Reducing climate change and protecting the environment have always been important to me.  I studied Geology in college and earned my Masters Degree in Earth and Planetary Science - which gave me a solid understanding of issues impacting our climate. I then spent 12 years as an environmental professional, both as a government contractor doing environmental investigations and as litigation consultant helping clients access funding for hazardous waste cleanups.

Living in a coastal community means that the impacts of climate change and sea level rising are happening in front of our eyes. We must take bold action to pass on a livable planet to future generations.

We must be able to breath unpolluted air, swim in clean waters, and have shoreline access.

A 2023 study from URI has revealed a staggering reality - the bottom of Narragansett Bay is covered with approximately 1,000 tons of microplastics, tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 cm (~2 inches). These tiny pollutants then get into our waters, environment, and our bodies, posing a significant threat to public health and our ecosystems. In 2024, I worked with Clean Water Action to introduce the Microplastics Reduction Act. This bill would prohibit a manufacturer from selling or distributing any product containing synthetic polymer micro particles; and the bill would mandate that DEM develop a comprehensive plan for expanded testing of microplastics in the environment. Passing this bill remains a top priority for me in 2025.

When my kids are grown, I want their first car to be affordable and electric. We need to prioritize the inclusion of solar panels in all new construction as part of our growth of a green, clean-energy economy. All building construction and major renovation should incorporate renewables and electrification. We need to expand access to public transportation and we should electrify every chance we get. We should work diligently towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It’s a win-win goal for the environment and the pocketbook, and we need to get moving.