New York Governor Kathy Hochul faces backlash for postponing a key climate initiative amid rising gas prices, angering environmental advocates.
Albany: Governor Kathy Hochul has really upset green activists lately. She decided to delay a big “cap and invest” program that many thought would help tackle climate change.
Environmentalists are fuming because they feel Hochul went back on her word from two years ago. She had promised to tax fossil fuel companies for their carbon emissions and use that money for green energy projects in New York.
During her State of the State address, she announced the delay, which caught many off guard. The activists pointed out that a lot of work had already been done to get this program off the ground.
They believe this program is crucial for New York to meet its climate goals, which aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050. They’re frustrated that Hochul is holding things up when they feel the state is ready to move forward.
Hochul’s decision comes right after she faced criticism for a new $9 congestion toll for entering Manhattan. Activists are worried that the delay will lead to higher costs for consumers, especially with rising gas prices.
Last month, she approved a law that would require fossil fuel companies to pay a hefty $75 billion for their emissions. Critics say this could lead to gas prices going up by 12 cents a gallon in just a year.
Hochul defended her choice, saying the state needs more data before moving ahead. She emphasized that it’s a complicated program and they need to get it right.
However, environmental advocates aren’t buying it. They argue that New York should be leading the way in climate action, not dragging its feet.
Some business groups welcomed the delay, saying it’s important to consider the financial impact on New Yorkers. They hope the governor understands the need for affordable living in the state.
