The main focus in the team’s November meeting was upcoming legislative activity. The chapter as a whole is finalizing its priorities, drawing from those established by the Clean Energy Team and other committees throughout the organization. Two veterans, Dale Lutz and Satish Desai, represented the team at the prioritization meetings mid-December.
One of the team’s proposed priorities is to establish a clean heating standard for gas to match the standard currently in place for electricity. Other proposals include utility-company accountability and enabling low-income people to access solar power.
Even though the DFL continues to hold both the House and Senate, three of the DFL Senators have “iffy” records on environmental issues. Since the margin is only one vote, there is no guarantee that environmental legislation will pass.
That’s where you come in. There are a number of volunteer activities available, including testifying, calling and texting other members, and calling or writing legislators in your district. For further information, contact Patty O’Keefe.