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EPA Bucks Bush Policy, Lets Calif. Set Own CO2 Standard

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 30, 2009 1:08 PM CDT

(Newser) – The Environmental Protection Agency today granted California the right to set its own strict emissions standards, an about-face from Bush-era policies, Reuters reports. In a sly rebuke to the previous administration, the EPA said the move rested on a “traditional legal interpretation of the Clean Air Act.” California first requested permission to go beyond federal standards in 2005; the waiver was denied in 2008.

“This decision puts the law and science first,” said EPA administrator Lisa Jackson. “After review of the scientific findings, and another comprehensive round of public engagement, I have decided this is the appropriate course under the law.” President Obama directed the agency to revisit the issue shortly after his inauguration, and the decision jibes with his plan to reduce emissions nationwide.

EPA administrator Lisa Jackson.
EPA administrator Lisa Jackson.   (AP Photo)
Former President George W. Bush.
Former President George W. Bush.   (AP Photo)
The Conoco Oil Refinery in Rodeo, Calif.
The Conoco Oil Refinery in Rodeo, Calif.   (AP Photo)
Traffic in Los Angeles.
Traffic in Los Angeles.   (AP Photo)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 8 comments
Newser001
Jul 2, 2009 5:34 AM CDT
News Flash - They already have been... The industry sued California to put a stop to their demanding standards and practices. In hind sight, they should have made the California standard the National standard.
ChickenChopper
Jul 1, 2009 1:40 AM CDT
more more name-calling and zero substance or fact...nothing new here is see
ChickenChopper
Jul 1, 2009 1:39 AM CDT
snarfeh...really dude, you know the freaks pick and choose based on what suits their argument...it doesnt have to be based on fact or reason...just like their idols on FOX news...j

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