Hassan Speaks at Concord 'Play-in for Climate Action' Event

CONCORD, NH — Gov. Maggie Hassan, D-Exeter, health experts and members of Moms Clean Air Force and the Union of Concerned Scientists gathered at White Park in Concord this weekend to show support for America’s Clean Power Plan and call for clean energy solutions that improve our state’s air quality and improve children’s health, according to a press statement. More than 50 people who attended the free event, more than half of whom were children. A press conference followed kid-friendly fun activities and a performance by children’s musician “Mr. Aaron” from Rattlebox Studios.

“As climate change continues to threaten our natural resources, people, businesses, economy and way of life, it is critical that we continue working together to build a healthier, safer New Hampshire where all of our people – including our children – can enjoy in the high quality of life that we are known for in the Granite State,” Hassan said. “Clean air and water are critical to public health and public safety, and I commend the leadership of Moms Clean Air Force for inspiring us all to do our part to protect our environment and the natural resources that make our state unique.”

"I am proud to stand with Moms Clean Air Force in support of the Clean Power Plan and a healthier future for all children," stated Carrie Becker, Mom of 2 young boys and Moms Clean Air Force member. Carrie suffers from asthma and is acutely aware of how air quality impacts her family’s life.

Jessica Morton, with the New Hampshire Department of Health & Human Services, said “As public health officials, we know that a warming climate can cause heat waves that affect vulnerable populations, extend our pollen season that triggers asthma, cause extreme precipitation and flooding, and may also be related to the expansion of tick habitats and Lyme disease.” Morton also stated that “1 in 9 NH children (28,000) and adults (114,563) have asthma, which is equal to the number of residents in Concord and Manchester combined.”

At the event, activists and organizers called for stronger goals for the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a partnership between New Hampshire and other Northeast states to fight climate change and increase clean energy investments. New Hampshire is at a crossroads when it comes to our energy future. The Granite State has taken important steps to limit carbon pollution and advance renewable energy, however progress toward cleaner air in New Hampshire will stall without robust implementation of America’s Clean Power Plan, which sets the first federal limits on carbon pollution from power plants.

“America’s Clean Power Plan may be a climate-change plan, but it is also a critically important public health measure,” said Shasta Jorgensen, Project Manager, Community Health Institute and Member of the New Hampshire Public Health Association.

Submitted by Becky Whitley.