Letter to the Editor: Ask Manchin to back reconciliation bill
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I spent 10 years of my life serving my country in the U.S. Army and am a resident of Parkersburg. Many West Virginians and my fellow veterans are struggling to make ends meet. As a veteran my service has not ended. I refuse to watch our wonderful state fall to ruin due to joblessness and climate change. Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns continue to increase in severity. Without good-paying jobs, we will not be able to pay the price these changes will make.
Rain has increased more than 25% over the last six decades creating massive floods. In the 2016 flood, 23 people died; with an estimated $1.1 billion in property damage, and $50 million in destroyed roads and bridges. Rising temperatures are causing longer drought seasons with 55% of crops being damaged or delayed. Energy costs will continue to rise and hurt residents who already are doing all they can to make ends meet.
However, there is hope!
Sen. Joe Manchin can help our beautiful state, and her people by focusing on renewable energy jobs. We have an incredible opportunity to create good jobs that can sustain families for generations to come. The reconciliation bill, with $550 billion in climate provisions, would bring billions of dollars for workforce development into our state. West Virginians, urge Manchin to do right by us and our beautiful state. Pass the reconciliation bill. Montani Semper Liberi -- Mountaineers are always free.
Chase Linko-Looper
Parkersburg