Category Archives: Climate Action

Climate Action, Climate Change, Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State politics, News & Photo Features

Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on How State is Prepared for Extreme Weather

It can happen here! Remembering the devastation on Long Island caused by Superstorm Sandy, New York State has mounted a Climate Action agenda to transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, while also taking action to mitigate against climate disasters and increase preparedness. Governor Kathy Hochul reviewed the state’s preparations in wake of renewed concern after the tragedies caused by Texas floods. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Extreme Weather Continues To Grow in Frequency and Intensity — Dozens of Temperature and Snowfall Records Broken in Recent Years, Along With Numerous Significant Rainfalls and Wildfires

Governor Launched Innovative State Weather Risk Communication Center at UAlbany; Invested More Than $25 Million to Expand Regional Presence of State Emergency Management Staff and Response Assets

New Yorkers Encouraged To Prepare Themselves Through Citizen Preparedness Corps

New Yorkers Can Text Their County or Borough to 333111 To Receive Real Time Emergency and Weather Alert Texts Directly to Their Phones

In contrast to the malicious negligence of climate-denying Trump, HHS Secretary Kristi Noem, Republican governors including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has worked for years stepping up the state’s mitigation and protection against the worsening severity and likelihood of climate disasters. After the tragic results of the Republican administration in Texas failure to spend money from its $30 billion “rainy day fund” on emergency warning system that could have prevented the loss of life of Camp Mystic and throughout the flash-flood prone region, and the extraordinary negligence of Kristi Noem who failed to send out rescue teams for 72 hours, Governor Hochul sought to alleviate New Yorkers’ concerns by focusing on how the state prepares for extreme weather and taking actions to mitigate for climate change as the state transitions to a clean-energy economy.- Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Governor Kathy Hochul updated New Yorkers on the state’s preparedness and response capabilities as extreme weather continues to grow in frequency and intensity each year. In the face of this growing threat, as well as looming cuts in critical federal funding, Governor Hochul has made it a top priority to invest in the State’s capabilities to prepare for, and respond to, all types of extreme weather.

“New York State is no stranger to extreme weather, and New Yorkers must be prepared for the myriad of severe weather events that come our way,” Governor Hochul said. “Keeping our state safe and protected is my top priority, and my administration is committed to ensuring accessible emergency weather preparedness and an all-hands-on-deck approach to response and recovery operations as severe weather threats increase.”

New York has one of the nation’s most diverse threat landscapes, especially when it comes to the threat of extreme weather. Since taking office in 2021, weather-related natural disasters have resulted in eight Major Disaster Declarations, five Emergency Declarations and one Fire Management Assistance Grant Declaration from the federal government, as well as the declaration of at least 19 State Disaster Emergencies by Governor Hochul herself.

The diversity of natural threats has been wide ranging too. In 2024 and 2025 alone, New York has:

  • Broken 49 High Temperature Records
  • Broken 10 Low Temperature Records
  • Broken 19 Snowfall Records
  • Experienced 38 Tornadoes
  • Experienced 20 significant brush and wildfires, including the largest wildfire in NYS in 30+ years
  • Experienced at least 20 significant rainfall events; and
  • Experienced impacts from two tropical systems (Beryl and Debby)

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Extreme weather events are now the norm, so being prepared is our best defense. We are fortunate to have a Governor that not only understands this, but actively does something about it.  The significant investments Governor Hochul has made in training, equipment, planning and staffing have prepared us to support our local partners and all New Yorkers when a severe weather emergency strikes.”

“New York is leading the nation in building a strong connection between weather experts, emergency managers and the public— which is critical as our state faces increasingly frequent and extreme weather,: New York State Weather Risk Communication Center Director Nick Bassill said. “From hurricanes to lake effect snow and everything in between, the State Weather Risk Communication Center at UAlbany is working daily to help state and local emergency managers better prepare for and respond to severe weather events. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul and Commissioner Bray for their continued support and remain committed to making our communities safer and more resilient.”

Strengthening Preparedness and Response, While Building Resiliency

Under the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York has invested heavily in not only preparedness and response capabilities, but in building a more resilient state. Some of those efforts have included:

  • In December 2023, Governor Hochul announced the creation of New York’s State Weather Risk Communication Center (SWRCC) at the State University of New York at Albany. The Center is a first-of-its kind operational collaboration between university researchers and state emergency managers and serves as a clearinghouse for critical weather information. It also works to develop tools to help emergency managers make informed decisions to help protect communities and examines how communicating extreme weather risks to the public can be improved.
  • Governor Hochul secured $15 million in the FY25 Enacted Budget to enable the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to supply county partners with critical emergency response assets such as generators, high-flow pumps and flood barrier technology.
  • Governor Hochul secured an additional $10.4 million in the FY25 Enacted Budget to further strengthen the regional presence of State Emergency Management Staff, which will add to the volume and availability of on-the-ground support, planning, trainings, exercises, as well as build out our analytic and geospatial capabilities.
  • Governor Hochul secured a total of $90 million in the past two years to launch the Resilient & Ready, an initiative administered by New York Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) consisting of two programs that support resiliency and home repair efforts for low-and-moderate income homeowners. The Resilient Retrofits program provides assistance to eligible homeowners for making proactive flood mitigation and resiliency improvements. The Rapid Response program helps assist eligible households that experience home damage to make necessary repairs in the aftermath of certain major storms.
  • In January 2024, the Governor announced a comprehensive resiliency plan to protect people, communities, infrastructure and homes. 
  • Following the devastating tornado in Rome, Governor Hochul provided $11 million in Emergency Assistance, including up to $5 million for homeowners and $4 million for demolition in Oneida County after the event did not qualify for federal assistance. Another in May 2025 provided $3.5 million to rehab two buildings destroyed by the tornadoes as well. 

State Preparedness, Response and Recovery Operations

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is New York’s primary conduit for emergency preparedness and response operations for all emergencies, both natural and human made. During emergencies, OEM not only coordinates with local emergency responders to support local operations but helps coordinate the deployment of thousands of State personnel and pieces of equipment from numerous State agencies. 

OEM is also home to the State Watch Center which is staffed 24/7/365 to monitor hazardous activity throughout the State and ensure situational awareness for state leaders. Additionally, OEM maintain nine stockpiles located throughout the State which are able to provide emergency response assets and supplies as needed.

Along with Emergency Management, training first responders from all disciplines is a core mission for the Division.  Whether online, or in-person, over 54,000 firefighters, emergency managers, officers and other first responders received some form of training from the Division, including the 4,778 students who received training at the state’s Academy of Fire Science in Montour Falls. Separately, nearly 10,000 state and local first responders received training at the State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany — one of the nation’s premier first responder training facilities.

The Division is also home to the Office of Disaster Recovery Programs which is responsible for the legwork necessary for obtaining federal disaster declarations and administering the federal recovery dollars that flow to communities as a result. Since 2021, the Division has issued payments totaling $12.36 billion in federal Public Assistance recovery funding and $410.6 million in Hazard Mitigation Assistance funding.

Individual Preparedness

In any emergency situation, individual preparedness is one of the most critical components of an effective response and the state offers New Yorkers a number of different ways to not only stay prepared, but stay informed as well. 

The New York State Citizen Preparedness Corps (CPC), administered by the Division and the New York National Guard, was established in 2014 to train New Yorkers how to prepare for emergencies and disasters, respond immediately and recover as quickly as possible to pre-disaster conditions. Nearly 433,000 New Yorkers have taken CPC training in community settings throughout the State.

CPC trainings are free and held in-person throughout the State. New Yorkers can find a local training and enroll online at the DHSES website. For those unable to attend in person, courses are also available online in English and with subtitles in 12 additional languages, including Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Italian, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Urdu and Yiddish.

Additionally, Governor Hochul announced a new real-time emergency and weather alert system earlier this year as part of the State’s Hurricane Preparedness Week recognition efforts. Managed by the Division, this text option allows New Yorkers to text the name of their county or borough to 333111 to receive real time emergency and weather alerts and updates directly to their phones. New Yorkers should also remember to follow their local forecasts and visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on X, or visit dhses.ny.gov for important safety information.

Heat waves and other extreme heat events are likely to happen again this summer and New York State agencies are working to implement initiatives recommended by the State’s Extreme Heat Action Plan to help New Yorkers prepare for heat’s negative health and environmental impacts. In June, New York State marked significant progress on the first year of implementation of the Extreme Heat Action Plan (EHAP) with the first readiness update now available. The EHAP, led by DEC and NYSERDA along with DHSES and DOH under the direction of Governor Hochul, includes nearly 50 actions by State agencies to address extreme heat impacts across four tracks (local planning and capacity building, community preparedness and workers’ safety, resilient buildings and access to cooling, and advancing ecosystem-based adaptations). The full update on implementation progress is available here.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) closely monitors air quality conditions statewide and works with the State Department of Health to issue timely public health advisories that millions of New Yorkers depend on each year. Visit DEC’s website for updated forecasts and information about air quality index levels, and the Department of Health website for information on health risks and precautions related to air quality.  

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

Climate Action, Climate Change, Economic Policies, Economy, Governor Kathy Hochul, Infrastructure, News & Photo Features

Amid Economic Turmoil Created by Trump’s Chaotic Tariffs, Reversals on Clean Energy, Climate Change, NYS Governor Hochul Takes Action

“New Yorkers and business owners all across the state have felt a sense of uncertainty when it comes to the impacts of President Trump’s callous tariffs on our imported goods,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “No business should have to close shop due to these unfair and unwanted taxes that were imposed on states by the Trump administration. This resource guide will help provide individuals with the guidance they need to lower potential risk to their businesses and give New Yorkers a better understanding of how tariffs can impact them.”
 
“New Yorkers and business owners all across the state have felt a sense of uncertainty when it comes to the impacts of President Trump’s callous tariffs on our imported goods,” Governor Kathy Hochul said.“No business should have to close shop due to these unfair and unwanted taxes that were imposed on states by the Trump administration. This resource guide will help provide individuals with the guidance they need to lower potential risk to their businesses and give New Yorkers a better understanding of how tariffs can impact them.” © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

NY.gov/tariffs Will Keep New Yorkers Up-To-Date on Impacts of Tariffs

Amid the economic turmoil created by President Trump’s chaotic tariffs, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced a new tariff resource guide to keep New Yorkers up-to-date on programs available for business owners who have been impacted by tariffs. Additionally, the Governor announced a survey to allow business owners the opportunity to share how their businesses have been impacted by the federal government’s recently announced tariffs.

“New Yorkers and business owners all across the state have felt a sense of uncertainty when it comes to the impacts of President Trump’s callous tariffs on our imported goods,” Governor Hochul said. “No business should have to close shop due to these unfair and unwanted taxes that were imposed on states by the Trump administration. This resource guide will help provide individuals with the guidance they need to lower potential risk to their businesses and give New Yorkers a better understanding of how tariffs can impact them.”

Tariffs Impacts on the Economy and Tourism

Governor Hochul has heard from small and mid-sized businesses across the state who are worried about rising costs and their future. A recent survey from the National Small Business Association found that the majority of small businesses are concerned about tariffs and one in three are very concerned. Examples include North Country manufacturer Alcoa, which took an estimated $20 million hit on imports from Canada, and North Country Golf Club which is facing declines in businesses due to the decline in tourism from Canada.

Due to the tariff trade war with Canada, New York’s number one trade partner, and the rhetoric that Canada could be the “51st state,” impacts are widespread. Visitors from Canada are avoiding the U.S. and New York State. Overall, cross-border traffic from Canada has plummeted since Trump implemented his tariff policies. The most recent data shows that there were 400,000 fewer Canadian visitors in May compared to the same period in 2024. Bridge crossings over the Ogdensburg Bridge and the Champlain crossing in May were down 30 percent during that same time period from last year. In a recent North Country Chamber of Commerce survey, 66 percent of tourism businesses report a drop in Canadian customers and one in four businesses in the region may cut staff as a result. Reservations are down at hotels, campgrounds, local marinas, golf courses and other businesses that rely on visitors from Canada.

It deserves reminding that the president has no authority to unilaterally impose tariffs. Moreover, Trump is using tariffs to strong arm other countries to obey his will: telling Brazil, for example, that he will raise tariffs on Brazilian goods by 50 percent unless the country ends its prosecution of Bolsanaro for attempting the same kind of coup as Trump mounted on January 6, 2021, but unlike Trump, was held to account. (Trump Threatens Brazil With Tariffs of 50% as He Assails Prosecution of Bolsonaro)

New York State is also contradicting and countering the destructive policies of the climate-change denying Trump administration and Republican-dominated states (like Texas and Florida):

Madison County Gets Major Renewable Energy Project

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the New York State Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission (ORES) has issued a final siting permit to Cypress Creek Renewables to develop and operate Oxbow Hill Solar, a 140-megawatt (MW) solar array in the Town of Fenner in Madison County. The project will create good-paying jobs, improve grid reliability, invest in crucial infrastructure, and increase tax revenues for local schools and other community priorities.

