FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 27, 2021

CONTACT
Leah Jones, Education Coordinator, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
(804) 514-1104, ljones@vaipl.org

Interfaith Organization Applauds Governor Northam’s Proposal to Increase Access to Clean Water

Richmond, VA – Today, Governor Northam announced a vision to invest in Virginia’s water quality and water infrastructure by allocating $411.5 million of the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to address both water pollution and access to clean water. This proposal would invest in wastewater, stormwater, and water infrastructure as well as modernize aging systems.

In response, Kendyl Crawford, Co-Director of Virginia Interfaith Power & Light, released the following statement:

“Governor Northam’s proposal shows that he understands the basic human dignity of having clean water. We eagerly await the administration’s continued leadership on this effort and hope that the General Assembly follows the governor’s lead in addressing threats to Virginia families’ access to clean water. 

This is an important effort building on the human right to water resolution just passed earlier this year. As investments are made to infrastructure, we must ensure that the vulnerable areas of Virginia with antiquated infrastructure are urgently updated, especially for both our rural and urban neighbors.”

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About Virginia Interfaith Power & Light: Virginia Interfaith Power & Light collaborates among people of faith and conscience to grow healthy communities by advancing climate and environmental justice. For more information, visit https://www.vaipl.org.

Other Statements: http://www.vcnva.org/northam-announces-energy-executive-order/

September 17, 2019

“Governor Northam’s leadership through Executive Order 43 to reduce carbon pollution is a vital step forward to achieving 100% clean energy in Virginia. His efforts to cut dangerous carbon pollution will decrease suffering and save lives.

While we applaud these climate goals, it is imperative that they are achieved in a just manner and reduce the energy burden placed on lower income families. Virginia Interfaith Power & Light will continue to advocate that the administration addresses the historical environmental burden placed on communities of color and immediately stops any further expansion of fossil fuel energy development.”