This week, we saw a new challenge to states like Vermont that have been leading the way on climate action. A new executive order from the President seeks to limit the ability of states to set policies that protect public health, adapt our economy, and address the climate crisis we are all facing.

In response, the co-chairs of the U.S. Climate Alliance, Governors Kathy Hochul of New York and Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, made it clear:

“We are a nation of states — and laws — and we will not be deterred. We will keep advancing solutions to the climate crisis that safeguard Americans’ fundamental right to clean air and water, create good-paying jobs, grow the clean energy economy, and make our future healthier and safer.”

As a Vermonter, I wholeheartedly agree. While we’ve made progress, there’s still much more work to do. Every day, the urgency of the climate crisis becomes clearer. A recent Morgan Stanley report warns that we’re on track to surpass the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius. Instead, we’re heading toward a 3-degree rise—a scenario that’s increasingly likely.

The United Nations’ 2024 Emissions Gap Report echoes this concern, predicting a 3.1-degree rise by the end of the century if we don’t take swift action. That’s why we cannot afford to wait.

Vermont made a critical commitment when we joined the U.S. Climate Alliance in 2017, standing with states like New York, California, and Washington after President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. We pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. But that’s only the beginning. We must ensure our actions reflect the realities of the climate crisis.

In addition to reducing emissions, we need to focus on adapting to the climate impacts already at our doorstep. Our communities are facing more heat, more flooding and unpredictable weather, and extreme events. We must prepare our infrastructure for these changes, from strengthening flood management systems to ensuring clean water access and supporting those most vulnerable to rising temperatures.

Thanks to the Global Warming Solutions Act, Vermont has laid the foundation for meaningful change. But we cannot stop here. By prioritizing resilience and adaptation, we can try to protect our communities, economy, and the future of all Vermonters.

Vermont must not be bullied by those who do not have our states resident and businesses interests as their goal – be it the fossil fuel industry or federal attempts to limit our ability to protect our citizens. Failing to act means failing in our responsibility to protect Vermonters and their interests. Our communities deserve action, and it’s our duty to deliver.

I will continue advocating for policies that support a clean energy economy, protect our environment, and help our communities navigate the challenges ahead. Vermont’s future depends on acting now, and we must not let outside forces hold us back.

Rep. Laura Sibilia
Windham-2 District
Vermont House of Representatives

Rep. Laura Sibilia is an independent representing Dover, Jamaica, Somerset, Stratton and Wardsboro and the Ranking Member of the House Energy & Digital Infrastructure Committee