“We are extremely pleased to announce the latest investment in solar technology, upholding our commitment to improving grid reliability and building a clean energy economy,” Governor Hochul said. “The projects we have approved over the last few years are a testament to New York’s commitment to sustainability and resiliency.”

The Oxbow Hill Solar facility will contribute 140 MW of clean, renewable energy to New York’s electric grid while offsetting over 177,000 metric tons of CO2 and providing power for approximately 23,000 average-sized homes.

The new solar facility will consist of the solar array and associated support equipment, along with an interconnection substation, fencing, access roads and an operations and maintenance building. The facility will interconnect to the New York electrical grid via the Fenner Wind to Whitman Road 115 kV transmission line that is owned and operated by National Grid. Oxbow Hill is sited on a portion of the existing Fenner Wind Farm, making it the first ORES permit where a solar facility is co-located with a wind facility.

This project was approved in less than the one-year timeframe required under the law, and was issued after a thorough, timely, and transparent review process that included public comment periods and hearings.

Office of Renewable Energy Siting and Electric Transmission Executive Director Zeryai Hagos said, “As the state approaches 4 gigawatts of clean, renewable energy, a monumental achievement, we are reminded that we still have work to do to address New York’s growing energy needs. ORES will continue to advance New York’s nation-leading clean energy policies while being responsive to community feedback and protecting the environment.”

This project is anticipated to create a total of 330 jobs during construction and marks 24 clean energy projects approved by ORES since 2021, when it was created to accelerate permitting for renewable energy generation. New York State has approved 28 large-scale solar and wind projects since 2021, including 24 permitted by ORES and four approved by the NYS Siting Board under Article 10, the statute that governed solar and wind projects over 25-MW prior to the creation of ORES. The 28 permitted facilities represent 3.9 gigawatts of new clean, renewable energy.

ORES’ decision for these facilities follows a detailed and transparent review process with robust public participation to ensure the proposed project meets or exceeds the requirements of Article VIII of the New York State Public Service Law and its implementing regulations. The application for the Oxbow Hill Solar project was deemed complete on November 18, 2024 with a draft permit issued by ORES on January 14, 2025. This solar power project meaningfully advances New York’s clean energy goals while establishing the State as a paradigm for efficient, transparent, and thorough siting permitting process of major renewable energy facilities.

Today’s decisions may be obtained by going to the ORES website.

Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “By strengthening New York’s energy economy, we position ourselves to not only meet the growing electricity demand, but to do so sustainably. The solar array in Madison County brings us one step closer in reaching our climate and energy goals. Each major renewable energy project helps deliver the critical climate action that our state urgently needs, while also creating hundreds of local jobs and new revenue for community priorities. At a time where the federal government threatens progress on clean energy, New York remains unwavering in its provision of renewable and efficient energy for years to come.”

New York State’s Climate Agenda

New York State has approved 28 large-scale solar and wind projects since 2021, consistent with its Climate Agenda.

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

Southern Tier Gets $21 Million in Flood Protection Projects

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $21 million to support flood protection projects in the Southern Tier. The projects address vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in communities including Binghamton, Elmira, Olean, and Whitney Point to help advance New York’s comprehensive clean water and resiliency efforts that will safeguard New Yorkers from extreme weather and the costly expenses of rebuilding after a flood.

“As we face more and more devastating extreme storms, we must do everything we can to ensure our communities are resilient, sustainable and ready,” Governor Hochul said. “We saw the flooding in Binghamton almost 15 years ago, and we don’t want to see it again. These projects help us get ahead of the storm damage, save taxpayers millions of dollars in the long run, and prevent post-flood recovery costs for homeowners and businesses alike.”

The $21 million provided through the ‘Restoration and Flood Risk’ category of the historic $4.2 billion Clean Air, Clean Water and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 will support projects implemented by the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). The initial four projects announced today will help make necessary updates and bolster the resilience of existing flood infrastructure like levees and flood walls, to help ensure these structures’ long-term effectiveness in protecting communities from flooding. These flood control structures were originally constructed under the federal 1936 Flood Control Act to specifically address flooding along the Southern Tier of New York State and built in the 1940s and early 1950s.

Video of The Project Areas are Available Here

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and historic investments, New York State is making important progress to protect communities and infrastructure from the devastating impacts of flooding. By supporting DEC’s repairs and upgrades in Binghamton, Elmira, Olean, and Whitney Point with the record funding from the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act, the Governor is advancing key projects in communities that are susceptible to flooding, helping provide residents the support they need to avoid potential costly repairs if flooding occurs.”

“As climate change continues to intensify storms and flooding across New York, proactive investments like these are critical to protecting communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems,” Assemblymember Deborah Glick said. “The $21 million in Environmental Bond Act funding announced today will strengthen flood control systems in the Southern Tier, projects that are not only long overdue, but essential for public safety and long-term resiliency. I applaud Governor Hochul and Commissioner Lefton for advancing these vital efforts to build a safer, more climate-resilient New York.”

 

City of Binghamton Flood Control Project: DEC is making improvements to the Binghamton Flood Control Project located along the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers in the City of Binghamton. Rehabilitation of the floodwalls is necessary to ensure Binghamton has a resilient working flood protection system. The construction includes replacement of two floodwall panels, replacing deteriorated concrete, and application of a protective coating on the floodwalls to extend the useful life of the concrete walls.  

  

City of Elmira Flood Control Project: DEC is making improvements to the Elmira Flood Control Project along the Chemung River, which provides flood protection for the city of Elmira. The project consists of levees, and flood walls with appurtenant drainage structures. The project will install 65 relief wells along with collector pipes to provide pressure relief caused by floodwaters and will ensure the structure meets U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requirements.  

  

City of Olean Flood Control Project: DEC is making improvements to the Olean Flood Control Project located on the Allegheny River and Olean Creek in the city of Olean. The project will stabilize a section of existing levee system, mitigate erosion, and improve access to the levee for regular DEC maintenance. 

 

Village of Whitney Point Flood Control Project: DEC is making improvements to the Whitney Point Flood Control Project located on the Tioughnioga River in the village of Whitney Point. The project will upgrade the manual gate system and install a new swing gate closure structure to more efficiently and effectively close the existing stoplog railroad closure. 

  

On Nov. 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act ballot proposition to make $4.2 billion available for environmental and community projects. The Environmental Bond Act supports new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change. State agencies, local governments, and partners can access this historic funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs.

The projects announced today complement other state investments and opportunities to protect communities from flood damage. In May, Governor Hochul announced more than $78 million in funding available through the Water Quality Improvement Project Program and $22 million in Climate Smart Community grants, which both support projects that include flood risk reduction. Applications for these latest rounds of funding are due by July 31, 2025. In April, the Governor also announced $60 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for the next round of Green Resiliency Grants. The program supports vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in flood-prone communities across New York State. Applications for this program are due by Aug. 15, 2025. To learn more about resources available for resilient Bond Act-supported projects, visit environmentalbondact.ny.gov.

New York’s Commitment to Water Quality

New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. With an additional $500 million for clean water infrastructure in the 2025-2026 enacted State Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017. The budget also maintains a strong commitment to environmental conservation with a $425 million Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). This funding bolsters a wide array of vital programs, including land acquisition for habitat and open space preservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives, and water quality improvement projects.

Anti-Trump Activism, Climate Action, Immigration-Migration-Refugees, Inequality, Law & Order, News & Photo Features

Photo Highlights: Thousands March in NYC to Protest for Immigrants, the Planet & Against Autocracy, Fascism

March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com

Some 20,000 turned out in New York City with little notice only two weeks after the gigantic nationwide “Hands Off” protest on April 5 which drew some 3 million people nationwide – way more than anticipated considering that 100,000 flooded Manhattan streets only two weeks ago.

“No Kings”. March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

This protest, organized by 50501 NY, was themed a “March to Protect Migrants and the Planet” and while these were the most prevalent among the signs and the marchers, even more  were the signs protesting against encroaching tyranny, fascism, the need to protect democracy, due process, free speech, and calls to Resist, Rebel, “Revolution 2.0” along with signs protesting for women’s rights,  Hands Off Social Security, Medicare, healthcare, protect science, protect truth, against tariffs (the penguins were back)

“It’s the Constitution Stupid” and “Make Corruption Wrong Again”

“It’s the Constitution, Stupid”. March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

This event took place on the 250th anniversary of Pau Revere’s Midnight Ride – a woman held a sign “250 years ago-and today- let the warning ride forth once more: Tyranny is at our door.”

“250 Years Ago-And Today.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Others drew parallels: “No Kings. Not in 1775. Not in 2025.”

“No Kings in America.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

(April 19 is also the anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing, and the WACO – two of the worst incidents of domestic terrorism.)

The line of marchers stretched a mile, taking over 42nd Street from Fifth to Madison, and then Madison Avenue up to 57 street, and Fifth Avenue into Central Park where the march ended.

“Mein Trumpf”. March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

There were people of all ages, people using walkers, wheelchairs, fearful of losing Social Security or Medicare; families with young children, afraid for the future of the planet, let alone the economy – an indication of the extent of the harms – basically to every constituency except his billionaire and corporate donors – Trump, Musk, DOGE and MAGA have inflicted in less than 100 days in office.

“Wanted! Crimes Against Democracy.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The fear and anxiety over Trump rapidly imposing a fascist autocracy is not unwarranted – it took Hitler only 53 days to replace Germany’s constitutional democracy with his Nazi dictatorship and only 10 years between his inauguration to the Final Solution in which he exterminated 6 million Jews and millions of others and sunk the world into war. Trump has been in office 89 days, but between his ignoring court orders, deporting individuals to foreign gulags without due process, snatching people from the street, attacking judges, journalists, law firms and academia, many drew the parallels to genocidal autocrats of the past.

“Fight Ignorance. Not Immigrants.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Though smaller in number than two weeks ago, these chanters were more angry and not above using profanity in chants and on signs. People are pissed.

“First it’s immigrants, then…” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

The April 19 protests nationwide were organized by the 50501 Movement, a grassroots initiative. Some 700 protests were planned, to “sustain resistance in order to make a difference” and keep the momentum of the massively successful April 5 “Hands Off” protests that by some estimates drew 5 million across the U.S.

Here are more photo highlights:

Indivisible Brooklyn “fabulously fighting fascism!” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Hands Off Our Bodies, Our Freedom, Our Democracy.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Revolution 2.0” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Resist.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Resist.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Due Process Now!” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Wicked” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Our Power. Our Planet. Our People” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Tell Old Pharoah: Let My People Go!” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Jews Against Deportation.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Hands Off Public Health, Medicare & Medicaid.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Billionaires Profit Off Climate Chaos.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Save our Land. Stop the Destroyer.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Rotten Oranges Belong in the Compost Bin, Not the Oval Office.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Who is Safe?” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“This is what autocracy looks like.! March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Hands Off! Immigrants. Our Free Speech.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“A National Disgrace.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Consequences.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Make America America Again.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Wanted” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Vote or Watch Democracy Die.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Super Callus Fascist Sexist Nazi POTUS.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Save the Planet.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Republicans Destroying America.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“No Deportations.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Get Off Fossil Fuels.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Hands Off DEI! Education!” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
Families protest to save the future. March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Make America Broke Again.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Worst President Ever.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Our City. Our Earth. Our Future.” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Rebel Baby Rebel” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com
“Turd Reich No!” March to Protect Migrants and the Planet, NYC, April 19, 2025, organized by 50501ny.org (c) Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

See also:

Tens of Thousands of Protesters Flood NYC Streets to Tell Trump, Musk, DOGE ‘Hands Off’

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© 2025 News & Photo Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles,Inc. All rights reserved. For editorial feature and photo information, go to www.news-photos-features.com,email editor@news-photos-features.com.Blogging at www.dailykos.com/blogs/NewsPhotosFeatures

Climate Action, Climate Change, Infrastructure, New York State politics, News & Photo Features

Governor Hochul Touts Success of Congestion Pricing; Stands Defiant Against Trump Administration

Governor Kathy Hochul touted the success of congestion pricing in just the first two months and stood defiant against the Trump Administration’s threats to dismantle it © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

By Karen Rubin, editor@news-photos-features.com, news-photos-features.com

Governor Kathy Hochul joined business leaders, transit advocates and elected officials in New York City to highlight ongoing progress of the newly implemented congestion pricing program,and stand defiant against the Trump administration demanding to dismantle the program that is popular among local and regional transit and climate activists.

In the months since congestion pricing took effect, traffic is down and business is up — as the program delivers benefits for commuters from across the New York metro area and for businesses and offices in Manhattan’s Central Business District (CBD).

