12/17/2019 |
Cynthia |
Fitzmaurice |
Republican |
Anson |
Maine |
This is absolutely unacceptable, ridiculous & something Maine people cannot afford. Shame on you Governor Mills for putting this state on the brink of bankruptcy & not working for the... read more This is absolutely unacceptable, ridiculous & something Maine people cannot afford. Shame on you Governor Mills for putting this state on the brink of bankruptcy & not working for the best interest of Mainers. Maine taxpayers are paying enough as it is. |
- |
12/17/2019 |
Justin |
Hupper |
Myself |
Anson |
Maine |
This is a complete joke. We can’t afford to just get rid of our vehicles or be forced to drive less. Try getting your input for this stuff from the real people and not that stupid mindless... read more This is a complete joke. We can’t afford to just get rid of our vehicles or be forced to drive less. Try getting your input for this stuff from the real people and not that stupid mindless governor. Think about us rural people who can’t afford to drive green or whatever your trying to accomplish. All your gonna do is make people wanna leave this state. Good job! |
- |
10/28/2019 |
Dillon |
Talley |
PPA |
Annville |
Pennsylvania |
I'm opposed to the proposal because it would unfairly burden the residents of Pennsylvania who already pay some of the highest gasoline taxes in the country. read more I'm opposed to the proposal because it would unfairly burden the residents of Pennsylvania who already pay some of the highest gasoline taxes in the country. |
- |
8/14/2019 |
Ramon |
Palencia-Calvo |
Maryland League of Conservation Voters - Chispa Maryland |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
The signatories of the attached letter respectfully request that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) designs and fosters a public... read more The signatories of the attached letter respectfully request that the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) designs and fosters a public engagement process to provide residents opportunities to participate in a meaningful way in the policy design and implementation of the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI). Additionally, we offer recommendations to ensure the process is inclusive.
We believe it is important for Maryland to perform this process and integrate feedback from communities and we look forward to working with you to make this community engagement process robust, inclusive and transparent.
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20190809_TCI_PublicEngagementLetter.pdf |
8/27/2019 |
Bruce |
Ho |
Natural Resources Defense Council |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Please find attached joint comments from 13 organizations on the reference case modeling results presented on the August 8th TCI webinar and on the TCI states' next steps in modeling. Thank... read more Please find attached joint comments from 13 organizations on the reference case modeling results presented on the August 8th TCI webinar and on the TCI states' next steps in modeling. Thank you. |
Joint Comments on 8_8 TCI Webinar.pdf |
11/5/2019 |
Marc |
Korman |
Maryland General Assembly |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Please see the attached letter submitted on behalf of the undersigned members of the Maryland General Assembly Please see the attached letter submitted on behalf of the undersigned members of the Maryland General Assembly |
MGA TCI Support Letter.pdf |
11/5/2019 |
Ellen |
Valentino |
Mid-Atlantic Petroleum Distributors Assn. |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
To: TCI
From: Ellen Valentino
Subject: Proposed Draft Regional Policy
Date: November 5, 2019
The members of the Mid-Atlantic Petroleum Distributors... read more To: TCI
From: Ellen Valentino
Subject: Proposed Draft Regional Policy
Date: November 5, 2019
The members of the Mid-Atlantic Petroleum Distributors Association (MAPDA) respectfully submit comments regarding the TCI framework and proposal released this fall. Our members are deeply concerned that the framework is moving ahead to foregone conclusions that are not substantiated by the real-world experience of other states.
The Transportation Climate Initiative sets out a framework that imposes an unfair burden on all vehicle owners and thousands of businesses, including those of our members. The proposal outlines a program that will cap the sale of gasoline, tax it, and then require the revenue generated to be spent on new government programs and projects that will further reduce the sale of gasoline. Some of the projects envisioned have ramifications that have not been verified or well thought out.
Electric vehicles are not the only answer.
The framework pins emissions reduction on electric vehicles, or EVs to reduce gasoline sales. EVs are not the magic bullet to solving greenhouse gas emissions. An EV's massive battery must be charged with electricity, which requires power generated from another source such as coal, natural gas or even nuclear power, and has an adverse environmental impact upon disposal. Pushing consumers to electric vehicles has not been shown to lessen environmental impact due to the environmental costs of EV batteries and manufacture of new vehicles. Further, programs such as incentives to EV purchase often favor wealthier individuals while the new taxes on gasoline will disproportionate affect poor and rural communities.
