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As a graduate student, I studyinternationaljevelopment and have learned about the negative impacts ofclimate change on a global scale, which has not only opened my eyes to what people are experiencing in the far corners ofthe world, but I'vehad the chance to develop a deeper understanding ofhow climate change is effecting our country. As a West Virginian, I grew up in a state exploited for its rich coal reserves where the government imposed loose regulations for profit in exchange for the safety ofthe people. Coal is one ofthe major fossil fuels burned in powerplants, which account for 40 percent ofcarbon pollution in the U.S. As a mother, I have struggled with the thought ofleaving my son the legacy ofa volatile world due to climate change. This has caused me great griefand has evenmade me feel existentially depressed. But I realize there is still a fight, and my son has given me the strength and purpose to stand before you all today. More directly, I would like to ensure that Nico has clean air to breathe.

The consensus is that the most effective means ofmitigating climate change is to reduce carbon emissions. As most ofus know, carbon pollution increases climate disruption, causingmore frequent and severe weather thatjeopardizes communities, incurring costs to the federal government and the economy as well as threateningpublichealth. Reducing carbon emissions is the most urgent agenda item for boththe health ofour citizens, but also for the safety ofplanet earth. Cutting carbon pollution from powerplants will also enable innovation ofclean energy sources, which will grow the economy and createjobs. I read a quote recentlybyRobert Rubin, the co-chair ofthe Council on Foreign Relations and the former U.S. Treasury secretary. He said, "We do not face a choicebetweenprotecting our environment or protecting our economy. We face a choice betweenprotecting our economybyprotecting

our environment-or allowing environmental havoc to create economic havoc." I wholeheartedly agree with this statement. I also believe that the Clean Power Plan is a huge step in the right direction to supporting the emerging green economy.
The carbon rules are part ofObama's climate action plan. This could bethe most impactful climate policy in the nation to date. The Clean Power Plan also recognizes that each state is different and gives states flexibility to adapt the policyto their unique conditions and economic environment. The Plan will simultaneouslyreduce carbon emissions and help to create cleaner air for our children to breathe.

I attend Gallaudet University and work with the Deafcommunity. Mywork involves inclusion ofpeople with disabilities and impoverished communities in development and economic initiatives. I am standing here today to represent those people who do not have

a voice and do not have the opportunity to comehere and speak before the Council. I represent rural America, places like West Virginia where the health ofthe people is constantly compromised bypowerplantpollution. I come to represent my son and all of the children who will be impacted inyears to come by the possibility ofpassing the Clean Power Plan.