Governor Baker vetoed the Next-Generation Roadmap Climate Bill. Among other excuses, his reasons—and responses from our allies at 350Mass—include:
- The bill would halt new construction of affordable housing. In reality, energy efficient homes cost the same or less than those using gas, save money over time, and improve health by reducing indoor pollution. Baker’s stance is supported by the real estate lobby but opposed by advocates for affordable housing.
- The bill is too ambitious in seeking 50 percent reduction in climate pollution by 2030; he prefers a goal of 45 percent reduction, and less frequent monitoring of progress made. As the climate crisis intensifies, the Commonwealth’s actions need to be more aggressive, not less.
- He complained about the Roadmap’s new Stretch Building Codes for clean energy, even though they are featured in his own plan.
- The bill is weak on environmental justice. Actually, the Roadmap bill is a good start on justice issues, and environmental justice advocates are united in their support.
- The Roadmap bill does not address climate resilience. This is accurate, but not a justification for vetoing an otherwise substantial and beneficial bill. Climate groups stand ready to work with the Governor on climate resilience funding.
The climate bill has already been re-filed in the legislature.
Contact your legislators and ask them to quickly pass the same Next-Generation Roadmap bill again, without amendments, and, if necessary, to override Governor Baker’s veto.
By Mary Ann Stewart, for the PDM Leadership Team