News and Updates

Isabelle Klein 6/11/25 Isabelle Klein 6/11/25

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.”

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

Isabelle Klein 5/22/25 Isabelle Klein 5/22/25

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.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 5/14/25 Georgia Panitz 5/14/25

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.”

###

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/10/25 Georgia Panitz 4/10/25

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.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/9/25 Georgia Panitz 4/9/25

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.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 4/7/25 Georgia Panitz 4/7/25

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.”

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 3/12/25 Georgia Panitz 3/12/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Executive Director Condemns Trump Administration’s EPA Rollback of Key Environmental and Public Health Protections

Washington D.C. (March 12, 2025) – Today, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright condemned the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) plans to rollback critical protections that limit air pollution, ensure clean waterways, eliminate dangerous chemicals, and protect the environment and human health:

“With this walkback of bedrock laws that keep us safe, the Trump administration is abandoning its pledge to provide for the health and well-being of our communities. The rollback of more than 31 environmental and health protections is a setback to all the great progress local leaders have made in building healthier, cleaner, and safer cities. This only benefits polluters looking for a blank check to keep emitting harmful and toxic chemicals – prioritizing unrestrained greed over the health of the American people.

“Our mayors will remain steadfast in their commitment to the safety of their residents and ensuring everyone can breathe clean air and drink clean water. The proposed rollbacks from the Trump Administration are an intentional effort to create chaos and will result in serious and immediate implications for communities’ health and harm our environment and economy.”

About Climate Mayors

Georgia Panitz 3/5/25 Georgia Panitz 3/5/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Leadership Pays Tribute to Former Chair and Houston Mayor, Congressman Sylvester Turner

With news Congressman Turner passed away, Climate Mayors remembers the former Chair as a long-standing climate champion, committed to making sure Houstonians and Americans across the country could breathe clean air and enjoy the benefits of a clean energy economy

Washington D.C. (March 5, 2025) – Today, the Chair of Climate Mayors, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and the Executive Director of Climate Mayors, Kate Wright, released a joint statement following the passing of U.S. House Representative Sylvester Turner (TX-18) at 70, the former Houston Mayor and Climate Mayors Chair:

“On behalf of nearly 350 Climate Mayors and our board of directors we grieve the loss of an incredible public servant and dedicated climate champion in Congressman Turner today. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and lifelong dedication to serving the people of Houston. As mayor, Sylvester Turner served as Chair of Climate Mayors in 2021. During this time, he set an example for other US mayors and convened and inspired our membership around critical issues such as clean energy and climate resiliency and represented Climate Mayors on the global stage at COP26. Locally, he led the fight for ambitious climate action that always put Houstonians’ economic and physical well-being first. Current and future generations of Houstonians in the nation’s fourth most populous city will continue to experience the benefits of his climate-forward projects and programs, including launching Houston’s first Climate Action Plan and committing to becoming carbon neutral by 2050; preventing illegal dumping through the One Clean Houston campaign; and providing over 20,000 jobs for young adults through his Hire Houston Youth program, focusing predominantly on serving lower income neighborhoods and providing them with a path to a more economically secure future.

“It was an honor to work alongside Congressman Turner. We will continue taking his vision forward and ensure cities across the country continue to meet the needs of our residents through policies that reduce toxic pollution, create better-paying jobs for Americans, and build safer, healthier, and more equitable cities.”

###

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 1/28/25 Georgia Panitz 1/28/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors on OMB Call to Freeze All Federal Funding

Washington, D.C. (January 28, 2025) – Following the order to pause all federal grants and loans issued by the White House Office of Budget Management, Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright issued the following statement:

“This pause on federal grants and loans immediately jeopardizes livelihoods and threatens the safety and job security of Americans nationwide and is in direct violation of the power granted to Congress by the US Constitution. Federal investment has transformed communities, creating over 400,000 jobs and igniting over $400 billion in new investments to make our country’s energy more affordable — in just the last two years. Americans are facing staggering costs of living— now is the time to protect these well-paying jobs and the progress we’ve made in reducing pollution, lowering energy bills and growing our economy — not prevent it. Restricting promised funds will undoubtedly harm communities and businesses across the country.