“Since congestion pricing took effect over two months ago, traffic is down and business is up – and that’s the kind of progress we’re going to keep delivering for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “Every day, more New Yorkers are seeing and hearing the benefits for our commutes, quality of life and economy – and we’re not going back.”

“The world has changed dramatically for this city and this region ever since congestion pricing went into effect in early January. Now to all the naysayers, hopefully you now are seeing that those who studied this and thought about it worked on this for years, if not decades – had a vision that is now being realized, that we can have a city that is not paralyzed by traffic and congestion, that our air is cleaner, that our businesses are more robust, more people are going to Broadway, our buses and subways are going faster and more supported – more people are taking them than ever before,” the Governor stated, after riding the M14 bus to the event.

“Not only is traffic is down and business is up, but also, subway ridership is up and crime is down.

“It’s been a long journey. We’re still on that journey. And the more people who get a chance to see the benefits – just walk around and talk to people, Ask if their lives are more enriched, whether they have more time with their families if they’re a commuter. Whether or not they’re finally realizing that we have the world class public transit system, but we need to keep it world class by raising the revenues to invest in it as well. That is essential.”

Governor Hochul just visited Trump in the White House and has invited Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who has made all sorts of threats against New York, to see for himself. Even Long islanders, whose Republican county executives and town supervisors have reflexively led the opposition against congestion pricing (Long Island commuters benefit the most by improvements to the Long Island Railroad and mass transit) and other initiatives like affordable housing, are benefiting.

“The cameras are staying on,” Governor Hochul asserted. “They sure as hell are. I want to recognize some leaders here who’ve done an extraordinary job in fighting for this. And again, this was not an easy journey. We have countless lawsuits. People going on television constantly berating this – saying it wouldn’t work. I want them to come here now and feel a very different New York City. That is very alive, and it’s vital. It is not jammed and stuck in traffic.

 ”We are moving once again. And we’re moving into a better future. A welcoming future. A place people can live safely. We’re going to build more housing. We’re going to bring more businesses. We’re going to make this to be the best place in the world to live. And we’re not done yet. More housing is right – don’t get me on that.”

 “Congestion relief is working, cars and buses are moving faster, foot traffic is up and even noise complaints are down. That’s why in poll after poll more and more New Yorkers are saying they want those benefits to stay – and they will,” MTA CEO and Chair Janno Lieber said.

Since the congestion pricing program took effect on Jan. 5, it has delivered a wide array of benefits according to data from the MTA and other reports and studies from business groups and other data sources.

Traffic Is Down

  • Traffic is down 11 percent in the CBD in February compared to the same time last year.
    • Three million fewer vehicles entered the CBD in January and February compared to the same time last year.
    • Traffic is moving up to 30 percent faster on bridge and tunnel crossings in February compared to the same time last year.
    • Commuters saving up to 21 minutes per trip into the CBD.
    • Bus service is faster throughout the CBD, with up to 23 percent customer trips on express buses delayed 10 minutes or more.
    • Complaints about excessive car horn honking within the CBD were down by more than 70 percent in January and February compared to the same time last year.

Business Is Up

  • Broadway show attendance was up 19 percent in January and February compared to the same time last year.
    • Restaurant reservations in the CBD rose 5 percent from January to mid-March compared to the same time last year.
    • Retail sales in the CBD are on track to be $900 million higher in 2025 compared to last year.
    • Workers coming to the office in the CBD on an average weekday increased 6.6 percent in February compared to the same time last year.

Transit Ridership Increasing

Transit ridership in January and February 2025 has grown significantly compared to the same time last year.

  • Bus ridership is up 9 percent
    • Subway ridership is up 6 percent
    • Long Island Rail Road ridership is up 8 percent
    • Metro-North Railroad ridership up 4 percent

“Congestion relief is a local tool helping to solve a local problem. With this tool activated we are delivering access to efficient transportation to all New Yorkers and visitors including those who drive, and those who ride our subways, buses, and paratransit vehicles alike,” MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo said. (His remark flips Trump’s statement justifying shutting down the Department of Education in order to “return power to the states.”)

State Senator Liz Krueger said,“Congestion pricing works, and it is already delivering for New Yorkers, the vast majority of whom rely on public transit every single day. Congestion Pricing is improving commutes, reducing congestion, and raising funds for public transit, all while businesses in the zone enjoy an increase in foot traffic and the program grows in popularity with those who are actually impacted by it. I am proud to stand with Governor Hochul and the MTA in defending Congestion Pricing, not just on behalf of the New Yorkers who directly benefit from it, but also for New York’s sovereignty and for the rule of law that is the keystone of our democracy.”

State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Since congestion pricing started travel times have improved by as much as 59 percent during peak afternoon hours. That means that drivers are saving on average 20 to 30 minutes driving into the Central Business District every single day. Take it from those of us who actually live and work in the Central Business District, congestion pricing is working. Since the program began, not only are commute times down, but foot traffic is up, businesses in midtown are booming, support for the toll has increased, and tens of millions of dollars have been generated to make essential upgrades to our subway system, which is used by over 3.5 million people every day. Any way you look at it the first few months of congestion pricing have clearly been a success and the program must continue. I am proud that Governor Hochul is standing up for New York’s sovereignty and keeping the congestion cameras on.”

“Congestion pricing is already delivering for New York — easing gridlock, cutting pollution, and powering critical funding for our transit system,” State Senator Robert Jackson said. “Our future depends on a transit system that moves all of us forward — not one stuck in gridlock. This is about fairness — ensuring working people, students, and seniors have reliable public transit while reducing traffic that clogs our city. At this pivotal moment, we must stay the course. Investing in mass transit isn’t just about infrastructure — it’s about investing in the people who make this city thrive. Let’s push forward toward a healthier, more sustainable New York.”

State Senator Cordell Cleare said, “I support Congestion Pricing as a way for the MTA to fund their capital plan, and bring benefits; including the much needed upgrading transport accessibility, and rebuilding and sustaining infrastructure in my 30th District and beyond.”

State Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, “Congestion pricing is working; we’re seeing less congestion, faster bus commutes, and an increase in transit ridership. New Yorkers deserve to continue to benefit from the implementation of this program– they deserve clean air, and clearer streets. This is the result of relentless advocates fighting for cleaner air and public transportation, as well as the Governor’s commitment to putting New Yorkers’ will above the orders of the Trump Administration.”

“A strong, reliable and accessible public transit system is the lifeblood of New York City and congestion pricing has proven itself to be the antidote to our crumbling infrastructure and incessant congestion,” Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said. “Since the program’s implementation, traffic has flowed more freely, buses have been more reliable and our environment has benefited from fewer emissions. The Trump administration’s demand to shut down our congestion pricing program is nothing more than another futile political move in his ongoing obsession of punishing New York. Governor Hochul’s decision to keep the cameras on is the right one and will help the MTA to rebuild the public transportation system that our city deserves.”

Assemblymember Deborah Glick said,“I am heartened to see how successful congestion pricing has been so far—less traffic, less pollution, less noise—and I look forward to an improved transit system for all New Yorkers. New York has long led the nation in innovation and I am proud to stand with my colleagues in fighting the federal administration’s attempt to undermine this important program.”

Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas said, “Congestion pricing works, and we cannot afford to turn back now. In just a few months, we’ve already seen improvements in commute times and have created a new revenue stream to accelerate the modernization of our public transportation system. We must not let the obstruction of the Trump administration get in the way of the progress New Yorkers need. This program is also vital for improving our environment by reducing traffic and lowering emissions, helping us achieve cleaner air and a healthier city. Our city is ready for improved bus and subway services, modernized infrastructure, and greater accessibility. Public transportation must be safe, reliable, affordable, and accessible for all. Let’s continue this momentum and focus on strengthening the MTA for the future. Onward!”

Assemblymember Tony Simone said,“Congestion pricing was developed as a crucial solution to multiple crises in our city, in the time since the cameras went live it has more than achieved its mission. Our subway is crumbling. Congestion pricing has unlocked $15 billion to fix it. Our city center had been brought to a standstill by an overwhelming number of cars. Congestion pricing has already significantly decreased congestion without spillover into surrounding areas. Our streets are cleaner and safer because of the traffic reduction. Spending in the CBD has not declined, transit ridership is up, and honking has decreased. Congestion pricing is finally here and it is exceeding expectations. I stand with the Governor, keep the cameras on!”

Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “Congestion pricing has been a huge success. Gridlock is down, mass transit ridership is up, and we are raising badly needed funds for subway station elevators, the Second Ave Subway expansion, signal modernization, and more. I look forward to seeing all the ways congestion pricing continues to benefit New York City.”

Riders Alliance Senior Organizer Danna Dennis said, “We’re so grateful to stand with the Governor today to continue to defend congestion pricing and support public transit. The bottom line is that congestion pricing is working: Transit ridership is increasing, buses are moving faster, and millions of New Yorkers are benefiting. We need to keep this momentum going, and we can’t turn back the clock on this vital progress for transit riders and all New Yorkers.”

Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA Executive Director Lisa Daglian said, “Congestion pricing works. It’s a fact! We’re seeing immediate benefits in and around the city and region, with less traffic, improved commute times, and faster speeds — good news for drivers, bus riders, emergency vehicles, and deliveries. Less congestion has also meant safer streets, less noise, and robust returns for Broadway, restaurants, commercial lease signings, and businesses small and large. Transit riders are also big beneficiaries, with more accessible stations, signal improvements and better buses coming our way. Thanks to Governor Hochul for standing strong and being a champion for riders and our economy!”

Hudson Square Business Improvement District President and CEO Samara Karasyk said, “Congestion pricing is a win for our city and I want to thank Governor Hochul for her continued advocacy. New Yorkers and New York City neighborhoods like Hudson Square benefit enormously from reduced congestion and more funding for mass transit. It improves our environment, creates safer streets, allows for more welcoming pedestrian spaces, and fosters vibrant central business districts. We have already seen a tangible decrease in traffic around the Holland Tunnel, which, along with our efforts these past 15 years to expand and green our streets and sidewalks, will help grow the local economy and enhance the vitality of our community.”

Meatpacking District Management Association Executive Director Jeffrey LeFrancois said, “Public transit is the lifeblood of New York City and improving the system is good for business, the Meatpacking District, and the region. Easing traffic flow makes streets quieter and more efficient. And if there’s one thing business loves most, its efficiency, because when the movement of people and goods are prioritized, we all succeed.”

“Union Square is experiencing a year-over-year upswing in foot traffic. Since the start of 2025, average weekday foot traffic in Union Square has reached its highest levels for this season in recent history, surpassing both pre-pandemic and recent-year benchmarks for January and February,’ Union Square Partnership Executive Director Julie Stein said. ‘We are hearing from our community that Union Square feels more peaceful and pedestrian-friendly and surface transportation commuting times into and out of the district have improved. While congestion pricing has been the subject of extensive debate, it is currently providing New York with crucial real-time data to understand the policy’s effects on traffic flow, the environment, and the experiences of New Yorkers. This invaluable information is critical to inform and shape our city’s transportation planning for years to come.”

Garment District Alliance President Barbara Blair said,“Congestion pricing plays an important role in helping us reduce traffic, improve air quality and strengthen our city. We need to move forward and continue addressing these critical issues — we can’t go backward and shirk our responsibility to ensure a better future for our communities.”

Make Queens Safer Founding Member Cristina Furlong said,“Twenty years of dedication and care for congestion pricing have blessed us with safer streets! Traffic is moving wonderfully and neighbors in all economic brackets have been pleasantly surprised by the success of this program. We look forward to reaping the benefits of better transit that every New Yorker deserves. This is especially important to us in Queens, as we see thousands on our platforms daily despite the crowded platforms and need for better accessibility, which will come sooner to more people with the funding from congestion pricing. We appreciate Governor Hochul’s steady leadership on congestion pricing and thank her and the MTA for its careful stewardship.”

Disability Justice Program at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest Managing Attorney Christopher Schuyler said,“Congestion Pricing has been a boon for New Yorkers from all walks of life, including people with disabilities, and we can’t allow federal overreach to stop the program just as we begin to reap its benefits. Congestion Pricing provides the MTA with $15 billion in revenue to fund much-needed subway construction projects, including essential and long overdue accessibility improvements for people with disabilities. Since the start of Congestion Pricing just over two months ago, we have also seen significant improvement in vehicle trip speeds within the tolling area, making it easier for those who rely on buses and Access-A-Ride paratransit services to reach their destinations quickly. People with disabilities, as well as every other New Yorker, deserve to travel faster and not waste time sitting in traffic. We cannot allow the federal government to bully New Yorkers and shut down such a successful program!”

Natural Resources Defense Council Senior Attorney Eric A. Goldstein said,“Congestion pricing is working! Less bumper-to-bumper traffic; fewer vehicle crashes; time-saved for those who must drive; less pollution with more people riding our subways; buses and rails; and the CBD as vibrant as ever. Governor Hochul and MTA Chair Lieber are exactly right to keep this successful program on track, in compliance with both state and federal law.”

