DEP releases State Beneficiary Mitigation Plan and Bus Replacement Initiative RFI
STATEMENT FROM ALIKI MONCRIEF, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FLORIDA CONSERVATION VOTERS EDUCATION FUND:
“Today is a big step forward for Florida’s clean energy future and the health of our children. Every day, diesel school buses expose 2.7 million Florida students to toxins and known carcinogens. Over the last two years, Florida Conservation Voters Education Fund has amplified the voices of concerned parents and communities in demanding VW Settlement funds go to upgrading school fleets to clean electric buses. The Governor listened. Today’s commitment to clean energy will help leave our children with a better world, both by cleaning their air and reducing carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. This initial phase of Florida’s Electric School Bus Project is a testament to the power of citizens engaging in their democracies. Today is a victory for climate action, and Florida Conservation Voters Education Fund will be working with our partners, parents, school districts, and DEP to promote this quality program.”