2/26/2020 |
Elizabeth |
Yetman |
Windsor public schools |
Windsor |
Connecticut |
Cleaning up our transportation is critical to slowing down and eventually reversing climate change. It is also essential for creating a sustainable environment in which we have clean air to breath... read more Cleaning up our transportation is critical to slowing down and eventually reversing climate change. It is also essential for creating a sustainable environment in which we have clean air to breath. Connecticut has one of the highest rates of asthma in this country. I know what it is like to stay awake nights trying to deal with my son's asthma attacks. I have also seen the growing smog and dirty air that is created by our fossil fuel burning vehicles in the mountains of Vermont. We need good, reliable and abundant public transportation that will reduce our need for individual cars, support people in every economic class, and improve the quality of life in all of our communities including urban, suburban and rural. For instance, my son has benefitted greatly from the bus system between rural Stores and Hartford. Good public transportation is an economic engine and provides access to economic opportunities for all people. Making a transition to electric energy to power that transportation is also essential to reduce carbon emissions and to create a truly green economy. It will help to reduce health care costs as well and improve the quality of life wherever that transportation is found. Owning an electric vehicle I know how much more efficient and safer these vehicles are. We need our government to lead on these issues and to take the steps necessary to combat the climate crisis. |
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2/26/2020 |
Ann |
Beaudin |
Board of environment organizations |
Windsor |
Connecticut |
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... read more 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
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2/26/2020 |
Michael |
Rosa |
None |
Windsor |
Connecticut |
According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, transportation emissions in the Northeast States have increased in the past decade and,
with it, increases in particulate matter pollution... read more According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, transportation emissions in the Northeast States have increased in the past decade and,
with it, increases in particulate matter pollution which is responsible for thousands of asthma attacks and preventable deaths annually.
Moreover, transportation emissions comprise nearly half of global warming emission in the Northeast. The TCI proposes to concentrate on promoting the transition to electric vehicles as a means to limiting the effects of fossil fuels on our air quality. Furthermore, it is imperative that we focus our attention cumulatively on the benefits of investing on fossil fuel-free forms of public transportation in order to limit the increased traffic congestion documented in many of our urban centers. Even in states such as CT in which population and commerce are said to be on the wane, increases in congestion have increasingly plagued motorists over the course of the past decade. I an support of the goal
of decreasing our reliance on fossil fueled vehicles (approximately 52B across the NE corridor) through such mechanisms as cap and invest and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative which is being phased in across the mid-Atlantic and NE regions with promising early returns in terms of reducing carbon emissions.
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2/17/2020 |
LINDA |
FERRATO |
CONCERNED CITIZEN |
WINDSOR LOCKS |
Connecticut |
We ONLY have one planet & we are destroying it at an extremely fast pace! We MUST STOP & think of future generatons! We ONLY have one planet & we are destroying it at an extremely fast pace! We MUST STOP & think of future generatons! |
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12/29/2019 |
Erin |
Moriarty |
Efficiency Vermont |
Winooski |
Vermont |
Hello,
I am writing to urge you and your colleagues to support the Transportation Climate Initiative. I'm sure you're aware of the benefits and the drawbacks of the plan,... read more Hello,
I am writing to urge you and your colleagues to support the Transportation Climate Initiative. I'm sure you're aware of the benefits and the drawbacks of the plan, and I want to encourage you to think of the drawbacks as opportunities that, once overcome, will be a boon for all Vermonters and the planet as a whole.
I understand that the TCI could increase the cost of using fossil fuels for citizens. We should think of a way to keep that from hitting low income Vermonters as hard as it would wealthy Vermonters. I know Gov Scott is very considerate of allowing folks to save and keep their hard earned cash. But would it not be possible to work out a system where, IF Vermonter residents were to pay a bit more, that is was proportionate to ones income level? We shouldn't get hung up on "don't make people pay more" right now. That's a small problem compared to what we face with the climate crisis.
Vermont is already participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI). This cap and invest program covers the electric sector in the Northeast, and it has proven very successful, reducing consumer costs and carbon pollution from the power sector by 40 percent. Then, Vermont has strategically invested the revenues raised from RGGI, directing the $2 million annually into weatherization programs that help Vermonters stop wasting energy and save money. We could use returns from the TCI to improve energy efficiency, weatherize more homes, improve our public/alternative transportation, etc. These aren't pie in the sky hypothetical outcomes - we can make truly positive change by simply pariticipating in this new initiative.
