The 2017-2018 legislative session began this week with the swearing in of recently elected candidates and the election of legislative leaders, including a new Governor, Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, and many other key positions in the legislature.
Late this morning, VPIRG delivered a petition to every legislator in the house and senate, as well as to Governor Scott. The message – which garnered over 650 signatures and 17 organizational sign-ons in less than 36 hours – was simple: support renewable energy.
Renewable energy was a major topic of discussion in Vermont’s 2016 elections, and has been a key issue in our state for the last few years. Poll after poll has shown that the vast majority of Vermonters support renewable energy. VPIRG agrees. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy is the most important way we can address the climate crisis. Vermont has set the goal of 90% of our energy use coming from renewable energy by 2050. This is a necessary goal, and if we are to achieve it we cannot afford setbacks or barriers to renewable energy development.
Governor Scott has endorsed these ambitious energy goals, and VPIRG and others will be sure to hold him to that commitment. That’s why VPIRG, along with sixteen other organizations and over 650 individuals, delivered this message today:
“Dear Vermont Legislators & Governor Scott:
We support Vermont’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency and urge you to oppose any retreat from it.”