Home Blog Page 2022

60 Minutes Revisits Health Care in Virginia’s Appalachia

By
Dan Sullivan
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photo 160121 Health Wagon w Scott Pelly_s_zpsky6xug0j.jpgby Dan Sullivan

Scott Pelly rendezvoused with Health Wagon’s Teresa Gardner and Paula Hill-Meade for a return engagement that will be
featured on 60 Minutes this Sunday at 7 PM EST. Since the original segment about
the mobile clinic, financial support has improved but need continues to outstrip resources.

Without Medicaid expansion or a Republican alternative nearly
one million residents of Virginia will continue without health insurance and
adequate access to healthcare. Health Wagon and Remote Area Medical are the only figurative and
literal band aids.

    Health Wagon’s clientele:
  • The poverty rate among the population served by the
    Health Wagon is 70% to 140% higher than in the rest of Virginia.

  • 43.4% live on incomes less than 200% of the federal
    poverty rate, compared with 27.1% statewide.

  • 49.3% of those over the age of 25 do not have a high
    school diploma, compared with 24.8% statewide.

  • Chronic unemployment rates are five times higher than
    the statewide average.

  • Adults in the Health Wagon coverage area age 35-64
    die 30% earlier than the same population in the rest of Virginia.
      • Additionally, as compared with the rest of Virginia:

  • Health Wagon clients are 21% more likely to die from
    diseases of the heart.

  • Health Wagon clients are 14% more likely to die from
    diabetes.

  • Health Wagon clients are 35% more likely to die from
    COPD.

  • Health Wagon clients are 40% more likely to die from
    unintentional injuries.

  • Health Wagon clients are 50% more likely to die from
    suicide.
    • Please share to increase awareness of this Free Mobile Clinic
    providing care to the uninsured and under-insured in our mountains. The last two
    years have seen double the number of patients due to the number of lost coal mining
    jobs. And contribute to both the Health Wagon and Remote Area Medical whatever
    you can.

    There will be a Remote Area Medical Clinic in Buena Vista March 5th and 6th. You may specify that your donations to RAM to be applied to
    Virginia clinics.

    Virginia House Democrats Release the “Terrible Bill Watch List”

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    From the Virginia House Democratic caucus; there’s some seriously extreme crap in here from Republicans.

    RICHMOND, Va. – Today, House Democrats highlighted some of the bills that are the most troubling introduced in the 2016 session. The “Terrible Bill Watch List,” while not comprehensive, provides samples of the legislation that House Republicans have been introducing for years that distract focus from the reasons why citizens sent us to Richmond.

    “Again this year, we are seeing Republicans in the House introduce numerous bills that would promote the gun lobby, weaken women’s reproductive rights, limit the right to vote, and turn back the clock on social equality,” said David J. Toscano, House Democratic Leader. “House Democrats, on the other hand, are working tirelessly to pass legislation that helps build the New Virginia Economy, ensure our citizens are safe, and creates a level playing field of opportunity, whether in the workplace or classroom.”

    HOUSE REPUBLICANS WANT TO MAKE IT EASIER TO GET GUNS, AND TO HAVE THEM IN MORE PLACES BY ARMING NURSES, PROFESSORS, COLLEGE STUDENTS, HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS AND STATE EMPLOYEES

