Alexa Aispuro

July Newsletter: Highlighting Community Resilience & Environmental Justice Work

As July and the heat rolls in, we want to highlight our community’s resilience in the face of extreme weather challenges, and our commitment to clean air for our kids by securing funding for electric school buses. Our ongoing efforts to safeguard impacted Latine and communities of color from the harmful impacts of LNG also continue, reflecting our dedication to environmental justice. Join us this month as we continue the fight for cleaner air and healthier neighborhoods for all. Read more below and unite with us in making a positive impact! July Events: Join Chispa TX for a Town Hall on Ammonia Production and Tax Breaks! Join Chispa Texas and Texas Campaign for the Environment for a crucial community discussion on the risks associated with ammonia production and the proposed tax breaks from Robstown. RSVPs are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Limited door prizes will be available! Mark your calendar for July 18th, 2024, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds, 1213 Terry Shamsie Blvd, Robstown, TX 8380. We look forward to seeing you there! RSVP HERE! Applications Are Now Open for Electric School Bus Funding: Nearly $1 billion in funding is now available, including $652 million earmarked for school districts to upgrade to clean, electric buses, replacing aging diesel models. The Biden-Harris administration, supported by the EPA and National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Clean Bus Planning Awards, is committed to assisting districts in securing these funds for cleaner transportation solutions. Grant proposals for the EPA Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program are due July 25, 2024. EPA will conduct informational webinars and welcomes inquiries at cleanhdvehicles@epa.gov throughout the application period. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring electric school buses to your community! Urge your school district to apply now! For help contacting your school district and urging them to apply for funding, check out the Alliance for Electric School Buses! News ICYMI (In Case You Missed It!) Extreme Heat Protections for Workers and Communities This week President Biden and the Department of Labor’s Occupational Health and Safety Administration proposed new extreme heat protections for workers and communities, including worker protections that are vital for anyone who works outdoors. Without a standard in place, all workers’ including Latine workers’ lives are at risk during these increasingly frequent heat waves – from farm workers to firefighters and solar installers, to construction crews. It’s time to take action and ensure their safety! Read our full Chispa statement with LCV here. Washington, DC Fly-In Leaders from Chispa Arizona, Chispa Nevada, Chispa Texas and Chispa national gathered in Washington DC June 11-14 to attend this year’s Conservation Voter Movement Fly-in. Our Chispa programs, along with community leaders, lobbied key Administration officials and elected officials on critical issues including support for a continued LNG pause, clean energy, offshore wind, land protection, electric school buses, and clean energy rebates from the Affordable Clean Energy Plan. Chispa leaders discussed clean air and water, electric vehicle infrastructure, heat islands, and maximizing clean energy tax credits. Check out Chispa TX’s, Chispa NV’s, and Chispa AZ’s posts of their time advocating for our gente in D.C.! And read our press release here. Meet Enviro-Net! Chispa Nevada’s First Digital Committee Our Digital Organizer, Crystal, and Chispa Nevada members officially launched the digital committee at the Chispa NV office! They spent their time together discussing what digital organizing means to them, brainstorming new content ideas, discussing digital practices and tools, and mapping out Chispa Nevada’s digital future. These digital leaders can’t wait to elevate our three campaigns: polluter accountability, clean air and transportation, and federal, and they can’t wait to help Chispa Nevada grow! Interested in learning more about social media, digital tools, and digital organizing? Send Chispa Nevada a DM today! Chispa NV Joins Community Advocates Opposing NV Energy’s Plan to Triple Northern Nevada Basic Service Charge “For many in our community, every dollar counts,” said Astrid Martinez, Community Organizer for Chispa Nevada. “NV Energy tripling fixed charges would hit Latine families and other vulnerable groups the hardest, making it difficult for our families to manage our budgets effectively. This would be the highest fixed charge in the country. We cannot allow this to happen without a fight. We call on the PUCN to protect consumers and reject corporate greed.” Read the full coalition press release here. Chispa Arizona Launches New Website Chispa AZ is thrilled to announce the launch of their new website! Experience seamless browsing with a focus on language justice for both English and Spanish speakers, as well as Disability Justice with settings catering to various needs. To celebrate their launch, they’re hosting a feedback raffle! Participants of the feedback survey have a chance to win a camping starter kit valued at nearly $500! Take the survey today to enter and visit their brand new website here at chispaaz.org. **This drawing is only open to residents of Arizona** Chispa AZ Launches Voter Registration Drive Across Three Counties! In June, Chispa AZ launched its new voter registration program in Pima, Maricopa, and Yuma counties! Despite the scorching heat, they’ve already begun building crucial relationships, sharing pan dulce, and hitting the pavement to achieve our ambitious goal of registering 40,000 voters. Nicole Morales, Democracy Director at Chispa AZ, emphasizes, “Without a robust democracy, our advocacy for Mother Earth cannot flourish.” Join Chispa Arizona here! Chispa AZ’s Annual Grand Canyon Adventure! Chispa AZ’s annual member-exclusive Grand Canyon trip was a transformative experience, blending adventure, stargazing under pristine skies, captivating theater performances, deep community connections, and profound insights into our connection with Madre Tierra! See more pics and videos from the trip here! Chispa Maryland holds Environmental Justice Workshops The Chispa Maryland team was happy to hold community workshops in June in Langley Park (pictured) and in Baltimore on what #environmentaljustice means for our communities and how we can make the air we breathe, the parks we play in, the water we drink, and the neighborhoods we live in cleaner, healthier and better for all! See Facebook

