As mothers, caregivers, and concerned citizens, we are deeply worried about the future our children will inherit if New York State fails to fully implement its climate laws, specifically the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act). This landmark legislation was designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect disadvantaged communities, and ensure a healthy, sustainable future for all New Yorkers. However, recent reports reveal that many state agencies are not complying with the mandates of this law, putting our children's safety and health at risk.
We cannot afford to delay action on climate change. The consequences of inaction—rising temperatures, more frequent and severe storms, and increasing air pollution—are already being felt, especially by our most vulnerable communities. These impacts will only worsen if we do not hold our state agencies accountable for their responsibilities under the Climate Act.
We, the undersigned, call on Governor Kathy Hochul and all relevant state agencies, including the Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), Empire State Development (ESD), the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), and the New York State Education Department (NYSED), to:
1. Fully Implement the Climate Act: Ensure that all decisions, projects, and investments made by state agencies comply with the Climate Act's mandates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect disadvantaged communities.
2. Conduct Mandatory Climate and Equity Screens: Require that every state agency conducts the necessary climate and equity screenings for all significant decisions, as mandated by the Climate Act, to prevent any actions that could exacerbate climate change or disproportionately harm disadvantaged communities.
3. Prioritize the Health and Safety of Our Children: Recognize that the health and safety of our children are at stake. Implement policies and regulations that safeguard our children's future by reducing pollution, promoting clean energy, and ensuring that all communities have access to a healthy environment.
4. Increase Transparency and Accountability: Provide the public with clear, accessible information about how state agencies are complying with the Climate Act. This includes tracking and publicly reporting on agency spending and decisions to ensure that 40% of clean energy investments benefit disadvantaged communities.
5. Lead by Example: Demonstrate true leadership by making the Climate Act a top priority and ensuring that New York State becomes a model for climate action, protecting not only our state but also setting a standard for others to follow.
Sign this petition to demand that New York State fully implements its climate laws and takes decisive action to protect our children's future. Our kids deserve to grow up in a world where they can breathe clean air, play safely outdoors, and look forward to a bright and healthy future.