News and Updates
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Rollback of Cost-Saving Vehicle Emission Standards
Washington, D.C. (December 3, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s announcement that it would roll back the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, a set of fuel economy regulations that was projected to help Americans save $23 billion in fuel costs and breathe cleaner air.
“Fuel economy standards have played a vital role in reducing costs, improving air quality, and making cleaner cars accessible to all Americans. Through commitments like electrifying half of their vehicle fleets by 2030 and joining the Electric Vehicles Purchasing Collaborative, Climate Mayors nationwide are ensuring community access to cleaner, safer, and more affordable transportation. At a time when nearly half of Americans say the high cost of living is one of their biggest challenges, we should be doubling down on proven strategies that have delivered household savings. As the Trump administration works to turn back the clock on progress, mayors are relentlessly advancing cleaner, more affordable transportation for all. Unlike the federal government, we will not back down from our promise to create safe, healthy, resilient cities that everyone can afford to live and thrive in.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Climate Mayors Chair and C40 Cities Vice Chair Mayor Kate Gallego: U.S. Mayors Are Resolute in Building Healthier, More Affordable, More Sustainable, and Safer Cities
Phoenix, AZ (November 22, 2025) – In the wake of COP30, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Chair of Climate Mayors, Vice Chair of C40 Cities, and a Co-Chair of the COP30 Local Leaders Forum, issued the following statement:
“This past month, a delegation of more than 100 U.S. local leaders, including over 30 U.S. mayors – one of the largest delegations of subnational leaders – sent a clear message: America’s mayors continue to deliver the bold actions that are building healthier, more affordable, more sustainable, and safer cities. America’s delegation of mayors stood united in telling our friends and allies that local leaders in the U.S. remain committed to delivering climate action. We know that the policies and projects that reduce emissions also bring affordable, reliable, and clean energy to our communities, create good jobs, and improve public health.
“Mayors understand that climate change contributes to the rising cost of food, energy, and housing. While the federal government is trying to take us backwards, U.S. mayors are doubling down on lowering costs, improving public health and safety, and making life more affordable for Americans across the country.
“As we mark ten years since the Paris Agreement, Climate Mayors demonstrate that local action is where international climate commitments are made tangible. We continue to execute the policies and projects driving the clean energy transition because it is the right choice for our children, our communities, our cities, and our planet.”
As a Co-Chair of the COP30 Local Leaders Forum, Mayor Gallego joined more than 14,000 local leaders from around the world in urging stronger collaboration between local and national governments to meet global climate goals. The outcome statement, delivered to UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the beginning of COP30, reinforces that robust multilevel action is key to delivering on the promise of the Paris Agreement.
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Applauds Calls to Protect EV Investments in Surface Transportation Legislation
Washington, D.C. (November 21, 2025) — Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the 90 members of Congress, led by Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Representative Sharice Davids (D-KA-03), calling on the leadership of the Senate Environment and Public Works and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee leadership to protect electric vehicle (EV) investments a part of ongoing surface transportation negotiations:
“Electric vehicles are a critical component of how mayors are lowering transportation costs while cutting toxic pollution, but we need strong and continued federal partnership to deliver. Climate Mayors applaud Senator Padilla, Representative Davids, and the lawmakers who are standing up for EV infrastructure. Ensuring robust support for EV deployment in surface transportation legislation will help cities capitalize on over $200 billion in domestic EV manufacturing investments creating tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthening local economies, reducing emissions, and improving air quality. From Lansing, MI, to Columbia, SC, and Lincoln, NE, mayors across the country have leveraged these investments to advance local economies, build battery plants and electric vehicle manufacturing facilities, and employ thousands of workers in good paying, high-demand careers. This is a vital step toward a healthier, more sustainable future for all Americans.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 48 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Climate Mayors Announces New 2026 Steering Committee Members
Mayors Kirk Watson (Austin, TX), Randall Woodfin (Birmingham, AL), Rex Richardson (Long Beach, CA), Patricia Lock Dawson (Riverside, CA), Daniel Lurie (San Francisco, CA), and Nadia Mohamed (St. Louis Park, MN) join Climate Mayors’ leadership committee in continued commitment to drive ambitious climate solutions
Washington, D.C. (November 13, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors proudly announced the addition of six city leaders to its 2026 Steering Committee: Mayors Kirk Watson (Austin, TX), Randall Woodfin (Birmingham, AL), Rex Richardson (Long Beach, CA), Patricia Lock Dawson (Riverside, CA), Daniel Lurie (San Francisco, CA), and Nadia Mohamed (St. Louis Park, MN). Representing U.S. cities on the West Coast, the South and the Midwest, these leaders are building thriving and clean energy economies delivering lower costs, fighting climate change, and cutting pollution in their communities.
