PennFuture reacts to Gov. Wolf's phased reopening of Pennsylvania

PennFuture—as an employer and advocate for the health and protection of our communities—is compelled to offer the following statement in reaction to Gov. Tom Wolf's plan to gradually reopen Pennsylvania based on sound science and public health data.

“PennFuture supports Governor Wolf and his reasoned and deliberate approach to reopening Pennsylvania during this uncertain and troubling time,” said Jacquelyn Bonomo, President and CEO of PennFuture. “Pennsylvanians are suffering from both the direct impacts of the virus as well as the unemployment and economic decline caused by social distancing needed to stay safe. We hope that all the Commonwealth’s workers—but especially those working in nature-based tourism, renewable energy, agriculture, and the water sector—can get back to work as soon as possible, particularly as the ever-important summer outdoor season grows closer. These industries represent hundreds of thousands of good-paying, sustainable jobs that we need now more than ever.

We don’t want their hard work to restart the economy to be for nothing. The more we collectively do to staunch the spread of the virus today means a stronger, more resilient economic recovery tomorrow, and a recovery that results in a cleaner environment and healthier outcomes for all our workers and residents. Rather than a hasty reopening against the sound advice of public health professionals, Pennsylvania needs to balance getting back to work safely with a longer view that utilizes stimulus and recovery funding to more resilient, long term ends. PennFuture stands ready to work with elected officials and others on a recovery plan for Pennsylvania that elevates clean industries, supports small businesses, cuts pollution, and puts people to work with family-sustaining wages.”

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PennFuture is leading the transition to a clean energy economy in Pennsylvania, fighting big polluters with legal muscle, enforcing environmental laws, and supporting legislative policy that protects public health. PennFuture is engaging and educating citizens about the realities of climate change, and giving them the tools needed to influence lawmakers on the issues. Visit www.pennfuture.org for more information.

Contact:
Jared Stonesifer
Director of Media Relations
stonesifer@pennfuture.org
412.456.2372