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Advocating
for Stronger CAFE Standards
The Coalition
on the Environment and Jewish Life in Southern
California
In January 2002, COEJL Southern California asked
Governor Davis and members of the State Legislature
to support Assembly Bill 1058 sponsored by Assemblymember Fran Pavley. This legislation required
the California Air Resources Board to set standards
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, specifically
carbon dioxide, from passenger vehicles and light-duty
trucks. Vehicular sources are responsible for
59 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions in California. Despite
intensive opposition from within the automotive
industry, the bill, reintroduced as AB 1493, was
passed by the Legislature and was signed by the
Governor into law on July 22, 2002. In recognition
of their efforts, CoejlSC was invited to the signing
ceremony of this historic piece of legislation.
In June 2003, CoejlSC and the Los Angeles Interfaith Environmental Council, in partnership
with the City of Los Angeles led by Councilmember
Eric Garcetti, honored Pavley, among other community
leaders, for her environmental achievements at
the 4th Annual Environmentalist of the Year Awards
reception. “Throughout all religions, the
message is clear that it is our responsibility
to care for creation,” said CoejlSC President
and LAIEC Co-Chair Lee H. Wallach. “Assemblymember Pavley understands this responsibility,
and we applaud and support her efforts to improve
our environment and quality of life.”
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In 2004 the California Air Resources Board officially
adopted the regulations to implement AB 1493,
which will regulate and control greenhouse gas
emissions from passenger automobiles and light-duty trucks. In addition, Governor Schwarzenegger
signed into law AB 2628, which allows single-occupant
hybrid cars to use carpool lanes.
CoejlSC is now actively supporting California
Assemblymember Fran Pavley in her effort to have
the State of California sign on to the Kyoto Accords.
As the 5th largest economy in the world, and a
progressive leader on many issues, California
would maintain its place at the forefront of environmental
policy through this symbolic gesture.
Contact: CoejlSC program director, Jessica Freedman
at COEJLSC@aol.com
or 310-841-2970
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