The newly appointed Steering Committee members bring determination, deep expertise, and a commitment to providing affordable energy, resilient communities, and a healthy future for generations to come. These mayors join the 23 other Climate Mayors Steering Committee members from across the nation who are leading in this critical time of federal retrenchment on climate change and clean energy. As showcased at the COP30 Local Leaders Forum, this group of leaders is ready to carry the climate leadership and election momentum of 2025 forward into 2026, turning climate ambition into tangible benefits felt by communities across the country.
“We're proud to welcome six outstanding mayors to our steering committee. These leaders have each demonstrated leadership by implementing climate solutions that lower costs, reduce toxic pollution, and build healthier, safer communities,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “Their vision, experience, and commitment will help us leverage new opportunities, expand our hard-won progress, and deliver real results for communities across the country. With their leadership, Climate Mayors are poised to accelerate the transition to thriving, safe and affordable cities for all.”
Mayor Kirk Watson, Austin, TX
In Austin, Mayor Watson has made accelerating solar and battery deployment a central component of the city’s future operations and maximizing investment opportunities at the local level. He has also taken steps to address climate impacts head on and mitigate extreme wildfire risks. These efforts have included fuel reduction efforts, updated building codes, and collaboration with neighborhood associations to boost preparedness and resilience.
“Austin is harnessing the power of the sun to expand local and utility scale solar and battery storage opportunities. As a result, we’re seeing the availability of more plentiful electricity solutions that are powering our city operations while reducing harmful emissions. I’m honored to join the Steering Committee and work with peers to safeguard our cities and seize the opportunities of the clean energy transition,” said Mayor Watson.
Mayor Randall Woodfin, Birmingham, AL
Mayor Woodfin has championed practical and innovative solutions to improve life for residents in Birmingham while reducing emissions. The city is well on its way to electrifying 50% of its municipal fleet and has expanded its e-bike voucher program to provide alternative transportation options for community members.
“Birmingham is a prime example that even in a red state, we can make real progress on fleet electrification and equitable transportation solutions that benefit all residents and improve the quality of life in our city. As a Steering Committee member, I will advocate for sustained investment in climate programs and share Birmingham’s lessons and work with other Climate Mayors to help other cities accelerate all of their climate goals,” said Mayor Randall Woodfin, City of Birmingham.
Mayor Rex Richardson, Long Beach, CA
Mayor Richardson is advancing the decarbonization of his city’s trade industry by electrifying the Port of Long Beach—one of the greenest ports in the nation—and leading the establishment of the world’s first green shipping corridor. He has led Long Beach’s transition away from dependence on oil extraction by prioritizing local investments that are helping the city build a more sustainable and resilient economy.
“Long Beach is demonstrating that port cities can lead on climate by electrifying our infrastructure and transitioning away from oil – all while boosting our local economy in the process. As a member of the Steering Committee, I look forward to collaborating with other mayors and showing how cities can lead a large-scale transition toward net-zero infrastructure and solutions that serve our communities,” said Mayor Rex Richardson, City of Long Beach.
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, Riverside, CA
Patricia Lock Dawson is currently serving her second term as Mayor of the City of Riverside. A wildlife biologist by training and a lifelong public servant, Mayor Lock Dawson has been a dedicated advocate for environmental stewardship and sustainability.
She previously served as President of the Rivers and Lands Conservancy and currently sits on several prominent boards, including the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD), Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI), and the Riverside Conservation Authority. She also serves as Vice Chair of the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Standing Committee on the Environment.
As Mayor, Lock Dawson has positioned Riverside as a leader in climate action, putting the city on track to achieve 69% renewable energy by 2027, hosting the city’s first local Town Hall COP to connect global climate goals with community action, and attracting six green technology manufacturing companies to Riverside within the past 18 months.
“As a lifelong public servant, I’ve always believed that good environmental policy is also good economic policy. In Riverside, we’ve shown that sustainability and prosperity go hand in hand. From putting our city on track to reach 69% renewable energy by 2027, to hosting our first local Town Hall COP to bring global climate goals home, to attracting six new green technology manufacturers in the past 18 months, we’re proving that cities can lead the way in building a cleaner, more resilient future,” said Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, City of Riverside.
Mayor Daniel Lurie, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco under Mayor Lurie’s leadership has emerged as a champion for climate action, having received the U.S Conference of Mayor’s top national climate honor in 2025. Mayor Lurie has focused his efforts on clean mobility, building electrification, and streamlining climate innovation as the city takes steps to reach new bold targets that will be announced in its forthcoming 2025 Climate Plan.
