A close look at political leaders and how sustainable legislation is passed.
An interview with Jay Barrows, a state legislator in Massachusetts who helped with enacting many green policies.
What is your background in policymaking?
Barrows noted that he has worked in many committees, including the House Committee on Ethics, and worked on many bills over the years on COVID relief to financial service bills.
Why is it important to enact green policy?
Barrows stated that because of the climate crisis that we are in right now, we need to take all the action that we can so that we can all live a sustainable life and protect our earth.
What green policy did you help enact?
Barrows highlighted that he has worked on creating legislation that gave a tax incentive to food donors like grocery stores and restaurants who donated their uneaten food to food receivers like homeless shelters and food banks.
How can youth take action on creating policy?
Barrows emphasized that young people should first, look up online to see who represents them at the local, state, and federal levels. Depending on what demographic they want their policy to have an impact on, they should email, call, and go in person to offices to talk to the staff of their representatives. He highlighted that it is very important that they are consistent and persistent in staying in contact with their politicians since these offices can get an influx of communication. Their dedication will also shine through and make their initiative more successful. Afterward, they can take the necessary steps and work with staff members and their politicians to a devise a bill that tackles the issue at hand. They may also be invited to speak in front of committees to urge other lawmakers to adopt the plan.
What should young people do if they feel as though the legislation they want to see passed is not going through?
Barrows underlines that it is vital that youth stay active in politics and stay dedicated to their goals and missions. They should rally up their community and other young people in order to help fight for their mission and make sure that their politicians know that their voices matter.
great read, thoroughly enjoyed it!