“As we face an increasingly unpredictable climate with unprecedented fires, floods and storms that have left communities facing inconceivable hardship, it’s more important than ever for Americans to be able to access critical funding and relief from expensive climate disasters. Putting all federal funds on hold will cause countless families to face unmanageable expenses – including in areas where support is needed the most.

“Climate Mayors will continue to fight for mayors and their communities to ensure they have the resources and support needed to continue protecting the safety and livelihoods of all Americans.”

###

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 and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 1/20/25 Georgia Panitz 1/20/25

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors to Uphold Paris Agreement Commitment and Accelerate U.S. Subnational Climate Ambition and Global Economic Competitiveness

Washington, D.C. (January 20, 2025) – Today, President Donald Trump announced his intention to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change. Under the Paris Agreement, countries have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit global warming to well below two degrees Celsius in order to prevent severe climate impacts.

In response, Climate Mayors Chair and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego issued the following statement:

“Regardless of the federal government’s actions, Climate Mayors are not backing down on our commitment to the Paris Agreement. The cost of inaction is simply too high. As we have recently seen from the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, extreme summer temperatures in Phoenix, and hard-hitting hurricanes in North Carolina and Florida, the effects of our changing climate are at our doorstep. Now, more than ever, we must accelerate our work to protect our communities, lower energy bills, create good-paying local jobs, and maintain our nation’s economic competitiveness by modernizing our infrastructure and investing in emerging markets.

“Our constituents are looking to us to meet the moment and deliver meaningful solutions, which is why we’re expanding our work with partners across the United States, from philanthropy and business leaders to members of Congress and governors. We're building an implementation plan that meets our targets under the Paris Agreement and ensures that our cities remain resilient and prosperous for future generations.”

###

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 Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 12/19/24 Georgia Panitz 12/19/24

Statement: Climate Mayors Welcome New U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) to Target 61-66% of National Emissions Reductions Putting U.S. Cities on a Path Towards Economic Prosperity

WASHINGTON, D.C.  (December 19, 2024) – To establish a new path forward in tackling climate change, the Biden Administration has released a new U.S. National Determined Contribution (NDC) target of 61-66% economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions reductions by 2035. On the ninth anniversary of the U.S. joining the Paris Agreement, Climate Mayors welcomes this latest target which will be essential in guiding national and local efforts to address the climate crisis head-on and ensuring America’s economic competitiveness globally. The new NDC sets a bold vision for reducing emissions, supporting clean energy growth, and building healthy communities. Cities and local leaders will be essential for delivering on this vision and pledge to continue and accelerate efforts to ensure that every resident has what they need to thrive: clean air and water, a safer place to live, and opportunities for good-paying jobs.

Climate Mayors and nearly 350 U.S. Mayors have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. We’ve also seen how advancing clean energy projects, efficiency programs, and transportation initiatives in our cities have not only advanced the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but have delivered a host of benefits for communities. As a result of city-wide plans to achieve ambitious local targets, thousands of well-paying green jobs have proliferated in American cities and neighborhoods are experiencing less air pollution, better health outcomes, and lower energy costs. Collaboration between local, state, private, and philanthropic partners will continue to prove central in delivering on our goals and ratcheting up an all-of-society approach to climate action. Our mayors remain committed to building cities of the future that effectively meet the needs of constituents and continue to reduce harmful emissions under this NDC.

“Today’s announcement of a new U.S. NDC serves as an important goalpost for our unwavering ambition as subnational actors continue to lead the fight against climate change and advance America’s economic competitiveness,” said Climate Mayors Executive Director Kate Wright. “Our membership of over 350 U.S. Mayors is ready to do its part to achieve our national target and build on the progress we’ve made over the last decade. Cities across the country are putting the best interests of their communities first by investing in advanced energy and water efficiency programs, more equitable access to green infrastructure, and clean energy solutions that are cutting emissions – further securing a healthy and economically prosperous future for our communities.”

