Climate, Equity and Infrastructure Remain Key Priorities for California

SACRAMENTO — Uncertainty under the Trump Administration was a central theme of Governor Jerry Brown’s State of the State address this morning. But climate change, equity, and infrastructure continue to be top priorities for California. Brown spoke about perseverance and standing up for California, saying “when we defend California, we defend America. We are a world leader in the fight against climate change.”

“Whatever they do in Washington, they can’t change the facts,” Gov. Brown said. “And these are the facts: the climate is changing, the temperatures are rising and so are the oceans. Natural habitats everywhere are under increasing stress. The world knows this… We cannot fall back and give in to the climate deniers. The science is clear. The danger is real.” 

Following is a statement from Ann Notthoff, director of California advocacy for NRDC:
“Californians demand action to combat climate change, protect our people and preserve our natural resources. Clean water and clean air will likely be harder to come by if our federal government puts the Big Polluter agenda before the rights of everyday Americans. It’s critical that California continue to lead the charge in protecting California’s invaluable people and wild places.

“We’re ready to stand with the Governor and other decision-makers to protect Californians, move forward on climate change, and build a sustainable future for all of us.”

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The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 2 million members and online activists. Since 1970, our lawyers, scientists, and other environmental specialists have worked to protect the world's natural resources, public health, and the environment. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Bozeman, MT, and Beijing. Visit us at www.nrdc.org and follow us on Twitter @NRDC.