Our members are at a geographic disadvantage.
The northeast compact has a greater impact on Maryland and Delaware than the other Northeast states. Geographically, Maryland and Delaware retailers will suffer the most because consumers may more easily choose to go elsewhere for fuel. It won’t just be gasoline prices that rise to meet the TCI demands. The Northeast is a major trucking corridor and this proposal will essentially raise prices on transported goods. California’s Cap and Trade program, upon which the TCI framework is based, has led to a surge in gasoline prices, which affects all aspects of the economy.
All voices are not being heard.
Although this proposal has been pitched as a consensus document, in fact, it is not. There have been only three work sessions and less than a handful of webinars to solicit public feedback and comment. The framework is not ready for adoption by the states as too many points have not been clarified and fleshed out. No one really knows the full detail of the proposal. More outreach and public input needs to happen to shift this to a consensus. At the present, the framework appears to be a predisposed outcome. I urge that the participating Governors be required personally to attend and hold public hearings throughout their states. Our members are willing to work with others on this issue to create a true collaborative plan.
The current proposal will not achieve its goals.
California enacted a similar program recently, and, by most accounts, their gasoline costs have skyrocketed while the environmental impact has struggled to show a true measurable benefit. We welcome the opportunity to create a realistic policy proposal that provides a more balanced solution.
Respectfully submitted,
Ellen Valentino
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MAPDA TCI comment letter.pdf |
11/6/2019 |
Michael |
Ingle |
PMG |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
These proposal are very unreasonable and unrealistic. I am good with trying to reduce carbon prints and taking care of our environment.
But all of this must be done in conjunction with what... read more These proposal are very unreasonable and unrealistic. I am good with trying to reduce carbon prints and taking care of our environment.
But all of this must be done in conjunction with what our economy and jobs that are currently involved. Lets get a proper mix and do it with minimal impacts on the people and the industries that have already provided us such great opportunities.
thanks for your reasonable consideration,
Mike Ingle |
- |
1/16/2020 |
Margaret |
Chen |
member Citizens Climate Lobby |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
It is essential that we clean up transportation all across this great country, but particularly in the crowded heavily trafficked Northeast corridor.
Incentives (or requirements) that... read more It is essential that we clean up transportation all across this great country, but particularly in the crowded heavily trafficked Northeast corridor.
Incentives (or requirements) that encourage electric vehicles, more reliable charging network, transitioning to renewables as the primary energy source. Battery capacity is now much improved.
Also, keep supporting good public transportation options, including for the last mile.
Thank you! |
- |
1/17/2020 |
Virginia |
Woolridge |
Essential Native Trees and Shrubs for the Eastern US |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Mass transit reduces poverty and takes cars off of the road. I live in a state capital and do not have a public transit option to reach a major airport 25 miles away. I live 30 miles from the US... read more Mass transit reduces poverty and takes cars off of the road. I live in a state capital and do not have a public transit option to reach a major airport 25 miles away. I live 30 miles from the US Capital, in a state capital with no public transportation between them. This is ridiculous. Maryland’s Governor Hogan wants to add highway lanes in a nod to remarkable misunderstanding of traffic congestion. |
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2/24/2020 |
Ashley |
Duckman |
Maryland Chamber of Commerce |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
POLICY STATEMENT
Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI)
The Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI) is a regional collaboration of 12 states in the Northeast and Mid-... read more POLICY STATEMENT
Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI)
The Transportation & Climate Initiative (TCI) is a regional collaboration of 12 states in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions that’s intended purpose is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the transportation sector. Specifically, the goal of TCI is to create a “regional, low-carbon transportation policy proposal that would cap and reduce carbon emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels.” Maryland announced participation in the coalition in December 2018, and since that time there have been a number of regional stakeholder meetings seeking input on overall regional transportation priorities, potential emissions reductions goals, and policy proposals to meet those targets.
