NCEL Statement on Paris Agreement Withdrawal

Statement from NCEL President Beth Kerttula:

Today’s official withdrawal from the Paris Agreement marks a disheartening step backward for our country and the world. Our federal government may have gone in the wrong direction, but no matter who wins the Presidency, states are redoubling their commitment to take bold climate action.

States will play a crucial role in the years ahead on setting environmental policies, regardless of how power shifts in Washington, D.C. We know the importance of states, because we have seen their consistent leadership on the environment throughout history. In 2017, over 550 state legislators from 45 states committed to state climate action. As a result, 11 states and counting have committed to transition to 100% clean energy, while other states have passed laws implementing carbon emission reduction targets. States also continue to innovate on advancing renewables, efficiency, storage, electrified transportation, and a smart, resilient electrical grid. These steps will lead the world in eliminating carbon emissions and other pollutants.

While the federal government’s commitment to environmental protection has fluctuated over the years depending on leadership, states are consistent in their fight for climate action. So despite this short-sighted decision to exit the Paris Agreement, state legislators will continue to be champions of a clean, healthy environment for us all.

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Created by and for state legislators, the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that organizes over 1,000 environmentally committed state legislators from all 50 states and both parties. NCEL provides venues and opportunities for lawmakers to share ideas and collaborate on environmental issues.