CPP Testimony Talking Points

OEC and Coalition for Climate and Economic Justice logos with "Restore the CPP - Take Action With Us!" at the bottom and blue mountains with clouds in the background

Below is a sample script with talking points to help you prepare. Feel free to personalize your testimony for maximum impact! Just be sure to keep it to under 2 minutes. You can join DEQ’s final public forum on Thursday, September 26, from 3:20 -5:30 PM using this Zoom link or by dialing in via phone: 888-475-4499 (Meeting ID: 843 9807 4366). 

If you’d like some extra preparation, join OEC and our partners who are hosting free, CPP Testimony Training Sessions: Monday, September 23 (hosted by Beyond Toxics), and Tuesday, September 24, (hosted by Verde). Registration links and complete details to come.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment today. My name is [____] and I care deeply about climate protection because [briefly state your personal reason– e.g., your children, your love for Oregon’s natural world, public health, etc.]. That is why I’m eager to see DEQ restore an ambitious Climate Protection Program without delay.

Restoring the CPP’s climate and community protections is essential to prevent harm to Oregon families and workers, now and in the future. A strong Climate Protection Program gives Oregonians the opportunity not only to cut harmful climate emissions, but also to create jobs, improve public health, and invest in environmental justice communities. 

I urge DEQ to maximize these benefits by making the following improvements to the final rules:

  • First, I am deeply concerned that DEQ is proposing to reward oil and gas companies by adding a huge influx of free allowances to pollute when the program starts in 2025. This will only delay needed climate action. 
  • Second, I urge DEQ to maintain a science-based emissions cap, and require immediate compliance within one year for regulated fossil fuel companies. This will help deliver near-term air quality, public health, and climate benefits for Oregon. 
  • Finally, I am extremely concerned pollution from large industrial emitters could very well increase under DEQ’s proposed rules. I urge you to hold industrial facilities accountable for the totality of their harmful climate emissions, with firm deadlines for pollution reduction that track science-based targets. 

Justice delayed is justice denied. Please restore a strong CPP by the end of this year. Thank you for your time and consideration.