Rep. Chu Testifies at House Natural Resources Committee Forum on Economic Justice

Today, Democrats from the House Committee on Natural Resources held a forum in Los Angeles on environmental justice. The forum examined the effectiveness of federal legislation and civil rights laws to protect all low-income individuals and minority communities from environmental hazards. Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) testified at the forum and released the following statement:

“I am so pleased the House Natural Resources Committee and Ranking Member Raul Grijalva decided to host this important discussion in Los Angeles today. Just 14.6% of area residents have easy access to public parks and green spaces – which means 85% of the population is unable to take advantage of our natural resources – especially clean air and water. The lack of open space hurts low income and minority communities the most. Expanding access to public lands has been a priority of mine since entering Congress, and it was a significant factor in my push to protect the San Gabriel Mountains, which neighbor one of the most uniquely diverse, urban cities in the country. In just the first two months after the President declared the San Gabriels a national monument, almost 200 jobs and educational experiences have been created as the Forest Service hired youth crews from the area. This increased access will improve the health of our communities and deepen the connection of all residents to our most precious natural resources.”