Thirteen million people die annually from preventable climate-related causes – more than twice the number killed by COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. Apparently, however, the United States believes this to be acceptable. This is despite overturning Roe v. Wade less than a week earlier in the name of preserving life.

On SCOTUS’ final day of the term, the same six justices who ruled in favor of Dobbs voted to gut the Clean Air Act in West Virginia v. EPA. The act, championed by our own Sen. Edmund Muskie more than 50 years ago, was among our first – and most successful – climate acts, reducing air pollution by 70 percent, despite continued economic development. The Clean Air Act has prevented hundreds of thousands of early deaths, and its economic benefits outweigh costs more than 30-1, largely due to health care savings and absenteeism.

Maine depends on national legislation as the majority of our pollution comes from other states. Pollution knows no boundaries. Our health is global health.

If it is as Chief Justice Roberts indicated, that Congress is to authorize the EPA, we must embolden Congress. Call Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King and demand that they endorse Biden’s reconciliation package. We cannot pass the buck of escalating disaster to someone else – someone with fewer resources and less time than we have here and now.

On the 246th anniversary of American independence, let’s ensure a livable future – one with a prosperous economy and fewer global conflicts; one that offers life, liberty and justice for all. One with breathable air.

Susana Hancock
Freeport

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