“San Francisco has long been a leader in climate protection and a hub for innovative climate ideas. As our city gears up to announce new targets in our updated Climate Action Plan, I’m looking forward to bringing our city’s innovations to the 2026 Steering Committee. I’m honored to work alongside other leaders who are turning climate ideas into real progress for our communities.,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie, City and County of San Francisco.
Mayor Nadia Mohamed, St. Louis Park, MN
Mayor Mohamed has risen as a national leader on sustainability and inclusion, prioritizing the defense of and expansion of climate investments, accelerating clean energy adoption, and building resilient, equitable communities. She’s shown how climate action and affordable housing are intertwined, and focused efforts on creating more housing options for low-income communities while aiming to achieve carbon neutrality in St. Louis Park by 2040.
“Cities are on the front lines of climate impacts and the most vulnerable communities stand to be impacted the most. I’m dedicated to defending climate investments, expanding clean energy, and ensuring our all of our residents benefit from these efforts. It’s an honor to help guide this work through Climate Mayors,” said Mayor Nadia Mohamed, City of St. Louis Park.
Climate Mayors Steering Committee Members:
We celebrate the following members who will be part of our steering committee in 2026 and will work to advance Climate Mayors mission to drive local climate action:
Tim Keller, Albuquerque, NM; Andre Dickens, Atlanta, GA; Kirk Watson, Austin, TX; Michael P. Cahill, Beverly, MA; Randall Woodfin, Birmingham, AL; Lauren McLean, Boise, ID; Michelle Wu, Boston, MA; Justin Bibb, Cleveland, OH; Barbara Buffaloe, Columbia, MO; Daniel Rickenmann, Columbia, SC; Eric Johnson, Dallas, TX; Jim Hovland, Edina, MN; Indya Kincannon, Knoxville, TN; Leirion Gaylor Baird, Lincoln, NE; Frank Scott, Little Rock, AR; Rex Richardson, Long Beach, CA; Karen Bass, Los Angeles, CA; Satya Rhodes-Conway, Madison, WI; Jacob Frey, Minneapolis, MN; Shawyn Patterson-Howard, Mount Vernon, NY; Buddy Dyer, Orlando, FL; Kate Gallego, Phoenix, AZ; Angela Birney, Redmond, WA; Patricia Lock Dawson, Riverside, CA; Daniel Lurie, San Francisco, CA; Nadia Mohamed, St. Louis Park, MN; Caroline Simmons, Stamford, CT; Jane Castor, Tampa, FL; Regina Romero, Tucson, AZ;
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Endangerment Finding Comment Letter on Behalf of USCM, NLC, Climate Mayors, C40 and Sabin Center
The National League of Cities, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Climate Mayors, C40 Cities and the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School (“Sabin Center”) respectfully submit the following comments on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (“EPA”) proposed “Reconsideration of 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards.”
With respect to EPA’s proposed repeal of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and proposed repeal of greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions standards for vehicles, we write to make the following comments:
In proposing to repeal the Endangerment Finding and all regulations for the emission of GHGs from motor vehicles, EPA fails to seriously consider the impacts of these regulatory actions in cities. Since 2009, when the Endangerment Finding was made, the
scientific evidence that cities are experiencing devastating impacts from GHG-induced climate change, as established in the 2023 Fifth National Climate Assessment (“NCA5”) and as experienced in cities across the country, has only solidified. Moreover, EPA’s
proposed and we believe erroneous reading of the definition of the term “air pollutant” ignores these local harms.
EPA’s GHG standards for motor vehicles have significant benefits in cities, augmenting cities’ own efforts to reduce GHG emissions from the transportation sector at the local level. In particular, local governments are preempted by Section 209 of the Clean Air Act
from regulating air pollution from new motor vehicles, meaning that without federal regulation, this heavily emitting GHG source is left unregulated.
Read the full letter HERE.
