Statement in Response to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Decision to Repeal the 2009 Endangerment Finding

“The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s repeal of the 2009 Endangerment Finding presents a significant challenge for cities, towns and villages across the country. Local leaders are seeing the impacts of climate change every day in their communities—from flooding to wildfires—and are committed to protecting public health and ensuring their communities remain strong and resilient. Many local governments have made thoughtful, community-driven decisions to reduce emissions and pursue long-term environmental and economic goals based on local needs and priorities.

Local leaders benefit from clear, consistent federal policies that provide certainty, partnership and resources to support these efforts. Recent actions may complicate communities’ ability to plan effectively and achieve their locally established environmental and economic objectives. Addressing greenhouse gas emissions across the economy requires coordination, flexibility and engagement at every level of government. NLC will continue to support local leaders, advocate for constructive federal-local collaboration and promote investments that help communities become more resilient to protect the well-being of their residents.”