Environment
I have dedicated my life to protecting the environment in a responsible way. As a former Chief of the US Environmental Protection Agency, I fight for clean air and water, and green energy initiatives, but at the same time insist we not burden taxpayers with unfunded mandates like the new federal Climate Change Bill. We can have clean air and water, and strong business too. The way to get this is not through heavy regulation and inspection; it is through incentives for people and businesses to do the right thing.
As an example, I would recommend a tax credit for those who choose to upgrade their homes to be more energy efficient (and less expensive to operate). The federal government offers this type of program, and Virginia should offer similar incentives. For a broad range of environmental improvements, incentives are the best option.
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