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Thursday, September 19, 2024

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Post-presidential debate poll shows a shift in WI; Teamsters won't endorse in presidential race after releasing internal polling showing most members support Trump; IL energy jobs growth is strong but lacks female workers; Pregnant, Black Coloradans twice as likely to die than the overall population.

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The Teamsters choose not to endorse a presidential candidate, county officials in Texas fight back against state moves to limit voter registration efforts, and the FBI investigate suspicious packages sent to elections offices in at least 17 states.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

Virginia Business Leaders Urge Congress to Pass Infrastructure Bill

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Wednesday, September 29, 2021   

RICHMOND, Va. -- Business leaders are urging Congress to take action to curb climate change by supporting the Biden administration's Build Back Better plan.

Part of it, the infrastructure package, is set for a vote on Thursday.

The businesses argued not only will the measures help the U.S. contribute to stopping the most catastrophic effects of climate change, but they can boost local economies as well.

Jim Doyle, president of the nonprofit coalition Business Forward, pointed to data that showed Virginia imported 74% of its fossil fuels in 2019, and said switching to in-state renewables could generate $15 billion to buy local energy.

"Most states spend billions, and many states spent tens of billions, importing coal, oil and gas to power their economies," Doyle observed. "Renewables, solar and wind, represent an opportunity to keep that money in-state, to essentially 'Buy Local.'"

Opponents of the broader Build Back Better agenda contended it goes too far, and $3.5 trillion dollars over a decade is too expensive. In addition to clean-energy investments, the full package includes expansions of the social safety net and tax-code changes.

But Doyle countered the ultimate cost of climate change makes fighting it worth the investment. Business Forward launched a major radio ad campaign, aimed at pressing lawmakers in swing districts to pass the infrastructure bill, including Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Va. The Senate has already passed it.

Doyle noted businesses are already feeling the financial impacts of climate change.

"Severe weather and extreme temperatures are spiking commodity prices, disrupting supply chains, damaging plants and equipment, and messing with consumer demand for their products," Doyle reported.

He added since Jan. 2020, climate-driven disasters have cost Virginia $10 billion. He thinks clean-energy investments represent an opportunity for the U.S. to be a leader in energy innovation and manufacturing.


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