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Community Advocates Oppose NV Energy’s Plan to Triple Northern Nevada Basic Service Charge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, June 13, 2024 Media Contact: Hannah Hertlein, hannah@impactcommunications-publicaffairs.com, 513.262.6597 High Fixed Charges Undermine Energy Conservation, Increase Costs for Nevadans RENO, NV — Today, the Nevada Conservation League, Chispa Nevada, Faith In Action, and For Our Future joined dozens of NV Energy customers in opposing the company’s proposed rate increase in Northern Nevada. The public consumer session held by the Public Utilities Commission (PUCN) in the Washoe County Commission Chambers followed two previous consumer sessions in Carson City. These sessions showed widespread concern about NV Energy’s plan to nearly triple the basic service charge (BSC) for single-family residential customers from $16.50 to $45.30 per month and double the BSC for multi-family households from $8.00 to $18.80. Starting each month with a $45.30 charge before using any electricity reduces the incentive for energy conservation and increases the minimum costs of living. The rate hike would burden the most vulnerable Nevadans, particularly families on fixed or lower incomes who consume less electricity. It also punishes residents who bought rooftop solar systems, throwing the economics of their investments out the window. Many solar customers save hundreds annually, but these savings would be slashed and the payback period extended. This comes after NV Energy recently increased the BSC for Southern Nevada customers from $12.50 to $18.50, a rise of 48 percent. If approved, this rate request threatens to escalate the company’s return on equity from 9.5% to 10.4% and its rate of return from 7.14% to 7.95%, lining investor pockets on the backs of hard-working Nevadans and almost eliminating the relief customers should see from declining methane (natural) gas prices – costs the utility already passes entirely onto ratepayers. “NV Energy’s rate hike proposal undermines Nevada’s clean energy policies and goals,” said Trystin St. Denis, Northern Nevada Community Organizer for the Nevada Conservation League. “When families face higher fixed charges, the financial benefits of reducing energy use or investing in rooftop solar nearly vanish, disincentivizing conservation practices that benefit our environment and economy and hit disadvantaged communities the hardest. As the number one state for solar potential, NV Energy should incentivize solar energy, not penalize it.” “For many in our community, every dollar counts,” said Astrid Martinez, Community Organizer for Chispa Nevada. “NV Energy tripling fixed charges would hit Latine families and other vulnerable groups the hardest, making it difficult for our families to manage our budgets effectively. This would be the highest fixed charge in the country. We cannot allow this to happen without a fight. We call on the PUCN to protect consumers and reject corporate greed.” “NV Energy’s proposed rate hike is not just an economic issue; it is a moral one,” said Chasity Martinez, Community Organizer for Faith In Action. “Our faith teaches us to care for the most vulnerable among us, and this rate increase is unjust. It promotes waste over stewardship and prioritizes corporate greed over human dignity. NV Energy has failed to take responsibility for overburdening customers with increasing bills while their profits remain protected, and now they want even more. Enough is enough! We stand in solidarity with all Nevadans in opposing this harmful proposal, and we call on our elected leaders to protect our community from these unnecessary and excessive charges.” “NV Energy’s proposal is more than just a rate increase; it’s a direct attack on hard-working families,” said Madisen McGrath, Senior Organizer at For Our Future Nevada. “With the highest fixed fee in the country, this move threatens to derail our progress towards a clean and pollution-free energy future and penalizes households that make efforts to reduce their energy usage and save money. For years, NV Energy has collected money from ratepayers to institute energy efficiency programs. Not to mention, President Biden’s Clean Energy Plan is helping people weatherize and upgrade their homes to be more energy efficient. And now, they want to punish us for using these programs. Further adding insult to injury, NV Energy has boasted record profits quarter after quarter. This rate hike is nothing more than a blatant cash grab at the expense of Nevada’s working families.” In case you missed the Carson City consumer session on June 4, 2024, attendee quotes are available here. ### The Nevada Conservation League is the independent voice of Nevada’s conservation community. We work to maintain and enhance the natural character of Nevada and the quality of life for Nevadans through effective advocacy, the election of pro-conservation candidates, and building collaboration. Visit their website