    • HB 1163 – Reverses the Attorney General’s recent decision to decrease the number of states with which we share concealed carry permit reciprocity. Erodes the sound protections that have been in our concealed permit legislation for years, allowing persons from states with weaker controls to carry concealed firearms in the Commonwealth.
    • HB 560 –Weakens what is necessary to find a person guilty of brandishing a weapon. Under the bill, you must cause fear or harm. This will make it more difficult for the police to charge and convict people who threaten to harm others.
    • HB 83 –Prohibits state government and its employees from enforcing federal background checks or gun laws.
    • HB 260 –Weakens local law enforcement’s ability to restrict extreme firearms such as machine guns.
    • HB 206 & HB 273: Makes it easier to purchase a firearm by only requiring one form of identification at time of purchase.
    • HB 1055: Allows unsecured firearms to be carried in foster care homes.
    • HB 593 & HB 132: Allows concealed guns to be carried by any employee in state buildings. If guns are banned on state property, the state would be required to carry liability coverage to compensate any concealed carry permit holder who is injured in a gun-related incident.
    • HB 79 & HB 133: Allows guns on college campuses, whether or not the college objects. If guns are banned on college campuses, the college would be required to carry liability insurance to compensate any concealed carry permit holder who is injured in a gun-related incident.
    • HB 76: Allows concealed guns to be carried by faculty and staff in schools.
    HOUSE REPUBLICANS ARE USING RELIGION AS AN EXCUSE FOR DISCRIMINATION
    • HB 773: Kim Davis inspired bill that discriminates against same-sex couples dealing with any government entity – from clerks of court to school sports coaches. The bill would prohibit government from taking action against employees who refuse to do their job because it goes against their personal religious beliefs, and would allow clerks and others to refuse to provide service if they have a religious objection to doing so.
    • HB 781: Discriminates against transgender people. Establishes that gender designation for restrooms, etc. in schools must be based on anatomical or biological sex, not gender identification.
    • HB 431: Discriminates against transgender people. Sex of a person cannot be altered on a birth certificate, even after gender-altering procedures. If passed, could create confusion and incongruencies between different official and governmental documents.
    • HB 249: Belittles women who wish to serve their nation in uniform. Women applying to serve in the National Guard must be warned that they may face combat duty.
    • HB 77: Discriminates against the LGBT community. Any federal discrimination law passed in 2012 or later will not apply in Virginia.
    • HB 385: Discriminates against the LGBT community. Bans local governments or school boards from having a discrimination policy that includes sexual orientation or gender identity.
    HOUSE REPUBLICANS ARE ATTACKING CONSTITUTIONAL PROTECTIONS AND THE ACA
    • HJ 29 and HR 19: Denounces a woman’s constitutional right to an abortion. Asserts that life begins at fertilization, and claims that Roe v. Wade was based on false science.
    • HB 963: Restricts a woman’s right to choose. Bans abortions past 20 weeks with very limited exception.
    • HB 556: Makes a woman who seeks an abortion a child abuser. Includes fetuses as potential child abuse victims.
    • HB 338: Leaves thousands of Virginians without access to affordable health care. Would end the funding and execution of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in Virginia.
    HOUSE REPUBLICANS ARE INSENSITIVE TO THOSE FLEEING DEATH AND POLITICAL PERSECUTION
    • HB 852 & HB494: Bans refugees from settling in Virginia. No agency of the Commonwealth can assist federal agents to settle or relocate refugees from Syria, Iraq, Iran, or Sudan.

    Video: New Sanders “America” Ad the Absolute Antithesis of GOP Fearmongering, Divisiveness, Talking Down America

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    Whoever you’re supporting — Hillary Clinton (who I’ve endorsed), Bernie Sanders (who I haven’t endorsed, but who I greatly respect and agree with on a ton of issues), or Martin O’Malley (good guy, strong progressive, not going to win the nomination) — I think you’ve got to admit this is an emotionally powerful, uplifting, evocative, inspirational ad — possibly the best political ad I’ve seen in a long time. It’s also probably a smart ad politically, as the average Democratic caucus voter in Iowa (and New Hampshire) probably grew up listening to Simon and Garfunkel and loving songs like this one. Here’s the New York Times’ takeaway on the new Sanders ad (I completely agree).

    Mr. Sanders has created an ad with a vastly different feel from anything else seen in the race since Mrs. Clinton announced her candidacy in a hope-filled two-minute video. It strikingly contrasts with Mrs. Clinton’s own minute-long closing argument to Iowans, which is replete with grave warnings and bold promises. And it is likely to stand out amid the clutter of attack ads and boasts from candidates and their allies in both parties.

    I further agree with this Daily Kos diary, that the ad is “not about what the candidate can do for the voters,” but “about what the candidate can do with the voters.” I’ll also echo this comment on that diary.

    … as a Hillary supporter, say something really positive about Bernie in a Bernie diary, and near the top of the comments: This is an AWESOME ad. It made me cry. I don’t have the words to express how much it moved me. Well done, Bernie Sanders. Well done . Bravo.