The price we pay up front to try and keep the world hospitable would most certainly yield a return - in terms of actual cash in our pockets and the assurance that our future generations have a safe place to live. When considering, please remember that there are also many supporters of investing in a greener present and future, and we will work with everyone to make it equitable for all. I happen to work for an organization that serves to reduce energy use for Vermonters, and we specifically work on solutions for low and moderate income folks. This is to say, even if we don't have a set idea how to keep prices as low as possible for Vermonters, we will think of a way. Any minor discomfort around money needs to be met with the acceptance that we MUST clean up our fossil fuel mess, even if there is no easy or cheap way of doing it effectively. But, reducing our consumption WILL save money over time, and is the undisputably right thing for us to do for ourselves and all of earth's inhabitants. Humans are responsible for climate change, and Vermont needs to try harder to change our course.
Thanks for your time. Best wishes for 2020.
Best,
Erin Moriarty
Winooski, VT
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2/27/2020 |
Liz |
Edsell |
Vermont Resident |
WINOOSKI |
Vermont |
I strongly support Vermont joining the Transportation Climate Initiative.
First, I'm grateful for what the state's done so far. I recently was able to lease a 2020 Nissan... read more I strongly support Vermont joining the Transportation Climate Initiative.
First, I'm grateful for what the state's done so far. I recently was able to lease a 2020 Nissan Leaf at an affordable price thanks to the state's EV incentive program and love it. However, as I'm beginning to get the hang of using an EV for my main transportation, it's clear that the state's EV charging infrastructure needs to be significantly improved. I don't know what that looks like specifically, but I hope the TCI incentives could be used to make it as easy to charge as it is to visit a gas station. Also, the pool of funding for EV incentives needs to be dramatically expanded so that thousands (not hundreds) of Vermonters are making the switch.
Thank you! |
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3/2/2020 |
Kristine |
Lott |
City of Winooski, VT |
Winooski |
Vermont |
Please see the attached resolution signed by the Winooski City Council. Please see the attached resolution signed by the Winooski City Council. |
TCI Resolution.pdf |
10/31/2019 |
jim |
nadeau |
none |
winslow |
Maine |
i have a hard time now affording my bills and you want to tax me more i have a hard time now affording my bills and you want to tax me more |
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1/12/2020 |
Rebekah |
Bickford |
Republican |
Winslow |
Maine |
These taxes are so ridiculous and unnecessary Governor LePage managed to put away a lot of money for the state of Maine without any taxes. Governor Mills has chosen to waste all of that money that... read more These taxes are so ridiculous and unnecessary Governor LePage managed to put away a lot of money for the state of Maine without any taxes. Governor Mills has chosen to waste all of that money that he put away so this stupidity needs to stop now. |
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2/27/2020 |
M |
Knox |
Private |
Winslow |
Maine |
We do not have alternative means of transportation traveling to our workplaces! Stop trying to make us pay gas taces. We do not have alternative means of transportation traveling to our workplaces! Stop trying to make us pay gas taces. |
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2/22/2020 |
Carole |
Osborn |
Ms. |
Winsted |
Connecticut |
The Transportation and Climate Initiative is an emerging issue, gaining traction up and down the East Coast. Now is the time for the region to take bold action to mitigate climate change and roll... read more The Transportation and Climate Initiative is an emerging issue, gaining traction up and down the East Coast. Now is the time for the region to take bold action to mitigate climate change and roll back emissions. The Transportation and Climate Initiative has potential to become the sixth largest economy in the world. This is not an opportunity we can pass up. While it's not legislation yet, it will have a huge impact on Connecticut's efforts to combat climate change and move our state into a modern, green economy. |
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2/26/2020 |
Carole |
Osborn |
None |
Winsted |
Connecticut |
The Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) is a most important regional collaboration that would cap transportation emissions and place a fee on fossil fuel imports in the transportation... read more The Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) is a most important regional collaboration that would cap transportation emissions and place a fee on fossil fuel imports in the transportation sector. TCI is a once in a generation opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and re-invest funds to much needed transit improvements, including safe and reliable public transportation, electric vehicle infrastructure, and "Complete Streets" for bikers and pedestrians. With the climate crisis well in hand as the most threatening and pressing issue facing all of us, I wish to urge the TCI leadership to choose the most aggressive greenhouse gas emissions cap. I also ask that a TCI policy has equity and investment in overburdened and under-served communities as a first and foremost priority.Unreliable transit is taking time residents should be spending at work or with their families. Those without choices have to drive and the resulting traffic congestion is further damaging our environment, public health, and quality of life.
