IV Post

Washington, DC - Earlier this week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) denied California’s petition to adopt more stringent greenhouse gas emission laws for cars and light trucks. EPA Administrator Steve Johnson stated that California does not have the "compelling and extraordinary conditions" required for a waiver under the Clean Air Act, because the rest of the nation also suffers from the effects of global warming. However, the EPA has granted California such Clean Air Act waivers in the past.

"This is outrageous and unacceptable!” said Congressman Filner. “The EPA is obligated to protect the public from dangerous air pollutants that jeopardize our health and endanger public welfare, and they are failing to fulfill their duty. Global warming is a very compelling reason to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, and we cannot let the Bush Administration play politics with the environment. California has taken the first step and we must address these issues NOW!

Governor Schwarzenegger has already filed a lawsuit against the EPA to reverse the decision. Congressman Filner supports the lawsuit and will work with his colleagues to urge EPA Administrator Johnson to reverse the decision.

Story courtesy of the Imperial Valley News