New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “With each passing day new evidence emerges showing congestion pricing is saving time and money for commuters and businesses, boosting MTA ridership and performance, and gaining in popularity across the region. The Trump Administration’s misguided attempt to end this program is a betrayal of the millions of working-class people who take the buses, subways and trains every day, and we applaud Governor Hochul and MTA Chair Janno Lieber for standing up for New Yorkers in the face of sham deadlines and shameless bullying. The cameras stay on.”

New York Public Interest Research Group Environmental Protection Organizer Cecilia Ellis said,“The students we work with are already enjoying faster commutes and safer streets, thanks to Congestion Pricing’s successes right out of the gate. We can’t wait to see more benefits, from elevators in more stations, to improved subway tracks, upgraded buses, and cleaner air as Congestion Pricing continues. We applaud Governor Hochul for keeping the cameras on and keeping NY moving!”

Regional Plan Association President and CEO Tom Wright said,“Congestion pricing is working to reduce traffic, improve transit, and support our regional economy. We applaud Governor Hochul as she stands firm against the USDOT’s actions to turn off congestion pricing – a program authorized by state law and approved by the federal government. Stopping congestion pricing would only hurt our region’s residents and businesses.”

“The numbers don’t lie: congestion pricing is delivering more revenue than expected, clearing our roads faster than anyone anticipated, and we’re not seeing the traffic spillover some predicted,” New York Building Congress President and CEO Carlo A. Scissura said. “We can’t afford to delay this program for even one day. This is a critical, dedicated, recurring revenue source that the MTA needs right now—to keep New York’s economy strong and our communities moving.”

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© 2025 News & Photo Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles,Inc. All rights reserved. For editorial feature and photo information, go to www.news-photos-features.com,email editor@news-photos-features.com.Blogging at www.dailykos.com/blogs/NewsPhotosFeatures

Biden Administration, Climate Action, Climate Change, Conservation, Joe Biden, News & Photo Features

Biden Legacy: President Biden Protects Atlantic and Pacific Coasts from Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling

With his latest action to protect Atlantic and Pacific Coasts from offshore oil and gas drilling, President Biden has now conserved over 670 million acres of America’s lands and waters, more than any other president in history. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

With his latest action to protect Atlantic and Pacific Coasts from offshore oil and gas drilling, President Biden has now conserved over 670 million acres of America’s lands and waters, more than any other president in history. This fact sheet was provided by the White House:

President Biden has taken action to protect the entire U.S. East coast, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, and additional portions of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska from future oil and natural gas leasing. In protecting more than 625 million acres of the U.S. ocean from offshore drilling, President Biden has determined that the environmental and economic risks and harms that would result from drilling in these areas outweigh their limited fossil fuel resource potential. With these withdrawals, President Biden is protecting coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and local economies – including fishing, recreation, and tourism – from oil spills and other impacts of offshore drilling.

Nearly 40 percent of Americans live in coastal counties that rely on a healthy ocean to thrive. With today’s action, President Biden is ensuring that these regions can remain healthy and safe from the risk of oil spills resulting from development that would do little, if anything, to meet the nation’s energy needs.

Nearly 400 municipalities and over 2,300 elected local, state, Tribal, and federal officials across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts have formally opposed the expansion of offshore drilling in these areas in view of its severe environmental, health, and economic threats. Nearly every Governor along the East and West Coasts – Republicans and Democrats alike – has expressed concerns about expanded oil and gas drilling off their coastlines. In Alaska, the new Northern Bering Sea protections are consistent with a long-standing request from more than 70 coastal Tribes based on the need to help sustain a vital and threatened ocean area, and the natural resources it contains that Indigenous communities have stewarded and relied on for subsistence since time immemorial.

With this action, President Biden has conserved more lands and waters than any other U.S. president in history.

President Biden stated:

“I am taking action to protect the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Alaska’s Northern Bering Sea from oil and natural gas drilling and the harm it can cause. My decision reflects what coastal communities, businesses, and beachgoers have known for a long time: that drilling off these coasts could cause irreversible damage to places we hold dear and is unnecessary to meet our nation’s energy needs. It is not worth the risks. As the climate crisis continues to threaten communities across the country and we are transitioning to a clean energy economy, now is the time to protect these coasts for our children and grandchildren.

“From California to Florida, Republican and Democratic Governors, Members of Congress, and coastal communities alike have worked and called for greater protection of our ocean and coastlines from harms that offshore oil and natural gas drilling can bring. In Alaska, dozens of Tribes have fought to protect the Northern Bering Sea, a vital ocean ecosystem that supports their traditional ways of life. Vice President Harris and I have listened. In balancing the many uses and benefits of America’s ocean, it is clear to me that the relatively minimal fossil fuel potential in the areas I am withdrawing do not justify the environmental, public health, and economic risks that would come from new leasing and drilling.

“The Deepwater Horizon oil spill, a man-made catastrophe that took the lives of eleven people and spilled millions of barrels of oil into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, is a solemn reminder of the costs and risks of offshore drilling to the health and resilience of our coasts and fisheries and underscores the importance of the legal protections I am putting in place today. It is also one of the reasons why on my watch we have strengthened offshore safety standards for workers and communities on the front lines of existing operations nationwide, and rapidly accelerated the development of safer and cleaner energy sources, including the approval of eleven offshore wind projects.

“From Day One, I have delivered on the most ambitious climate and conservation agenda in our country’s history. And over the last four years, I have conserved more than 670 million acres of America’s lands and waters, more than any other president in history. Our country’s remarkable conservation and restoration progress has been locally led by Tribes, farmers and ranchers, fishermen, small businesses, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts across the country. Together, our “America the Beautiful” initiative put the United States on track to meet my ambitious goal to conserve at least 30 percent of our Nation’s lands and waters by 2030. 

“We do not need to choose between protecting the environment and growing our economy, or between keeping our ocean healthy, our coastlines resilient, and the food they produce secure and keeping energy prices low. Those are false choices. Protecting America’s coasts and ocean is the right thing to do, and will help communities and the economy to flourish for generations to come.”

FACT SHEET: President Biden Protects Atlantic and Pacific Coasts from Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling

Protecting the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Eastern Gulf of Mexico and Northern Bering Sea from Offshore Drilling

Using his authority under Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, President Biden is issuing two Presidential Memoranda to protect all U.S. Outer Continental Shelf areas off the East and West coasts, the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and additional portions of the Northern Bering Sea in Alaska from future oil and natural gas leasing. The withdrawals have no expiration date, and prohibit all future oil and natural gas leasing in the areas withdrawn. President Biden first used this authority in January of 2021 when he restored protections for part of the Northern Bering Sea, and again in March 2023 to withdraw 2.8 million acres of the Beaufort Sea from future oil and gas leasing, which completed protections for the entire U.S. Arctic Ocean.

This action will safeguard three distinct ocean and coastal regions:

  • The entire eastern U.S. Atlantic coast and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. President Biden is protecting approximately 334 million acres of the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) from Canada to the southern tip of Florida, and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico. There are currently no active oil and natural gas leases in Federal waters off the eastern Atlantic coast. The southern section of this withdrawal matches a previous Congressional withdrawal enacted by the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006, and a subsequent time-limited 12(a) withdrawal issued by the previous administration that would have expired in 2032 without today’s protections. Today’s withdrawal builds on those prior withdrawals and helps safeguard the multi-billion-dollar fishing and tourism economies in these states. 
    • The Pacific Coast along California, Oregon, and Washington. This withdrawal protects nearly 250 million acres of Federal waters off the West Coast of the mainland U.S. that are prime habitat for seals, sea lions, whales, fish, and countless seabirds. The State of California has had a moratorium on issuing new leases in its state waters since 1969, and the last Federal lease sale in the area being withdrawn was offshore of Southern California in 1984. The Governors of these states have called for full protection of their coasts for decades.
  • The remaining portion of the Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area in Alaska. This withdrawal will protect 44 million acres of the Northern Bering Sea in far northwest Alaska that is home to fish, sea birds, and other wildlife and where there are no existing oil and gas leases. The Northern Bering Sea Climate Resilience Area was established in 2016 and includes one of the largest marine mammal migrations in the world – beluga and bowhead whales, walruses, and seals travel the funnel of the Bering Strait each year to feed and breed in the Arctic. This is an area where oil and gas development would pose severe dangers to coastal communities, and where the health of these waters is critically important to food security and to the culture of more than 70 coastal Tribes, including the Yup’ik, Cup’ik, and Inupiaq people who have relied on these resources for millennia. The Alaskan Congressional delegation has opposed previous proposals to allow oil and gas leasing and drilling in the area.

Building on a Historic Ocean Conservation and Climate Legacy

These actions build upon the Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious climate agenda and unprecedented commitment to protect America’s natural wonders now and for future generations. The withdrawals advance two important Biden-Harris Administration priorities: honoring and protecting areas of significance to Tribal Nations and Indigenous peoples as well as States and other stakeholders; and helping to ensure our oceans and coasts are resilient to the threats of climate change and nature loss. 

The Biden-Harris Administration’s climate and conservation record includes creating three new national marine sanctuaries and a new national estuarine research reserve, including the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary off the coast of Central California; advancing designations for four additional sanctuaries; safeguarding Bristol Bay salmon fisheries; approving more than 19 gigawatts of offshore wind projects, enough to power more than 6 million homes; investing $2.6 billion in coastal communities; and releasing the first-ever U. S. Ocean Climate Action Plan.

With today’s withdrawals, President Biden has now conserved more than 670 million acres of U.S. lands, waters, and ocean – more than any president in history. This includes establishing or expanding ten national monuments and restoring protections for three more; creating six new national wildlife refuges; protecting the Boundary Waters of Minnesota, the nation’s most visited wilderness area; and withdrawing Chaco Canyon in New Mexico, Pactola Reservoir in South Dakota, and Thompson Divide in Colorado from further mineral, oil, and gas leasing.  

These actions are helping advance the President’s America the Beautiful initiative, which is supporting locally led conservation efforts with a goal to protect, conserve, and restore at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.

Biden Administration, Climate Action, News & Photo Features

Biden Legacy: Leveraging Federal Government to Catalyze Clean Energy Jobs and Cut Costs and Pollution

Climate Smart White House: Leading by example, the Administration has worked to secure clean electricity that will power 95% of White House complex operations, including its facilities, vehicle fleets and new EV charging infrastructure. These climate smart improvements increase resilience and energy efficiency across multiple buildings that make up the Executive Office of the President campus, saving taxpayer dollars through lower utility bills and operating costs. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Three years in, President Biden’s executive order has catalyzed global markets and put the U.S. Government on track to meet his ambitious sustainability goals and save taxpayers money. This fact sheet was provided by the White House: 

When President Biden entered office, he pledged to restore America’s climate leadership and charged the Federal Government to deliver on that promise. He recognized that as the single largest land owner, energy consumer, and employer in the nation, and the largest purchaser on Earth, the Federal Government can catalyze private sector investment and expand the economy and American industry. The Biden-Harris Administration has transformed how we build, buy, and manage electricity, vehicles, buildings, infrastructure projects, and other operations to be clean and sustainable, while creating good clean energy jobs, supporting American manufacturing, and saving taxpayers money by cutting energy and operating costs.
 
The President’s Executive Order (E.O.) 14057 on Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability and the accompanying Federal Sustainability Plan directs the U.S. Government to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 while boosting domestic manufacturing, supporting clean energy industries, creating high-paying union jobs, and cutting energy costs. As part of the President’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. government has invested over $12 billion and launched thousands of projects to transition to electric vehicles, clean construction materials, and energy-efficient buildings powered by 100% clean electricity.
 
The President’s actions have created a bold new playbook to turn the climate crisis into economic opportunity. Just three years after President Biden signed E.O. 14057, GHG emissions from Federal operations are down 38% from 2008 levels. This puts the U.S. Government over halfway to the President’s goal of a 65% emissions reduction from Federal operations by 2030.
 
