Happy Earth Day, y’all! This week, we’ve collected some stories related to our environment. Check them out!
Arizona
- Department of Interior Funding
- Why we’re watching: Just before Earth Day, the Department of Interior announced it will invest $46 million in tribal communities. These funds are meant for climate resilience, including addressing rising tides, erosion, and flooding – all effects of climate change that disproportionately impact communities of color and Indigenous groups.
- Tree-Planting in Phoenix
- Why we’re watching: Tree inequity is an issue that plagues communities of color across the country. Underdevelopment and other systemic concerns have created Black and Brown neighborhoods devoid of greenery, leading to higher average temperatures. This recent event in Phoenix addresses such inequality and we hope we see similar events in the future!
California
- California Air Resources Board
- Why we’re watching: Did you know California is home to 11% of all new passenger car sales? Well, the California Air Resources Board wants to increase the proportion of electric vehicles by phasing out the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035. This is an ambitious goal, but one that should yield returns in the areas of environmentalism and equity.
Connecticut
- SB 214
- Why we’re watching: Buying an electric vehicle ought to be a lot easier than it is now. We’re looking at you, Connecticut! A law there has prevented EV manufacturers from selling their products directly to consumers for years, potentially driving up prices. SB 214 would allow EV companies to sell their cars directly to buyers.
Federal
- Environmental Studies
- Why we’re watching: The Trump administration once scaled back rigorous environmental reviews of major infrastructure projects. Now, the White House Council on Environmental Quality has reinstituted these guidelines, ensuring that major projects such as roads and bridges are constructed with the environment in mind.
What do you think of the news in this week’s legislative roundup? Did we miss anything? Drop us a line on any of our social channels or hit us up through our contact us form. Let us know what’s happening in YOUR neighborhood!
