On Saturday, Feb. 19, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a funding bill (HR1), which is the biggest assault on our air and water in recent history. Thankfully, here in Minnesota, Congressman Tim Walz voted to protect our air and health by opposing this destructive bill.

For the families in this area, this bill will only increase pollution and increase the risk of asthma and other health problems. The bill attacks America’s core environmental and public health programs including the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, and severely diminishes funding for public lands. Furthermore, the bill blocks limits on dangerous carbon pollution from coal-fired power plants in New York and nationwide, putting our health and environment at risk.

Protecting our environment and health is a priority for Rep. Walz, and he should be applauded for voting against efforts to block clean air standards — standards that would help ensure a clean and healthy environment for all.

Michael Nemeth

Environment America

Washington, D.C.