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2/27/2020 |
Robb |
Kidd |
Vermont Sierra Club |
Montpelier |
Vermont |
Transforming Rural Transportation to Benefit All Vermonters with TCI
The status quo of transportation in Vermont isn’t serving the best interests of our communities. Instead, it’s... read more Transforming Rural Transportation to Benefit All Vermonters with TCI
The status quo of transportation in Vermont isn’t serving the best interests of our communities. Instead, it’s hurting our environment, health, and wallets. With Vermont’s rural geography, Vermonters drive 20 percent more than the national average to get to work and spend a large part of their incomes on gasoline and car maintenance. Our cars and trucks make up over half of our state’s greenhouse gas emissions, and the tailpipe pollution spewing from them contributes to an influx of health problems, drives hospital visits and burdens Vermonters with healthcare costs.
The good news is that Governor Scott has an immediate opportunity to shift us away from the dirty status quo and invest in Vermont’s future. It’s called the Transportation and Climate Initiative, or TCI for short. TCI would establish a multi-state program that caps emissions from motor fuels in the Northeast and invests in clean transportation solutions as early as 2022.
Multiple polls in Vermont and across the region have shown broad, bipartisan support for a cleaner, safer, healthier, more equitable and modern transportation system. Legislative and business leaders, urban and rural communities, and stakeholders across the political spectrum are all on board to reduce transportation pollution, create thousands of new jobs and save consumers billions of dollars in healthcare costs. (If this sounds good to you, take action: Residents from across the region can offer their comments on the draft plan at the online portal through February 28th.)
Opponents of TCI are mostly dirty energy companies and well-funded allies that are happy to keep profiting off Vermonters, polluting our communities and climate as they take hard-earned dollars out of state. (In Vermont, 80 cents out of every dollar spent on motor fuels is sent out of state.). Imagine instead if we kept that money in Vermont: How many jobs could we create, how many electric vehicles could we adopt, and how many transit services could we expand and improve?
Given the urgency of intertwined climate and public health crises, clean transportation policies must be even more ambitious than what states have proposed so far. Reducing pollution from motor fuels only 20 to 25 percent by 2032, what the current TCI plan has modeled, falls far short of Vermont’s climate protection goals. A stronger program would mean more emissions reduced, more jobs and wealth for communities, less childhood asthma, and more lives saved.
The states’ draft plan for TCI already projects big benefits; a 25 percent reduction in motor fuels could prevent over 1,000 premature deaths and 1,300 asthma attacks per year in the region and raise up to $23 million dollars for Vermont to start. Imagine the benefits under a stronger pollution reduction target, such as 45 percent.
While the state advances incentives for electric vehicles (which just started and must be increased), we have massive room for improvement to clean up our transportation system in an equitable way that benefits all residents, including a statewide shift to electric buses, infrastructure to enable more telecommuting, more affordable housing near work and transportation hubs, and more accessible and affordable transit with new innovations such as micro-transit. These policies will set us on a course to reach our goals and save Vermonters money. Funding generated from the TCI — the top fuel distributors would need to purchase pollution permits — can help make them happen.
Throughout this process, we must ensure that Vermont’s rural and low-income communities that are underserved and have the least access to clean and safe transportation options are first in line for investment and benefits.
We need to look towards our future, bettering our transportation and moving forward on climate progress. We can’t let dirty energy interests continue to pollute our communities and hold Vermonters hostage to the whims of oil barons. Given federal attacks on clean car standards, 2020 is the year that state leaders must work together on regional solutions to transform our transportation systems. Governor Scott should join his fellow governors to finalize a strong and just regional Transportation and Climate Initiative to limit climate pollution from motor fuels this spring.
Robb Kidd
Conservation Program Manager
Sierra Club Vermont
Montpelier
robb.kidd@sierraclub.org
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KIDD-TCI OPED.docx |
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1/27/2020 |
Steven |
Stone |
Vermont resident and voter |
Brattleboro |
Vermont |
This is a bipartisan (multi-partisan) multi state push to reduce fossil fuels in the region (and as a result, reduce greenhouse gas pollution).