11/6/24 11/6/24

STATEMENT: Climate Mayors Reaffirm Commitment to Local Climate Action and Pledge Continued Ambition Under Second Trump Administration

Washington, DC (November 6, 2024) – Today, Mayor Justin M. Bibb, Mayor of Cleveland and Chair of Climate Mayors – a network of nearly 350 mayors demonstrating local climate leadership through meaningful action – issued the following statement in response to the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States:

“As Chair of Climate Mayors, I’d like to reaffirm that our network of nearly 350 U.S. mayors are steadfast in our commitment to accelerating local climate action and meeting our established national goals under the Paris Climate Agreement during the second administration of President Donald Trump. Mayors engage closely with their communities every day and understand that we cannot afford the costs of exiting the Paris Agreement as was done in 2017. Climate Mayors nationwide have witnessed the impacts of climate change firsthand, such as historic extreme heat waves, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, all of which have taken a significant toll on our communities. Which is why we are doubling down on climate action and continuing to reduce emissions, support clean energy growth, and build healthier communities. Our commitment to combating the existential threat of climate change and protecting the federal legislation that provides cities with vital funding remains unwavering.

“By utilizing funding and provisions within the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, our city leaders have launched us on a trajectory toward a sustainable future. Despite 60% of Inflation Reduction Act projects benefiting Republican districts, conservative congressional leaders continue to threaten our progress with sweeping rollbacks of much-needed support. These clean energy provisions have sparked a surge in clean energy manufacturing, private investment, and job creation, prompting 18 Republican members of Congress to urge leadership to keep them in place. As we enter the Trump-Vance administration, Climate Mayors will continue to fight for legislation that benefits hard-working Americans and protects the most vulnerable populations by engaging key partners, policymakers, and stakeholders in our fight for just and innovative legislation.

“We understand the urgent responsibility to deliver on U.S. climate action in the absence of national leadership. Our members will work alongside states, businesses and other sectors to ensure our cities are beacons of climate progress.”

Through the collective power of the network, cities can forge a path toward a sustainable and just tomorrow for all. As the big tent for local climate leaders, Mayors can demonstrate their commitment to keeping the U.S. on track through subnational climate leadership and benefit from the support of our growing network of Climate Mayors at https://www.climatemayors.org/join-us.

###

About Climate Mayors

Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 6/28/24 Georgia Panitz 6/28/24

Statement: Climate Mayors Condemn Reversal of the Historic Chevron vs. NRDC Ruling - A Major Setback For Environmental Protections

Washington, DC (June 24, 2024) – Today, the conservative supermajority on the Supreme Court ruled 6 to 3 to reverse the Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council ruling – one of the most cited judgements in American law. Agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency have unique technical expertise to inform, carefully consider, and interpret ambiguous laws to protect public health and the environment. This reversal of the Chevron doctrine shifts these regulatory powers back to federal judges who do not have the technical, scientific, medical, or other types of expertise to make thorough rulings.

The impact of this decision could mean the reversal of hundreds of rules that protect air and water pollution, protect people from toxic chemicals, and lessen the worsening impacts of the climate crisis.

In response, Climate Mayors issued the following statement:

“Climate Mayors wholeheartedly condemns this decision as it will upend 40 years of precedence and risk climate and environmental progress during a time where our nation should be making informed decisions to avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis and environmental degradation. Not only does this decision put millions of Americans at risk of dangerous rollbacks to environmental protections, it also undermines the expertise of federal agencies that were established to protect the health of people and the planet.

“Despite this judicial setback, Climate Mayors is proud to be represented by local leaders who are committed to continuing to seek out expertise in decision making and driving cities toward a clean, healthy and climate safe future. Mayors will continue to do everything possible to deliver healthy air to breathe, water to drink, and a thriving green economy to support families and businesses.”