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Says EPA Proposal to Stop Collecting Emissions Data Will Endanger Lives
Washington, D.C. (September 12, 2025) — Following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announcing a proposed rule to end the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, which has been tracking emissions data from thousands of large polluters since 2010, Kate Wright, the Executive Director of Climate Mayors denounced the decision in the below statement:
“Requiring polluters to report their emissions is a critical way local governments can keep track of how industries in their cities are impacting people’s health. Air pollution kills about 135,000 Americans each year - and cities are working hard every day to lower that number. They need access to that data to help them make the best decisions for their communities and ensure people across the country can breathe clean air free of toxic, cancer-causing chemicals. Without that accountability in place, emissions will go unchecked, and thousands of Americans will pay the price.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact:climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s Proposed Rollback of Cost-Saving Solar Program
Washington D.C. (August 7, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement in response to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed cancelation of the critical Solar for All program, a $7 billion investment which helps low-income and rural Americans access cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable solar energy. Solar for All is projected to lower energy bills for American households by $400 each year:
“Solar for All is a transformative program helping mayors across the country deliver affordable, reliable, and clean solar energy to families who need it the most,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “No hardworking family should have to choose between keeping their lights on and putting food on the table. Attempting to cancel Solar for All could result in one million Americans seeing their energy costs go up. Climate Mayors around the country remain steadfast in their commitment to deliver innovative clean energy solutions that lower energy bills, create good-paying jobs, and cut toxic pollution.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Mayors and Governors Encourage Americans to Act Now to Claim Thousands of Dollars in Clean Energy Incentives
WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 7, 2025) — Today, Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors representing 46 states, joined together with the U.S. Climate Alliance — a bipartisan coalition of 24 governors representing approximately 60 percent of the U.S. economy and 55 percent of the U.S. population — announce a nationwide effort to encourage Americans to take advantage of cost-saving federal clean energy tax credits before they expire.
Federal financial assistance is available for a limited time for Americans looking to go solar, buy an electric vehicle, and upgrade their home with cleaner, more affordable energy. With the clean energy tax credits, choosing rooftop solar, heat pumps, or electric vehicles can save consumers thousands of dollars up front — while helping lower their monthly energy bills for years to come. But under recent federal changes adopted by Congress, many of these federal incentives have new deadlines and are set to expire soon.
“These clean energy tax credits have helped American families and businesses save money, and now is the time to take full advantage of them,” said Climate Mayors chair Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “We have a narrow window to get the word out and help our communities benefit from these proven, popular credits which are making clean energy more affordable and accessible across the country.”
“At a time when household budgets are already stretched thin and the cost of living is too darn high, switching to an electric vehicle, installing a heat pump, or making your home more energy efficient can help save on everyday costs and pay dividends in the long run,” said U.S. Climate Alliance co-chair Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers. “Now is a great time for folks thinking about making the switch to take advantage of federal clean energy tax credits while they are still available.”
“The federal government is making clean cars more expensive — taking away these incentives right when Americans need them the most,” said U.S. Climate Alliance co-chair California Governor Gavin Newsom. “In addition to spreading the word about these incentives before they disappear, the Alliance’s governors will continue fighting for additional solutions to lower energy costs and save people money on their bills.”
Until September 30, consumers can save up to $7,500 on electric vehicle purchases, on top of any existing state and local rebates. And through the end of this year, consumers can save tens of thousands of dollars on a long list of home energy and efficiency upgrades, in addition to existing state and local incentives. Consumers can identify a full list of federal clean energy tax credits and their expiration dates using Rewiring America’s calculator. More detail on expiring residential clean energy tax credits can be found in the chart below.
States and cities across the two coalitions will be engaging consumers and businesses over the coming months to ensure as many people as possible can take advantage of these federal incentives before they expire. Just last week, Colorado announced the launch of its statewide Energy Savings Navigator, a new easy-to-use digital tool that connects the state’s consumers to more than 600 energy rebates and 18 different energy bill assistance programs, including federal tax credits expiring later this year.
“We are taking action to ensure that Coloradans can easily access clean energy savings, especially in the face of tariff uncertainty,” said U.S. Climate Alliance member Colorado Governor Jared Polis. “We continue to do all we can to make people aware of how you can reduce costs on energy bills and keep money in your pocket.”
Following expiration of these time-limited federal incentives, Americans will continue to be able to leverage other federal, state, and local programs to support their transition to clean energy solutions.
Climate Mayors Affirm Commitment to Public Health While EPA Abdicates Responsibility To Protect Americans From Climate Pollution
Washington, D.C. (July 29, 2025) - Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens condemn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposal to dismantle the Endangerment Finding and roll back greenhouse gas emissions standards. Climate Mayors stand united in defending the science, common sense, and protections that keep our communities safe and healthy.
Statement from Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego (Phoenix, AZ), Vice Chair Mayor Lauren McLean (Boise, ID), and Vice Chair Mayor Andre Dickens (Atlanta, GA):
“Today’s actions by the Trump Administration fail to protect Americans’ health and wellbeing—the most basic responsibility of government. Undermining EPA’s ability to protect people from pollutants is a rejection of science and common sense. The regulations that the Administration is undermining have resulted in better air quality in communities across the country and are central to America’s ability to prevent the worst impacts of climate change.