This is the way to do it, en mass and in... read more This is a bipartisan (multi-partisan) multi state push to reduce fossil fuels in the region (and as a result, reduce greenhouse gas pollution).
This is the way to do it, en mass and in collaboration with our neighbors.
Of course it's sometimes hard to do the right thing, but I believe this region wide approach to drastically reduce the fossil fuels used in our transportation system is the way to do it.
I won't be able to attend the public hearing on TCI coming up in Manchester Center on January 30th but it is important that my voice is heard.
Now is the time to make commitments.
Thank you
Steven Stone |
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11/4/2019 |
Kevin |
Conti |
Vermont Resident |
Williamstown |
Vermont |
The Transportation Climate Initiative sets out a framework that imposes an unfair burden on all vehicle owners and thousands of businesses.
I am opposed to the TCI plan as outlined... read more The Transportation Climate Initiative sets out a framework that imposes an unfair burden on all vehicle owners and thousands of businesses.
I am opposed to the TCI plan as outlined: Capping sales of gasoline and diesel, requiring suppliers to purchase allowances in order to sell motor fuel, and having consumers pay higher prices at the pump in order to subsidize electric vehicles.
This proposal negatively impacts low income Vermonters, particularly those that live in rural areas of the state. It would only help those who are considering purchasing a new electric vehicle and/or those that live in urban areas with access to public transportation.
Furthermore, while some consumers may be able to choose public transportation or an electric car to avoid the increased cost in gasoline, there is no viable option for businesses that need diesel trucks. In Vermont, 25% of the motor fuel sold is diesel— and we need diesel trucks to haul milk, logs and other products that benefit our agricultural economy. Diesel is also sold with increasing blends of renewable biodiesel, which is critical for Vermont and the Northeast to meet our energy goals.
We ask you to slow down this process and consider taking diesel fuel out of TCI. |
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11/6/2019 |
Kieran |
Edraney |
Vermont Resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
It's important that the policies we enact on climate change make sure that the big polluters pay the most money, and we need to ensure that we do everything we can to make sure that the... read more It's important that the policies we enact on climate change make sure that the big polluters pay the most money, and we need to ensure that we do everything we can to make sure that the people living in more rural areas (I know there are many in Vermont) are not dealt a horrendous blow in terms of rising costs they can't handle. Finally, we need to make sure that when we institute a cap that it's done to keep us on track to address climate change. |
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11/7/2019 |
steve |
gagliardone |
Vermont Resident |
Sharon |
Vermont |
To TCI Planners- Thank you for taking the time to listen to my input.
Vermont is bound by law to significantly reduce carbon and increase renewable energy sources. Many critics... read more To TCI Planners- Thank you for taking the time to listen to my input.
Vermont is bound by law to significantly reduce carbon and increase renewable energy sources. Many critics of carbon reduction proposals have argued that the small state of Vermont cannot do it alone. TCI provides a prime opportunity to take a regional approach to carbon pollution reduction. And it has the data of a similar and very successful RGGI program to back it up. Of course, Vermont needs to do this and much more. We need a suite of complementary policies to help us meet our legal obligation, but TCI is an opportunity that we cannot pass up. In planning the TCI program I hope that you consider these 3 priorities in your design:
1. Prioritize equity so that low income Vermonters without access to public transportation are the primary beneficiaries of low carbon transportation options.
2.Polluters, including fossil fuel companies should pay the real costs for the environmental and health consequences of their product.
3. Start the cap low and drop it rapidly. Vermont is way behind in our obligation to meet the reduced carbon goals, and we need an aggressive approach to get back on track.
Thanks for listening!
Steve Gagliardone
Sharon, VT |
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2/10/2020 |
S |
Mallory |
Vermont Resident |
Middlebury |
Vermont |
I think part of your stated goal of capping carbon emissions is a poor goal to focus on. Yes let's move to reduce carbon emissions, but capping them with the TCI plan of authoritarian price... read more I think part of your stated goal of capping carbon emissions is a poor goal to focus on. Yes let's move to reduce carbon emissions, but capping them with the TCI plan of authoritarian price increases in a product that many are dependent on in an attempt to motivate behavioral changes to reduce their usage of fuels is problematic and an inefficient manner to create behavioral changes.
