Gov't Study Backs Calif. Emission Rules

[PhilipShore]

The Associated Press
Gov't Study Backs Calif. Emission Rules
March 16, 2006

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/politics/3727930.html

WASHINGTON — A government report released Thursday does not recommend giving the Environmental Protection Agency the power to stop states from adopting tough vehicle-emission standards similar to those in California.

In a setback for automakers, the National Academies' National Research Council said California's role in setting emission standards has been scientifically valid and necessary because of persistent pollution in parts of the nation's most populous state.

The study, eagerly anticipated by the auto industry and environmentalists, examined emissions standards for mobile sources such as cars, light trucks and construction vehicles. The panel found that substantial progress has been made in reducing emissions but more needs to be done to meet federal air-quality standards in many parts of the country.

Environmentalists said the study reaffirmed the role of states in reducing air pollution and global warming.