This retreat from science-based standards will result in increasingly intense summer heat, unpredictable rainfall patterns resulting in floods and drought, and economic harm and health impacts to American families. Mayors will not back down from our mission to safeguard our residents’ health and build better, safer, and more affordable cities.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Climate Mayors FY26 Priorities Letter
On behalf of Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors from across the United States, I write in strong support of funding in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations bills for resiliency programs that grow our economy and create good-paying jobs while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering costs for consumers. We urge you to maintain funding for the following programs in FY26 appropriations that are critical in ensuring our economy continues to thrive:
Support funding for the Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to ensure that seniors and other vulnerable Americans can pay their energy bills.
Maintain funding for the Low or No Emission (Low No) Program to help local governments and transit agencies replace aging buses and enhance access to jobs
Preserve the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation Program (PROTECT).
Fund the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program to increase nationwide resiliency.
Protect the Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund to help cities plan for and address decreasing water supplies.
Support efforts to increase tree coverage in America’s cities by funding the Urban and Community Forestry Program.
Support consumer awareness of energy efficiency technologies by fully funding ENERGY STAR.
Protect Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to support key resiliency projects across the United States.
Invest in workforce development programs to grow local economies and strengthen our cities’ ability to remain competitive.
Read the full letter and recommendations therein HERE.
Climate Mayors appreciates Congress’ work to support these critical programs. We look forward to working with you in continued partnership.
Sincerely,
Kate Wright
Executive Director, Climate Mayors
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Reaffirm Commitment to Clean Energy and Affordability Following Congressional Rollbacks
Despite setback from the federal government, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego and Vice Chairs Mayor Lauren McLean and Mayor Andre Dickens say Climate Mayors will continue pursuing the popular green programs and policies creating good-paying jobs, reducing toxic pollution, and lowering energy, food, and housing costs
Washington D.C. (July 3, 2025) – Today Climate Mayors leadership including Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice Chair and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean, and Vice Chair and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released the following statement in response to the passage of the Congressional megabill gutting clean energy tax credits, raising costs for working families, and jeopardizing Americans’ health and well-being:
“Today, Congress betrayed its promise to the hardworking people of this country by passing a bill that guts clean energy tax credits, raising costs for families and businesses at a time when more than half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Creating more affordable cities that don’t price out the people who built them means investing in the tools and programs that we know lower costs - and that includes clean energy. We have seen firsthand these tax credits have made energy more reliable, more affordable, and more abundant; it has revived American manufacturing and created tens of thousands of good-paying jobs right here in our cities. By gutting clean energy tax credits, Congress is threatening to take us backwards instead of looking towards our future. As portions of our country suffer through yet another record-breaking and dangerous heat-wave, we will not let our cities be pawns of special interests. We will keep fighting the cost of living crisis that has been exacerbated by climate change.
“As mayors, we have the power and the authority to keep pushing forward on the programs and policies that will create more affordable, more prosperous, and healthier cities. Climate Mayors stand ready and able to partner with other state, local, and business leaders to unleash abundant, affordable, and clean energy, create more good-paying jobs, and build healthier, safer, and more prosperous cities nationwide.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
PRESS RELEASE: Mayors Gallego and Mendenhall Release Climate Mayors’ Western Waters Call to Action to Protect Water Access Across the Colorado River System
As the climate crisis threatens people’s access to water, Climate Mayors’ Call to Action lays out concrete federal and state-level recommendations for reducing water costs, increasing water security, and ensuring Western communities continue to enjoy safe and reliable access to water
Phoenix, AZ (June 20, 2025) - Today, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix, AZ, and Mayor Erin Mendenhall of Salt Lake City, UT unveiled Climate Mayors’ Western Waters Call to Action, a comprehensive policy paper for how local, state, and federal governments can work together to keep water flowing safely, reliably, and affordably in the West.
Reliable access to water has been a pervasive issue in the western U.S., which is drier and more arid than other regions in the country. Climate change has led to an increase of 29% more drought-related disasters since 2000 and making water scarcer. To ensure people continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to safe and drinkable water at low costs, western cities are adapting to this new climate reality and are taking steps to build water security in the Colorado River system. Climate Mayors established the Western Water Security Regional Cohort as a way for western mayors to share best practices and recommendations for how to improve water security while maximizing water conservation, but an all-of-government approach is crucial to ensuring western cities can keep enjoying uninterrupted access to clean water at low costs.