    I couldn’t agree more. The  main point I want to make here, though, isn’t about Sanders vs. Clinton at all, but about the stark contrast between this ad – and really, the entire Democratic worldview – and the apocalyptic, ultra-negative, super-divisive, snarling, nasty, harsh, violent, bigoted, vicious, and flat-out false rhetoric we’ve been hearing for months now. So much for a positive, “kindler/gentler” Republican Party with a positive vision for the future; instead, it’s been gloom-and-doom 24/7, how HORRIBLE everything supposedly is (not true of course), how we need to “take our country back” (from who exactly? I think we all know EXACTLY who Trump, Cruz et al are talking about), how we need MORE goodies for rich people and big corporations, MORE disastrous wars in the Middle East, MORE fossil fuels poisoning our home, MORE economic inequality, MORE of the infamous “Southern Strategy;” etc. Ugh.

    Now, I’m certainly not going to argue that Democrats are perfect, but to me, Bernie Sanders’ new ad encapsulates why many of us are Democrats – because we see America largely as Simon and Garfunkel do.

    “America” is a protest song that “creates a cinematic vista that tells of the singer’s search for a literal and physical America that seems to have disappeared, along with the country’s beauty and ideals.” Art Garfunkel once described the song as “young lovers with their adventure and optimism.”

    And that, of course, is exactly what America should be, and often has been, about: adventure, optimism, a “can-do” spirit, beauty, ideals and idealism.

    And, of course, I’d add that this is a nation of immigrants — of our parents grandparents, great grandparents, great great grandparents — who let their homes in Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America, wherever – to seek a new and better life in America. THAT is what we are still seeking, a better life in America; not the perpetual rage, spittle-flecked vitriol, fear, paranoia, and outright bigotry of the Sarah Palins, Donald Trumps and Ted Cruzes of the world. That dark, horrible Republican vision of America certainly isn’t a country anyone would come looking for, let alone risking their lives from all over the world to try and make it here. This November, we should all show up to the polls in droves to reject the GOP’s disturbing, dark, Manichean vision.

    For now, though, thank you to Bernie Sanders, for giving us this refreshing ad in what has generally been a disgusting campaign (at least on the Republican side) – and for reminding us of all that’s great about America.

    Governor McAuliffe Declares State of Emergency in Response to the Winter Storm: Virginians Urged to Prepare Now

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    From Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s office:

    RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency at 8 a.m. today, an action that authorizes state agencies to assist local governments in responding to a major winter storm that is expected to impact the Commonwealth through Sunday.
    In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and position resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia. This action does not apply to individuals or private businesses.
    Governor McAuliffe urges Virginians to prepare for this major winter storm, which could dump up to two feet of snow in central and northern regions. Wind gusts of up to 50 mph, sleet and freezing rain could result in downed trees, power outages and blocked roads.
    “Keeping Virginians safe in the event of severe weather is our top concern – that is why Virginia began preparing for severe winter weather yesterday by ordering more than 500 vehicles out to pretreat roads in Northern Virginia,” said Governor McAuliffe. “All Virginians should take the threat of this storm seriously and take necessary precautions now to ensure they are prepared for travel disruptions and possible power outages during a cold weather period.”

    “VDOT is prepared with crews, equipment and materials to treat roads in advance of the storm and will work throughout the storm to plow roads,” said Transportation Secretary Aubrey Layne. “Driving conditions during the storm are expected to be hazardous and motorists are urged to stay off the roads until the storm passes.” 

