MADISON, WI – Today, members of the Wisconsin State Legislature joined the global community in celebrating Earth Day, an international holiday that began as an effort spearheaded by Former Wisconsin Senator and Governor Gaylord Nelson. Representative Shelia Stubbs (D-Madison) released the following statement:
“Today we recognize and celebrate Earth Day, an opportunity for us to reflect on the impact each of us has on our environment and the world around us. It is a day for us to recommit to investing in the health of our planet and all life that calls Earth home. It is a day for us to prioritize equity and ensure that every member of our community has access to green space, clean water, and breathable air.
I have been a proud recipient of the Wisconsin Conservation Voters’ Conservation Champion designation since 2021, in recognition of my votes to protect our natural resources and proud Wisconsin tradition of conservation. From naturalist Aldo Leopold to Indigenous environmentalist Walter Bresette to Former Wisconsin Senator and Governor Gaylord Nelson, our state is renowned for its rich history of environmental stewardship.
Last session, I introduced Assembly Bill 796, which would require the Department of Natural Resources to consider community input and impact studies before permitting certain types of facilities that may cause air or water pollution or handle solid or hazardous waste in low-income or minority communities. I plan on introducing this legislation again this session, as well as other bills that ensure environmental justice for all Wisconsinites.
As a legislator with 6 bodies of water in my district, including Lake Monona, Monona Bay, the Yahara River, Lake Waubesa, Nine Springs Creek, and Wingra Creek, I will also be looking toward legislation that addresses PFAS and other contaminants that make our water sources unsafe for resident consumption and recreation. This Earth Day, I pledge to continue my record as a Conservation Champion and defend the air, water, and natural spaces we all need to thrive.”
