Statement of Steve Xiarhos Against TCI

For Immediate Release Feb. 19, 2020

BARNSTABLE – Steven Xiarhos, candidate for state Representative in the Fifth Barnstable District, issued the following statement today about the so-called Transportation Climate Initiative (“TCI”) and related legislation:

“I oppose having Massachusetts join the Transportation Climate Initiative (“TCI”). I strongly believe in the importance of protecting our environment, especially here on Cape Cod. However, I feel the issue is predominantly one of personal responsibility. Safeguarding our environmentally-sensitive areas should not come at the expense of taxpayers by way of more gas taxes. Massachusetts voters have already spoken decisively — the voters said they do not want our state’s gas tax to increase, and neither do I.

“Recently, House Minority Leader Bradley Jones and several other members proposed legislation to require that interstate compacts be presented to the General Court for consideration by appropriate committees and potential legislative disapproval. I think that idea has merit. Significant changes in the way our state works are generally best-considered with the diversity of opinion and experience found within the Legislature. As someone running for state Representative, I hope to bring my years of professional experience and training to work on a variety of issues, including improving public safety, protecting taxpayers, and promoting good government, for the benefit of the people of the Fifth Barnstable District and beyond. If given the chance to vote on whether Massachusetts should join the TCI Compact, I will respectfully vote ‘no’.”

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