Green Bay Reporter

Addressing climate change is a main priority for many government officials and on Nov. 15 Wisconsin Democrats introduced a 22 bill package called “Forward on Climate” that addresses a variety of needs to help the cause.

According WPR.org, Forward on Climate builds on recommendations from the Governor’s Task Force on Climate Change.

“Forward on Climate includes 22 bills that work to create good, family supporting jobs, reduce inequality and fight climate change through Wisconsin-centered policy,” the bill package stated.

One bill is labeled “Social Cost of Carbon,” which calls for requiring the Public Service Commission to consider the social cost of carbon when approving utility projects. Another bill is labeled “School Weatherization and Energy Efficiency Grants.” This puts $10 million a year toward weatherizing schools in Wisconsin.

“Climate Change and Local Planning” requires local governments to devise climate change plans much like how they prepare disaster mitigation plans. “Complete Streets” requires Department of Transportation to build new roads with bike lines and pedestrian paths.

“Model Climate Academic Standards” requires the State Superintendent to develop an academic model for schools to use. This would involve information about climate change and the various effects it has, and and the actions that can be taken to alleviate the concerns. 

“Racial Disparity Impact Studies” requires the Department of Natural Resources to take public comment about how vulnerable communities are impacted by water and air pollution, as well as solid waste. 

“Environmental hazards, displacement and economic immobility continue to disproportionately impact people of color, indigenous communities and low-income communities,” the bill reads. “By requiring these additional steps in the permit process, we can better protect communities that have historically experienced disproportionate health and environmental impacts, limit environmental and communal harm, and put more control in the hands of local communities.”

Reps. Supreme Moore Omokunde, Sara Rodriguez and Greta Neubauer, along with Sen. Melissa Agard tweeted positively about the bill package.

“I was proud to join @RepGreta, @sensmithwi and other Dem colleagues to release the Forward on Climate Package – legislation aimed at addressing climate change in Wisconsin. This package of 22 bills is designed to create family-supporting jobs, reduce inequality and fight climate change,” Agard tweeted.