As this process continues to move forward, the Maryland Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) urges that the following principles be taken into account as Maryland and policymakers work toward a regional transportation policy proposal:
1) Transparency. An open and public process is critical to the formation of sound public policy. The MDCC urges that any proposals brought forward to achieve the goals laid out by TCI be subject to rigorous analysis that recognizes both the benefits and costs to the public and the business community. As well, proposals should be subject to a thorough and public vetting process while being considered as potential pathways to meeting TCI’s targets.
2) Market-Based. Market-based solutions have proven to be successful in providing the level of flexibility needed to meet environmental goals cost-effectively. The MDCC believes that any proposal put forward should be market-based, as these types of policies are most cost-effective and spur the innovation necessary to achieve positive outcomes.
3) Dedicated Revenue. Many market-based policies have the potential of generating revenue. The MDCC advocates that any revenue generated from TCI be dedicated to programs and initiatives that contribute to cost-effective energy and environmental solutions rather than returned to the General Fund or used for other purposes.
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TCI POLICY STATEMENT 10 7 19.pdf |
2/24/2020 |
Bruce |
Ho |
Natural Resources Defense Council |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
In support of TCI jurisdictions' efforts to develop a robust and equitable regional clean transportation policy, please find comments attached from 62 organizations, including members of the... read more In support of TCI jurisdictions' efforts to develop a robust and equitable regional clean transportation policy, please find comments attached from 62 organizations, including members of the Our Transportation Future coalition and additional partners, on the draft TCI Memorandum of Understanding. Our organizations strongly support TCI jurisdictions’ continued work to develop a regional clean transportation policy, which we believe is an important component of achieving a 21st-Century regional transportation system that is cleaner; offers more varied, accessible, and affordable transportation options; and serves the needs of everyone. |
Joint Comments on Draft TCI MOU and Modeling 2-24-20.pdf |
2/27/2020 |
Mark |
Kresowik |
Sierra Club |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
The Sierra Club is sharing the attached 561 comments from our members and supporters in Maryland supporting finalizing the Draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) of the Transportation and Climate... read more The Sierra Club is sharing the attached 561 comments from our members and supporters in Maryland supporting finalizing the Draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) of the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI). Thank you for helping to design a regional policy to limit climate pollution from motor fuels and invest in a modern, clean, transportation future. The evidence is clear: the more we limit pollution from motor fuels, the more jobs are created, the more the economy grows, and the more lives we save. Please sign on to the agreement to implement a strong, equitable regional climate protection policy through TCI. Invest in the communities that have suffered the most from burning gasoline and have the least access to clean transportation options. Stop sending our hard-earned dollars out of the state to oil companies, and choose to create jobs, grow the economy, and save lives for families and businesses. Thank you. |
MD TCI 561 signers 27 Feb 2020.pdf |
2/28/2020 |
Raymond |
Van Houtte |
Sierra Club member |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Please support a firm and time boxed commitment to adopt a regional transportation policy that achieves a minimum 40 percent reduction in transportation sector climate pollution by 2030, to keep... read more Please support a firm and time boxed commitment to adopt a regional transportation policy that achieves a minimum 40 percent reduction in transportation sector climate pollution by 2030, to keep us on track to meet the climate goals updated by the General Assembly in 2016.
Ensure we mandate that investment and policy decisions be made based on pollution reduction and equity goals, as well as robust engagement opportunities from the public‒particularly those most overburdened by transportation pollution and undeserved by our current transportation system. |
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2/28/2020 |
Madeline |
Selick |
Republican |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Anything to be done to combat climate change is imperative. Reducing carbon emissions with incentives is a good step in the right direction. Anything to be done to combat climate change is imperative. Reducing carbon emissions with incentives is a good step in the right direction. |
- |
2/28/2020 |
John |
Cochran |
Self |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
I support regional efforts to clean our transportation systems. I support regional efforts to clean our transportation systems. |
- |
2/28/2020 |
Brooke |
Lierman |
Maryland State Delegate |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Please see a letter attached from members of the Transit Caucus in the Maryland General Assembly. Please see a letter attached from members of the Transit Caucus in the Maryland General Assembly. |
TCI letter_Transit Caucus_2_21_20.pdf |
2/28/2020 |
Dannielle |
Lipinski |
Maryland LCV |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
This is a letter from 147 Maryland LCV Supporters who signed a petition in support of TCI and the following: attached are their names and cities.
