And that is why your bill, Mr. Chairman, is so important, as well as the Biden administration's Justice40 Initiative.

We strongly endorse and appreciate the inclusion of equitable access to nature programs within the Environmental Justice for All Act.

I've been proud to work over the past few years with Representative McEachin on comprehensive legislation to address environmental injustice.

A major factor has been the fossil fuel industry and the other polluting industries having a long and troubled history of intentionally building projects that pollute surrounding neighborhoods within communities of color and poor…

And then you will see why this piece of legislation that we are having a hearing about today is needed.

all people have the right to clean air, clean water, and an environment that enriches their lives.

Today, environmental justice communities... continue to be disproportionately burdened by pollution and harmful climate effects.

I hope the testimony today will inform our Committee about the urgent need to empower communities to protect their local environment and realize their right to clean air, clean water, and healthy outdoor spaces.

I am concerned that this legislation could give more power to people who are not from our communities, who are not elected to represent our communities, and who don't have to find a way to survive in our communities.

All people have the right to clean air, clean water, and an environment that enriches their lives.

Thank you very much, Heather, and thank you to the Committee members for being here.