TCI Regional Policy Design Stakeholder Submissions

Transportation is the largest source of air pollution in the region, and we need to build a modern, clean, safe, and accessible transportation system for the 21st century. The more we limit pollution from motor fuels, the more jobs we create, the more the economy grows, the healthier our air becomes, and the more lives we save. MA should join TCI to fund better transportation infrastructure, reduce traffic, and make my community a cleaner, safer place to live.

I am thrilled that my state is one of those supporting the Transportation and Climate Initiative. Let's ensure that Virginia is at the forefront of efforts to combat the worst effects of climate change, and perhaps even to turn climate change around.

As a Virginia resident and small business owner, I strongly support TCI. We need to fix our crumbling infrastructure, promote use of clean electric vehicles, upgrade our public infrastructure, reduce traffic congestion and clean the air of transportation-related pollution. I have lost employees who moved from (or would not commute through) Northern Virginia due to the terrible traffic. And there are no good EV charging options at or near where I live and work. I firmly believe that we have the will and the transportation solutions in hand. All we need now is the cap-and-invest proceeds to get the job done! I may be forced to move from Virginia if steps are not taken to fix our broken and dirty transportation system.

Please see the attached file for The Nature Conservancy's comments on equity provisions in the TCI program.

We must reduce greenhouse gas emissions as quickly and as much as possible. This should have happened a long time ago. At this point in time, we are facing a climate emergency.

For a strong Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) program, right out of the gate:
– Before 2032 (if not in half that time, 2027 or sooner): a reduction in carbon emissions to no less than, indeed hopefully well under three-quarters of current rates -- at bare minimum -- when we've really needed it at 100%, DECADES ago
– Irreproachable investment in active transportation, e.g., bicycling infrastructure; high quality public transit; improved sidewalks
– An increase by no less than one-third or more greater investment in traditionally disadvantaged communities, the overburdened and underserved since living memory

Get this right.

I am very concerned with environmental issues. I live frugally and with a keen eye to minimizing use of plastics and other waste. We are in a rural area of Maine where personal transportation is essential. There is no public transportation. Maine’s estimated $.17 per gallon increase in gas price, as well as increase in heating oil price, and likely propane as well, will be a critical hardship on middle and low income people.There is no alternative for us.

“In the public debate surrounding this program, especially in the media, confusion exists over whether regulated entities will pass the costs of purchasing allowances onto consumers who buy motor fuels. To be 100% clear, and eliminate any confusion, these costs, and the costs necessary to comply with this program by regulated entities (these costs) *will be reflected in retail motor fuel prices that consumers pay*.”