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SEEC Co-Chairs Oppose Trump Budget Cuts

May 26, 2017
Washington D.C. – Following the release of President Trump’s FY18 Budget, the Co-Chairs of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) made the following statements:
 
SEEC Co-Chair Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20): President Trump’s FY 2018 Budget Request sells out clean air for future generations in order to give massive breaks to polluters today. The reckless approach by President Trump for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would expose more of our families and communities to the dangers of air and water pollution. A 31% cut to EPA’s budget means less funding to support the critical work done by state and local governments to safeguard public health. His budget would sell out our most precious historic and natural lands to the highest bidder, an effort that threatens the very heart of our nation’s heritage and sense of place. Worst of all, this budget shows disregard for the immense and growing threat of climate change, a reality that is already leading to devastating storms, loss of life, and billions of dollars in damage to homes and businesses. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to chart a better, more responsible path forward.
 
SEEC Co-Chair Gerry Connolly (VA-11): “President Trump’s budget is the most radical policy document to come out of Washington since the failed Ryan Budget. It is a blueprint for social Darwinism and a unilateral retreat from our commitments at home and abroad. It eliminates funding for the Chesapeake Bay program. It slashes funding for climate science research. It attacks programs like ARPA-E and EERE that are developing the technologies of tomorrow. None of this will Make America Great Again. The President’s proposal finances tax cuts for the rich, a ramp up in defense spending, and his fantasy border wall with austerity measures on domestic investments in education, infrastructure, and research – investments we should prioritize, not eliminate.”
 
SEEC Co-Chair Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06): “President Trump’s proposed budget callously neglects the needs of hardworking families and America’s future. The President is continuing his attack on clean air and clean water, slashing the EPA’s budget and setting back our progress in fighting the changing climate and ensuring that future generations have access to a safe and healthy future. We must remain a leader in breaking down barriers to innovation, curing diseases, and ensuring that our children and grandchildren have a solid foundation from which to succeed. I will keep fighting for a budget that honors that commitment to the American people.”