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June Newsletter: Voices of Change, Celebrating Environmental Justice & Pride Month

As June arrives, we’re thrilled to spotlight the voices of our communities taking action for environmental justice, coinciding with the celebration of Pride Month. This month, we focus on the power of collective action and the need for clean air in our neighborhoods to ensure healthy communities. Read on and join us in these efforts! Chispa June Events: Washington, DC FLY-IN: Our Chispa states are gathering in Washington DC this month to attend this year’s Conservation Voter Movement Fly-in. Our Chispa programs, along with community leaders, will lobby key Administration officials and elected officialson several critical issues includingsupport for a continued LNG pause, clean energy, offshore wind,land protection, and clean energy rebates from the Affordable Clean Energy Plan. We will also discuss clean air and water, promoting electric vehicle infrastructure, heat islands, and maximizing clean energy tax credits. Keep an eye on our socials for updates! More news ICYMI (In Case You Missed It!) Chispa NV and Community Leaders Urge Berkshire Hathaway to Invest in Clean Energy: Chispa NV joined community leaders from Iowa and Nebraska in calling on Berkshire Hathaway, the parent company of Nevada Power and Sierra Pacific Power (NV Energy), to stop polluting our air with methane gas. Our leader, Maria Prentice, had the opportunity to ask a question during the meeting. She stated, “I’m a retiree from Las Vegas, Nevada. I’m here today as a member of Chispa Nevada, a group that’s developing Latine leaders for environmental justice. I’m also here representing many Latine families in Nevada who are struggling to pay their utility bills and want access to affordable, clean electricity. I want to ask today why NV Energy, which is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, is building new gas plants instead of investing in solar energy when Nevada is one of the sunniest states in the country?” Join Nevada in its polluter accountability efforts, and follow them on Instagram for updates and opportunities to get involved! Chispa AZ’s Nicole Morales Joins Poderistas Panel to Amplify Latina Voices During Election Year: Chispa AZ’s Democracy Director, Nicole Morales, joined a panel for Poderistas to discuss issues important to Latinas, especially during an election year. They listened directly to the women of Arizona about the most urgent issues for them, their families, and their communities in this election cycle and beyond. This event was recorded at the Telemundo studios with Eva Longoria! Check out their post here! Environment and faith panel: “Climate Change, Environmental Justice, and Latino Priorities: Hearing the Cry of Earth and the Poor” Chispa’s communications director, Elena Gaona, participated in the Latino Leader gathering on “Climate Change, Environmental Justice, and Latino Priorities: Hearing the Cry of the Earth and the Cry of the Poor” hosted by the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown University. Speakers included Mark Hugo Lopez (Pew Research Center), Silvia Foster-Frau (Washington Post), Christian Soenen (Georgetown Initiative), Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar (Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington), and Bishop Joseph Tyson (Catholic Climate Covenant). An engaged live audience attended, and hundreds watched the live stream and recorded video. Elena shared stories from Chispa’s work and outlined how Latino communities experience environmental crises—their urgency, their physical effects, and their closeness to environmental justice and to the spirit for people of faith. Religion News Service ran an article about the event. Protégete Colorado Unites With Latino Leaders at the GreenLatinos Summit: Chispa leaders and staff from several states, including Chispa Senior Director Estefany Carrasco-González attended the GreenLatinos summit this year in El Yunque, Puerto Rico. In addition, Beatriz Soto, Director of Protégete, and Rebeca Medrano, Manager of Strategic Alliances, participated in a panel at the National GreenLatinos Summit. This dynamic event united the vibrant Latino environmental community, passionate climate justice champions, influential community leaders, and dedicated policy advocates, all striving towards a future of environmental justice. Check out photos from the panel and summit! Debunking LNG Myths: Why Biden’s Pause on Gas Exports Benefits People and the Planet: It’s been nearly five months since President Biden paused approvals for all new liquefied methane gas export projects, but misinformation about the decision still looms large. LCV breaks down the impacts of LNG and why the pause is a win for people, communities, and the planet this week on The Power Source Blog. Carmen Hernandez, a Comadre from Gregory, Texas, emphasized the importance of taking action: “We want to keep on living for as long as we can. The future of our children is at stake.” New Analysis on President Biden’s Climate Action: A new analysis from Climate Power and 20 other climate groups including Chispa highlights President Biden’s significant climate actions. According to the report, Biden has taken more than 320 environmental actions to address climate change. Lori Lodes, Climate Power’s executive director, stated, “The analysis identified more than 300 meaningful climate actions that are creating hundreds of thousands of good-paying clean energy jobs, lowering energy costs, protecting our lands, and holding Big Oil accountable. President Biden made climate action a priority from Day 1, and he’s just getting started.” Read more here! Y en español aquí, por Telemundo. Celebrating World Environment Day with Corazón Latino short films: We celebrated World Environment Day yesterday by watching the award-winning Corazón Latino (in partnership with the USDA Forest Service, JPixx, and Heart Theatre) short films, “Addressing Our Future Now: The Environmental Justice Lens in the Forest Service Mission through DEIA – A JEDI Project.” The films highlight the crucial role of diversity and inclusivity in environmental justice and public lands. The films (available here) are a strategic effort to fulfill the USDA Forest Service’s obligations under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Justice40 Initiative. The effort includes three films (more to come), focusing on African-American, Latino, Indigenous, and Asian American perspectives in public lands management and how forests and public lands are experienced by different communities.. Revolutionizing School Transportation: EPA’s Clean School Bus Program Winners Announced!: The EPA unveiled the winners of the highly anticipated Clean School Bus

