Environment

Protecting our natural resources is a top priority. I support legislation that incentivizes renewable energy use and helps break our reliance on imported fossil fuels while protecting ratepayers from high costs. Preserving air and water quality is a public health issue, and we must take whatever steps we can to combat the factors that lead to climate change. Our beaches, parks, and public lands are a big part of what draws tourists to the Ocean State, and they must be preserved and made accessible for all to enjoy.

My work on the environment:

• Passed a bill that allows the 21 coastal communities to adopt the CRMC’s coastal hazard application process, which means property owners can make smart decisions about building and renovations with the effects of climate change in mind

• Worked with the Town of North Kingstown to develop a Municipal Resilience Plan with the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank, unlocking access to grants to fund infrastructure projects to address climate change. I also worked with the Town of Narragansett to apply for the 2022 Class with the Infrastructure Bank, and I look forward to participating in that planning process as well

• Supported the Act on Climate and the Affordable Clean Energy Security Act

• Worked to gather information to figure out how to help renters access home energy efficiency programs and encourage landlords to participate, looking forward to continuing this work in 2023

• Sponsored the Shoreline Access bill in 2021 that led to the Study Commission, will support a Shoreline Access bill in the 2023 session