Lt. Governor Zuckerman Responds to the Governor’s Veto of the Global Warming Solutions Act
PRESS RELEASE: September 15, 2020
Lt. Governor Zuckerman Responds to the Governor’s Veto of the Global Warming Solutions Act
BURLINGTON: In the midst of a climate emergency that has resulted in an unprecedented hurricane season, the hottest year on record, out-of-control fires on the West Coast, more than half a million displaced Americans, and a rising death toll, Phil Scott vetoed the Global Warming Solutions Act. This legislation, passed with overwhelming support in both the House and Senate, would provide a framework to hold Vermont accountable for meeting our climate goals.
“Even now, as many Vermonters struggle with challenges from COVID-19, I continually hear the environment is a top priority,” said Lt. Governor Zuckerman. “With this veto, the Governor has abdicated responsibility for our future. Keeping Vermonters safe means addressing both the health challenges at hand, as well as the health challenges in the future. We must listen to the science to keep Vermonters healthy both around COVID and on climate change.”
This follows the Governor’s vetoes of minimum wage and paid family medical leave bills earlier this year and stands in direct opposition to his three stated goals; Grow the economy; Make Vermont more affordable; and Protect the most vulnerable.
“This veto was utterly predictable, highlights Phil Scott’s rhetoric and prioritizes fossil fuel companies and carbon polluters over Vermonters and our future,” said campaign manager Megan Polyte. “Policies like the Global Warming Solutions Act are an effective tool, used by leaders and managers in the public and private arena, to align multiple sectors and agencies with a common goal. This veto makes clear Phil Scott’s lack of interest in addressing the climate crisis.”
At a recent press conference, Lt. Governor Zuckerman outlined his plans to address the climate crisis, increase employment and business opportunities in the green energy sector and reduce the financial burden on Vermonters.
“The differences between my and the current Governor’s record on climate policy are clear. Under his administration, 500 solar jobs were lost - prior to COVID. Vermont’s commitment to fulfilling the Climate Commission’s recommendations has been woefully inadequate. He has opposed local renewables and storage. Whereas I want to move forward. I want to invest in Vermont and Vermonters. I want to create jobs in this growing industry. I want to build a better future. A stronger Vermont.” - Lt. Governor Zuckerman
He was joined by small business owners and environmental activists who shared the hurdles they have experienced under the Scott administration. Nils Behn the CEO of Aegis Renewable Energy highlighted the 500+ jobs lost in the solar sector and the 70% drop in solar permit applications due to red tape, and that the administration is advocating for massive cuts to the Solar Net Metering program which will further and deeply degrade solar jobs.
When he announced his bid for Governor in January, Lt. Governor Zuckerman cited the urgency of the climate crisis as a central reason. His policy proposals reflect that urgency and offer leadership for growing our clean and renewable sector while reducing energy burdens on working-class and senior Vermonters.
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