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Congressional Letter Latest to Support Review of LNG Exports & Urge DOE to Incorporate Key Issues into Public Interest Determination

Groups Show Support For Members Of Congress Speaking Out Against Fossil Fuel Interests – Lead by Sierra Club May 7, 2024 Contact Shannon Van Hoesen, shannon.vanhoesen@sierraclub.org Washington, DC — Today, more than 70 members of Congress sent a letter to President Biden and Secretary Granholm thanking them for pausing the approval of applications for new liquefied methane gas (LNG) exports while the Department of Energy considers the criteria used to determine whether new exports are in the public interest. The members of Congress write in the letter: “Once again, thank you for taking this important step to put public health and economic well-being first by pausing the approval of new LNG export authorizations to non-Free Trade Agreement countries. This is an overdue opportunity to examine whether the LNG export boom creates value for the American people or, as we suspect, results in harm while primarily benefitting oil and gas companies that want to ship American LNG overseas for higher profits.” Key priorities that these members of Congress want to see incorporated into the public interest determination include a test for the economic effects LNG export approvals will have on U.S. consumers, an evaluation of greenhouse gas emissions along the entire LNG export supply chain, on international and domestic climate targets, and for new considerations of LNG exports to follow the spirit of President Biden’s Executive Order on Revitalizing our Nation’s Commitment to Environmental Justice for All. This letter builds on the support from a broad coalition of frontline residents, environmental groups, and stakeholders for the Biden Administration’s pause on new LNG export approvals. In the past year, dozens of members of Congress, national security experts and former senior military leaders, environmental organizations, Gulf Coast residents, scientists, and healthcare professionals all sent letters to the Administration showing support for the pause and calling for an end to new LNG export facilities as they are not in the public interest. Gulf Coast advocates and environmental groups issued the following statements in support of the letter from members of Congress: “We applaud these Congressional leaders for sending the Biden Administration a letter celebrating the pause on new LNG export approvals while the Department of Energy considers the full impacts this dangerous fossil fuel has on the public’s health, our economy, and our climate and environmental justice goals,” said Roishetta Sibley Ozane, Founder and Executive Director of the Vessel Project of Louisiana. “For too long, communities forced to live near the petro-chemical industry have faced the disproportionate effects of pollution and climate change, seeing little to no supposed benefits of having these companies operate in their neighborhoods. This pause presents an opportunity for the Biden Administration to prioritize environmental justice and climate action going forward when making decisions about new LNG export approvals. We thank these Congressional leaders for urging the Biden Administration to use this moment to truly chart a new course towards a more sustainable and just future.” “We are glad to see such strong Congressional leadership in support of the Biden Administration’s commonsense decision to pause new LNG export approvals so the Department of Energy can re-examine the impacts these exports have on our climate and environmental justice goals, as well as our economy,” said Mahyar Sorour, Sierra Club Director of Beyond Fossil Fuels Policy. “The oil and gas industry has been polluting our communities and raising our energy prices, all while making record-breaking profits at the expense of public health and safety. It is time to change the status quo and put people over these polluting companies.” “Study after study has shown just how harmful LNG exports are to our climate, health, financial well-being, and national security. The Biden administration has begun to pave a new path forward by reviewing the criteria used to determine if new gas exports are in the public interest,” said Joanie Steinhaus, Ocean Program Director for Turtle Island Restoration Network. “Now we need that path to lead to real change by ensuring DOE is using updated studies and incorporating factors like environmental justice into their decisions. We are grateful to members of Congress who understand what is at stake for our communities and stand with us.” “We applaud members of Congress for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with President Biden’s historic decision to pause approvals for new LNG export terminals. Communities in the Gulf have long led the fight against LNG expansion and unjustly borne the brunt of pollution that the federal government has failed to wholly consider in previous LNG infrastructure approvals,” said Mattea Mrkusic, Evergreen Action’s Senior Policy Lead for Energy Transition. “Studies have repeatedly found that LNG is far worse for the climate than previously thought, and pausing approvals of new terminals is a no-brainer to allow decision-makers to fully take stock of their climate impacts. President Biden and the Department of Energy’s LNG review is a deeply necessary step toward accurately measuring the damaging cost of LNG expansion to environmental justice, climate, public health, and American pocketbooks.” “Progress Texas celebrates action from the Biden Administration and Secretary Granholm acknowledging Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) exports’ harm to American citizens and the environment. We have an interest in ensuring prices stay affordable here at home, that our families are safe from the high and long term costs of LNG on our health and local economies, and of course, not adding more fuel to the fire of our already scorching climate. Sec. Granholm said it best: ‘I understand that some in the industry who may have pending authorization requests are not happy… But our review is in the public interest, and not in the interest just of the oil and gas industry,’” said Kathleen Thompson, Progress Texas Executive Director. “LNG’s glossy job promises starkly contrast with the grim reality—minimal sustainable jobs and significant ecological and community harm. Our local fishermen are sidelined as LNG facilities ravage marine habitats and deplete fishing grounds. The true cost? Devastating long-term impacts on both our environment and community fabric. We invite the Department of Energy and all congressional offices to visit Louisiana and the Gulf Coast to witness firsthand the false narrative that economic prosperity follows LNG construction, especially in communities already

