Feds Should Get Out of California's Way on Global Warming Rules for Cars

Statement of David Doniger, NRDC Climate Center Policy Director

WASHINGTON (Nov. 8, 2007) – California was right to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today over its delay in granting what should be a routine clearance to implement the latest phase of California’s motor vehicle emission standards, which are designed to cut global warming pollution from cars, SUVs, and other vehicles, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).

Following is a statement by David Doniger, NRDC Climate Center Policy Director:

“It’s ridiculous that California should have to sue EPA to get permission to implement its clean car standards. California has the legal right under the Clean Air Act to set motor vehicle pollution rules that are tougher than the federal government’s. There’s an old saying: lead, follow or get out of the way. For forty years, California has been the nation’s leader in bringing us cleaner cars. The Bush administration has been blocking this road for two years. Now it’s time for them to move to the shoulder and let California pass.

“California and 16 other states that have adopted or are adopting the state’s rules are taking the lead in fighting global warming. The Bush EPA should just get out of their way.”

Ironically, while EPA hems and haws, NRDC has uncovered a White House-cleared report to other countries by the State Department that takes credit for California’s standards as a key part of U.S. action on global warming. For more information see David Doniger’s blog on the State Department report and the California lawsuit at http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/ddoniger/

Source: Natural Resources Defense Council

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