+++

About Climate Mayors:

Climate mayors is a bipartisan network that has mobilized more than 750 U.S. mayors since 2014, demonstrating climate leadership through meaningful actions in their communities. representing 46 states and nearly 60 million Americans, the climate mayors coalition reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate progress. For more information, please visit our website and follow Climate Mayors on Twitter and LinkedIn. For media inquiries please contact climatemayors@fgsglobal.com. Media Contact: climatemayors@fgsglobal.com

Georgia Panitz 6/25/24 Georgia Panitz 6/25/24

Statement: Climate Mayors and C40 Cities Call for a FY25 Spending Bill That Invests in Healthy Communities and Addresses Growing Risks of Extreme Heat

Washington, DC (June 24, 2024) – As negotiations for 2025 fiscal year commence on Capitol Hill, Climate Mayors, a bipartisan network of over 350 U.S. mayors committed to climate action; and C40 Cities, a network of mayors of nearly 100 world-leading cities, including 14 cities in the United States, wrote a letter to Congressional and Appropriations leaders urging them to pass a FY25 spending bill that invests in a sustainable and just future for Americans. The organizations also called for the inclusion of the Extreme Heat Emergency Act as extreme heat and record temperatures strike communities across the country.

On behalf of the organizations, Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors, and Kate Johnson, Interim Regional Director, North America at C40 Cities issued the following statement:

“With sweltering weather across the country proving the need to address the climate crisis, Congress should prioritize investing in resilient infrastructure, reducing energy burden, and increasing energy efficient housing – all while empowering local governments to address community issues directly. In order to move forward in these ways, Congress must also protect the foundation of today’s green investment – the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

“Climate deniers continue to attempt to gut the most historic climate legislation ever passed – legislation that is delivering good jobs, reduced costs, and improved health to people all across the country. Mayors and local governments are seeing firsthand how the investments from the IRA and BIL are already boosting local economies and investing in environmental justice communities. From tax rebates on clean home energy to millions in grants for clean energy projects in vulnerable communities, these investments are working for America.

“The future cannot wait – and we cannot ignore the extreme weather events happening today. With heat waves – the leading cause of disaster deaths in the U.S. – sweeping the nation for two consecutive weeks, we also call for the inclusion of H.R. 3965, Extreme Heat Emergency Act, which would add “extreme heat” as a disaster that FEMA could allocate funds for relief. Wildfire smoke and heat waves are only continuing to worsen and without giving FEMA the authority to deliver aid and relief with a federal declaration of disaster, Americans will needlessly suffer.

“We must not only meet this critical moment to invest in the American people and the economy, but also continue the momentum to build more resilient and healthy communities for years to come.”

In the letter, Climate Mayors and C40 Cities called for:

Supporting and empowering local governments in addressing community energy burdens through direct, flexible funding;
Increasing the EPA’s core capacities to protect public health and the environment;
Increasing funding to grow support for climate-resilient infrastructure and update federal response to mitigate future climate-related disasters. And the inclusion of H.R. 3965, Extreme Heat Emergency Act, which adds “extreme heat” as an eligible disaster under the STAFFORD Act, in the final appropriations bills;
Increasing funding to reduce energy burdens and help protect communities of color and low income constituents with increasingly frequent extreme weather emergencies;
Supporting funding for climate friendly housing to build new, resilient, and energy efficient affordable housing in cities; and
Avoiding any rescissions from the Inflation Reduction Act or Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Read the full letter here.

+++

About Climate Mayors:

About C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group:

C40 is a network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities working to deliver the urgent action needed right now to confront the climate crisis and create a future where everyone, everywhere, can thrive. Mayors of C40 cities are committed to using a science-based and people-focused approach to help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C and build healthy, equitable and resilient communities. We work alongside a broad coalition of representatives from labour, business, the youth climate movement and civil society to support mayors to halve emissions by 2030 and help phase out fossil use while increasing urban climate resilience and equity.The current co-chairs of C40 are Mayor Sadiq Khan of London, United Kingdom and Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of Freetown, Sierra Leone; three-term Mayor of New York City Michael R. Bloomberg serves as President of the Board. C40’s work is made possible by our three strategic funders: Bloomberg Philanthropies, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and Realdania.To learn more about the work of C40 and our cities, please visit our website or follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