“Western cities are confronting the reality that climate change is threatening access to water resources, and leading innovative and collaborative efforts to protect our shared supply,” said Phoenix Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair Kate Gallego. “In our mission to make Phoenix the most sustainable desert city in the world, we’ve implemented forward-thinking policies, such as requiring our largest water users to recycle at least a third of the water they use, resulting in a 30-year trend of year-over-year reductions in water use. Climate Mayors’ Western Waters initiative highlights cities’ innovative conservation best practices and invites our state and federal partners to join us in being the best stewards we can be of our limited freshwater resources, especially in the threatened Colorado River basin.”
“Water is precious, and we’re serious about conserving water in Salt Lake City without disrupting people’s lives. It’s a mix of conservation programs and partnerships with state and federal agencies that have allowed us to reduce our overall water consumption by more than 30%, while our water service area population has grown by 19% since the year 2000,” said Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “Mayors are doing their jobs - we need federal and state governments to help us unlock the full suite of policies and solutions that preserve and improve our water security. Our Call to Action provides a blueprint to do just that.”
The Call to Action was the result of multiple convenings of the Climate Mayors’ Western Water Security Regional Cohort which included mayors from both the Upper and Lower Basin, including Mayor Gallego and Mayor Mendenhall. The policy paper provides recommendations for how federal and state action can implement an all-of-government approach to address the complex and interrelated challenges of water insecurity, while protecting the Colorado River system and ensuring people across the West can continue to safely, affordably, and reliably access water. As cities across the country, and especially those along the Colorado River, get ready for the summer months that bring increased droughts and water scarcity, this Call to Action highlights the leadership of cities and the critical steps that are needed at the State and Federal levels.
“Climate Mayors are tackling the challenge of water scarcity with creativity and innovation,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “But we need help from our state and federal partners. The federal government needs to double down on solving our water crisis in the west, not walk away from it. Our Call to Action asks our state and federal partners to join us in leading the charge on water security and ensure western communities continue to enjoy safe, reliable, and affordable access to water, no matter where they live.”
Federal Recommendations
Invest additional funding to water and drought mitigation programs and water and wastewater infrastructure
Restore FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program
End federal taxation of water conservation rebates, creating the same tax conditions that energy conservation rebates have enjoyed for years and encouraging conservation by reducing recipient costs and utility administrative burden
Create block grant programs available to local governments and states to allow for flexible grant funding to increase water efficiency programs across the West (such as funding to create water leak monitoring programs, residential rebates, and more) – similar to the Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program
The Department of Interior and Bureau of Reclamation should exert their authority to ensure sustainable management of the Colorado River system that strengthens water security for future generations; ongoing negotiations related to post-2026 Colorado River system operations must be based on the concept of permanent measures for all states and sectors
Create a local government advisory commission or other official channel to include local government voices that represent communities in Western Water decisions
Invest unobligated federal drought money to local and tribal governments for flexible water resilience use, such as: water recycling infrastructure, natural drought resiliency infrastructure, stormwater reuse projects, etc.
Use Presidential Emergency Authority to designate drought conditions in the West as a natural disaster to initiate increased funding to vital communities
State Recommendations
Align and integrate local governments into state water and climate planning
Collaborate with and integrate local governments into the Upper and Lower Colorado River basin negotiations, especially in instances in which they are the primary water users
Invest in state drought resiliency fund for water recycling infrastructure programs for local governments and farmers to reduce uptake of water from Colorado River Basin
Regularly coordinate and convene state, local, agricultural, tribal, and private entities to address state water goals and identify cross-sectoral solutions as well as public-private partnerships and investments
Allocate state funding and/or expertise to assist communities with 1) water infrastructure, such as smart meters, aging pipelines, and water reuse facilities; 2) rate studies and rate design; 3) long range resiliency planning such as state water plans, land use plans, and economic development plans; and 4) conservation incentive programs
Develop programs to help communities with revenue stabilization and water affordability as water demand decreases
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Responds to Trump Administration’s Rollbacks of EPA Power Plant Standards
Washington D.C. (June 11, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright responded to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement that it will roll back mercury and greenhouse gas emissions standards for power plants across the country. The repeal of the two rules issued under the Clean Air Act would loosen emissions requirements for hazardous mercury by as much as 70% and eliminate pollution monitoring regulations for coal and gas-fired power plants.
“These rollbacks undermine the ability of mayors to shield their residents from harm and would allow corporations to pollute our air and water, and erode the quality of life for children and families across America,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors Executive Director. “Weakening the safeguards around toxic pollutants like mercury not only jeopardizes the health of city residents, especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods, it also hinders the ability of local leaders to build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities. The EPA has a responsibility to protect our health and environment – not eliminate the safeguards that protect us from breathing in harmful toxins every day.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
PRESS RELEASE: 175 Local Leaders Double Down on Call to Protect the Critical Clean Energy Tax Credits Creating Jobs, Boosting Local Economies, and Unleashing American Energy
Washington, D.C. (June 5, 2025) – 175 mayors, council members and county commissioners, representing 45 states and the District of Columbia and over 31.6 million Americans, signed a letter calling on Congress to preserve all clean energy tax credits driving local economic booms, good paying jobs, and lower energy bills in cities and towns nationwide. Of the signatories, 81 are members of Climate Mayors, a network of U.S. mayors demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities.
