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Dear Editor, 

I’m writing in support of Virginia’s reentry into the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).

Last summer, a state regulatory board removed Virginia from the program despite a 2020 law mandating participation. The current budget proposal underscores this fact by calling on the state to rejoin.

As a person of faith, I believe the Commonwealth’s membership in RGGI is both necessary and urgent for the welfare, indeed for the commonwealth, of its residents, land, and coastal regions.

RGGI has worked well in Virginia thus far: between 2021-2023, the state saw a 22% reduction in overall carbon emissions (SELC press release, March 7th, 2024). Surely this means better overall health for Virginians and a slowdown in global warming. By prolonging the wellness of Virginia’s natural environments, RGGI helps the state both feed and delight its people.

I’m certain I’m not alone in wanting to help guarantee the health and welfare of all Virginia’s residents, and I’m certain, too, that most Virginians are proud of their state’s rich, environmental diversity. If we remain in RGGI, we will be illustrating to the nation our care for our common, beloved home.

Michelle Frisbie-Fulton

Farmville