Take a look at the Biden-Harris Administration’s Federal sustainability progress by the numbers: 

  • Ordered nearly 82,000 zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) for the Federal fleet and installed 10,500 charging ports at Federal facilities nationwide, with an additional 52,500 charging ports in progress;
    • Supported the U.S. Postal Service’s commitment to acquire 100% electric delivery trucks by 2026 – the first of which have already started to roll through neighborhoods – by leveraging an investment of $3 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act;
       
    • Developed a clean electricity procurement pipeline with energy suppliers across 36 states that would move the Federal Government from its current 40% clean electricity match to 70% by 2027, on its way to 100% by 2030;
       
    • Generated over $8 billion in private sector funding to launch thousands of modernization projects that will deliver energy- efficient, climate resilient, and all-electric Federal buildings, including at least 2,700 net-zero emissions buildings that are complete or underway today;
       
    • Catalyzed America’s clean manufacturing industry by deploying nearly $4.5 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funding to use American-made low-carbon steel, concrete, asphalt, and glass in Federal infrastructure projects;
       
    • Released the first comprehensive measurement of the Federal Scope 3 GHG footprint, launched a Federal supplier climate scorecard, and took additional actions that put the Federal Government on track to cut its Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030;
       
    • Established the Federal Government’s first-ever goal to phase-out Federal procurement of single-use plastics from food service operations, events, and packaging by 2027, and from all Federal operations by 2035;
       
    • Directed the nation’s two million Federal employees to prioritize the use of sustainable transportation, including electric vehicles (EVs), for business travel;
       
    • Rallied other countries to accelerate their climate ambition by launching the U.S.-led Net-Zero Government Initiative, under which the United States and 33 partner countries have committed to achieve net-zero emissions from national government operations by 2050 and to publish roadmaps for reaching this goal; and
       
    • Powering the White House complex with carbon-free electricity that will account for 95% of its total usage and installed new EV charging infrastructure to power its vehicle fleet, which will soon include electric vehicles. White House buildings have also been upgraded to reduce energy use and costs.

President Biden has taken the most significant and comprehensive actions ever to set the Federal Government on a course toward a cleaner, more efficient, and resilient future – establishing a historic legacy with benefits that will continue to be felt for years to come. With broad support from America’s manufacturers, clean energy developers, labor organizations, business leaders, states, and communities, the Federal Government’s 300,000 buildings, 600,000 vehicles, and $750 billion in annual procurement power will continue to be more sustainable and resilient while supporting good jobs, cutting costs, and saving taxpayers money.

Delivering on President Biden’sFederal Sustainability Plan

Electrifying the Federal Fleet: With more than 600,000 cars and trucks, the Federal Government is the largest vehicle fleet owner in the world. Transitioning this fleet to ZEVs is a core focus of President Biden’s Federal Sustainability Plan, which targets 100% ZEV acquisitions by 2035, including 100% light-duty acquisitions by 2027. At the start of the Administration, the Federal fleet included fewer than 2,000 ZEVs. Since President Biden took office, the Federal Government has ordered nearly 82,000 electric vehicles and installed 10,500 EV charging ports at Federal facilities, with an additional 52,500 ports in progress.

New, American-made electric United States Postal Service (USPS) delivery trucks are also beginning to roll through neighborhoods. USPS, which maintains over 200,000 vehicles, has committed that all Next Generation Delivery Vehicles in 2026 and thereafter will be electric vehicles. As part of that transition, the Postal Service is equipping hundreds of its sorting and delivery centers with electric vehicle charging stations.

Advancing Carbon-Free Electricity: Federal agencies have moved expeditiously to meet President Biden’s charge of powering all Federal operations with 100% carbon pollution-free electricity (CFE) by 2030, including 50% on a 24/7 basis, by taking a new approach to procuring electricity. Through engagement with energy suppliers across 36 states, the Biden-Harris Administration developed a clean electricity procurement pipeline that would move the Federal Government from its current 40% clean electricity match to 70% by 2027 on its way to 100% by 2030.

The General Services Administration (GSA) made history by executing the first-ever whole-of-government approach to procuring CFE clean electricity. GSA also executed the Federal Government’s first-ever contract for locally-supplied CFE delivered on a 24/7 hourly basis in Arkansas. Utilities have responded enthusiastically to GSA’s new approach, entering agreements to power Federal facilities in 24 states and the District of Columbia with 100% CFE by 2030.

Under this Administration, the Department of Defense (DOD) also executed the government’s first “sleeved” power purchase agreement, which will power five military installations in North and South Carolina with over 135 megawatts (MW) of newly built solar power; and cut the ribbon on the Edwards Air Force Base Solar Array, one of the world’s largest solar and battery storage projects, spanning more than 4,000 acres of public and private property lands. DOD also demonstrated leadership in engaging with the market on potential nuclear power from next generation microreactors and small modular reactors (SMRs). The Department of Energy has entered into realty agreements to develop 14,000 acres of DOE land for 1,550 MWs of new CFE generation through its Clean Up to Clean Energy Initiative. In total, the Federal Government has leveraged federal properties to site CFE projects equivalent to approximately 10% of all USG electricity consumption, or 5 terawatt hours annually.

The Federal Government has also engaged in energy regulatory processes in a new way, working with Entergy Arkansas to design a first-of-its-kind 24/7 hourly matched CFE tariff, and intervening as a large customer in integrated resource planning processes in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee to achieve greater affordability, resilience and reductions to emissions. 

Reducing Building Emissions: The Federal Government has paved the way toward cost effective, super-efficient, all-electric buildings, with the goal of achieving a net-zero emissions building portfolio by 2045, including a 50% emissions reduction by 2032. Today, projects are complete or underway to bring 2,700 Federal buildings to net-zero emissions, covering over 40 million square feet, which puts the U.S. Government on track to achieve the goal set by the first-ever Federal Building Performance Standard. These leading-edge projects are energy efficient, climate resilient, all-electric, and better positioned to deliver on agencies’ missions.

Federal building emissions have been reduced by 39% since 2008, and 8% of reductions were delivered over the past 4 years, far outpacing historic trends. Energy savings from this Administration are comparable to the annual greenhouse gas emissions of over 300,000 homes. Further, agencies have built a strong pipeline of projects that will continue to deliver savings in years to come.

Investments in Federal buildings leveraged over $8 billion in private sector funding through performance contracting to launch thousands of modernization projects that will deliver energy- efficient, climate resilient, and all-electric Federal buildings. They also are expected to cut annual utility costs by over $175 million annually and create over 80,000 jobs.

The Administration has proven net-zero emissions buildings are cost effective through showcase projects at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, the largest building in Washington, D.C., which is now 100% electric; Fort Hunter Liggett, the first U.S. Army base to achieve net-zero energy designation; and the Oklahoma City Federal Building, which cut energy costs and is pioneering power grid resilience strategies.


Building Sustainable Supply Chains: The Biden-Harris Administration has shown how the Federal Government, as the single largest purchaser in the world, can lead by example to reduce harmful emissions and catalyze climate action across its thousands of suppliers. Last month, the Administration released the first comprehensive measurement of the Federal Government’s Scope 3 emissions footprint, including the emissions associated with the $730 billion of goods and services that the government purchases annually. The Administration also released a Federal supplier climate scorecard that tracks the Federal Government’s top 200 suppliers’ progress toward addressing their climate risks.

To help Federal suppliers reduce their carbon footprints, the Administration launched a new webpage that connects suppliers with Federal programs, tools, and information that they can use to accelerate their decarbonization efforts. To further curb emissions, the Administration directed the Federal Government’s two million Federal employees to prioritize the use of sustainable transportation, including electric vehicles, for official and local travel. Together, these actions are expected to cut Federal Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030 – the equivalent of 40 million metric tons of CO2 emissions (MTCO2e) annually.

To further advance a more sustainable supply chain, the Biden-Harris Administration established the first-ever goal to phase out procurement of single-use plastic products from all Federal operations by 2035, and directed agencies for the first time to prioritize the purchase of sustainable products without added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).


Buying Clean: The Biden-Harris Administration has delivered on the President’s charge to “buy clean” by using American-made low-carbon steel, concrete, asphalt, and glass in Federal infrastructure projects. The Administration’s landmark Federal Buy Clean Initiative leverages the sway of the U.S. government, as the largest purchaser on Earth, to spur demand for clean American manufacturing of materials that form the bedrock of our economy.

Since 2023, GSA has incorporated Buy Clean requirements in the construction specifications for more than 150 Federal building and infrastructure projects. Manufacturers have responded by publishing over 17,000 new environmental product declarations (EPDs) for low-carbon construction materials, demonstrating that industry is reacting to market demand for materials made with lower emissions. The 150 GSA-led projects are expected to support an estimated 6,000 jobs per year across the U.S. during construction and generate $2.7 billion in GDP. A complementary EPA grant program awarded $160 million from the Inflation Reduction Act to help manufacturers develop and verify additional EPDs.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded $1.2 billion in grants to 39 State Departments of Transportation to purchase American-made low-carbon construction materials. DOT anticipates awarding an additional $800 million in Inflation Reduction Act funds to cities, metropolitan planning organizations, Tribal governments and other Federal, State and local agencies in the coming weeks.

The Biden-Harris Administration has also partnered with state governments to accelerate action. The Federal-State Buy Clean Partnership includes 13 states that have committed to prioritizing the procurement of low-carbon infrastructure materials in state-funded projects, and to collaborate with the Federal Government and one another to send a harmonized demand signal to the marketplace.

Advancing Climate Adaptation and Resilience: When President Biden took office, he prioritized the revitalization of Federal agencies’ climate adaptation and resilience planning efforts. Today, 24 Federal agencies have adopted adaptation and resilience plans that address their most significant climate risks and vulnerabilities from 2024 to 2027 and outline the steps they are taking to strengthen their facilities’, employees’, resources’, and operations’ resilience to climate change impacts. For the first time, agencies have identified senior resilience leaders and created new accountability structures that integrate adaptation and resilience throughout their missions while also meeting the resilience requirements for the Disaster Resiliency Planning Act, as well as best practices for advancing climate-smart infrastructure. Agencies have also adopted common indicators to assess their progress towards identifying and addressing the risks that climate change poses to them and the people and communities they serve.

Partnering for a Broader Impact: The Biden-Harris Administration has prioritized partnering with other state, local, and international governments to accelerate sustainability initiatives at every level. The Greening Government Initiative (GGI), which the United States launched in 2021, is a first-of-its-kind initiative that enables over 60 member countries to exchange information, promote innovation, and share best practices to support global efforts to green national government operations and meet their commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Building on GGI’s success, in 2022 the U.S. launched the Net-Zero Government Initiative (NZGI) to increase countries’ ambition to green their national government operations. NZGI countries commit to achieving net-zero emissions from national government operations by 2050, and hold themselves accountable by publishing roadmaps that establish long-term and interim targets and plans. To date, 34 countries have joined this initiative.

Most recently, the U.S. launched the Government Scope 3 Alliance, a first-of-its-kind international alliance to reduce Scope 3 emissions from the public sector, whose members commit to set Scope 3 emissions reduction targets for their government operations and to report on their progress.

Climate Smart White House: Leading by example, the Administration has worked to secure clean electricity that will power 95% of White House complex operations, including its facilities, vehicle fleets and new EV charging infrastructure. These climate smart improvements increase resilience and energy efficiency across multiple buildings that make up the Executive Office of the President campus, saving taxpayer dollars through lower utility bills and operating costs.

Fostering a Climate-Focused Workforce and Advancing Environmental Justice and Equity: The Biden-Harris Administration launched multiple programs for Federal employees to enhance their sustainability and climate literacy and learn about the critical role they play in shifting to more sustainable and resilient operations. This included a sustainability speaker series featuring climate change experts Al Roker, Bill Nye, and Kathryn Hayhoe, along with launching a first-of-its-kind climate adaptation training that has supported 1,500 Federal program acquisition managers with preparing for and managing climate risks. The Administration also established a Presidential Federal Sustainability Awards program to recognize federal agencies and employees who have tackled complex challenges and delivered results for a cleaner, more efficient Federal Government.

The Biden-Harris Administration has delivered on President Biden’s commitment to not only advance sustainability and resilience within the Federal Government, but to do so in ways that advance environmental justice and equity. For the first time ever, Federal agencies are required to link climate adaptation and sustainability planning efforts with advancing environmental justice and the Justice40 Initiative, which seeks to ensure that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain Federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. The Administration also issued a final rule promoting sustainability, equity, and community engagement in decisions on where federal facilities are located. As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the General Services Administration announced $23.8 million for 13 projects at federal buildings across 10 states through GSA’s Good Neighbor Program. The 13 federal building improvement project sites were selected for their opportunity to make a positive impact on local communities.

Climate Action, Climate Change, New York State politics

NYS Governor Hochul Signs Landmark Climate Superfund Legislation Holding Fossil Fuel Companies Responsible for Pollution

Law Holds Fossil Fuel Companies Responsible for Impact of Pollution on

New York Communities

Bill Signed to Broaden State Ban on Hydraulic Fracturing

Actions are Latest Move to Strengthen State’s Climate Actions and Environmental Protection Laws to Prevent Harmful Impacts to New Yorkers

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation creating a ‘Climate Superfund’ to support New York-based projects that bolster New York’s resiliency to dangerous climate impacts like flooding and extreme heat © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com 

Governor Kathy Hochul has  signed landmark legislation to bolster New York’s efforts to protect and restore the environment by requiring large fossil fuel companies to pay for critical projects that protect New Yorkers. Legislation S.2129-B/A.3351-B creates a ‘Climate Superfund’ to support New York-based projects that bolster New York’s resiliency to dangerous climate impacts like flooding and extreme heat.