Clean energy tax credits are allowing state and local governments, churches, hospitals and schools to lower their operating costs while making critical upgrades to their infrastructure, including installing solar panels and charging stations, and trading in diesel-powered school buses emitting toxic chemicals into our air for clean electric school buses. These tax credits give local governments the certainty they need to create better and safer cities, bringing tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and boosting local economies in the process.
“We are excited about these projects and the benefits they will bring to our communities. However, as local leaders, we are concerned that repealing these clean energy tax credits could create economic uncertainty in our communities, as it would prevent us from accessing those important benefits. The consequences of this repeal would raise energy costs by $489 a year for families, result in up to 97,000 net fewer American jobs, hurt private sector investments, slow economic growth, and make the U.S. less globally competitive,” the local leaders wrote. “We look forward to working with you to preserve these vital tax incentives. We also ask that you consider us as partners in crafting bipartisan policies that ensure economic certainty, job creation, and a clean energy future for local communities.”
Any repeals would hit local governments and organizations the hardest, and the loss of access to credits could threaten the success of projects nationwide. More than 1,200 organizations, including over 500 state and local governments, have been able to take advantage of clean energy tax credits to support local projects while lowering costs for families and businesses and reducing pollution.
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESPONDS TO SENATE MOVE ROLLING BACK CALIFORNIA’S CLEAN-AIR WAIVERS ‘A MAJOR STEP BACKWARDS.’
Washington, DC (May 22, 2025) – In response to today’s Senate vote to eliminate California’s ability to set its own clean air and emissions standards – denying a right that has been granted by the federal government to states and local governments for nearly 50 years – Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:
“Today’s move by the Senate to eliminate California’s authority to establish pollution standards for cars through clean air waivers is a major step backwards for cleaner air, American innovation and global competitiveness, and a threat to state and local authority. Thanks to these waivers, California gave states and local governments across the country a blueprint for how to create a booming economy that is lowering fuel costs and boosting access to good-paying jobs while making sure people had the right to clean air free from cancer-causing pollutants.
“State and local leaders are uniquely positioned to understand and respond to the needs of their community members. Efforts to undermine their ability to act will only hurt consumers and harm public health. Our mayors know that health comes first and have seen the economic benefits that an electric vehicle transition can bring. From manufacturing jobs to lower costs, our cities are poised to continue this progress and take steps towards a healthier and more prosperous future.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS SAYS PROPOSED HOUSE PACKAGE WILL RAISE COSTS, THREATEN JOBS OF WORKING AMERICANS
Washington, D.C. (May 14, 2025) - In response to House committees approving portions of the reconciliation package rolling back critical investments that have benefited cities nationwide, including cuts to clean energy tax credits and clawbacks to climate programs from the Inflation Reduction Act, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:
"These proposed bills defy common sense - at a time when nearly half of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck, we should be lowering costs, not raising them. These programs and tax credits have provided a critical boost to local economies across the country, creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying jobs, driving billions in private investment, and revitalizing U.S. manufacturing. If Congress goes through with these spending cuts, it’s everyday Americans who will foot the bill in the form of higher energy costs and lower job opportunities.
Clean energy is more affordable, more reliable, and better for people’s health and safety. American energy dominance and security depends on unleashing more of it. Gutting these programs would be inviting instability and chaos, hiking up energy costs at a time when Americans are demanding lower bills.
Climate Mayors across the country have seen firsthand how clean energy tax credits have benefited their communities, in red and blue states alike. Earlier this year, 133 mayors and local leaders sent a letter to Congress urging them to preserve clean energy tax credits. We stand united and firm in calling on Congress to listen to their constituents and keep these programs in place so we can keep innovating, keep people’s energy bills affordable, and build a better, more prosperous, and healthier future for American families.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
Climate Mayors Surface Transportation Reauthorization Priorities
Dear Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen:
On behalf of Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of nearly 350 Mayors from across the United States, I write to urge the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee to support policies and programs in the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill that advance zero and low-emission technologies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating good-paying jobs, promoting innovation, and enhancing our country’s global competitiveness
Read the full letter and recommendations therein HERE.
