Sign "Act On Climate" Into Law Without Modification Or Delay

Governor Daniel McKee

Act On Climate — a bill that finally commits Rhode Island to a just, equitable clean-energy transition — has passed both the House and the Senate! This bill sets a foundation for all future laws to address the climate crisis in our state. It has been the top legislative priority of both Climate Action RI and the Environment Council of RI for three consecutive years. (Read the fact sheet to learn more.)

Soon it will arrive on Governor McKee's desk for his signature. The fossil-fuel lobby and science denialists are out in force, lying and scaremongering to try to delay even this first step toward securing our sustainable future. Please sign this letter to the governor to show him that Rhode Islanders are ready to Act On Climate.

To: Governor Daniel McKee
From: [Your Name]

Dear Governor McKee:

The climate crisis is upon us: destabilizing our climate, endangering our most treasured places, and harming our health [1]. That's why 92% of Rhode Islanders—the highest percentage of any state—believe the government should limit greenhouse gas emissions [2]. As a necessary first step, we urge you to enact the Act On Climate law without modification or delay.

We're not scared of the transition to net-zero greenhouse gas pollution by 2050. In fact, we're excited for it! We are eager to breathe unpolluted air, especially in our most environmentally burdened communities; to harvest Rhode Island's own bountiful renewable energy; and to enjoy the family-sustaining jobs associated with upgrading our energy infrastructure in the decades ahead.

The Act On Climate law is short and simple: it commits the state to a rapid but feasible transition to clean energy. Massachusetts has had the equivalent law since 2008, and they're now surpassing us in the race for offshore wind jobs. Let's join the race and win a sustainable future for Rhode Island, too!

We can't wait to see your signature on this critical bill.

[1] https://health.ri.gov/programs/detail.php?pgm_id=174
[2] https://www.rff.org/publications/reports/climateinsights2020-opinion-in-the-states/