New poll: Strong majority oppose erosion of environmental protections

Just in case the GOP legislators were "tuning out" all those folks who spoke their minds during recent regulatory meetings:

An overwhelming 83 percent of voters agreed that "protecting North Carolina's air and water is important to attracting good jobs to the state." A majority of voters, 54 percent, supported keeping the existing sales tax as a way to avoid the deepest cuts in parks and open space funding. About half the respondents, 48 percent, said they would support raising permit fees on polluters to help balance the state budget.

Here's a link to the PPP Poll in question.

The poll shows that even those voters who identify themselves as "conservative" disagree with proposals for sharp cuts in the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources. About three-quarters of conservative voters, and 84 percent of all responses, said the state should maintain its current level of drinking water protection, or do more.

That's not surprising. I've had conversations with numerous conservatives who are unhappy with the state of our air and water, and they know from where those problems originate.

The House is considering sweeping reforms in DENR, including cutbacks in regional staff. Environmental groups consider regional DENR staff critical for monitoring air and water pollution, issuing permits and enforcing rules that protect public health. Legislators also propose to cut land conservation by more than 95 percent and prevent the protection of threatened green spaces.

"Lawmakers are discussing proposals that are outside the state's mainstream values. Citizens have a great respect for clean air and water and natural resources, and they understand the direct connection to a healthy economy," said Jane Preyer, state director of Environmental Defense Fund.

"Voters don't perceive a choice between a strong economy and a clean environment," said Elizabeth Ouzts, state director of Environment North Carolina. "In fact, voters across the political and demographic spectrum believe the two go hand in hand."

"North Carolinians – and especially the young – place a high value on a clean, safe environment," said Molly Diggins, state director of the Sierra Club. "The House's proposed budget doesn't reflect the public's expectations."