We look forward to continuing our engagement with your committee and appreciate the opportunity to submit input.
Sincerely,
Kate Wright
Executive Director, Climate Mayors
STATEMENT: CLIMATE MAYORS CHAIR MAYOR KATE GALLEGO RESPONDS TO WHITE HOUSE ATTEMPT TO HAMPER LOCAL CLIMATE ACTION
Phoenix, AZ (April 10, 2025) – In response to President Trump’s executive order to curb state and local authority on climate action, Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:
“The federal government does not have the authority to strip cities and states of their abilities to make laws that best serve their residents. Not only does this latest overreach step on local rights, it also fails to acknowledge the true costs of delaying the transition to a clean energy economy—both the enormous costs of continued environmental destruction and the political and social harm of retreating American leadership.
In Phoenix, we expect to hit record or near-record temperatures this week, demonstrating the consequences of inaction that are already at our doorstep. Instead of undermining local efforts to protect the health and safety of our residents, federal action to modernize our infrastructure and bolster our national competitiveness would be more productive. To ensure our country’s long-term prosperity, we need to double down on investments in advanced manufacturing that will deliver a clean energy economy, grid resilience, and workforce development pathways that prepare our residents for good-paying jobs in emerging industries.
Climate Mayors will continue to represent the best interests of our communities and work with state partners to advance policies that will bring economic security, health and safety to our cities and our country.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Gallego Calls on HHS Secretary to Protect Program Helping Americans Keep the Air Conditioning on in Summer
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been pivotal in helping 6 million Americans keep their homes cool amidst skyrocketing bills from record breaking heat waves, including in Phoenix where 2024 saw a record-breaking 113 consecutive days of 100 degrees or higher.
Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2025) - Following Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s visit to Phoenix, Climate Mayors Chair Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:
“American cities experienced the hottest summer on record last year. It’s our responsibility to make sure households across the country can stay safe and healthy when temperatures climb. From desert cities in the Southwest to coastal cities in the Northeast, communities across the country are impacted by deadly summer heatwaves. The Trump administration must honor its commitment to support working families by doubling down on – and not dismantling – critical programs like LIHEAP. Here in Maricopa County, nearly 36,000 households rely on LIHEAP for their energy bills.
“There is nothing wasteful about ensuring families can keep their lights on and air conditioning running during the hottest months of the year. I strongly urge Secretary Kennedy to swiftly reinstate LIHEAP so that Phoenix families— and the many people nationwide who rely on this assistance— have the resources they need to stay safe in extreme weather.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com
STATEMENT: Climate Mayors on Trump Administration Cuts to National Disaster Response
As weather disasters increase in frequency and strength, cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and endanger the lives of Americans, U.S. cities need a strong federal partner to build more resilient communities, help adequately prepare for and recover from weather disasters, and keep people safe
Washington, D.C. (April 7, 2025) - In response to a slew of action from President Trump putting life-saving programs and disaster recovery for local governments at risk, including an executive order shifting responsibility for disaster preparedness from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to state and local governments, layoffs of FEMA staffers, and reports that FEMA is ending its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Program - the biggest program helping U.S. communities and cities plan and prepare for weather disaster events including hurricanes, floods, and wildfires - Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement below:
“Disaster events aren’t going away - in fact they are only getting worse. Mayors are the first line of defense when disaster strikes, and have seen firsthand the profound impacts on their communities. From wildfires in Los Angeles to record hurricanes in Florida and North Carolina, and rising heat across the country, the effects of climate change are here. Meeting this moment demands a whole-of-government response; we cannot be walking away from the critical federal resources and programs we need to help cities plan for disaster events and keep Americans safe.
FEMA is an essential partner for our mayors and cities, providing critical medical evacuation assistance, urban search and rescue teams, and satellite and ground communications support - all of which can help save more lives when a disaster strikes. When a winter storm hit Kentucky in February and caused deadly foods, FEMA provided critical, individual assistance and additional life-saving personnel to help flood victims. If the Trump administration abandons its responsibility to help communities plan for, respond, and recover from weather disasters, it’s the American people that will have to foot the bill - and cities in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas will pay the highest price.
To honor their obligations to the American people and save lives, the Trump administration must reform - not eliminate - FEMA, restore the BRIC program, and ensure FEMA has the resources and capacity it needs to support cities in their efforts to protect their communities before, during, and after crises. Climate Mayors are ready and willing to work with Congress to make the improvements to FEMA we need to ensure the country is prepared to deal with what will surely be another record-breaking and devastating summer.”
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About Climate Mayors
Climate Mayors is a bipartisan network of nearly 350 mayors, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities since 2014. Representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, Climate Mayors reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com