Holding Polluters Accountable for Climate Damage

March 16, 2026

I am proud to co-sponsor a proposal taking meaningful action on climate change while holding major polluters accountable for the damage their emissions have caused in communities across Waterbury and throughout Connecticut.
 
Earlier this month, the Environment Committee approved House Bill 5156, which would establish a Climate Change Superfund in Connecticut. The measure calls on fossil fuel companies to contribute to a fund that helps address climate-related damage rather than burdening taxpayers to shoulder the costs alone. 

The fund would support climate resiliency and infrastructure projects such as:

  • Strengthening roads and transportation systems vulnerable to flooding
  • Protecting coastal areas from rising sea levels
  • Improving infrastructure so towns can better withstand extreme weather

This bill represents an important step for Environmental Justice. For too long, many urban communities have faced disproportionate environmental impacts, including poorer air quality, higher rates of asthma, and contaminated water.

At a recent press conference, I joined Brenney Alcantara, commissioner of Waterbury’s Litter Control and chairman of the Waterbury Beautification Commission, to discuss how climate change is already affecting our communities and why it is critical to act now to protect future generations.
Advocating for a bill holding polluters accountable for environmental damage

Climate change is a growing financial burden for cities and towns across Connecticut. Every dollar spent responding to preventable damage is a dollar not invested into our schools, public safety, or tax relief. Addressing climate change responsibly means protecting families, safeguarding municipal budgets, and ensuring cities like Waterbury can thrive today and for generations to come.