Published in the Davis Enterprise
July 20, 2007
Many thanks to Assemblymember Lois Wolk for standing up for consumers and the environment, and voting for AB 493, the Clean Car Discount Act, which would reduce global warming, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and speed up availability of more fuel-efficient vehicles in all vehicle categories.
Also, many thanks to all the Davis Enterprise readers who called Wolk to express their support.
Assemblymember Wolk was one of 35 Democratic lawmakers who voted "AYE" for AB 493. As a block, Republicans voted NO. Auto manufacturers and dealers pressured enough "swing" democratic lawmakers--most from Los Angeles--to keep the bill from getting the 41 votes needed for passage.
However, the author, Assemblymember Ira Ruskin (D-Redwood City) has vowed to revive the measure next January. Environmental, consumer, and responsible business groups are also determined to forge ahead.
Meanwhile, please let Assemblymember Wolk know how much you appreciate her courageous, pro-consumer, pro-environmental stand. We thank her from the bottom of our lungs.
Sincerely,
Rosemary Shahan
President, Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety
Sacramento