine economy in a way not seen in a very long time. This type of initiative while seemly well purposed by some-will harm our states economy to the point where it may be unrecognizable. This is a very dangerous proposal. You don't have to be rocket scientist to see the far reaching, long rage negative affects this will have if implemented.

For the love of the sate of Maine. I urge you to join with the governors of VT, CT, and NH and withdraw from the TCI.

Respectfully submitted
Ann-Marie & Randy Grenier
4 Juniper Dr
Windham, ME
04062

I am fully supportive of TCI and believe this initiative has the potential to help
Maine tackle its transportation-related GHG contributions. I also am excited for the discussion around how the funds could be invested to support a just transition to a clean energy economy.

Public transportation needs to be made accessible to heavily populated areas. Individuals are forced to drive personal vehicles to commute, causing major traffic jams, which continue to add to our skyrocketing level of carbon emissions.

I would like to see a well-thought out electric vehicle charging infrastructure that would allow for longer drives across states. Existing rest areas can be utilized along highways. DC quick-chargers would be preferable, then cars can be charged in the time it takes to grab a coffee and use the restroom. In order to keep the charging fossil-fuel-free, all charging stations should be placed in areas with solar canopies/solar arrays and batteries to provide the power for charging. I have read that the next wave of electric vehicles will be trucks, so existing truck stops should have an appropriate number of chargers as well. As much as I love getting a free charge, it only makes sense that people will ultimately have to pay per charge. This will help cover some of the cost of implementing the infrastructure. In addition, parking areas should have a place to plug stationary charged vehicles in to help supply the grid. Another method of having fewer cars on the road is for municipalities to contract with companies to have a certain number of shared vehicles for short-term lease (like ZipCars).

Transportation is the number one source of climate pollution in the United States. That means it's time to totally reimagine the way that we transport people and goods.
this transportation plan is bold enough to cut harmful transportation pollution at the scale needed to avert the climate crisis. We need a plan that holds large transportation polluters accountable for the pollution they create and invests in clean transportation solutions including:

More public transit and electric vehicle infrastructure in rural areas
Expansion of commuter rail, electric vehicles, and streets in the suburbs that are safe, walkable, and bikeable
Sustainable and equitable housing near transit and electric bus fleets in urban communities

We say Yes to this proposal.
It is a good start and shows good intention.
We must work together, we must be serious and effective.
Good work.

Why would you implement this tax? We are already one of the highest tax burdened states. We can NOT afford this. We the citizens do not want more taxes.