5/31/24 5/31/24

Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and the Urban Sustainability Directors Network Announce Workshops to Catalyze Local Uptake of Federal Climate Funding

Six cities to receive in-depth support for engaging local communities and coordinating city efforts to enact sustainability projects

May 31, 2024 - Today, Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN), with support from the Rockefeller Foundation, have announced the Catalyzing Local Climate Action Workshop series, an initiative aimed at supporting cities to optimize federal climate funding.

Six cities (Boise, ID; Chicago, IL; Cleveland, OH; Jacksonville, FL; Knoxville, TN; and Los Angeles, CA) have been selected to host mayor-led workshops to advance their ability to access and implement funding made available through the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The workshops will support cities navigating the funding streams, engage community partners, and identify lessons learned to share with other cities seeking federal funding.

With billions of dollars available for climate action through the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, cities have an enormous opportunity to meet this moment by advancing local projects that reduce emissions, improve residents’ health, and build stronger communities. However, due to the complexity of the funding streams, many cities report challenges to taking full advantage of these opportunities. The Catalyzing Local Climate Action Workshop series will help cities navigate and utilize the funding and deliver on the transformative potential to build a greener future.

Over the next year, the selected cities will receive tailored workshops customized to their specific needs and priorities. The mayor-led workshops will address challenges within internal city organization and broader community engagement around federal climate funding opportunities.

The workshops will be facilitated by national subject matter experts who will provide technical assistance and guidance. Cities will receive additional follow-up support aimed at connecting local leaders with further technical assistance opportunities to ensure sustained progress and implementation of activities identified during the workshops.

For any questions, please contact:

Nidhi Shashidhara

US Federal Affairs Project Officer, C40 Cities

nshashidhara@c40.org

4/25/24 4/25/24

Statement: Climate Mayors and C40 Cities Applaud the Climate and Health Benefits for Cities from the EPA’s Final Power Plant Rule

April 25, 2024 – Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adopted a final rule that sets limits on carbon emissions from existing coal-fired and new gas-fired power plants. These standards will reduce carbon pollution and other harmful pollutants, which will help to protect public health and address the disproportionate impact of pollution on historically underserved communities.

The EPA’s final rule will help the United States achieve its goal of reducing national carbon emissions by 50-52% by 2030. As the second largest source of carbon dioxide pollution nationally, limiting emissions from the electric power generation sector is critical to address climate change and reach our national targets. The new standards for power plants will reduce harmful pollution such as nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and particulate matter (PM2.5), while strengthening the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) for coal-fired power plants and reducing hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions. This will not only address climate impacts but will improve public health, avoiding more than 360,000 cases of asthma symptoms in 2035 alone.

Local governments and their community partners have been leading the effort to set ambitious emissions reduction targets and address the existence of harmful pollutants. In 2023, Climate Mayors and C40 Cities called on the EPA to adopt ambitious standards. Cities such as Madison, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, and Cleveland have created climate action plans to control carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy solutions. Our members are also committed to addressing the disproportionate impact of carbon pollution and pollutants on historically underserved and overburdened communities. The EPA’s latest emissions limits will help cities achieve their climate goals and ensure cleaner air for all communities.

“Today’s rule from the EPA is a much-needed measure to tackle air pollution in our communities and improve the health and safety of our residents,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors’ Executive Director. “With stronger pollution limits, our country will shift away from dangerous fossil fuels to clean energy solutions that are better for our economy and health. We welcome the EPA’s rules, which will undoubtedly strengthen the existing efforts of mayors and local leaders to create cleaner, healthier, and more thriving cities across the U.S. Climate Mayors remains committed to working with the EPA to continue reducing planet-warming emissions while addressing the impacts of air pollution on our communities.”

