Dear Partners,
The landscape of nonprofit work, public health, environmental protection, and community services is changing rapidly, thanks to recent actions taken by the current Administration. Through Executive Orders, significant shifts are occurring that could directly affect the operations of organizations like ours, especially those relying on federal grants and funding to support community programs and services.
Yesterday, Governor Josh Shapiro announced a lawsuit challenging the freeze of $1.2 billion in state funding approved to benefit Pennsylvanians. While this figure is large, it’s important to recognize that it doesn’t reflect the millions of dollars in other direct federal contract agreements that fund crucial programs—programs that help support communities, particularly when it comes to clean water access, environmental protection, and public health.
At H2O Water Network, we believe that it’s essential for all of us to stay informed and remain engaged, as the implications of these changes unfold. Our varied traditions and belief systems call on us to care for one another, and this moment presents an opportunity for us to unite in advocating for sustainable water solutions, climate resilience, and policies that prioritize the health and well-being of all communities.
What is an Executive Order?
To start, it’s important to understand what an Executive Order (EO) is and how it influences policy. EOs are directives issued by the President that guide federal agencies in their operations and decision-making processes. While they are not legislation, EOs carry significant weight, as they can direct agencies on how to enforce or implement certain laws. These orders remain in effect unless they are overturned or rescinded. Each President has issued at least one EO, and some have far-reaching consequences for sectors like energy, water, and the environment.
The current administration’s Executive Orders are focused on a few key goals, such as increasing domestic fossil fuel production, withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, and rolling back various environmental protections. These actions directly affect climate change policies, water management, and energy use in ways that may have long-term consequences for water resources, especially in communities already facing pollution and water stress.
Implications for Climate and Environmental Protection
The current administration has made it clear that it prioritizes domestic fossil fuel energy production and is aiming to reverse previous environmental protections in favor of policies that promote oil, gas, and natural gas development. Some of the major Executive Orders related to climate and environmental protection include:
• “Declaring a National Energy Emergency”
• “Unleashing American Energy”
• “Putting America First In International Environmental Agreements”
• “Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential”
• “Temporary Withdrawal of Areas on the Outer Continental Shelf from Offshore Wind Leasing”
These directives have far-reaching implications. They signal a retreat from renewable energy initiatives like wind development and place more emphasis on expanding fossil fuel use, including liquid natural gas (LNG) pipelines in Alaska. This shift threatens to delay progress on climate adaptation and water stewardship in the face of growing environmental challenges.
Most concerning, these actions also involve rolling back efforts to integrate environmental justice (EJ) and equity into decision-making, threatening vulnerable communities that have long struggled with water quality issues, pollution, and lack of access to clean resources. It’s crucial for organizations like ours to remain vigilant, advocate for water justice, and continue pushing for policies that prioritize the protection of our natural resources.
A Call to Action
This is where we need your help. We call on our partners in the H2O Water Network and the larger water and environmental advocacy community to raise their moral voices during this critical time. Reach out to your Senators and Members of Congress to express your concerns and share how these recent Executive Orders could potentially undermine the work we’ve all been doing to protect water and ensure environmental equity. Together, we can make a difference in shaping the future of water stewardship and environmental protections for all.
To assist in this advocacy, we have provided a template that you can use for calling your representatives. You can also directly contact your Senators and Representatives through these links: TEMPLATE HERE
•Find your Senators here.
•Find your Representatives here.
Alternatively, you can call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 to be connected directly to your representative’s office.
Why It Matters to Us All
The changes brought about by these Executive Orders may impact the communities we serve, the water systems we protect, and the long-term goals of environmental sustainability. If we stand together, we can advocate for policy changes that ensure clean, safe water for all and a future where everyone has access to the resources they need. At H2O Water Network, we remain committed to water justice, climate resilience, and community-centered solutions. Together, let’s continue to lead the way in protecting water as a fundamental human right.
