I commend you for your responsible coverage of the federal government shutdown. Among the many issues of concern with the shutdown is the effect it is having on our environment. And it goes far beyond overflowing trash cans or unplowed roads through our national parks. Research grants and data sharing are being hampered by the lack of personnel to handle these important tasks. We are hearing about impacts on the EPA as well as other watchdog organizations within the federal government. 

Our environment is already threatened by climate change, and this administration’s stubborn position of inaction has only made things worse. Now time is being wasted by a shutdown with no end in sight. I can only hope local governments will do what they can to respond to challenges of climate change in their own regions.

Additionally, citizens should urge their representatives to respond by supporting bipartisan legislation (for example: The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, S.3791/H.R.7173) which moves our country toward responsible measures to deal with these challenges. It’s a start, and heaven knows our government needs to get started!

Teresa Norris

Mystic