I'm Thrilled.

As a long-time advocate for the rights of the states I am absolutely thrilled with California, Washington and New York taking the initiative to join the Paris Climate Accords, although since they are not recognized members of the United Nations I think full membership may be problematic, but why get bogged down in the details?  I am also hopeful Massachusetts, Connecticut, Vermont, Oregon, Michigan, Nevada, Virginia and Pittsburgh will soon join them, as they increase taxes on business and homeowners to help raise the money to begin the revisions to their infrastructure, fund the changes to eliminate fossil fuels as a power source, as well as make payments to less fortunate nation-states, it will be fun to watch as their general populations embrace these changes.

California is also discussing the implementation of a single-payer health care system that will triple the annual operating budget for the state.  Although ambitious in nature, no one ever said progress was cheap. 

I wish these three states, and the others states or cities who will join them, well as they engage together to save the planet at the cost of industry and infrastructure to their citizens.  I would suggest all those who’ve been emotionally traumatized by the President’s decision to abandon the accords show your support for these visionary states by sending your contributions directly to the Governors, or better yet, if you are not already there with them -- move to help them implement their vision for a less hot tomorrow.

As you prepare for this great leap just a couple of simple planning figures.  Nation-wide the average cost of a single-family home in 2016 was $186,000.  In California, their average was $448,000, New York - $256,300, and Washington -- $277,000.  So, if you are moving from say Florida (where taxes and home costs are low) you might want to brace yourself for the sticker shock. 

By the way, if you're not taking public transportation, drive a car that uses gasoline, or use air conditioning in the summer, perhaps its time to ask yourself, how serious are you about this whole climate change problem?