Contact your legislators this week!
The governor rolled out a spending plan for the $5.3 billion coming to Massachusetts via the American Rescue Plan Act, including some priorities that benefit rivers. This is a rare opportunity to significantly help improve water quality, habitat, and climate resilience, but we need your help to make sure it happens!
The legislature rejected the Governor's proposal, and is beginning to craft their own spending plan. The Joint Committee on Ways & Means will be holding hearings by subject matter to gather public input on how to appropriate this once-in-a-generation funding. We're staying tuned to hear when they announce a hearing date for environmental investment. Please call your legislators and ask them to include these priorities!
"Hi, My name is ______ and I'm a constituent from ________. Please include the following priorities in the American Rescue Plan Act spending plan:
Water and sewer infrastructure (Gov. Baker proposes $400 million) – According to a 2017 report by the state auditor, Massachusetts communities need over $17 billion in water infrastructure upgrades. By investing in water infrastructure, especially with green infrastructure approaches, we can create local jobs that will not only support a post-pandemic economic recovery but will also improve water quality.
Green infrastructure & climate resilience (Gov. Baker proposes $300 million) – This funding would go towards the state’s existing Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program, which provides grants for resilience planning and implementation, but receives many more applications than it is able to fund. It's key that non-profit organizations play a role in implementing the funding.
State park facilities (Gov. Baker proposes $100 million) – Throughout the pandemic, outdoor public spaces were vital as safe places for recreation, respite from the heat, and solace from social stressors. Parks, both large and small, contribute to public health and climate resilience, providing benefits like cleaner air and water, cooler local temperatures, and reduced localized flooding.
Thank you!"
Please contact your legislators today and ask them to prioritize these investments!
Thank you for your advocacy!