Attacks on Environmental Laws and Investments Pose a Threat to Maine

Over the past two weeks, the Trump Administration has released a flurry of proposals aimed at increasing our use of expensive fossil fuels, undermining bedrock environmental laws, eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and attempting to override the role of Congress to decide how the budget of the United States will be spent.  

These actions have been deeply disturbing, potentially unconstitutional, and have caused widespread concern across the nation. Here in Maine, they could have dire consequences on the health of Maine people, businesses, and communities. 

As we navigate these attacks on our fundamental right to a clean and healthy environment, we will remain grounded in the love of the outdoors and connection with the natural environment that is held by all Mainers.   

We will stand with everyone across the state to oppose attacks on vital spending programs and well-established environmental laws like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.  

We will work with towns, businesses, and others to oppose attempts to terminate federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act that is already being invested to help create new jobs and save people money on energy costs here in Maine.  

The directives from the Trump Administration to remove protections for low-income and communities of color and eliminate programs that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion, while attacking people for who they are or where they come from, are especially disturbing.  

The Natural Resources Council of Maine stands firm in our commitment to the diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice values that guide our work because the impacts of climate change and pollution disproportionately harm marginalized communities; access to the outdoors is determined largely by social and economic opportunities; and the high cost of fossil fuels impacts those who can least afford it.  

The environmental movement must play a role in advancing equity and justice throughout our society.  

Those who want to join our community of people working to protect the nature of Maine can sign up to receive email updates. We also encourage you to contact Maine’s Congressional delegation and urge them to oppose the Trump Administration’s attempts to undermine environmental and health protections for the American people. 

Maine is facing complex issues that threaten the health of its people and the environment upon which so much of our economy relies. We know that the best way to face these challenges is by working together through honest, open dialogue based in science. We can and must forge solutions based on our shared love of Maine’s environment while acknowledging basic human dignity and rights of everyone to participate in that process.