“Too often, lower income and communities of color bear the brunt of pollution, and suffer the most devastating impacts of extreme weather exacerbated by carbon emissions,” said Kate Johnson, Head of US Federal Affairs for C40 Cities. “The EPA’s final rule on power plant emissions is a major step forward in our shared work to improve the health, safety, and quality of life for millions of Americans.. Along with leading mayors across the country, C40 Cities looks forward to building on this rule to ensure clean air for all.”

4/22/24 4/22/24

Statement: Climate Mayors and C40 Cities Shine a Light on EPA's $7B Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Announcement for Expansion of Local Solar Investment

April 22, 2023 – On this Earth Day, Climate Mayors and C40 Cities celebrate the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) award of another US $7 billion from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). The funding adds to the recent announcement of $20 billion for clean energy projects. This final tranche of funding from the Solar For All program has been granted to 60 state, territory, Tribal government, municipality, and nonprofit awardees to help enable over 900,000 low-income households to access affordable, resilient, and clean solar energy.

The unprecedented program specifically directs funding for states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits to support low-income and disadvantaged communities to invest in residential solar power. As cities account for nearly 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, providing access to affordable clean energy is critical to both local and global emissions reductions goals.

There is no climate progress without climate justice. Low-income and disadvantaged communities have disproportionately higher energy burdens than the national median. The EPA’s work to support communities and their clean energy transition is vital in securing an equitable and healthy future for all. We look forward to seeing localities activate billions of dollars to deploy community solar projects and close the gap for accessing solar energy.

“Clean energy is a key component to addressing climate change and increasing community resilience. The new Solar For All funding will support historically overburdened communities with clean, affordable, and reliable energy to power a healthier and more sustainable future for American families,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “We are excited to support our mayors to meet this moment and put this unprecedented funding into action.”

“Funding from the EPA’s Solar For All program will transform lives in cities across America.” said Kate Johnson, Head of US Federal Affairs at C40 Cities. “Projects funded by this program will help alleviate the burden of high utility bills for lower income households and create good jobs - all while slashing climate pollution. We look forward to working with mayors to implement clean energy projects and build a stronger, more inclusive future for all.”

4/10/24 4/10/24

Climate Mayors Board of Directors Welcomes Three New Members and Thanks Outgoing Member Roger Kim

Climate Mayors wishes to express gratitude to our outgoing board member Roger Kim who served on the board from 2017-2023. His leadership has played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of our organization, and their impact will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. Roger Kim was the former Senior Advisor to the Mayor of San Francisco where he was responsible for issues related to climate change, energy, and the environment, and also served on the Board of Directors of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Currently, he is the Executive Director of the Climate + Clean Energy Equity Fund. His valuable insights and commitment to our mission have been instrumental in guiding Climate Mayors, and we are grateful for the time and energy he dedicated to our cause.

As we extend our sincere appreciation for the passion and expertise Roger Kim brought to the table, we also look ahead with excitement and optimism. We are thrilled to welcome new members to our executive board. Their diverse perspectives and wealth of experience will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of our organization.

The Climate Mayors Board of Directors welcomes the following board members:

Kizzy Charles-Guzman: Kizzy Charles-Guzman is the Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Environmental Health. Her team protects people from toxic chemicals by working with communities, consumers, workers, government, and the private sector to demand and support business practices that are safe for public health and the environment. Kizzy has dedicated over 18 years of her career to deliver policy work at the intersection of environmental sustainability, public health, and racial equity on behalf of New Yorkers. Previously, Kizzy has advised three New York City Mayors in her career; successfully securing over $4 billion dollars in investments to uplift historically underserved and marginalized neighborhoods. She received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Quality Award and a Champion of Change Award from the U.S. White House under President Obama, in recognition of her policy achievements, her contributions to society, her focus on justice, and her dedication to her community. She is a graduate of Carleton College and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor.