To Whom it May Concern: ... read more This is a letter from 147 Maryland LCV Supporters who signed a petition in support of TCI and the following: attached are their names and cities.
To Whom it May Concern:
I am a strong supporter of the The Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI), a collaboration of twelve states and D.C. that would cap transportation emissions and auction emissions allowances. This is a once in a generation opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and raise much needed revenue to modernize our transportation system on a regional scale.
As a Marylander, I thank Governor Hogan for his leadership in supporting TCI and request that Maryland formally join the program. We ask that leaders of the TCI choose the most aggressive greenhouse gas reduction targets- as current scientific studies show that we need.
We also urge that the policy prioritizes clean investments in all of Maryland's communities overburdened by pollution and for those who do not have access to transportation choices.
Thank you for your time,
Supporter |
Maryland LCV Supporters for TCI.pdf |
2/28/2020 |
Marc |
Knapp |
Sierra Club |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
Climate change is an existential threat to our country, our civilization, our world. The carbon dioxide that we, collectively, pump into the atmosphere year after year is a major cause of climate... read more Climate change is an existential threat to our country, our civilization, our world. The carbon dioxide that we, collectively, pump into the atmosphere year after year is a major cause of climate change, and transportation is a main source of carbon emissions. Please take action now to price carbon emission from all sources, including transportation, to (1) incentivize people to reduce their carbon footprints, and (2) provide revenue that'll be used for both research into and projects based on non-carbon-based energy alternatives to coal and oil. |
- |
2/28/2020 |
Ellen |
Valentino |
Mid-Atlantic Petroleum Distributors Assn. |
Annapolis |
Maryland |
The TCI draft MOU and plan is ill-conceived and will negatively impact consumers and businesses as well as the larger economies of Maryland and Delaware. We believe the northeast governors should... read more The TCI draft MOU and plan is ill-conceived and will negatively impact consumers and businesses as well as the larger economies of Maryland and Delaware. We believe the northeast governors should reject the MOU and disband the Initiative. The TCI plan structure:
• restricts the amount of gasoline and diesel that can be sold in the Northeast region
• imposes a tax on gasoline and diesel, and
• establishes a regional non-profit government entity to oversee the whole TCI Plan, including how billions of dollars in new tax revenue can be spent and how much gasoline a state can receive without penalty.
Restricting the amount of gasoline that can be sold is a bad idea.
The stakes are too high to give complete control over gasoline sales to a newly created non-profit entity that must juggle the competing concerns of 12 states. The TCI proposal leaves many questions unanswered. What happens when a state hits the allowed allotment of gasoline? Who determines if they can get more? Who will control the price? And more importantly, how will the political environment in the Northeast play into decisions? Will Maryland and Delaware be forced to adhere to policies from other states?
Consumers will pay more for gasoline.
The draft plan clearly anticipates $.05 - $.17 per gallon increase in gasoline prices, explaining that money will go to poor and marginalized communities for clean transportation projects. Today, those communities are most reliant on gas-powered vehicles because the transportation infrastructure has lagged. Electric vehicles are commonly purchased by affluent consumers. The per gallon increase set out by the plan will hit poor and rural communities hardest.
State road projects will suffer.
The draft plan requires states to follow rules developed by the newly created multistate non-profit as to how this new gasoline tax can be spent. So far, the initiatives set forth by the plan are suggested spending on bike lines and tax breaks to purchase electric vehicles. Electric vehicles don’t support maintenance of roads and bridges – the current gasoline taxes do.
Businesses will be burdened.
The draft proposal imposes a new regulatory and inspection scheme on thousands of businesses. And, as drafted, the proposal would subject Maryland and Delaware’s business owners to the whim of this newly created multistate entity and tax collector.
Maryland and Delaware’s economy will be hit hard.
It’s simple geography. Delaware and Maryland’s citizens and business owners are on the periphery of the Northeast region. The disadvantages of the cap, tax and spend program on gasoline may be diluted in northern states that are surrounded by other states in the compact. Our region is the southernmost tip of the participating states, meaning Maryland, Delaware and DC are most vulnerable to consumers and businesses choosing to go where they can find less expensive fuels.
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TCI Comments MOU 2-28.pdf |