“With nearly every record rainfall, heatwave, and coastal storm, New Yorkers are increasingly burdened with billions of dollars in health, safety, and environmental consequences due to polluters that have historically harmed our environment,” Governor Hochul said. “Establishing the Climate Superfund is the latest example of my administration taking action to hold polluters responsible for the damage done to our environment and requiring major investments in infrastructure and other projects critical to protecting our communities and economy.”

This landmark legislation shifts the cost of climate adaptation from everyday New Yorkers to the fossil fuel companies most responsible for the pollution. By creating a Climate Change Adaptation Cost Recovery Program, this law ensures that these companies contribute to the funding of critical infrastructure investments, such as coastal protection and flood mitigation systems, to enhance the climate resilience of communities across the state.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “Holding polluters accountable for the damages they cause is essential to New York’s environmental protection efforts, and I commend Governor Hochul for signing this historic climate legislation into law. By ensuring those responsible for historic climate-altering emissions bear the costs of the significant health, environmental, and economic impacts already being passed on to New Yorkers, this law will complement the State’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, help communities adapt to the climate-driven impacts experienced today, and leverage the significant investments the Governor is making in climate resilience.”

“The Climate Change Superfund Act is now law, and New York has fired a shot that will be heard round the world: the companies most responsible for the climate crisis will be held accountable,” State Senator Liz Krueger said. “Too often over the last decade, courts have dismissed lawsuits against the oil and gas industry by saying that the issue of climate culpability should be decided by legislatures. Well, the Legislature of the State of New York – the 10th largest economy in the world – has accepted the invitation, and I hope we have made ourselves very clear: the planet’s largest climate polluters bear a unique responsibility for creating the climate crisis, and they must pay their fair share to help regular New Yorkers deal with the consequences. And there’s no question that those consequences are here, and they are serious. Repairing from and preparing for extreme weather caused by climate change will cost more than half a trillion dollars statewide by 2050. That’s over $65,000 per household, and that’s on top of the disruption, injury, and death that the climate crisis is causing in every corner of our state. The Climate Change Superfund Act is a critical piece of affordability legislation that will deliver billions of dollars every year to ease the burden on regular New Yorkers.”

State Senator Pete Harckham said,“As we anticipate the enormous costs associated with climate resiliency efforts to be shouldered by municipalities statewide, it made perfect sense, from the start, to require fossil fuel companies to help pay for the undeniable damage they have done to our environment. I applaud Governor Hochul for enacting the Climate Change Superfund Act and thank my colleague Sen. Krueger and the bill’s many sponsors and all the environmental advocates who fought to protect our residents while holding polluters accountable.”

“We refuse to let the entire burden of climate change fall on the backs of our taxpayers while Big Oil reaps record profits at the expense of our future,” Assemblymember Jeffrey Dinowitz said. “The Climate Change Superfund Act is a groundbreaking victory for accountability, fairness, and environmental justice. By ensuring the fossil fuel industry pays for some of the damages it has caused, we’re addressing the staggering costs of climate adaptation and setting a precedent for the nation to follow. This law is a testament to New York’s leadership in tackling the climate crisis head-on, and I am proud to have helped lead this battle every step of the way. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this landmark bill and State Senate Sponsor Liz Krueger for her leadership.”

Assemblymember Deborah Glick said, “As the year draws to a close, New York State takes a critical step forward with Governor Hochul’s signing a Climate Superfund bill into law. This law will require major fossil fuel companies to pay into a fund which will mitigate the climate damage their greenhouse gas emissions have engendered. All New Yorkers face climate challenges from extreme rain events or extreme heat and the remediation expenses that should be borne by the enormously profitable fossil fuel industry. These desperately needed funds will provide for projects all across New York as Governor Hochul implements a Climate Adaptation Program to invest in infrastructure and coastal resilience. Additionally, thanks to Governor Hochul New York has expanded protection from the harmful practice of hydro fracturing for oil and gas production with a ban on the use of carbon dioxide for this purpose.”

Environmental Advocates NY Executive Director Vanessa Fajans-Turner said,“Governor Hochul’s signing of the Climate Change Superfund Act and the CO2 Fracking Ban are pivotal steps in safeguarding New Yorkers’ wallets and water. These measures hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for the immense costs of climate change while closing dangerous loopholes that permitted harmful fracking practices. Together, they provide vital funding for infrastructure, protect public health, reduce financial burdens on families and disadvantaged communities, and strengthen the State’s economic resilience. These actions represent significant milestones in New York’s climate journey, setting a critical precedent for corporate accountability and forward-thinking leadership as we enter a new political era. We thank Senator Krueger, Senator Webb, Assemblymember Dinowitz, Assemblymember Kelles, and Governor Hochul for their leadership in advancing these critical measures for New Yorkers.”

Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter Conservation Director Roger Downs said,“New Yorkers are desperate for climate solutions because they have directly experienced how increasingly severe storms, floods, droughts, heatwaves, and public health emergencies are hurting our communities and undermining the affordability of everything. Fossil fuel companies for decades have plunged our planet into the climate crisis, without contributing any of their windfall profits to pay for the catastrophic damage they helped create. Thanks to Governor Hochul and the legislature this gross inequity is about to change. It is significant that as the Governor signs the Climate Superfund Act she also reaffirms New York’s ten-year-old fracking ban by closing loopholes that some unscrupulous companies have sought to exploit in the continued pursuit of gas extraction. These punitive measures against past polluters dovetail perfectly with the governor’s bold vision for a ‘Cap and Invest’ program that will help curb future greenhouse gas emissions and generate revenue to help New York transition to a more equitable clean energy economy. The Sierra Club is excited to see this momentum carry into 2025.”

“Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing the ban on drilling and fracking with carbon dioxide. New Yorkers can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the loophole is closed and our state will remain frack free,” Frack Action Director Julia Walsh said. “Our thanks also to the legislature for passing the bill.”

New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) Executive Director Blair Horner said,“The governor’s approval of the Climate Change Superfund Act is a welcome holiday gift for New York taxpayers. Until her approval, New York taxpayers were 100% on the financial hook for climate costs. Now Big Oil will pay for much of the damages that they helped cause. As a result, New Yorkers will have their future tax burden reduced by $3 billion annually. This legislation is also designed to ensure that the oil industry will protect consumers from Climate Superfund costs being passed along. It’s a win for taxpayers and consumers. NYPIRG applauds the action by Governor Hochul, Senator Krueger, Assemblymember Dinowitz, and the other legislative supporters for making this innovative proposal become law.”

Another new significant climate law signed by Governor Hochul earlier this week expands upon New York State’s 2014 prohibition of high-volume hydraulic fracturing to extract natural gas. Legislation S.8357/A.8866 amends the State Environmental Conservation Law to prohibit the use of carbon dioxide in gas or oil extraction to prevent potential negative health or environmental effects from carbon dioxide fracking in the state.

State Senator Lea Webb said, “This is a significant win for our region and state, protecting our environment, our water, and the health of our communities from the harmful and uncertain impacts of CO2 fracking. I want to thank the advocates who have fought hard for this measure, Assemblymember Kelles, my Assembly and Senate partners, Senate Majority Leader Stewart Cousins and Governor Hochul for signing this into law, continuing our leadership in advancing New York’s sustainable and environmentally conscious policies.”

Assemblymember Anna Kelles said,“New York State wisely prohibited high-volume hydraulic fracturing in 2020, and I’m thankful to the Governor for signing this bill into law to expand the fracking ban and prevent the use of supercritical carbon dioxide for gas and oil extraction. The negative health and environmental consequences of fracking are only further exacerbated by the use of a highly corrosive supercritical CO2 substance for the purposes of extraction. Supercritical CO2 becomes highly corrosive in the presence of the smallest amount of water and is known to cause pipeline ruptures displacing ambient oxygen as well as destabilization of the very ground under our feet when used for oil and gas extraction due to soil and rock acidification and demineralization. This bill is closing a loophole in our state’s fracking ban to protect our people, our environment and our economy. I want to thank my bill cosponsor Senator Lea Webb and the tens of thousands of concerned citizens for helping to strengthen our states environmental protections against harmful fracking practices.”

New York State’s Climate Agenda

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

Climate Action, Infrastructure, News & Photo Features

NYS Makes $28.5 Million Additional Funding Available to Install EV Fast Chargers Along Major Travel Corridors

EV chargers at the I Love NY Visitor Center-Finger Lakes, Geneva, NY. New York State is making a big push to install EV fast chargers along main travel corridors © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Governor Kathy Hochul announced an additional $28.5 million is now available to install electric vehicle fast chargers along major travel corridors across New York State. Funded by the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula funding program, the State’s new competitive Downstate Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) program will improve consumer access to reliable electric vehicle (EV) charging. This second round of NEVI funding focuses on locations south of Interstate 84, including the lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island.

“This critical federal NEVI funding supports New York State’s ongoing leadership to invest in a network of electric vehicle fast chargers, particularly in areas downstate that face heavy traffic,” Governor Hochul said. “Making quick, reliable charging easily available will encourage more people to drive EVs that help to lower pollution from vehicles, provide cleaner air for New Yorkers, and improve health in our communities.”

The competitive Downstate NEVI DCFC Program, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) in partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), provides funding to qualified EV infrastructure developers to install and operate DCFC stations at one or more sites along Federal Highway Administration-designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs). Proposed sites must meet all federal requirements, including being located within one travel mile of an AFC exit, being publicly accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and having the ability to charge at least four EVs simultaneously at speeds of at least 150 kilowatts per vehicle. Sites are also required to meet federal uptime requirements for the percentage of time the charging station is functional. Proposals that close gaps between existing and planned charging stations, offer amenities such as restrooms and food, or have stations that provide multiple types of charging connectors (CCS and J3400), will be prioritized.

Designated AFCs eligible under the second round of the program include:

  • Interstate 87 south of I-84
    • Interstate 95
    • Interstate 278
    • Interstate 287
    • Interstate 495
    • Interstate 678
    • Interstate 684 south of I-84
    • New York 17 south of I-84
    • New York 25
    • New York 27

Proposals are due on March 18 by 3 p.m. ET. A complete list of all eligibility rules and evaluation criteria can be found at the solicitation summary on NYSERDA’s website.

NYSERDA will host a webinar on January 15 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and another webinar on February 12 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. to provide more details on the solicitation, project requirements and the application process.

“Building on the NEVI funding made available earlier this year, NYSERDA is proud to support the expansion of fast chargers to more areas of the state. Matching federal funding with private industry expertise will build a robust, reliable, network of chargers helping to increase the number of options available for New Yorkers and visitors alike,” stated New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris.

This announcement builds on the $21 million made available in September under the competitive Upstate NEVI Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) to expand the number of EV charging stations along and north of Interstate 84, including areas of the State north to the Canadian border and west to Buffalo. This funding opportunity closed on December 4, 2024 and proposals are now under evaluation.

The New York State Department of Transportation was allocated $175 million under the federal NEVI program and New York was one of the first states to open a DCFC site with NEVI funding in December 2023. This was followed by four additional locations opening in 2024. More DCFC NEVI-funded sites are expected to come online in New York by the end of next year. New York’s NEVI Plan describes how the State will invest its funding and was developed by NYSDOT in collaboration with NYSERDA; the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC); the New York Power Authority (NYPA); the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS); the New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA); and the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA).

“Electric vehicle users on our downstate highway system need a dependable charging infrastructure that allows them to recharge their vehicles and reliably get them to where they need to go,” stated State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said. New York is an unquestioned national leader that is literally writing the national template for sustainability in the face of global climate change, and through the National Electric Vehicle Initiative, Governor Hochul is building a foundation for a sustainable highway network that will fuel the vehicles of tomorrow.”

Additionally, Governor Hochul in March announced more than 100 new EV fast chargers will be built in New York City. EV purchases in New York have risen 660% in the last five years, and there are currently more than 15,500 chargers (a combination of DCFC and Level 2 chargers) at more than 4,500 public locations across the State. Federal funding received in January 2024 has further facilitated this growth with New York State receiving a $15 million Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program Grant for small- to medium-sized cities, state parks and other tourist destinations, such as hotels to build out the number of EV chargers. Separate federal awards under this program were made to the New York City Department of Transportation and Oneida County. Also, New York State was also awarded $13 million to repair or replace outdated, broken or non-operational EV charging ports through the Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program.

“The installation of fast chargers at regular intervals in key locations along our more utilized roadways makes it easier for New Yorkers to drive an EV and reduces greenhouse gas emissions from transportation,” said New York Power Authority President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll.  “The New York Power Authority is pleased to see additional federal funding that will help accelerate the build-out of a reliable network of fast chargers that will improve travel throughout the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island—regions where many EV drivers live, work and play.”

