It was great to see letter writer Kevin Kriescher detailing such emphatic support for Maryland's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative ("Marylanders want a stronger RGGI," Sept. 13). There are many steps to take to reduce the effects of climate change, and RGGI is an important one. Gov. Larry Hogan seems to be more concerned with possible effects from other states rather than listening to what a vast majority of his constituents want — a strong and continued commitment to fighting climate change.
Many Marylanders support RGGI morally, but they also benefit economically. RGGI released a report this week detailing how millions of households and thousands of business have benefited financially from RGGI's implementation. Furthermore, RGGI holds particular strength in Maryland, a state that has received failing air pollution grades from the American Lung Association for the past two years.
As a student, I have hope for the world's future. However, we need to see that our elected officials are committed to that optimism as well. I call on Governor Hogan to pass laws that would help Maryland achieve its clean air goals, provide committed support to RGGI, and to encourage neighboring states of Pennsylvania and West Virginia to do the same.
Emma Weinert, Baltimore