Rep. Dave Upthegrove (D-33)

Representative Upthegrove has demonstrated a unique ability to build broad support on environmental issues even when pitted against intense opposition, such as with climate change. As Chair of the Ecology & Parks Committee, he plays a leadership role in ensuring that environmental programs are funded in the budget. In 2010, he led efforts by the House’s “Blue-Green Alliance” to ensure that every dollar for environmental budget priorities was restored in the final package. Representative Upthegrove also helped craft the environmental community’s Clean Water priority bill, and he was instrumental in 2009 in the effort to successfully fend off legislative attacks on I-937, the Clean Energy Initiative.