New York State Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare said, “The Thruway Authority is committed to creating a robust network of electric vehicle charging stations along the 570-mile Thruway system, which spans from the lower Hudson Valley to Albany, west to the Pennsylvania state line. Currently there are 75 universal fast charging stations in operation on the Thruway and by the end of 2025, there will be more than 130 fast charging EV stations on the system. By offering electric vehicle charging stations an average of 30 miles between locations, customers will have a reliable, seamless system of electric vehicle charging stations that supports a modernized transportation system, serving millions of motorists every year.”

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law I led to passage is supercharging new electric vehicle charging stations across New York, and this $28.5 million in federal funding from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure grant program will help install electric vehicle fast chargers across the lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island,” Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer said. “More EV fast chargers will support the adoption of cleaner, electric vehicles, make charging your car in New York as easy and convenient as filling up a gas tank, and help create an emissions-free future. With this impactful federal support and partnership with the state, New York is getting a major jolt to build out their network of electric vehicle charging stations across the entire state.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “With more electric vehicles on the road, it is essential that New York has the necessary charging infrastructure to meet the increased demand,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding will help install electric vehicle fast chargers throughout the state, helping ensure that all EV users can have the charging ports they need to get to their destinations. I was proud to have fought for the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and I will continue to make sure that New York’s infrastructure meets the needs of the 21st century.”

New York State is investing nearly $3 billion in electrifying its transportation sector, which is vital to meeting the State’s sweeping climate and clean energy plan, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is rapidly advancing measures that all new passenger cars and trucks sold be zero emissions by 2035, along with all school buses being zero emissions the same year. In addition to the NEVI program, there are a range of other initiatives to grow access to EVs and improve clean transit for all New Yorkers including EV Make Ready , EVolve NY , Charge Ready 2.0, the Drive Clean Rebate, the New York Truck Voucher Incentive Program (NYTVIP), the New York School Bus Incentive Program, and the Direct Current Fast Charger Program.

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an affordable and just transition to a clean energy economy that creates family-sustaining jobs, promotes economic growth through green investments, and directs a minimum of 35 percent of the benefits to disadvantaged communities. New York is advancing a suite of efforts to achieve an emissions-free economy by 2050, including in the energy, buildings, transportation, and waste sectors.

Biden Administration, Climate Action, Climate Change, Joe Biden, News & Photo Features

FACT SHEET: President Biden Sets 2035 Climate Target Aimed at Creating Good-Paying Union Jobs, Reducing Costs for All Americans

The U.S. Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) is an economy-wide, all greenhouse gas target of reducing net emissions by 61-66 percent below 2005 levels in 2035
 
The emissions reduction strategy includes leveraging landmark investments from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, complemented by federal standards; coordinating with local, state, Tribal, and territorial governments; and mobilizing private capital

New York City gets ready for congestion pricing. As the United States continues to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy, President Biden is announcing a new climate target for the United States: a 61-66 percent reduction in 2035 from 2005 levels in economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions. It keeps the United States on a straight line or steeper path to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, economy-wide, by no later than 2050. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

In 2015, the world came together to finalize the Paris Agreement, an historic agreement joined by nearly every country in the world to address the climate crisis and protect the planet for future generations. On Day One of his Administration, President Biden fulfilled his promise to rejoin the Paris Agreement and set a course for the United States to tackle the climate crisis at home and abroad. In 2021, pursuant to the terms of the Paris Agreement, President Biden submitted a nationally determined contribution (NDC) with a target of reducing U.S. greenhouse gas emissions 50-52 percent from the 2005 baseline in 2030.
 
Today, as the United States continues to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy, President Biden is announcing a new climate target for the United States: a 61-66 percent reduction in 2035 from 2005 levels in economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions. It keeps the United States on a straight line or steeper path to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, economy-wide, by no later than 2050. In connection with this announcement, the United States is making a formal submission of this new target to the United Nations Climate Change secretariat as its next NDC under the Paris Agreement.
 
To develop the U.S. 2035 NDC, the Biden-Harris Administration analyzed how every economic sector – power generation, buildings, transportation, industry, agriculture and forestry– can spur innovation, unleash new opportunities, drive competitiveness, and cut pollution. Additionally, the United States anticipates, as part of achieving its 2035 NDC emissions target, methane reductions of at least 35 percent from 2005 levels in 2035. Cutting methane emissions is among the fastest ways to reduce near-term warming and is an essential complement to CO2 mitigation.
 
This 2035 NDC aligns with President Biden’s target of a net zero greenhouse gas economy no later than 2050 and marks an ambitious capstone to President Biden’s climate legacy, focused on investment, innovation, creating millions of good-paying and union jobs, building the clean energy economy of the future, reducing costs for all Americans, advancing environmental justice, and improving the health and security of communities across America. There are multiple paths to reach these targets, and U.S. Federal, state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments have numerous tools available to work with civil society and the private sector to mobilize investment in the years ahead while supporting a stronger, fairer economy.
 
Momentum from President Biden’s Climate and Economic Agenda
 
Since President Biden announced the 2030 NDC in April 2021 to reduce emissions 50-52% by 2030, the United States has designed and implemented a historic climate strategy that leverages emissions reduction and economic growth in every region of the country. Advanced through thousands of policies and actions undertaken by federal, state, territorial, Tribal, and local governments, the strategy includes passage of the landmarks Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), paired with strategic implementation of a regulatory agenda to ensure emissions reductions across every sector of the economy. This approach has equipped federal, state, territorial, Tribal, and local governments with additional resources and regulatory certainty to partner with the private sector to grow a new clean energy economy that benefits American workers and consumers. Implementation of this broad and comprehensive strategy has already led to more than $450 billion of private sector investment in domestic clean energy and manufacturing projects. This progress will accelerate as the Biden-Harris climate agenda continues to drive a wide range of investments in clean energy deployment and manufacturing in the years ahead. Examples include:
 

  • Arizona has added over 370,000 new jobs, and unleashed more than $120 billion in private sector investment. Investments include $5.5 billion to build a battery facility outside Phoenix that will produce batteries for 350,000 electric vehicles per year.
    • California has added over two million new jobs and more than $45 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investment, including a $4 billion Gigafactory to produce lithium-ion batteries in Imperial Valley.
    • Georgia has added nearly half a million new jobs and mobilized more than $40 billion in private sector investment. Qcells is investing $2.5 billion to expand its solar panel and component manufacturing capacity in Dalton and Cartersville.
    • Maryland has added over 160,000 new jobs, and attracted more than $2.7 billion in private sector investment, including a $350 million investment from Constellation Energy to increase the output and lifespan of its renewable energy portfolio.
    • Pennsylvania has added more than 560,000 new jobs and unleashed nearly $4.3 billion in private sector investment, including a $500 million investment by Eos Energy Enterprises to expand battery manufacturing operations in Turtle Creek, supported by a loan guarantee from DOE’s Loan Programs Office.
    • Wisconsin has added more than 188,000 new jobs and $5.4 billion in private sector manufacturing and clean energy investments, including $426 million for the state’s first large-scale solar and battery storage project outside Milwaukee.

These investments and many more tell a clear story: the clean energy revolution is being built in America, and that will not be reversed.
 
Fundamental Economic and Technological Trends
 
Over the past four years the prices of clean energy generation and infrastructure have fallen dramatically. President Biden’s economic agenda, supported by complementary subnational government actions and private sector innovation, has reshaped the energy landscape now and for future generations so that American consumers and workers will benefit, especially in energy communities that have historically powered our nation. Along with the boom in domestic investments, technological advances across the energy sector are also making the U.S. clean energy revolution irreversible, including:
 

  • Clean Energy Generation. The levelized cost of utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) and onshore wind are dropping rapidly. In 2024, estimates for utility-scale solar PV and onshore wind are as low as $29 per megawatt hour and $27 per megawatt hour, respectively. On a levelized-cost basis, utility-scale solar is now broadly on par with fossil fuel sources, even before accounting for the environmental and public health benefits. A recent analysis indicates that 99 percent of all U.S. coal plants are more expensive to continue running than to replace with solar, wind, and energy storage resources. Geothermal power generation capacity is also accelerating, with 203 megawatts commissioned globally in 2023, up 12 percent from 2022. Recent technological advances, particularly in drilling, indicate the industry is on track to an average cost of $60-70/MWh by 2030 and $45/MWh by 2035. New enhanced geothermal capacity is already slated to meet the clean electricity demands of new industries. And the recent completion of the Vogtle nuclear power plant in Georgia, the nation’s first new nuclear reactors in over 30 years, as well as planned revitalizations of existing reactors, progress on advancedreactor technologies, and new private sectordemand, are all signs of further progress expanding nuclear power capacity ahead.
    • New and Better Transmission. Expanding and enhancing the U.S. transmission system is critical to the nation’s resilience and national security. Significant expansions of new and upgraded transmission lines by public and private sector entities, including SunZia Transmission in New Mexico, will facilitate the transmission of clean energy across the United States. Meanwhile, a new generation of modern grid technologies provides a significant opportunity to achieve power system capacity expansion, including through high-performance conductors that can carry two times (or more) the amount of power of conventional transmission wires, as well as grid enhancing technologies that maximize electricity transmission across the existing system through a family of technologies that includes sensors, power flow control devices, and analytical tools.
       
    • Battery Storage. Utility-scale battery storage has the potential to provide much-needed flexibility that supports renewable energy sources, and helps address grid infrastructure challenges. Between 2010 and 2023, the cost of utility-scale battery storage projects declined by 89%, to $273 per kilowatt hour, driven by improvements in manufacturing, materials efficiency, and manufacturing processes. Storage capacity additions also increased significantly, with additions of 22 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2023. As the private sector continues to invest in new battery technologies and manufacturing processes, battery storage costs will continue to decline, supporting the clean energy economy of the future.
       
    • Energy Efficiency. Improvements in energy efficiency can cut pollution and save Americans on their energy and water bills. The Biden-Harris Administration has strengthened energy efficiency standards to save households and businesses money, with standards updated by DOE for dozens of appliances expected to provide nearly $1 trillion in consumer savings over 30 years, saving the average household more than $100 a year while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2 billion metric tons. Efficient equipment such as heat pumps powered by clean electricity are already making heating, cooling, and hot water more affordable for a growing number of American homes. 2022 marked the first year that heat pump sales outpaced fossil fuel furnaces in the US; in 2023, heat pumps outsold gas furnaces by 27 percent, demonstrating the technology’s growing popularity with consumers. When paired with energy efficiency improvements, like insulation, heat pumps lower the cost of heating and cooling, while improving indoor and outdoor air quality.
  • Clean Steel and Clean Concrete. Producing steel and concrete, fundamental building blocks of the modern economy, accounts for more than 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Clean steel and concrete are already being produced in the United States. Major steelmakers are now using Inflation Reduction Act investments to build and retrofit American steel facilities to produce cleaner steel. Innovative low carbon methods for concrete production can reduce emissions by eliminating the need for high temperatures or through the use of alternative low carbon feedstocks. These innovative concretes are more durable and stronger than conventional concrete, improving the performance of infrastructure investments and resulting in long term savings. As clean hydrogen and clean electricity prices continue to fall, producers will be able to further slash emissions using these cleaner inputs.
    • Clean Hydrogen. Hydrogen has the potential to reduce emissions across a host of sectors, including transportation and heavy industry. Key cost drivers of green hydrogen production, including the capital expenditure for electrolyzers and the price of renewable energy, are expected to decline in years ahead due to economies of scale, delivering green hydrogen at a lower price point. Combined, these two cost declines could translate to a significant reduction in green hydrogen production costs, from $3-6 per kilogram today to $1.50 – 2 by 2035.
  • Clean Cars and Trucks. Electric vehicles (EVs) are already selling at a record pace in the United States, supported by falling component prices as well as fuel and maintenance cost savings for consumers. From 2018 to 2022, the sales-weighted average price of electric cars decreased, and the price gap between internal combustion vehicles and EVs has begun to close. Through 2035, falling EV component prices will drive down the purchase price for EVs and bring new customers to the EV market. For instance, battery prices are set to fall by as much as 50 percent through 2026 thanks to improved technology and expanded production of key inputs. Federal standards support these market developments: the strongest-ever national pollution standards for passenger cars and heavy-duty vehicles are providing certainty for the automobile industry, catalyzing private investment, creating good-paying union jobs, improving public health, and expanding consumer choice in clean vehicles.
  • Federal Sustainability. With broad support from America’s manufacturers, clean energy developers, labor organizations, business leaders, states, and communities, the Federal Government’s 300,000 buildings, 600,000 vehicles, and $750 billion in annual procurement power will continue to be more sustainable and resilient while supporting good jobs, cutting costs, and saving taxpayers money.

