Proposed bill would be beneficial
New Hampshire Sen. David Watters recently introduce a bill that would create a youth climate and conservation council.
The council would be made up of people ages 12 to 25, and include one resident from each country, plus four members each from middle school, high school and college or universities. Members would serve two-year terms.
“New Hampshire’s youth will be affected by current and future decisions regarding climate change for the rest of their lives,” Watters, a Democrat from Dover, said. “They rely on their governing bodies to take action to protect clean water, clean air and the economic growth and workforce development that goes hand in hand with the creation of renewable energy jobs.”
The council would consider scientific reports “on the conditions and challenges to a clean and healthy environment, including clean water, air, renewable energy, open spaces, recreational opportunities, and the economic growth and employment opportunities dependent on such features of New Hampshire’s environment,” the bill reads.
The group also would consult with state agencies, municipal officials, policy advocacy groups, businesses, industry, educational leaders and scientists. It would submit an annual report on its findings and recommendations.
Watters said the council provides a vehicle for informed discussion and consensus building. It also authorizes students to make reports to the Legislature.
The Dover senator’s idea is a good one. Watters, in speaking of the proposed bill, noted that, “It’s their future.”
Indeed it is. Having young, fresh voices working not only with scientists, but also with elected officials on this complex and all-important issue would be a benefit to the Granite State and, perhaps, the nation as a whole.
Climate change and conservation is not going away. It is imperative we take this issue seriously, and the more voices we have at the table to help to solve this dilemma, the better. Officials would be smart to green light this legislation.