'A public health crisis:' Wisconsin lawmakers introduce legislation tackling climate change at the state level

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee lawmakers have introduced legislation to tackle climate change at the state level by requiring large-scale greenhouse gas reductions.

The new act, titled the Climate Action Accountability Act, would require Wisconsin to create a viable plan to reduce carbon emissions in half by 2030 -- the year many scientists believe that if the goal is met, could help avoid the worst climate change threats.

Wisconsin officials said their proposal is not only an achievable goal, but one that will also reduce electricity and heat costs locally.

"We cannot continue to burn fossil fuels with no plan to seek alternatives that are best for both urban and rural Wisconsinites," said Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde (D-Milwaukee) during a news conference Monday morning. "We stand here as stewards of our future generations to ensure they inherit a sustainable and livable planet."

The year 2024 was the hottest year on record. Before that, it was 2023

"You gotta do something or it will only get worse," said Sen. Chris Larson (D-Milwaukee). "Climate change is no different."

Keyvette Watkins, a member with Citizen Action of Wisconsin, said she wanted to make a difference for her young daughter.

"Climate change is a public health crisis. It's hurting people, and it's hurting Black and brown communities like mine," Watkins said. "It's not just numbers. This is our lives."

The World Health Organization said between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to kill 250,000 more people each year.