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April E-News |
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Included in this edition:
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You’re Invited: Conservation Lobby Day 2024 |
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We are in the final stretch of Maine’s 2024 legislative session – and there is still so much work to do.
Your voice, and that of others who care about protecting the environment and our climate future, is so important right now. We need to show lawmakers just how many Mainers care about acting on climate, advancing environmental justice, and protecting the environment and communities.
This is your chance to learn more about some of the biggest bills of the session, talk to your legislators, and meet people from across Maine who share your commitment to advancing climate action, furthering environmental justice, and protecting our environment and communities.
This will also be the day of the committee hearing for one of our top priority bills to equitably advance offshore wind in Maine – let’s pack the halls with people who support fighting climate change and transitioning to clean, renewable energy! |
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NEW Legislative Updates from Augusta |
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PSR Maine continues to stand with The Maine Gun Safety Coalition in their work to advance four bills in the Safer Maine Bill Package. This comprehensive legislation includes crucial measures aimed at enhancing public safety, particularly regarding gun violence prevention. Keep an eye on their website for up to the minute ways to get involved. Thinking of writing a letter to the editor, or know someone who would? Please see the following links to the state's three largest newspapers, the Portland Press Herald, Lewiston Sun Journal, and Bangor Daily News. |
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Recently, the Board of Environmental Protection voted 4-2 to terminate the Advance Clean Cars II rulemaking. Without ACCII, Maine will revert back to federal emissions standards in 2026 for the first time since 2001. Despite this discouraging news, several Environmental Priority Coalition partners developed and lobbied for an amendment that got something out of LD 2261. As (unanimously) passed out of committee, the bill directs several state agencies to compile a study reviewing relevant barriers to EV adoption in Maine and mechanisms to overcome those barriers. |
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US Climate Action Summit: Climate and Health Day |
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On April 25, from 12:30 to 5 pm ET, the National Academy of Medicine is co-hosting the first Climate and Health Day with Kaiser Permanente and Climate Group as part of the US Climate Action Summit. This free public event will feature four panels exploring different aspects of climate and health. Register to attend virtually here! |
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A Call-to-Action: Health Professionals Sign-on to Protect Neighborhoods from Toxic Oil Drilling |
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Attention all Maine health professionals! Our PSR sister-chapters in California are reaching out to PSR Chapters across the nation for support!
They aim to enlist over 1000 health professionals who are willing to endorse a statement emphasizing the health risks associated with oil drilling in close proximity to residential areas, schools, and medical facilities. Environmental justice advocates in California, supported by health professionals and others, in California have successfully collaborated with their legislature and Governor to enact a law establishing health protection setback zones, shielding communities from the highest levels of harmful emissions.
However, oil companies have deployed paid signature gatherers to qualify a ballot initiative aimed at overturning this crucial law. This nationwide appeal for health professionals to acknowledge the hazards of oil drilling not only demonstrates solidarity on a national scale but also aids in thwarting the fossil fuel industry's endeavors in a state where one would typically expect stronger protections for public health and the environment. Let's unite in this effort! The national health professional letter for endorsement can be found here. |
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New York Times "The Brink” describes Nuclear Weapons Danger |
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The New York Times has unveiled a new series focused on nuclear threats, aiming to shed light on the complex issues surrounding nuclear weapons and their potential consequences. Through in-depth reporting and analysis, the series intends to raise awareness and prompt discussions about the ongoing challenges and risks associated with nuclear proliferation and security. It will explore various aspects of nuclear threats, including the proliferation of weapons, diplomatic efforts for disarmament, and the evolving technologies shaping the future of nuclear security. Click here to read "The Brink". PSR Maine works to move Back from the Brink. Please join in the effort to have Maine’s Congressional delegation reduce the risk of nuclear weapons. |
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Give to PSR Maine |
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Thank you for your generous support of PSR Maine! To mail your contribution to us, please send a check to our mailing address: PSR Maine, 126 Western Ave #1012, Augusta ME 04330 To donate online using our secure server click on "Donate Here" below. Or point your camera at this QR code and you’ll be taken directly to our secure donor page: |
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