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Turning environmental values into priorities for Texas
See ya later
Friends, the time has come for me to move on as Executive Director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. Now that the legislative session has concluded, and the League's programs are off to a good start for the summer - including welcoming two outstanding new summer interns, Brian Kates and Patrick Moore - I've decided to move on, spending time this summer travelling and spending time with my family.
It's been an honor and privilege for me to serve the League this past year, and I've especially enjoyed getting to know the League's friends and supporters. I have every confidence that you, together with the League's board of directors and Interim Director Lize Burr (formerly Coordinator of the Alliance for a Clean Texas), will continue to accomplish great things holding our officials accountable for Texas' clean air, clean water and clean energy.
Please keep up the good work. Remember to vote for the environment, and please keep doing all you can to protect what's best about Texas for future generations.
Thursday, May 28, 2009It's been an honor and privilege for me to serve the League this past year, and I've especially enjoyed getting to know the League's friends and supporters. I have every confidence that you, together with the League's board of directors and Interim Director Lize Burr (formerly Coordinator of the Alliance for a Clean Texas), will continue to accomplish great things holding our officials accountable for Texas' clean air, clean water and clean energy.
Please keep up the good work. Remember to vote for the environment, and please keep doing all you can to protect what's best about Texas for future generations.
Be A Major League Player
Imagine a bright future for Texas. Healthy families thriving with a high quality of life. Enough clean air, clean water and affordable clean energy for everybody. Believe it or not, I think that's a future many legislators in Austin want to help bring about. Alas, the current legislative session is almost over -- and may not accomplish much more -- but the hard work of creating our future is just getting started.
Thanks to folks like you, the Texas League of Conservation Voters is becoming a powerhouse for the advancement of a bright future for Texas. During the last election, we won most of the races we endorsed because of your hard work and support.
As the legislature concludes we are getting ready to put together our legislative score card -- the gold standard of Texas conservation accountability -- and getting ready for the 2010 election cycle. We need more everyday Texans to help out.
Forgive the baseball reference, but you're up to bat. In order for us to get our job done, we invite you to become a Major League Player in Texas.
When you sign up to becomes a Major League Player with the Texas League, you are signing up to give a small, recurring, long term to help ensure we have the resources we need to widely distribute our legislative scorecard, support pro-conservation champions, and ensure the League has the resources it needs achieve our mission.
Do you have what it takes to become a Major League Player?
Any donation of $5, $10, $15, $25, or anything else you are able to give every month will make you a Major League Player for TLCV.
We know times are tough, and that is why we value every dollar you can give to make sure Texans have the tools we need to win a brighter future.
Sign up today and make sure you can help us win more pro-conservation champions in the Texas Legislature -- or a brighter future.
Thanks for all you do and thanks for considering my invitation to become a TLCV Major League Player.
Friday, May 08, 2009Thanks to folks like you, the Texas League of Conservation Voters is becoming a powerhouse for the advancement of a bright future for Texas. During the last election, we won most of the races we endorsed because of your hard work and support.
As the legislature concludes we are getting ready to put together our legislative score card -- the gold standard of Texas conservation accountability -- and getting ready for the 2010 election cycle. We need more everyday Texans to help out.
Forgive the baseball reference, but you're up to bat. In order for us to get our job done, we invite you to become a Major League Player in Texas.
When you sign up to becomes a Major League Player with the Texas League, you are signing up to give a small, recurring, long term to help ensure we have the resources we need to widely distribute our legislative scorecard, support pro-conservation champions, and ensure the League has the resources it needs achieve our mission.
Do you have what it takes to become a Major League Player?
Any donation of $5, $10, $15, $25, or anything else you are able to give every month will make you a Major League Player for TLCV.
We know times are tough, and that is why we value every dollar you can give to make sure Texans have the tools we need to win a brighter future.
Sign up today and make sure you can help us win more pro-conservation champions in the Texas Legislature -- or a brighter future.
Thanks for all you do and thanks for considering my invitation to become a TLCV Major League Player.
ACT: SB 541 Needs Our Support: Call Your Senator TODAY!
Our friend Lize Burr from the Alliance for a Clean Texas is informing all of us of an urgent action.
Great news! Senator Watson's SB 541 has been placed on the Senate intent calendar and will soon be on the Senate floor. This bill would establish a goal of 3,000 mega watts of renewable energy, a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) for the state. The commitment in SB 541 to solar and other renewable energy is very much like the commitment made to wind in 1999. This bill would pave the way for Texas to become the national leader in solar generation. (Today, Texas is ranked 9th in solar power generation, hard as that may be to believe.)
