As environmental stewards in our Catholic parishes and members of the EcoPhilly leadership team, we were pleased that Pope Leo XIV has spoken publicly advocating for action on climate change.
Pope Francis left a powerful legacy with his 2015 Encyclical Laudato Si’, where he asked us to “hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” We must work to heal our home, he said, “by resolving to transform our hearts, our lifestyles, and the public policies ruling our societies.”
We therefore support a bill sponsored by Rep. Greg Vitali, …
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As environmental stewards in our Catholic parishes and members of the EcoPhilly leadership team, we were pleased that Pope Leo XIV has spoken publicly advocating for action on climate change.
Pope Francis left a powerful legacy with his 2015 Encyclical Laudato Si’, where he asked us to “hear both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.” We must work to heal our home, he said, “by resolving to transform our hearts, our lifestyles, and the public policies ruling our societies.”
We therefore support a bill sponsored by Rep. Greg Vitali, affecting approximately 2.3 million Pennsylvanians living in the 1,965 environmental justice (EJ) areas in Pennsylvania.
HB 109 will require facilities seeking to build or expand in EJ areas, such as the proposed CHOP parking lot in Greys Ferry, to submit a cumulative environmental assessment. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection may then deny a permit, or require added stipulations, if it finds operations would further harm the health and environment of the community.
The House Environmental Resources Committee voted out HB 109 in April. We urge all our local representatives to vote in favor of HB 109 when the bill reaches the State House floor.
Barbara Sheehan
Our Mother of Consolation Parish, Chestnut Hill
Susan Tobia
Holy Cross Parish, E. Mount Airy