    State Actions:
    • Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) crews are on 24-hour operations and are pretreating roads where temperatures permit. Motorists are strongly encouraged to stay off the roads during the storm. For information about road and traffic conditions, check www.511virginia.org or call 511 before traveling.
    • The Virginia State Police have all uniformed personnel and necessary specialty units ready for response to the next round of increased volumes in traffic crashes, disabled vehicles, and other storm-related emergencies. Virginians are advised to plan ahead for slick, treacherous road conditions. They can also help reduce traffic crashes and delays by avoiding travel during the storm.
    • The Virginia National Guard has been authorized to bring up to 500 personnel on state active duty for possible assistance with the state’s severe winter weather response operations. The Guard plans to stage personnel at readiness centers in key locations across the commonwealth in order to be ready to rapidly respond if needed. The alert process to notify personnel to report for duty began Wednesday afternoon, and the Guard plans to have forces in place and ready to go by early evening on Thursday, Jan. 21. Potential missions for the Guard include transportation through heavy snow, downed tree removal, debris reduction and distribution of food, water and other supplies.
    What Citizens Should Do:
    • Stay off the roads during the storm unless travel is absolutely necessary. If travel is necessary, drive with caution and allow extra space around other vehicles.
    • Use extreme caution around slow-moving equipment being used to treat roads, such as snow plows.
    • Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter and is in safe driving condition. Keep an emergency kit in your car. Include items such as jumper cables, blankets, first aid kit, water, non-perishable food, cat litter or sand, shovel, flash light and batteries, ice scraper and cell phone charger.
    • Check on elderly or homebound neighbors, family, and friends to ensure they are ready for this storm and any possible inconveniences or interruptions that may result.
    • Bring pets inside from the cold.
    • Be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for at least 72 hours, in case roads are blocked and/or there are power outages.
    • Have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio and extra batteries for emergency information. Listen to local weather forecasts and instructions from local officials.
    • If you need help, information or resources during the storm, call 211. Those with hearing impairments can call 711 for the Virginia Relay Center and then call 1-800-230-6977. Out of state or videophone users may also dial 1-800-230-6977 for assistance.
    • Download the free Ready Virginia app at: http://www.vaemergency.gov/readyvirginia/additional-resources/mobileapp.
    • Download the free VDOT 511 app for updates on road conditions at: http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/511.asp.
    For more information on the Commonwealth’s response efforts, visit http://www.vaemergency.gov.

    Thursday News: “The monumental fall of the Republican Party;” “Sarah Palin’s Circle of Victimhood;” GOP Blocks Gun Safety in Virginia

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    by Lowell

    Here are a few national and Virginia news headlines, political and otherwise, for Thursday, January 21. Also check out President Obama speaking about the economy yesterday.

    Sen. Tim Kaine: “The enemy is not refugees from Syria. The enemy is ISIL.”

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    by Lowell

    Sen. Tim Kaine should make all Virginians feel proud, as he fights back against bigotry, demagoguery, ignorance, fearmongering and just plain nastiness. Thank you Sen. Kaine! UPDATE: Good news as Senate Democrats block this piece-of-crap bill.

    U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement today after voting against consideration of the American Security Against Foreign Enemies Act (SAFE):

    “Today I voted against consideration of a bill that would have labeled millions of innocent people fleeing the worst humanitarian crisis since World War II as enemies of the United States. Instead of allowing amendments that would actually keep Americans safer – including closing the terrorist gun loophole and increasing funding for anti-terror efforts by local law enforcement and airport security – Republicans would rather talk tough for political gain while doing nothing to strengthen our security. 

    “If Congress was really serious about keeping America ‘secure against foreign enemies’ we would be voting to authorize the war against our real enemy – ISIL. A debate and vote in Congress would show both our allies and adversaries that we are unified in our resolve against ISIL and committed to defeating the terrorist threat, while also sending an important signal of support to the more than 3,500 U.S. servicemembers we’ve deployed into harm’s way over the past 18 months.” 

    During hearings in both the Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees earlier today, Kaine pressed witnesses as to whether they believe ISIL or Syrian refugees are a bigger enemy to the United States. From retired General John Keane to former Ambassador to Afghanistan Ryan Crocker, all agreed that ISIL is a bigger enemy to the United States than those fleeing violence in Syria and Iraq. Crocker went on to say that the United States has an obligation to lead on the global refugee crisis. “In my view,” Crocker said, “that means taking in a significant number of refugees. … I’m all for the vetting process. It’s essential. I’d just like to see it made more of a priority to be able to move refugees faster.”

    Kudos to WaPo Weather Editor Jason Samenow; Now What About Doug Hill, Topper Shutt, Amelia Segal, etc?!?

