As NYS Receives RGGI Award, NJ Lawmakers Fight to Save Effort to Cut Climate Pollution

ALBANY, NY (02/28/2012)(readMedia)-- On the same day the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, "RGGI," is slated to receive the Citizens Budget Commission's 2012 Prize for Public Service Innovation in New York, the multi-state effort to cut climate pollution from power plants is under attack in New Jersey. Environmental Advocates of New York released the following statement in response, attributable to Deputy Director David Gahl:

"On the same day the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative is receiving a prize for innovation in New York, New Jersey lawmakers are fighting to keep RGGI alive. The fact that Governor Christie is bowing to pressure from polluters to pull out of RGGI and he refuses to recognize its documented benefits for New Jersey is bad politics.

We're encouraged that many of New Jersey's leaders understand the need to keep programs like RGGI on course.

Environmental Advocates of New York thanks Governor Cuomo for his efforts related to RGGI and called on his administration to continue improving the program.

Environmental Advocates of New York's mission is to protect our air, land, water and wildlife and the health of all New Yorkers. Based in Albany, we monitor state government, evaluate proposed laws, and champion policies and practices that will ensure the responsible stewardship of our shared environment. We work to support and strengthen the efforts of New York's environmental community and to make our state a national leader. Visit www.eany.org to learn more.