Mark Earley on Environment Former Republican Candidate VA Governor

Responsibility to protect & pass on natural treasures

Mark Earley understands that it is our responsibility to protect, preserve and pass on these treasures to future generations of Virginians. Throughout his ten years in the State Senate and four years as Attorney General, Mark Earley has worked side-by-side with Virginians who are helping to fulfill this responsibility.

The preservation of open space and providing clean drinking water is critical to maintaining our quality of life that in turn attracts tourists and businesses. In short, they are both critical to Virginia’s future economic growth.

More investment in clean drinking water

The EARLEY Agenda:
• Increase Water Project Investment by $100 Million Per Year utilizing the state’s Wastewater Revolving Fund that has significant unused capacity while Virginia’s Drinking Water Revolving Fund has inadequate resources to provide clean drinking water to all parts of the Commonwealth. By cross-collateralizing the wastewater and drinking water funds both funds may be leveraged to help meet needs across the state.
• Investing in Clean Drinking Water: Clean drinking water is something many people take for granted. However, in some areas of Virginia, it is an important issue that we must address. Mark Earley is committed to investing $10 million to bring clean drinking water to Southwest Virginia.

21% for 21st century (21% of land as open space)

The EARLEY Agenda:
• “21 Percent for the 21st Century:” Mark Earley will increase the amount of land held as open space with the goal of reaching 21% by the end of his term. Included in the goal will be state, local and privately held open space lands, preservation easements, watershed lands and non-military federal open space. To help accomplish this goal, Mark Earley supports dedicating a portion of the recordation tax for open space preservation.