The California State Legislature, in a bipartisan vote, cemented California’s commitment to protecting our environment and economy from the harmful effects of climate change.
When voters passed Proposition 28 to extend term limits, their expectation was for legislators to build relationships and work together to solve the big issues facing our state. Climate Change is the largest threat to organized human existence and is the biggest issue of our time. I was proud to be a part of a bipartisan working group that I believe has met and exceeded the expectation of the people of California with the passage of AB 398.
In ensuring no Californian is left behind as we transition from the so called “dirty economy” to a clean and renewable economy, the continued support for workforce development is essential to have a just transition for all workers, so they may continue to provide for their families.
Workforce Development is a critical component of the Cap and Trade program extension. We would all be ill-served if we create an economy of the haves and have-nots. We look forward to receiving the recommendations from the California Air Resources Board and the California Workforce Development Board, as required in AB 398, on how to improve economic opportunity for all Californians.
It will be incumbent upon us to implement and appropriate funding to ensure all Californians have the opportunity to gain the skills necessary to obtain a job that provides economic security for their families. If we are going to prove to the rest of the world that our climate policies work, our policies must support a strong and growing middle class.