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Aire limpio = Feliz Madre Tierra + Comunidad

As May blooms, we’re excited to highlight a cause close to our hearts: Asthma Awareness Month. While we continue our dedication to environmental stewardship and social justice, we’re spotlighting the impact of clean air on respiratory health, especially in our Black and Brown communities. Keep reading to uncover what’s in store and catch up on all the action you might have missed from April! State of the Air 2024 Report The American Lung Association’s State of the Air 2024 report is officially out! For 25 years, the association has analyzed data from official air quality monitors to provide crucial insights. Dive into the report to discover how to protect your health and contribute to cleaner, healthier air. Access the report and empower yourself with knowledge today! Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram for Chispa-specific information on key findings! Earth Day Celebration Chispa Arizona came together with our community to honor both our planet and our collective heritage at their Earth Day festival held during Earth Month. Partnering with the Arizona Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander for Equity, they hosted their annual Earth Day Festival in Phoenix, welcoming over 400 attendees. More news ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) #CleanRide4Kids Could Be Coming your Way: Last week, the Biden-Harris administration announced new clean vehicle initiatives, including the first-ever goal to transition to a zero-emission freight sector and the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of a $1 billion grant competition to help replace dirty diesel trucks and buses with clean, zero-emission ones. Read our statement in partnership with LCV here and learn more about the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Grant Program. EPA’s Final Rule Strengthens Protections for Clean Air: on April 10th, the EPA announced its final rule on Hazardous Organics National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (HON). With many residents suffering from respiratory and heart issues due to poor air quality, the call for more fenceline monitoring grows urgent. This rule marks a positive stride towards closing that gap and ensuring cleaner, safer air for all. Read our statement in partnership with LCV here! Nevadans Win Solar For All Funding: President Biden announced $7 billion in Solar for All grants on Earth Day! This historic investment aims to reduce energy expenses for families nationwide, tackle the climate crisis head-on, and pave the way for a cleaner energy future. These funds are particularly vital for low-income and communities of color. Read our statement in partnership with LCV here! EPA announces Environmental Justice Clearinghouse: The clearinghouse will help the public access tools and resources as part of President Biden’s ambitious environmental justice agenda. Check it out here! Chispa Launches Community Clean Energy Hub: We have launched our Community Clean Energy Hub to support our gente through new clean and green opportunities. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is a groundbreaking law tackling the climate crisis and promoting sustainable renewable energy nationwide as part of President Biden’s clean energy package. Our hub provides information on accessing funds and incentives for clean energy, ensuring everyone can benefit. Explore the hub now for details and stay tuned for more updates! LNG Pause Explainer: President Biden’s recent decision to pause new exports of liquefied methane gas (LNG) is a monumental step in curbing fossil fuel expansion. But what exactly is LNG, and why is this pause so significant? Head over to lcv.org/LNG-emissions for a deep dive into the details and the impact of this pivotal decision. Plus, if you prefer videos, swing by their Instagram page to watch a quick explainer video on what this is all about! Let’s stay informed and continue pushing for a greener future together! Chispa Nevada Lideres En Accion: Chispa NV member Guadalupe participated in a roundtable with DOE (Department Of Energy) Deputy Secretary on federal climate/energy efficiency/sustainability programs! She did amazing talking about the need to ensure these programs reach our communities and that our communities are educated on these opportunities. What a great example of federal implementation campaign work happening on the ground! Chispa TX Fights Desalination: The community in Corpus Christi showed up in big numbers to speak up against a new desalination plant in their community of Hillcrest at a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality hearing this past month. Youth Climate Careers Are Out NOW: The American Climate Corps, a new initiative from the White House, offers paid opportunities for over 20,000 young people to learn vital skills for advancing environmental justice. Join the movement shaping tomorrow and be part of the next generation tackling the climate crisis head-on. Explore our Digi + Creative Manager Alexa Aispuro-Loaiza’s post for more on this clean and green opportunity! As Earth Month comes to a close, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made in environmental justice. From community clean-ups to advocacy campaigns, we’ve seen inspiring efforts across our Chispa states. But the journey doesn’t end here! Get ready to dive into May with renewed energy. Keep your eyes peeled for more exciting updates in our newsletters as we continue to raise awareness, share resources, and advocate for those affected by environmental issues. Together, let’s keep the momentum going and make positive change happen! En comunidad, Estefany Carrasco-Gonzalez (She/Her/Ella) Chispa Senior Director

