MADISON- For the first time, over a dozen health organizations across Wisconsin united at the Wisconsin State Capitol to demand that our next Governor and state legislature treat climate change as the urgent health crisis it is.

“Today, I’m speaking on behalf of the Wisconsin Medical Society, which signed this call to action because it is an evidence-based prescription for Wisconsinites’ well-being based on key common values: clean air and water, a healthy climate, safe communities, and the freedom to thrive.  It also reflects clinical practice: Climate change and air pollution due to burning of fossil fuels adversely affects Wisconsinites’ health,” said Dr. Richard Dart, MD, of the Wisconsin Medical Society. 

A press conference was held featuring health organization leaders who explained why climate change is a critical threat to public health, the policy actions needed, and why the time for action is now. Following the press conference, health professionals moved directly into the Capitol building, where they personally delivered information packets and fact sheets to offices. The packets included a health call to action signed by health organizations and over 300 individual health providers across the state. This direct engagement ensures that decision-makers hear from health professionals about the stakes involved in climate policy decisions.

“We all have a responsibility to care for each other, and especially our babies, children, and our seniors by updating policies that address the unreasonable 10% guaranteed return on equity investments by investor-owned utilities at the expense of us, the consumers, and hard-working families who need energy efficient homes and affordable energy and utility rates,” said Dr. Pamela Guthman, a doctorally prepared registered nurse with advanced training as a public/population health nurse.