Jeff Hébert: A former senior city official and current global thought leader in economic revitalization and climate policy, Jeff Hébert is the CEO of HR&A Advisors, overseeing the company’s strategic direction and operations across its six offices. Jeff has spent his career developing strategies that adapt and respond to changing economies and environments. Over the past twenty years, he has advised corporations, governments, non-profits, and philanthropies on issues of public policy, economic development, and climate resilience. Since joining the firm in 2019, Jeff has served on the firm’s Management Committee and since 2020 as HR&A’s President, where he was critical to the historic growth of the company’s business and number of employees. He has also been a leader in the firm’s economic development and climate resilience practices with recent projects in New York City, Newark, Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Dallas, Tulsa, and Washington, DC. Before joining HR&A, Jeff served Mayor Mitch Landrieu and the City of New Orleans in many capacities including as the First Deputy Mayor & Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Resilience Officer, and as Executive Director of the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority in the years following Hurricane Katrina.

Rachel Isacoff: Rachel Isacoff is a Director at The Rockefeller Foundation where she leads the Foundation’s domestic climate solutions work and specializes in bridging economic opportunity and climate equity in the U.S. Outside of RF, she is a council member of the Climigration Network and is a Visiting Assistant Professor at the Pratt Institute’s Graduate Center for Planning and the Environment. Previously, she collaborated with private, nonprofit, and public partners across sectors to develop tools and equity initiatives that support communities on the frontlines of climate change. Most notably she worked on climate adaptation and 100 Resilient Cities strategies at HR&A Advisors, key climate justice and equitable relocation projects at the White House Council on Environmental Quality under President Obama’s administration, and energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions at HUD.

They will join Board Chair Matt Petersen and Board Members Katherine Gajewski, Kelly Shultz, and Laura Spanjian. We extend a warm welcome to our incoming board members and we are confident their insights and leadership will further elevate our organization and propel us towards new heights. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.

Thank you to Roger Kim for your outstanding service, and a warm welcome to our new leaders. With your support, we look forward to achieving even greater milestones in the coming years.

4/4/24 4/4/24

Statement: Climate Mayors, C40 Cities and Urban Sustainability Directors Network Applaud EPA's $20B Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Announcement and Urge Local Government Partnership

April 4, 2023 – Today, Climate Mayors, C40 Cities and Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN) celebrated the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) award of the initial $20 billion from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) to deploy green capital into clean energy projects that will cut pollution,create good-paying jobs, and deliver benefits to low-income and disadvantaged communities. The GGRF – made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – will be granting $14 billion through the National Clean Investment Fund and $6 billion through the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator to national clean financing institutions and non-profit organizations, respectively.

Local governments play a vital role in the development and implementation of clean energy projects. The unique roles cities play, detailed in the report Maximizing the Impact of US Federal Climate Investments, makes them essential partners to GGRF recipients in mobilizing capital to protect community health and tackle the climate crisis. Climate Mayors, C40 Cities and USDN encourage GGRF recipients to work with cities to develop investments into equitable housing, transportation, and clean energy technologies. This funding provides cities newfound financial leverage in standing up projects that will improve the quality of life for residents while also mitigating the worst impacts of climate change.

As we know, there’s no climate progress without climate justice. The National Clean Investment Fund requires 40% of projects to benefit low-income and disadvantaged communities, while the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator requires 100% of the projects to take place in and benefit low income and disadvantaged communities. City governments are a key ingredient in achieving the full potential of GGRF funds on the ground – giving way to meaningful and equitable partnerships that can catapult cities into their sustainable and equitable futures. Climate Mayors, C40 Cities, and USDN celebrate the EPA’s dedication to serving communities that have been historically underinvested in.

We look forward to the future announcement of recipients of the $7 billion Solar For All competition. Solar For All is dedicated to expanding the number of low-income and disadvantaged communities primed for residential solar investment. Climate Mayors, C40 and USDN have previously encouraged coordination and partnership with the GGRF program that impacts local communities – we hope to continue working together to make a lasting impact.

