REP. JOHN W. “JACK” LYLE JR., R-Lincoln, has been selected as the 2020 Rhode Island State Lead for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators, which recognizes his leadership for promoting innovative and effective environmental policy in Rhode Island. Lyle, who spent 25 years teaching social studies at Lincoln High School, seven years as a principal at Central Falls High School and two years as superintendent of the Block Island School, now practices law as an “of counsel” member of the Providence-based law firm LaPlante Sowa Goldman and is an independent arbitrator with the National Center for Dispute Settlement.
What is your reaction to being selected as the 2020 Rhode Island State Lead for the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators? I am honored to be selected to serve in this capacity. I am compelled to thank Rep. Arthur Handy, [D-Cranston], for his work in promoting issues that impact our environment, as well as his encouragement to pursue this post.
How did you get involved with legislating? I was fortunate to grow up in a very politically motivated family. Believing that I could make a difference, I ran for the Senate in 1978. Undeterred, I successfully ran again in 1980. After serving three terms, I ran unsuccessfully for secretary of state. In 1990, I decided to get back into the game and was elected to two more terms and then stepped aside to focus on my career and family. In 1998, I was encouraged to run for the House to fill a vacancy created when my predecessor stepped down. I believed that on the basis of my career and political experience, I had something to offer the residents of my district and am thrilled to be back at the Statehouse.
What from your background will aid you in your endeavors as lead? I have consistently sought to serve on the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. This experience should serve me well as we seek to tackle some of the lingering environmental issues that we face as Rhode Islanders. I have a demonstrated ability to work with parties across the aisle and have always strived to achieve consensus in terms of resolving thorny issues.
What are your concerns about the current environmental climate in Rhode Island, and how can they be addressed? In our rush to seek alternative energy sources, I am concerned that some of the work that has been accomplished might be undone, jeopardizing the quality of both our air and water. We must continue to educate our citizens about the importance of recycling and properly disposing of refuse and trash.
What will be your primary goal during your tenure and how do you plan on accomplishing it? I am committed to the goal of making certain that every Rhode Islander is able to enjoy clean air and water, and that our recycling program operates efficiently. In addition, we must reduce our reliance on the Johnston landfill and work to make certain that single-use plastics and Styrofoam are eliminated from our waste stream.