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LCV and Chispa Statements on Biden-Harris Administration Transportation Announcements

Washington, D.C.— Today, the Biden-Harris administration announced new clean vehicle initiatives, including the first-ever goal to transition to a zero emission freight sector and Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement of a $1 billion grant competition to help replace dirty diesel trucks and buses with clean, zero-emission ones. In response to today’s announcements, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) and Chispa released the following statements: “The Biden-Harris administration is, once again, delivering on their clean energy plan by swiftly implementing the clean energy investments for cleaner trucks and buses in the Inflation Reduction Act,” said LCV’s Government Affairs Advocate for Climate & Clean Energy Darien Davis. “These announcements are a huge step toward electrifying trucks and buses across the country, especially in communities disproportionately impacted by toxic tailpipe pollution. The Clean Heavy Duty Vehicle program will not only help replace old heavy-duty vehicles – it will fund workforce development, critical charging infrastructure, and additional project implementation for zero-emission trucks and buses. We congratulate the Biden-Harris administration for their continued leadership and urge the EPA to continue the momentum by granting California’s Advanced Clean Trucks waiver to further advance the adoption of electric heavy-duty vehicles.” *** “We are excited to welcome this new Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicle Program funding that can be used for electric school buses for our children to have healthier commutes and cleaner air. Our Chispa communities, parents, and students have organized for years to ensure a transition away from dirty diesel buses to protect the health of children suffering from asthma and those overexposed to polluted transportation corridors,” said Chispa Senior Director Estefany Carrasco-González. “We know electric school buses produce zero tailpipe pollution, perform well and have a lower total cost of ownership. With this new funding and IRA tax credits for clean vehicles, there’s never been a better time to replace aging diesel buses with a clean ride for kids, and we look forward to working with our communities and school districts to access this money.” ###

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LCV and Chispa Celebrate Biden-Harris Administration Earth Day Announcements

Washington, D.C. — In response today’s speech from President Biden in Virginia to announce the $7 billion in funding for Solar for All grant recipients and new announcements expanding the American Climate Corps, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV), Chispa, and Chispa Nevada released the following statements: “President Biden has done more than any president in history to deliver on tackling the climate crisis and pollution, and we’re excited for the Biden-Harris administration’s continued commitment on clean energy and environmental justice the President announced for this year’s Earth Day,” said Vice President of Government Affairs Sara Chieffo. “The historic Solar For All investments are a major step towards lowering energy costs for families across the country, helping combat the climate crisis at the scale and rate science requires, and putting us on the path for a clean energy future for all of our communities, especially in communities of color and those with low wealth. The Biden-Harris administration is continuing to invest in our youth and future generations with high-quality jobs to tackle the climate crisis through the American Climate Corps. We’re all in with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect our communities, our climate, and our future.” *** “Today’s Solar for All announcement is a welcome relief for our communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and rising energy costs for far too long,” said Chispa Senior Director Estefany Carrasco-González. “Chispa congratulates all the community-led winners who will soon be in a stronger position to lead us into a healthier and better energy future by expanding access to clean, local, affordable and reliable energy for all.” *** “Chispa Nevada is proud to congratulate the Nevada Clean Energy Fund on winning Solar For All funding for low-income and multi-family housing,” said Audrey Peral, Program Director for Chispa Nevada. “As we approach the Nevada summer, with electricity rates at an all-time high and our families living in neighborhoods with the hottest temperatures, our community needs urgent access to programs that will lower our utility bills and reduce climate pollution. We look forward to working with NCEF to develop solar projects that will transition Latine families, including renters and low-income households, to clean and local solar energy.” ### These announcements build on major progress announced by the Biden-Harris administration in advance of Earth Day to protect clean air and water, advance clean energy and clean energy jobs, hold Big Polluters accountable, protect public lands, ensure historic protections for the Arctic, and more.

