New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson Applauds President Obama’s Move to Allow States to Set Tougher Vehicle Emissions Standards

New Mexico standards set to take effect in 2011 model year

January 26, 2009 -- SANTA FE, NM- New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today applauded President Barack Obama’s decision to move quickly to allow states to set their own standards for vehicle emissions. The President has directed the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider granting California a waiver to allow it to implement emissions standards more stringent than the current national requirements. California’s request for a waiver was denied by the Bush administration.

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"Allowing states to set emissions standards will help jump-start efforts to create green jobs, reduce our dependence on imported oil, and to reduce global climate change,” said Governor Richardson. “After eight years of inaction under the previous administration, President Obama is sending a clear message that it is time to act boldly and decisively. New Mexico has been a leader on green energy issues and this change would allow us to take another giant step forward."

Regulations passed by the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board will require that vehicles manufactured for the model year 2011 and sold in New Mexico comply with strict new fuel emissions standards. You can view those standards at: http://www.nmcpr.state.nm.us/nmac/parts/title20/20.002.0088.htm.

Source: New Mexico Governor