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    by Lowell


    I’ve been critical of the Washington Post’s “Capital Weather Gang” and other local-area meteorologists for twisting themselves into contortions to avoid connecting the dots between increasingly extreme weather patterns and events, year-in/year-out, and global climate disruption.

    The bottom line: at this point, in light of so many droughts, super-storms, and the hottest year in history (by a wide margin), there’s absolutely no excuse for meterologists to plead ignorance of the interaction between climate and weather (and yes, denier tools, those are different concepts!). Which means that if a meteorologist is NOT taking man-made climate disruption into account in their weather forecasts, they are simply not doing their jobs. Just as importantly, if a meterologist – particularly prominent ones, like local TV weatherpeople Doug Hill, Topper Shutt, Amelia Segal, etc. – as well as some of the folks Jason Samenow works with at the Capital Weather Gang, aren’t informing their viewers on a regular basis about the links between climate disruption and weather patterns, they are doing a huge disservice to those viewers and the broader public.

    Honestly, I can’t even think of a legitimate excuse for failing to do so, as ignorance is certainly not plausible at this point. So, what’s holding these prominent meteorologists back from doing the job they need to be doing? Orders from management not to discuss this “controversial” (in quotes because it most certainly is NOT controversial among scientists) topic? Fear of climate-science-denying viewers flooding their email inboxes with crazed vitriol? Other?

    Anyway, given that context, I think it’s important to praise meteorologists when they do the right thing, clearly drawing the link between climate change/disruption and weather patterns. This morning’s Washington Post opinion piece by Jason Samenow is a superb case in point. The bottom line points:

    • “For those still unconvinced about the reality of climate change, the year that just ended should erase any doubt. Climate data from the air, land and water all reveal an indisputable portrait of a warming world.”
    • “Numerous independent indicators corroborate this temperature data, painting a consistent and compelling portrait of a warming world…Ice is melting…Seas are rising…Fresh water is warming…The weather is getting freaky.”
    • On that last point, about “freaky” weather, Samenow cites the “barrage of unprecedented weather events that shocked meteorologists time after time” in 2015. Those include: the California drought, a record El Nino, the strongest hurricane ever measured in the Western Hemisphere, above-freezing temperatures at the North Pole at the end of December, etc, etc. 
    So there’s the deal. If meterologists truly are *shocked* at how man-made climate disruption is turning weather extreme, then they need to not keep that a secret! To the contrary, they should be shouting at the top of their lungs, every single day pretty much, and informing the public of the catastrophe that’s unfolding. Certainly, they should not be doing what I saw on local newscasts in December — making the record warmth seem like a big joke (“hahaha, people in shorts in late December, isn’t that hilarious!!!!!”). Far from being a joke, let alone a big one, this is deadly serious stuff, and frankly if newscasters can’t or won’t convey that, they should be replaced by people who can and will.

    P.S. For examples of the Capital Weather Gang at its worst, see Shhh … when it comes to #weather/#climate links, nothing to be seen here (@WashingtonPost edition). Also see Start saying everything is related to #climate change. Just start it..

    Virginia Environment and Renewable Energy Caucus Adopts 2016 Legislative Agenda

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    Great stuff; if this agenda were adopted in full, or even in part, Virginia would be MUCH better off for it! – Lowell

    RICHMOND – The bipartisan Virginia Environment and Renewable Energy (VERE) Caucus met on Monday afternoon to review and adopt its legislative agenda for the 2016 Session. The agenda includes legislation to improve water quality, promote land conservation, and invest in clean, renewable energy to create new job and grow Virginia’s economy.

    “The bipartisan members of the VERE Caucus have done tremendous work throughout the year to develop this agenda,” said Delegate Lopez, Chair of the VERE Caucus. “As the session progresses, we are continuing to look for additional clean energy and environmental legislation that we can support and champion. Virginia needs to be doing more to reduce our carbon pollution, address sea level rise, mitigate the impacts of climate change, and preserve our environment for future generations. These bills and budget objectives represent a tangible way for Virginia to keep moving forward on these priorities instead of falling further behind.” 