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Chispa LCV Celebrates Earth Week 2024 with joy and continued efforts

For Immediate Release April 16, 2024 Contact: Elena Gaona | egaona@lcv.org | 202-907-9717 Washington, D.C. – Chispa LCV is celebrating Earth Week with joyful family events honoring Latine work for the environment this week, as well as highlighting continued and critical fights for clean water, air and land. “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re inspired by the many communities we’ve worked with in our Chispa states, where Latine families and communities of color have organized and raised their voices for healthier environments so they can breathe, live, and be proud,” said Chispa Senior Director Estefany Carrasco-González. “We celebrate this week for Madre Tierra, and the work our grassroots leaders and communities have led for better environmental policies, cleaner air, better energy, less polluted transportation, safer water, and more respect for land and people. But the disproportionate environmental attacks on our people and places continue, and we cannot rest. Our lives and futures, and those of our children’s, are at stake.” Chispa Earth Day and Earth Week events include: Chispa TX April 18 desalination hearing: Join Chispa TX and partners at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s public hearing on the City of Corpus Christi’s proposed water discharge permit for the Inner Harbor, also known as the Hillcrest Desalination Plant project, on Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 7 PM. Speak up against desalination’s impact on local communities, including reduced water, higher rates, and environmental health concerns. Let’s say NO to desalination and protect our bay life! Join us and support Hillcrest residents. If you want to comment, you can also visit https://www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/ and use permit number WQ0005289000. Chispa AZ April 20th Earth Day Festival: The countdown begins! Join @chispaarizona and @azaanhpiforequity to celebrate Madre Tierra with the AZ community at #EarthDayFestival24 in Cielito Park on April 20 from 4-7 pm! Don’t miss out; celebrate the intersections between our Latinx and AANHPI communities for environmental justice. RSVP at bit.ly/tierra2024 Chispa NV April 21st Dia Del Niño: Join Chispa NV and the community at the Walnut Community Center, 3075 N. Walnut Road, Las Vegas, NV from 2-6 pm! Celebrate with Chispa Nevada as you enjoy the food, piñatas, face painting, and more! The first 500 children will receive a free toy; no need to RSVP! April 22, 12-4 pm: Chispa Nevada is partnering with Climate Action’s for the Affordable Clean Energy Celebration on April 22nd at the Durango Hills YMCA! Representative Susie Lee will be discussing climate progress, money-saving solutions, clean energy, and tax benefits with the community! Join us this Earth Day! April 24, 5-7 pm: Join Chispa Nevada on April 24th to celebrate our madre tierra and Dia Del Niño with a carne asada and park cleanup at Sunset Park! They will be talking about Chispa Nevada, the ways we’re protecting our madre tierra, and providing updates for the comunidad! Chispa Maryland April 20, 9 am – 12 pm: Celebrate Earth Day with the Friends of Patterson Park! Join Chispa Maryland and the Friends of Patterson Park for this year’s Spring Volunteer Extravaganza! Get outside and meet your neighbors, get some exercise, and help care for our park! We will care for young trees, plant new trees, pick up trash, pull trash out of the lake, edge walkways, and so much more. We’ll bring the tools, we just need you! Location: Meet on the Eastside of the Park near the corner of Bank and Ellwood Ave in Baltimore City. Register Today! April 20, 10 am -1 pm: CareFirst Earth Day Celebration. Join us at the CareFirst Engagement Center to celebrate Earth Day. Let’s come together to clean up our community and celebrate our planet. After the cleanup, stick around for lunch and hear guests speak, including Chispa Maryland, on the importance of a clean environment. Location: CareFirst Engagement Center located at 1501 S Clinton Street, Suite 100, Baltimore, MD 21224 Register Today! April 22, 9 am – 12 pm: Growing Green With Pride. Help beautify the Langley Park Community in Prince George’s County by joining your neighbors for a day of cleaning and protecting the environment. Together with Chispa Maryland, we are joined by Langley Park Civic Association, PG Parks, and Nature Forward. All supplies will be provided. Location: Langley Park Community Center (at parking lot) 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 20783. For more information, call 202-706-2176 or email LPCA20783@gmail.com April 27, 11 am – 4 pm: Montgomery County Greenfest. The Montgomery County GreenFest is the largest annual environmental festival in Montgomery County, MD. GreenFest is organized by a coalition of public and non-profit partners, including Chispa Maryland. People of all ages come together to celebrate, learn, and start or continue their journey to improving our community and the environment! Location: BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr, Germantown, MD 20874 Click here for more information. Protégete CO April 20th, 1-4 pm Protégete will participate with Walking Mountains in Avon, CO along with several other organizations doing work with the environment and sustainability at the Sustainability Festival, at Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon Tang Campus. This will be an event for the Latino community to learn more about sustainability and the organizations that use it daily. We will be sharing information about our leadership programs, join us! ### Para publicación inmediata 16 de abril de 2024 Contacto: Elena Gaona | egaona@lcv.org | 202-907-9717 Chispa LCV Celebra la Semana de la Tierra 2024 con alegría y continuo esfuerzo Washington, D.C. – Chispa LCV está celebrando la Semana de la Tierra con alegres eventos familiares que honran el trabajo latine por el medio ambiente esta semana, además de resaltar las luchas continuas y críticas por el agua, el aire y la tierra limpios. “Al celebrar nuestro décimo aniversario, nos inspiran las muchas comunidades con las que hemos trabajado en nuestros estados de Chispa, donde las familias latinas y las comunidades de color se han organizado y alzado sus voces por un medio ambiente más saludable para que puedan respirar, vivir y sentirse orgullosos”, dijo la directora senior de Chispa, Estefany

