To the editor:
I share Michele Marantz’s disappointment that climate change was not addressed during the recent debate.
Had I been asked, I would have expressed my frustration at the delay of the climate omnibus bill—more than a year and a half in the making—which, when passed, will be a significant step toward an equitable clean-energy transition. This bill streamlines permitting for large clean-energy infrastructure, enhances local control, ensures a fair transition for gas-industry workers, bans predatory electric-supply practices, modernizes the bottle deposit, and prioritizes protecting forests and wetlands.
While not part of this bill, I support Senator Jo Comerford’s “An Act investing in natural and working lands,” which requires the Commonwealth to value forests and farmlands for the full range of services they provide, especially in combating climate change. I also support “An Act relative to healthy and sustainable schools,” co-sponsored by Senator Paul Mark, which calls for energy audits and renewable energy installations at public schools and higher education institutions.
Additionally, I advocate for the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), a state agency that accelerates clean energy growth, creates jobs, and reduces emissions. MassCEC funds climate solutions that help Massachusetts meet its emissions goals and advance our clean-energy economy, particularly in transportation, buildings, and our electric grid—the largest sources of greenhouse-gas emissions.
As we have seen with the one-two punch of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, N.C., and Hurricane Milton in Florida, climate action cannot wait. I am committed to preserving the natural beauty and sustainability of our land for future generations, transitioning to a just and equitable clean-energy economy, and ensuring the Berkshires receive their fair share of resources from these initiatives. As your next 3rd Berkshire District state representative, I will work to ensure these critical reforms and investments benefit us all.
Leigh Davis
Great Barrington
NOTE: Leigh Davis is the Democratic candidate for the 3rd Berkshire District seat in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
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