I see the likely result of this is to cause pain for many who are trying to earn a living (transportation to work), get food to their table (transportation for food from warmer climates to the northeast, and transportation to get the food to the table), and heat their homes in the northeast (not all can heat totally with wood), while paying more in taxes that will be used to benefit only some. I don't see this as changing behaviors.
I do not support a tax and spend program given the already high taxes in Vermont. Even if this is instituted I still expect to heat my existing home with some non-wood sources, shop at stores to buy food, and drive a fuel efficient car to earn a living and to pay my share of taxes. Also, regarding electric vehicles, before you plan to tax, spend, and cap our use of fuel efficient cars, I suggest you consider what would happen to our economy and personal safety if with the current technology we have many stranded vehicles clogging our roadways in the winter as their batteries loose half their output when it gets cold.
I can reduce my personal emissions but cannot cap them and do not support a government "service" to disadvantage and cap the basic necessities of life! |
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2/10/2020 |
Elizabeth |
Kroll |
Vermont Resident |
Brattleboro |
Vermont |
I highly commend the bipartisan TCI and approve of its mission to develop a regional policy for low-carbon public transportation for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. Transportation... read more I highly commend the bipartisan TCI and approve of its mission to develop a regional policy for low-carbon public transportation for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region. Transportation emissions account for 45% of Vermont’s total greenhouse gas pollution. To meet our carbon-reduction goals, we MUST reduce pollution from our cars and trucks. Expanding public, shared transportation is crucial and will cut down on pollution and offer opportunities to develop clean-energy-fueled transportation. And it will ALSO help address the social isolation of Vermonters (and residents of all TCI states) who do not own or drive their own vehicles -- giving them affordable public options to get to jobs, appointments, errands, and even other towns and states. Now is the time to create the future of transportation, not cling to the insufficient status quo. |
TCI Transpor-Hearing Let 2-13-20.odt |
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2/14/2020 |
Anne |
Dean |
Vermont resident |
Woodstock |
Vermont |
In Vermont, the transportation sector has the largest contribution to statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Many Vermonters must also drive long distances between their homes and their jobs, making... read more In Vermont, the transportation sector has the largest contribution to statewide greenhouse gas emissions. Many Vermonters must also drive long distances between their homes and their jobs, making affordable transportation a critical economic equity and social welfare issue. I strongly support the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) as a tool that can quickly reduce regional transportation GHG emissions. However, we must be careful to design TCI so as to make affordable, low-carbon transportation options available to rural citizens in the region. |
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2/16/2020 |
Kieran |
Edraney |
Vermont Resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
We need to make major moves if we're to act on climate change. Please don't punish my generation by failing to act. read more We need to make major moves if we're to act on climate change. Please don't punish my generation by failing to act. |
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2/21/2020 |
Cedar |
Stanistreet |
Vermont resident |
Brattleboro |
Vermont |
Please work to create a TCI policy that brings more public transit to the northeast! Reducing climate damaging emissions from transportation should be a number one priority for Vermont. Currently... read more Please work to create a TCI policy that brings more public transit to the northeast! Reducing climate damaging emissions from transportation should be a number one priority for Vermont. Currently the public transit options are severely lacking between Brattleboro/Keene/Greenfield/Amherst, and this is an area where many people would be able to use a bus instead of driving I-91. |
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2/24/2020 |
Jack |
Clay |
Vermont resident |
Middletown Springs |
Vermont |
The governor’s appointees from the Public Service Department, the Agency of Transportation and the Agency of Natural Resources have been holding public meetings across the state to introduce the... read more The governor’s appointees from the Public Service Department, the Agency of Transportation and the Agency of Natural Resources have been holding public meetings across the state to introduce the TCI to Vermonters. They are basically saying:
- Vermonters will pay TCI’s compliance costs whether or not Gov. Scott joins the program.
- The State will receive back more for investments than Vermonters contribute, if Vermont does join the TCI.
