By Emily Wallace
Volunteer with the Policy Action Team

The midterm elections are over (thank goodness!), and the good news is that the allies of fossil fuel companies have a bit less influence in our government to delay climate policy that is much needed. We can now accomplish more at the state level in terms of bold climate policy.

What is possible in 2023?

We should be able to protect the Clean Cars ruling, which opponents hoped to gut by taking control of the legislature. We’ll potentially be able to pass a 100% Clean Energy bill, ensuring a just transition away from fossil fuels and toward clean energy in our state. Last year, clean-energy initiatives didn’t pass, but this year we anticipate that we’ll be able to leverage funding from the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to implement statewide programs, putting us on the right path toward a clean-energy economy.

We have a younger, more diverse legislative body than ever, and it’s thanks to voters who voted their values. Since climate change is one of the biggest issues for younger voters, these leaders will have to listen when we demand bold climate policy.

All that said, this is no time to rest on our laurels. Climate change was a top issue for many voters in these midterm elections, and we must hold our leaders accountable so that they deliver on their promises to prioritize climate policy.

To take regular action to protect our planet, sign up to be part of the Climate Majority Project with MN350.

 

Emily Wallace is a longtime volunteer with MN350, and a mother to a human baby and a cat baby.