In closing, I would also like to thank Gov. Lamont for being involved in the regional design process and request that Connecticut formally sign on to the initiative.
Thank you,
Carole Osborn
11 Brook Street
Winsted, CT 06098 |
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11/5/2019 |
Sarah |
Hooper |
Maine resident |
Winter Harbor |
Maine |
The urgency of climate change necessitates that we make strong, positive choices now that mitigate the cumulative negative effects that are already here and will only get worse if we continue to... read more The urgency of climate change necessitates that we make strong, positive choices now that mitigate the cumulative negative effects that are already here and will only get worse if we continue to operate in a fossil-fuel based transportation system. Creating a regional low-carbon transportation initiative in collaboration with neighboring states would provide much needed improved transportation in Maine. I support Maine working with neighboring states through TCI’s bipartisan, proven policy model. |
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10/27/2019 |
BRIAN |
PAUL |
No affiliation |
Winterport |
Maine |
No more taxes, just leave this alone..
NO on the TCI No more taxes, just leave this alone..
NO on the TCI |
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10/28/2019 |
Brenda |
Moot |
NRCM |
Winterport |
Maine |
I support the TCI, the Transportation Climate Initiative. Why?
Because transportation accounts for 54% of Maine’s climate-changing pollution.
So, let’s clean it up with the... read more I support the TCI, the Transportation Climate Initiative. Why?
Because transportation accounts for 54% of Maine’s climate-changing pollution.
So, let’s clean it up with the TCI, and keep Maine moving forward with a quick
transition to green and clean transportation.
Thank you for this opportunity to speak up! |
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12/18/2019 |
Joseph |
Parise |
Private Citizen |
Winterport |
Maine |
Stop I say, stop dreaming up ways to steal my hard earned dollars. Especially that I am retired. If you want to effect the climate then ride a bicycle. I don't ever see the so called climate... read more Stop I say, stop dreaming up ways to steal my hard earned dollars. Especially that I am retired. If you want to effect the climate then ride a bicycle. I don't ever see the so called climate activist riding a bicycle to and their job or stores. Leave us the hell alone. Stop taxing me and my family.
You people manage your States in a horrible way and as a result you devise sneaky way of grabbing/stealing you citizens money. Pathetic. |
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10/25/2019 |
Elizabeth |
Peters |
Central Maine Taxi |
Winthrop |
Maine |
Why has it taken this long to seriously consider this? It should’ve been done 20 years ago. Why has it taken this long to seriously consider this? It should’ve been done 20 years ago. |
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2/13/2020 |
Sarah |
Hughes |
Ms |
Winthrop |
Massachusetts |
It is obvious that our choices impact our environment; if you choose to smoke, you risk heart disease, cancer, and a number of other health issues. If you abuse alcohol, you risk diabetes,... read more It is obvious that our choices impact our environment; if you choose to smoke, you risk heart disease, cancer, and a number of other health issues. If you abuse alcohol, you risk diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, and many other health issues... If we choose YOU choose to continue to use fossil fuels, YOU risk OUR health, OUR environment... and OUR CHILDREN'S FUTURE.
We have the knowledge and the ability to do better... so, let's insist on doing better. Do a better job protecting OUR health, OUR environment, and the health of future generations. |
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10/31/2019 |
Diane |
Baldwin |
Republican |
Wiscasset |
Maine |
We can't afford a gas tax hike. How many times do we need to say this or are they hard of hearing. Stop bankrupting the people of Maine. We're not Mass. or Calif. We don't have... read more We can't afford a gas tax hike. How many times do we need to say this or are they hard of hearing. Stop bankrupting the people of Maine. We're not Mass. or Calif. We don't have a bunch of tech jobs that pay lots of money. We're hard working Maine people. But we don't need this crap! |
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12/17/2019 |
Diane |
Baldwin |
State voter |
Wiscasset |
Maine |
Stop this nonsense! We can't afford another tax period! You think we're a wealthy state and we're not. We live in rural areas and we use our vehicles to get to and fro places. I... read more Stop this nonsense! We can't afford another tax period! You think we're a wealthy state and we're not. We live in rural areas and we use our vehicles to get to and fro places. I don't care about supporting green "ideas" for larger states or cities. I don't live there. I live in rural Maine. This legislator and our Governor are completely exnoring the people/voters. It's time you respect our program, no new taxes! Live with what you have until you can manage better. |
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