Issue Position: Environment

Issue Position

I will work to protect our environment. More and more, Hoosiers are demanding clean energy alternatives to coal. We need to invest in wind, solar, hydro-power, geothermal, and biomass industries to take Indiana from a leader in burning coal to a leader in renewable clean sources of energy. The failure to do so will result in the continued desecration of our state's water resources.

Coal ash and runoff from agricultural chemicals are putting serious strain on our freshwater resources. According to the Indy Star Editorial Board (5/21/17), more than 60% of Indiana's lakes and rivers are so polluted they should be classified as impaired and 80% of utilities report that pollution hinders their ability to deliver clean water to customers. Indiana should takes steps now to protect this precious resource.

Public transportation can also play a role in improving environmental factors in Indiana. We need to provide affordable and convenient alternatives to Hoosiers who want a choice in transportation options. While Indianapolis was once a leader in public transportation during the heyday of the "Interurban" rail lines that connected almost every corner of the city and state, now the supermajority in the Indiana General Assembly ties the hands of cities and towns that want to expand public transportation.

The recent logging at Yellowwood should have us all concerned about the status of the forests in our State. Selling off logging rights to the highest bidder is not a sustainable forestry plan. Hoosiers deserve better.

Source