    “I look forward to moving the ball forward on a number of important environmental and energy issues with my colleagues on the VERE Caucus this session” said Delegate Rip Sullivan, VERE Caucus Co-Chair. “Virginia is far behind many of its competitors, including North Carolina, on promoting and developing renewable energy and energy efficiency. We will work together in a bipartisan fashion to help Virginia move forward this year.” 

    As a Co-Chair of the VERE Caucus, Delegate David Bulova added, “As Virginians, we cherish the beauty of our natural resources and recognize that their stewardship and conservation are critical to our long-term economic growth and prosperity.  The legislative agenda of the VERE Caucus is a bipartisan effort to ensure that future generations can enjoy clean water and clean air and that we invest in technology that will put Virginia on the forefront of harnessing the potential of clean, renewable sources of energy.” 

    “I am pleased to join with my colleagues, in a bipartisan effort, to ensure that Virginia works to improve our climate, protect the environment and provide alternative renewable energy sources,” said Senator Donald McEachin, a founding member and VERE Caucus Co-Chair.

    The meeting was attended by Delegates Boysko (D-Herndon), Minchew (R-Leesburg), Kory (D-Falls Church), Sullivan (D-McLean), Murphy (D-McLean), Rasoul (D-Roanoke), Bulova (D-Fairfax), Bell (D-Chantilly), Lopez (D-Arlington), and Levine (D-Alexandria). 


