Richmond Leader

Washington, D.C. – On April 21, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04)issued the following statement after President Biden signed an Executive Order to continue building on the Administration’s commitment to advancing environmental justice:

“On April 21 actions by the Biden-Harris administration are another historic step in our efforts to combat long-standing environmental inequities that have plagued low-income communities and communities of color. Environmental injustices often lead to worse public health outcomes, including increased rates of cancer, respiratory illnesses, and more.  

“As a proud original cosponsor of the A. Donald McEachin Environmental Justice for All Act, I am thrilled to see key provisions of the legislation included in these executive actions. Named after my predecessor, friend, and former colleague, the late Donald McEachin, the EJ for All Act is landmark environmental justice legislation he developed and championed alongside Congressman Raúl Grijalva. The bill seeks to deliver on his staunch belief that every American deserves to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and live in a healthy environment. 

“In his executive actions, President Biden committed to further research and analysis into cumulative impacts and centered their consideration in policy-making decisions. As a major tenant of the Environmental Justice for All Act, the prioritization of cumulative impacts is a major step forward for EJ efforts across the nation. I applaud the Biden-Harris administration for continuing to deliver on its commitment to environmental justice.  

“I look forward to working with my congressional colleagues and the Biden administration to build on this moment. We must continue fighting to protect historically marginalized and overburdened communities, so that every American, regardless of zip code or socioeconomic status, can live a healthy life.”

Original source can be found here