“Equitable access to clean and affordable energy is foundational to a sustainable future for cities,” said Kate Wright, Executive Director of Climate Mayors. “This unique fund will allow cities to fully leverage community and private sector partnerships to make historic strides in creating green jobs, reducing air pollution and lowering energy bills for residents. We thank the Biden Administration for making that a possibility, and providing an additional tool to help our Mayors continue to lead the way towards a brighter future.”

“The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is a historic opportunity to invest in communities and create a cleaner and more just energy system for all,” said Kate Johnson, Head of US Federal Affairs at C40 Cities. “Cities are uniquely positioned to ensure that the projects funded by GGRF recipients deliver the maximum benefit to people on the ground - cleaner air, good paying jobs, and lower energy bills. C40 applauds the EPA’s action, and encourages all GGRF recipients to partner with mayors to advance transformative, community-driven projects that will improve people’s lives.”

“Sustainability, climate resilience, and equity are the pillars of a future where every community can thrive,” said Deneine Powell, Executive Director of the Urban Sustainability Directors Network. “Through the EPA’s greenhouse gas reduction grant competitions, we are leveling the playing field and ensuring that support and energy equity reach those most vulnerable to climate change. This announcement marks a critical step towards empowering communities nationwide, fostering partnerships that drive innovation in green technology, and securing a healthier, more sustainable environment for all.”

3/29/24 3/29/24

Statement: Climate Mayors and C40 Cities Renew Commitment to Electrifying Transportation in Cities as the EPA Passes Final Emissions Rule for Heavy-Duty Vehicles

March 29, 2024 – Today, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adopted a final rule for the GHG Emissions Standards for Heavy-Duty Vehicles – Phase 3 rule (HDV rule). The new standards will allow cities to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles, eliminate harmful greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and cut fuel and maintenance costs.

The final rule will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles – such as trucks and buses – in model year 2027 and apply new and more stringent standards for model years 2028 through 2032. The EPA’s final standards for vehicles are critical for reducing CO2 emissions and are expected to reduce approximately 1 billion metric tons from 2027 through 2055 and deliver climate benefits at $13 billion per year through the rule.

This heavy-duty vehicle rule complements the EPA’s action to control air pollution from vehicles under its “National Freight Strategic Plan,” which will support the transition to electrify our nation’s heavy-duty fleets and reduce harmful pollution. By implementing this final rule, the EPA is driving the transition to zero emission fleets of delivery trucks, school buses, and more in cities.

Mayors are committed to cutting emissions from the transportation sector and increasing the deployment of zero-emission vehicles. Transportation emissions account for nearly 30% of total U.S. carbon emissions with heavy-duty vehicles accounting for nearly 23% of transportation emissions. And while medium-and heavy-duty vehicles only account for a small portion of vehicles on U.S. roads, they generate the majority of harmful emissions. This rule will further bolster the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) which support progress in zero-emission heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing, consumer adoption, and expansion of charging infrastructure.

By electrifying our vehicle fleets, we can impactfully deliver cleaner air and improved health outcomes in our cities – especially for disadvantaged communities who are disproportionately impacted by harmful pollution from heavy-duty trucks and buses.

“The EPA standards for heavy-duty vehicles will allow our cities to take critical action to decarbonize the transportation sector, provide cleaner air, and improve public health,” said Kate Wright, Climate Mayors’ Executive Director. “Our mayors will continue to strive to reach net zero goals as soon as possible in their cities and towns in order to tackle air pollution in our communities and reduce the rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses. With these new standards, cities can continue to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and meet our climate goals.”

“Across the US, mayors are taking action to cut pollution from trucks in their cities to improve air quality, support economic development, and meet their climate goals,” said Kate Johnson, Head of US Federal Affairs at C40 Cities. “The EPA’s final rules for heavy duty vehicles will help cities transition to cleaner vehicles, while delivering important health benefits to environmental justice communities by reducing air pollution along trucking routes. The sooner this transition happens, the better. Along with the powerful actions included in the IRA, BIL, and recent EPA rules on light duty vehicle emissions, the federal government is giving cities the tools to create a healthier, safer, and cleaner future for all.”