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Vermont Faces Uncertainty in Climate Action Amid Potential Trump Presidency
BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – As Vermont embraces its role in climate action, concerns loom over a potential shift back under a second Trump presidency. Middlebury College professor Chris Klyza suggests that if President-elect Donald Trump takes office and implements his proposed policies, Vermont might not move forward in its climate initiatives but could avoid going backward.
Klyza highlights that the possible repeal of the Inflation Reduction Act poses a significant threat to Vermont’s sustainability efforts. Losing federal incentives, like the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles, could hinder the state’s progress in adopting sustainable technologies. "Pulling federal funds will make a significant difference for many residents," he cautioned.
Moreover, the implications extend beyond renewable energy. Elena Mihaly from the Conservation Law Foundation raises alarms regarding disaster response funding. Trump’s threats to cut wildfire aid in California exemplify potential leverage he could exert over states. Mihaly worries that Vermont, which received over $68 million in FEMA flood assistance in 2023, could face similar drastic measures if it does not align with federal priorities. "I could certainly imagine a scenario where help could be withheld as a bargaining chip," she said.
Amid these challenges, experts urge the importance of regional engagement to maintain any progress made in climate action across the Northeast. Mihaly stated, "We’re going to be fighting as hard as we can to prevent rollbacks and erosion of those important federal protections." As Vermont navigates this precarious political landscape, the future of key initiatives like the Clean Heat Standard hangs in uncertainty following the Democrats’ loss of their legislative supermajority.
As the situation unfolds, Vermont remains vigilant in its climate initiatives while bracing for possible federal changes.
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