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LCV and Chispa Texas Statements on EPA’s Final HON Rule

Washington, D.C. — In response to EPA’s final rule on Hazardous Organics National Emissions Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (HON) announced today, the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) released the following statements: “The Biden-Harris administration has once again taken important steps to cut pollution that unfairly burdens fenceline communities across the country, especially those in the Gulf Coast and Ohio River Valley where there is a high concentration of toxic chemical facilities,” said LCV Vice President for Government Affairs Sara Chieffo. “Slashing emissions of air toxics from these facilities, like ethylene oxide and chloroprene, is essential to improve public health and we urge the administration to continue working to address the many sources of toxic air pollution that disproportionately impact communities of color and low wealth communities. Today’s rule demonstrates the Biden-Harris administration’s continued commitment to prioritizing clean, safe air for every community.” *** “As a program that is made up of frontline community members, we applaud the EPA for today’s HON rule. The right to breathe clean air should never be determined by where you live,” said Chispa TX Program Director Elida Castillo. “Too many chemical plants in our communities have taken advantage of weak regulations and have spewed hazardous pollutants into our air, our water, and our land, exposing residents to harmful cancer-causing emissions. Our communities have a high proportion of residents of all ages with respiratory and heart issues resulting from the air we breathe. We cannot stress enough the need for more fenceline monitoring, and this is a positive step toward closing that gap. We thank the EPA for finalizing this rule to strengthen protections for the clean air we all deserve.” ###

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Chispa Nevada Disappointed in PUCN’s Decision to Approve Southwest Gas’ Rate Increase

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 4, 2024 Media Contact: Carolina Chacon | carolina@chaconconsulting.com | 702-810-7155 LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Today, Chispa Nevada reacted to the Public Utility Commission of Nevada (PUCN) decision to approve Southwest Gas’ request to increase Southern Nevada customer rates for the fourth time in six years. At a Consumer Session related to the rate increase request last December, dozens of Chispa Nevada members asked the PUCN to reject the Southwest Gas proposal and keep rates affordable for families, especially low-income and Latine families who already pay a higher share of their income on utility bills. Chispa Nevada turned in a petition with over a thousand signatures requesting the PUCN reject any future rate hikes and offer consumers relief. “We are deeply disappointed in the PUCN’s decision,” said Audrey Peral, Program Director for Chispa Nevada. “As we shared with the Commission during December’s Consumer Session, our families are struggling to pay for basic needs and cannot afford another rate increase. So long as Nevadans are dependent on imported gas, our bills will continue to be unpredictable. We demand the PUCN reject any more rate increases and seek a transition to local, affordable, clean energy solutions.” Other Chispa Nevada members, all Las Vegas residents, shared how this rate increase will impact their lives: “Disproportionate increases in the cost of gas represent an unsustainable burden for people like me, because my pension does not allow me to cover basic expenses,” said Jorge Fuentes. “It is urgent to implement measures that protect vulnerable people such as retirees from unjustified increases. We need programs that are accessible and sustainable.” “The excessive increase in my gas bill, especially due to my gas heating, is financially affecting families like mine,” said Gloria Guardado. “As a mother, I am deeply concerned about how these increases impact the quality of life of my seven-year-old daughter. I am tired of the PUCN not listening to our demands and forcing Southwest Gas to invest in clean energy.” “I consider an additional increase in gas service to be unjustified since this would cause much more poverty in communities of color throughout the state of Nevada,” said Laura Pulido Acosta. “With these high prices for gas utilities, I have to decide whether to take my grandchildren to the dentist or pay my bills,” said Maria Prentice. “The PUCN should listen to our concerns and create programs that help us stay away from methane gas.” ###

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Aire limpio = Feliz Madre Tierra + Comunidad

Chispa LCV Celebrates Earth Week 2024 with joy and continued efforts

LCV and Chispa Texas Statements on EPA’s Final HON Rule

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