    VIRGINIA ENVIRONMENT & RENEWABLE ENERGY CAUCUS
    2016 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
    Water Quality
    • SUPPORT: Fully funding Agriculture Best Management Practices cost-share program in the State Budget –Robust and reliable funding of Virginia’s agricultural best management practice cost-share program is essential for meeting the Commonwealth’s water quality goals. Practices like fencing cattle out of streams, planting streamside trees and grasses, managing manure effectively, planting cover crops, and many others are the most cost-effective steps Virginia can take to restore the Bay and local steams under the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint. There is an estimated $65 million backlog in funding for the many farmers who have signed up to install fencing to protect streams from livestock.
    • SUPPORT: Increased funding for the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund in the State Budget – Virginia localities are working hard to restore our waterways with enhanced runoff control programs, stream restoration initiatives, and other projects. To support localities’ work and meet the Clean Water Blueprint goals, the Commonwealth must substantially increase funding for the Stormwater Local Assistance Fund (SLAF), a program that provides matching grants to localities for effective stormwater management projects.
    • SUPPORT: Zero Tolerance for Repeat Polluters Act (HB976 – Lopez) – This bill raises the civil penalty that may be included with a special order from the Director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality from $10,000 to $50,000. It also raises the civil penalties for special orders from the State Water Control Board, Air Pollution Control Board, and Waste Management Board to $50,000 per violation with a maximum of $1,000,000 per special order. 
    • SUPPORT: Ensuring timely public notification for pollution in local waters (HB479 – Kory) – Residents should know as soon as possible that their local lakes, streams, or rivers have been exposed to pollution. These notices should be clear and visible at all access points outlining potential public health and safety risks.
    • SUPPORT: Tightening the window of time for spill notifications (HB977 – Lopez) – This legislation requires any person who unlawfully discharges any harmful substance into state waters to notify the Department of Environmental Quality or the coordinator of emergency services of the affected locality within 12 hours. It also require the State Water Control Board or the Department to provide each report of a discharge to local newspapers, television stations, and radio stations as soon as practicable after receiving it.
    Clean Energy and the Clean Power Plan
    • OPPOSE: House Bill 2 – HB 2 infringes on the authority of the Governor to develop a state plan with the state agencies that are experts in protecting our health and environment. Importantly, the bill could obstruct state agencies who must draft a plan that fits the unique needs of Virginia, wasting an opportunity to develop a Clean Power Plan that works best for Virginia’s economy and our communities. The General Assembly should support timely and effective compliance with the final Plan targets and reject efforts to limit the autonomy of the policy experts at Virginia’s Department of Environmental Quality from creating and submitting a state plan.
    • SUPPORT: Virginia Coastal Protection Act (HB351 – Villanueva / SB571 – McEachin) – Flooding has become one of the most challenging public policy issues facing coastal Virginia. The increased warming and rising of ocean waters due to climate change, combined with the area’s sinking land, will cause as much as 7.5 feet of sea level rise by century’s end, according to the Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences. As a win-win solution, Virginia should join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which will provide crucial funds for adaptation measures in Hampton Roads and throughout Virginia while lowering emissions in a way that is proven cost-effective.
    • SUPPORT: Increased Energy Efficiency Goals (HB576 – Sullivan) – Energy efficiency programs in Virginia represent an under-utilized tool by which the state can reduce its total energy consumption and also stimulate local economies through in-state job generation. Additionally, under the U.S. EPA’s now-final Clean Power Plan, expanded efficiency programs can aid the state in meeting its greenhouse gas emissions targets. Utility-run efficiency programs will play a dominant role in Virginia’s overall efficiency efforts, and the utilities’ planning documents should properly account for that impact.
    • SUPPORT: Community Net-Metering / Reducing Stand-by Charges (SB140 – Edwards) – “Community net metering” allows utility customers to work together to install a renewable energy system that will benefit all members of a group. Customer-generated renewable energy offers significant benefits to the public as well as to individual owners of systems. These systems provide power directly where it is used, reducing line losses and the need for new utility generation. They also contribute to the security and stability of the electric grid, relieve grid congestion, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels that pollute the air and water. The General Assembly should increase the availability of options for customers to install renewable energy systems, including through the use of community net metering. 
    • SUPPORT: Fixing the Virginia’s definition of Renewable Energy to promote efficient biomass energy generation (HB973 – Lopez / SB647– Favola) – Virginia’s definition of renewable energy is flawed because it includes all forms of biomass generation. We need to ensure that only energy sources with a low carbon footprint are considered renewable by removing the most inefficient and dirty biomass generators from the list of renewable energy sources in the state. By not diluting the meaning of “renewable” we can ensure that efficient biomass, wind, solar and other sustainable technologies are not overshadowed or overlooked as means of achieving Virginia’s clean energy future. 
    Land Conservation
    • OPPOSE: Any additional cuts to the Land Preservation Tax Credit and any attacks on voluntary conservation easements – The Land Preservation Tax Credit is Virginia’s most successful, dependable land conservation funding program and is one of the best land conservation tax incentive programs in the nation. This program is an efficient and effective way to encourage private voluntary land conservation by providing taxpayers who make gifts of land or conservation easements tax credits equal to 40 percent of the value of their donated interest.
    • SUPPORT: Increased funding for successful land grant programs in the State Budget – The Virginia Land Conservation Foundation (VLCF) provides state matching grants for the preservation of various categories of special lands in the commonwealth. 
    • SUPPORT: $165 Million for public land acquisition in the 2016 General Obligation Bond package – In order to keep pace with public demand for public lands, the land acquisition portion of this should include at least $165M for parks, preserves, and forests.

    Wednesday News: “Hot Mess” (Palin) Meets “Dumpster Fire” (Trump), Result is “post-apocalyptic poetry”

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    by Lowell

    Here are a few national and Virginia news headlines, political and otherwise, for Wednesday, January 20. And definitely check out the “post-apocalyptic poetry” by Sarah Palin in the video. Yet again, I’m scratching my head at John McCain’s bat****-crazy decision to pick this freak to be his running mate in 2008. My god, can you imagine if she had won?!?

    Video: No New Natural Gas Pipelines Lobby Day Protest in Richmond, Virginia

    By
    lowkell
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    0

    As the representative from the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) points out: 1) “right now, we’re facing unprecedented expansion of natural gas infrastructure in the state of Virginia;” 2) we’re talking about a “$17 billion investment in natural gas infrastructure at a time we know we need to be moving toward solar and wind to avoid the worst impacts of climate change;” 3) this would mostly be “fracked” natural gas (which is seriously problematic in and of itself, i’d add); and 4) “we either don’t need these pipelines, or our neighbors to the west who are already suffering terribly from this onslaught of fracking that’s hit their state are going to see that quadruple over the next few years.” Not acceptable.

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