Seems like an obvious choice: Vermont should join TCI and get back more than we put in, rather than opt out, pay TCIs costs anyway and get nothing in return. |
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2/24/2020 |
Dee |
Gish |
Vermont resident |
Sharon |
Vermont |
I urge Governor Scott to sign on to the Transportation Climate Initiative. The largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Vermont is the transportation sector. The increasingly evident... read more I urge Governor Scott to sign on to the Transportation Climate Initiative. The largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Vermont is the transportation sector. The increasingly evident negative affects of climate change highlight an urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Vermont would benefit from being a part of the TCI to encourage a reduction in carbon emissions from transportation. Proceeds from the TCI would benefit low and moderate income Vermonters and help incentivize public transportation and electric vehicles. As an EV owner, I am aware of the many benefits of EVs, including less vehicle maintenance, no smelly trips to the gas pump, and less expensive operating costs. I would like more Vermonters to have access to EVs. |
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2/25/2020 |
Julie A |
Kraus |
Vermont resident |
Bethel |
Vermont |
This question’s answer is a no brainer and pure common sense. Join TCI now! This question’s answer is a no brainer and pure common sense. Join TCI now! |
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2/25/2020 |
Emma |
Huvos |
Vermont resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
I'm confident that joining TCI will improve our transportation system, reduce carbon emissions, and provide an opportunity to better address issues of economic inequality. There are serious... read more I'm confident that joining TCI will improve our transportation system, reduce carbon emissions, and provide an opportunity to better address issues of economic inequality. There are serious costs associated with failing to act, and as a Vermont resident, I know that I'll end up paying TCI’s compliance costs whether or not the governor decides to sign on. TCI isn't a silver bullet, but it's an important step in the right direction, and Vermont should absolutely join. |
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2/25/2020 |
Karina |
Warshaw |
Vermont resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
Dear Governor Scott, please support the TCI - it makes financial and environmental sense. Your common sense support of this regional advancement in transportation will be reflected in a more... read more Dear Governor Scott, please support the TCI - it makes financial and environmental sense. Your common sense support of this regional advancement in transportation will be reflected in a more sustainable future for our children and grandchildren. I urge you to stand by future generations and sign on to the TCI. Best Regards, Karina Warshaw |
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2/25/2020 |
Greg |
Hostetler |
Vermont resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
Vermont should join the TCI! A few cents per gallon is within the normal daily fluctuations for fuel prices, and this would be a great start to reducing our climate emissions. If we invest the... read more Vermont should join the TCI! A few cents per gallon is within the normal daily fluctuations for fuel prices, and this would be a great start to reducing our climate emissions. If we invest the funds in rural transit, it could help provide affordable transportation for those who need it most. The RGGI has been a success and we should build on that by joining the TCI. |
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2/26/2020 |
jessica |
paige |
vermont resident |
Putney |
Vermont |
Please support this iniciative. It is a step in the right direction, and will benefit us all. Please support this iniciative. It is a step in the right direction, and will benefit us all. |
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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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2/27/2020 |
Liam |
O'Sullivan |
Vermont Resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
I am excited to see Vermont join the Transportation and Climate Initiative. Given that our emissions are still 13% above 1990 levels, with transportation acting as the biggest culprit, Vermont... read more I am excited to see Vermont join the Transportation and Climate Initiative. Given that our emissions are still 13% above 1990 levels, with transportation acting as the biggest culprit, Vermont must be looking at innovative ways to substantially decrease our emissions through 2030. Our efficiency utilities, low-income weatherization program and EV incentive program have done great things to get the ball rolling on climate action, but I fear they are not doing nearly enough to make Vermont a leader on this issue. The emission reduction goals spelled out in TCI are by no means bold, but if TCI could bring in $18-$60 million in just the first year of its implementation for substantial investments in EV incentives, EV charging infrastructure, public transportation, and returns for low-income Vermonters - while making out of state travelers pay their fair share - I'm all in. |
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2/28/2020 |
Jacob |
Flanigan |
Vermont resident |
Burlington |
Vermont |
This looks like a no brainier. Let's do it already read more This looks like a no brainier. Let's do it already |
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