 
Action and Leadership from state, local, Tribal, and territorial governments
 
State, local, Tribal, and territorial governments in the United States have a long history of climate leadership that has laid the groundwork for subsequent federal action, including the Inflation Reduction Act. Many critical climate levers, especially in the transportation, electricity, and building sectors, lie largely within the domain of these governments. In the years ahead, leveraging and expanding the new clean energy economy enabled by the Biden-Harris Administration’s policies and bolstered by strong economic tailwinds supporting clean energy, these governments will ensure that the United States remains all-in on climate action. States, territories, cities, counties, and Tribal governments together have the capacity to step in and deliver on climate ambition. In the years ahead, we expect that subnational and Tribal governments will adopt new and strengthen existing climate-forward policies such as:
 

  • Climate Action Plan Implementation: Through support from the Inflation Reduction Act, more than 45 states and more than 200 Tribes, territories, and metro areas have now developed their own Climate Action Plans, representing a historic set of opportunities for subnational climate progress across sectors. More than $4 billion of Climate Pollution Reduction Grants awarded by the Biden-Harris Administration will also advance 59 implementation projects across 30 states, 33 Tribal Nations, and 1 territory to reduce climate pollution from every sector of the economy. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.
    • Innovative Solutions to Cut Pollution from the Existing Transportation Systems. California, Washington, and Oregon have developed and implemented, or started to implement, programs that reduce emissions from the transportation sector through a predictable, market-based approach, generating climate and local-air quality benefits for residents and communities. New York City and State adopted and implemented the country’s first-ever congestion pricing program, which will reduce climate pollution and provide a stable funding source for mass transit. Other states have the opportunity to build on these successful policy initiatives in their own jurisdictions.
       
    • Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPSs) and Clean Energy Standards (CESs). Today, twenty-five states and the District of Columbia have set RPSs and eight others have adopted CESs, which will increase the generation of low- and zero-carbon electricity. Adoption of these standards by additional states, as well as the strengthening of existing standards, provides significant upside for reducing climate pollution.
       
    • Building Energy Codes. Many subnational governments have already adopted or are in the process of adopting the most up-to-date energy codes to ensure new building construction is energy efficient and lowering emissions for years to come. Subnational governments are also reducing energy costs and emissions in existing buildings, with almost 25 percent of commercial buildings subject to a building performance standard or located in a community with plans to adopt building performance standards.
       
    • State Procurement of Low-Carbon Materials. The Biden-Harris Administration’s landmark Federal Buy Clean Initiative leverages the sway of the U.S. government, as the largest purchaser on Earth, to spur demand for clean American manufacturing of materials that form the bedrock of our economy. Thirteen states have joined the Federal-State Buy Clean Partnership and committed to prioritizing efforts that support procurement of lower-carbon infrastructure materials in state-funded projects. These states can continue to work together to send a clear, harmonized demand signal to the marketplace for the long-term decarbonization of essential industries.
       
    • Financing Climate Solutions. With support from the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), the national network for financing clean energy and climate solutions across sectors is larger than ever before. The National Clean Investment Fund awardees are establishing national clean financing institutions that deliver accessible and affordable financing for clean technology projects nationwide, and the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator awardees are establishing hubs that provide funding and technical assistance to community lenders working in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
       
    • State and Regional Efforts to Cap Emissions. 15 states and Puerto Rico have binding economy-wide emissions targets in law, covering more than 115 million Americans across the country. Voters in Washington State recently upheld a groundbreaking law requiring companies to cut carbon emissions while investing in programs that benefit the public, such as habitat restoration and climate adaptation. This recent success builds on initiatives such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a regional program that requires certain power plants to acquire allowances for every ton of CO2 emitted.

In the years to come, leadership will come from all across American society – cities and states, Tribes and territories, small and big businesses, working communities, individual Americans and the private sector working together to seize the economic opportunity, create jobs, and build the clean energy economy. This new clean energy economy, enabled by the forward-looking policies of this Administration, will continue to grow – and the United States will continue to create good jobs and cut carbon pollution right here at home.

Biden Administration, Climate Action, Climate Change, Energy, Infrastructure, Jobs, Manufacturing, News & Photo Features

Memo to America: Biden’s Investing in America Policy to Building Sustainable Economy Has Generated $1 Trillion in Private Sector Investment in Clean Energy, Manufacturing

More than 3.4 million American families have already saved $8.4 billion on home clean energy upgrades, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Three million more households in America have high-speed internet today than when President Biden took office. There are already more than 74,000 infrastructure and clean energy projects underway across the country, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act. That includes 11,400 bridge projects, 196,000 miles of roads under repair, and 376,000 lead pipes already replaced, benefitting nearly 1 million people. Millions of seniors are benefitting from the $35 cap on the cost of insulin, and the cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries has already saved 1.5 million seniors nearly $1 billion in the first half of 2024, with Medicare beneficiaries feeling the full benefits starting in January. © Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

People said they voted against Kamala Harris because they were just so so very upset about inflation, how they were suffering in this terrible economy, so voted for the guy who not only had no policy, plan or program to address inflation or high prices, but whose stated Project 2025 policies (tariffs) would hurt the economy, jobs and prices. But I am wondering how bad the economy really could be if holiday spending is already up 9%, malls and online sites are seeing massive increases in shoppers, there is record travel on the roads and through airports. Oh, by the way, gas prices are around $3 or less a gallon – close to 2019; – and inflation has fallen below 2.3% for the year, comparable to 2019, while REAL wage increases (that is increased income compared to inflation) are up on average $4000; Thanksgiving meal prices are down. But those working class people (suckers) who think that Trump will give them a better deal? Are you kidding or just really willfully ignorant? Have you seen the billionaires, kleptocrats, oligarchs (not to mention the misogynists, sexual predators and felons) he is installing in power? They are already salivating at shutting down the National Labor Relations Board, ending food and product safety regulation, environmental protection, restricting food stamps and vaccinations for poor children and cutting Medicare and Social Security, while serving up deeper tax cuts for the wealthiest individuals (the top 0.1% already control more wealth than 50 percent of the country) and corporations, already sitting on record profits from price-gouging.

Biden’s Deputy Chief of Staff offered this memo “to interested parties” on what President Biden accomplished that I’m betting 99.9% of Americans have no clue about $1 TRILLION in private sector investment in clean energy and manufacturing since President Biden and Vice President Harris took office because of Biden’s Investing in America agenda, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, Inflation Reduction Act – all of which Republicans tried to block, obstruct, sabotage and now threaten to repeal.It’s like the way Republicans were able to generate hostility to Obama’s Affordable Care Act in order to win the 2010 midterms and how Obamacare has become so popular and important in people’s lives, but Trump and the MAGA Republicans are still keen to repeal it, leaving millions without healthcare desperate and insecure – Karen Rubin, news-photos-features.com

On the success of $1 trillion in investment due to his policies and approach to building a sustainable economy “from the bottom up and the middle out,” President Biden stated:

When I took office, the pandemic was raging and the economy was reeling. From Day One, I was determined to not only deliver economic relief, but to invest in America and grow the economy from the middle out and bottom up, not the top down.

Over the last four years, that’s exactly what we’ve done. We passed legislation to rebuild our infrastructure, build a clean energy economy, and bring manufacturing back to the United States after decades of offshoring. Today I’m proud to announce my Investing in America agenda—the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act—has helped attract over $1 trillion in announced private-sector investments. These investments in industries of the future are ensuring the future is made in America, by American workers. And they’re creating opportunities in communities too often left behind.

Over 1.6 million construction and manufacturing jobs have been created over the last four years, and our investments are making America a leader in clean energy and semiconductor technologies that will protect our economic and national security, while expanding opportunities in red states and blue states.

Today, thanks to my Investing in America agenda, businesses around the world are investing in America—which is good news for American workers and American businesses—and we’re positioned to win the economic competition for the 21st century.

To: Interested Parties

From: Natalie Quillian, White House Deputy Chief of Staff

MEMO: President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda’s Growing Durability and Popularity

When President Biden and Vice President Harris came into office, America was in the midst of a deadly pandemic and our economy was reeling. Since then, President Biden and Vice President Harris have overseen one of the most successful administrations in history and will be leaving behind the best economy in the world.

Under President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, 16 million jobs have been created, and we’ve gotten women and people of color back in the labor force at record rates. A record 20 million new business applications have been filed, and inflation is down to near pre-pandemic levels. These outcomes are due in part to our success in passing and implementing legislation that rebuilt our nation’s infrastructure, made the largest investment in climate action in history, lowered prescription drug costs, and spurred a manufacturing renaissance. Together, the American Rescue Plan, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act – the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda – are reshaping our economy. And as of today, that agenda has helped spur over $1 trillion in private sector investment in clean energy and manufacturing since President Biden and Vice President Harris took office.

The level of private sector investment seen under this administration is unprecedented. Business leaders have called the boom in private investment “nothing short of extraordinary,” and have said the United States’ economy is “among the best performing economies” in decades. It is driving a manufacturing renaissance across the country and onshoring new and growing industries such as semiconductors, solar, batteries, and more. It’s also helping rebuild communities and create opportunity in places that were overlooked or left behind by public and private investment for far too long.

As of today, the Department of Commerce has announced over two dozen preliminary or final agreements with semiconductor manufacturing companies to create American-made chips in Phoenix, Arizona; Columbus, Ohio; Taylor, Texas; Syracuse, New York, and more, spurring over $400 billion in private investment that will create at least 125,000 jobs. Over $119 billion in investments in EVs and batteries and $122 billion in clean power have been announced in just the two years since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed. Recent announcements show these investments have continued at a steady pace. For example, in the last month alone, SolarCycle announced it would invest $400 million in Georgia for the largest solar panel recycling facility in the country, MainSpring Energy announced it would match an $87 million grant from the Department of Energy to manufacture power generators in Allegheny County, PA, and Microporous announced a $1.35 billion investment to create 2,000 jobs building battery separators in southern Virginia.

In addition to private investment, the Biden-Harris Administration has been implementing these laws quickly, effectively and equitably since the day the first Investing in America bill was signed. Due to that effort, there are already more than 74,000 infrastructure and clean energy projects underway across the country, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act. That includes 11,400 bridge projects, 196,000 miles of roads under repair, and 376,000 lead pipes already replaced, benefitting nearly 1 million people. More than 3.4 million American families have already saved $8.4 billion on home clean energy upgrades, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. Three million more households in America have high-speed internet today than when President Biden took office. Millions of seniors are benefitting from the $35 cap on the cost of insulin, and the cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries has already saved 1.5 million seniors nearly $1 billion in the first half of 2024, with Medicare beneficiaries feeling the full benefits starting in January.

To date, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced awards for 98% of Investing in America funding available for us to spend by the end of fiscal year 2024. Departments and agencies are running through the tape – announcing more awards, finalizing contracts and grant agreements, and accelerating permitting timelines. For example, the Department of Transportation executed more than twice as many grant agreements compared to the prior administration, completed 20 percent more environmental reviews in the transportation sector, and cut the time it takes to complete environmental assessments for transportation projects by one third.

These programs and projects mean real benefits for people across the country. It’s why as we continue to implement the Investing in America agenda, we see these programs grow in popularity even among skeptics, suggesting that the transformation of the U.S. economy is here to stay. For example:

  • Nearly 8 in 10 Americans support keeping the Inflation Reduction Act’s $35 per month cap on the cost of insulin for seniors, including 76% of Republicans.
  • A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 88% of Americans support the Administration’s work building or repairing our nation’s roads, bridges, rail lines, ports and other infrastructure.
  • Outside groups have found that the majority of private sector investments spurred by Inflation Reduction Act’s tax credits are going to red districts, and 57 percent of the new clean energy jobs created since the Inflation Reduction Act passed are located in Congressional districts represented by Republicans.

The progress we’ve made, however, represents only a fraction of the full impact of this agenda. As the President said earlier this month, the impacts of this historic agenda “will be felt over the next 10 years.” If future Administrations continue to implement at the pace we have, people across the country will enjoy the benefits of safer water, cleaner air, faster internet, and smoother commutes.  For example, by the end of 2026, the country is on track to have launched repairs on a total of over 356,000 miles of highway and over 20,800 bridges with funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. By the end of 2028, communities will replace more than one million toxic lead pipes, bringing clean water to over 2.5 million people and protecting the health and safety of children and families.  And by 2030, 6 million more households and small businesses will have access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet.

Also, major projects we’ve funded will be completed in the coming years. For example, TSMC’s first Arizona factory will fully open in early 2025 and for the first time in decades, an American manufacturing plant will produce leading-edge chips. Service on the Brightline West High Speed Rail System, connecting Las Vegas, Nevada to Rancho Cucamonga, California, is on track to start in 2028, in time for the Los Angeles Olympics. A project to replace Michigan’s outdated I-375 freeway will be completed in the same year.

Over the coming months, the Biden-Harris Administration will continue the critical work of implementing the Investing in America agenda by announcing more awards, finalizing contracts and grant agreements, and making sure these investments are reaching the American people. While the full effects won’t be realized for years to come, it’s clear that the Investing in America agenda – and its impacts on the economy, on communities, and on American families – is here to stay.