Please call your senator today and ask him or her to support SB 541.
SB 541 is one of two major renewable energy bills ACT supports this session. (The other bill, Senator Fraser’s SB 545, has been passed by the Senate and is now in the House Committee on Energy Resources.) Passing both bills is essential to making Texas the national leader in solar energy. SB 541 would establish solar and other renewable energy on a utility scale, as was done for wind in 1999. SB 545 would establish a statewide goal for distributed generation such as rooftop solar - an essential component to making Texas the leader in the booming solar manufacturing industry.
With time running out on the 81st Session, we need to take action today:
For further information on renewable energy, please visit the ACT website:
http://www.acttexas.org/issues/renewables
Wednesday, April 29, 2009Great news! Senator Watson's SB 541 has been placed on the Senate intent calendar and will soon be on the Senate floor. This bill would establish a goal of 3,000 mega watts of renewable energy, a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) for the state. The commitment in SB 541 to solar and other renewable energy is very much like the commitment made to wind in 1999. This bill would pave the way for Texas to become the national leader in solar generation. (Today, Texas is ranked 9th in solar power generation, hard as that may be to believe.)
Please call your senator today and ask him or her to support SB 541.
SB 541 is one of two major renewable energy bills ACT supports this session. (The other bill, Senator Fraser’s SB 545, has been passed by the Senate and is now in the House Committee on Energy Resources.) Passing both bills is essential to making Texas the national leader in solar energy. SB 541 would establish solar and other renewable energy on a utility scale, as was done for wind in 1999. SB 545 would establish a statewide goal for distributed generation such as rooftop solar - an essential component to making Texas the leader in the booming solar manufacturing industry.
With time running out on the 81st Session, we need to take action today:
Please contact your senator and urge her or him to support SB 541. Texas is blessed with the natural resources to be the national leader in solar and other renewable energy, just as we are with wind. Remind her or him that Texas needs to make the strongest commitment to solar and other renewable energy to become the national leader in this emerging industry. By passing both SB 541 and SB 545, Texas will continue to be the nation's foremost energy innovator.Thank you for your advocacy for renewable energy in our state and for everything you do to make Texas a cleaner, healthier place to live.
For further information on renewable energy, please visit the ACT website:
http://www.acttexas.org/issues/renewables
Beach Erosion Funding Eroding
Our friends at Environment Texas have startling news. A deal to create funding to maintain our Texas parks and beaches has fallen apart because of the Texas Oil and Gas Association.
Rep. Allan Ritter proposed legislation that would have called for a modest increase on the fees on oil loaded or unloaded inside Texas ports by a mere $0.0066. While the fee is a near inconsequential amount for companies that are seeing ever increasing profits, the small increase would have funded beach erosion programs and indirectly funded efforts to protect our state's natural heritage and preserve state parks.
According to Environment Texas, a parliamentary trick was used by TexOGA ally Rep. Warren Chisum, which forced Rep. Ritter to pull down his bill. So once again Texas beaches may suffer because of the Oil Lobby..
Now, it's up to the members of the budget conference committee (Senators Steve Ogden, Juan Hinojosa, Tommy Williams, Florence Shapiro, Royce West and Representatives Jim Pitts, Richard Raymond, John Otto, Ruth Jones McClendon, John Zerwas) to find the funding.
Thursday, April 23, 2009Rep. Allan Ritter proposed legislation that would have called for a modest increase on the fees on oil loaded or unloaded inside Texas ports by a mere $0.0066. While the fee is a near inconsequential amount for companies that are seeing ever increasing profits, the small increase would have funded beach erosion programs and indirectly funded efforts to protect our state's natural heritage and preserve state parks.
According to Environment Texas, a parliamentary trick was used by TexOGA ally Rep. Warren Chisum, which forced Rep. Ritter to pull down his bill. So once again Texas beaches may suffer because of the Oil Lobby..
Now, it's up to the members of the budget conference committee (Senators Steve Ogden, Juan Hinojosa, Tommy Williams, Florence Shapiro, Royce West and Representatives Jim Pitts, Richard Raymond, John Otto, Ruth Jones McClendon, John Zerwas) to find the funding.
Earth Day Round Up
Hope all y'all had a nice Earth Day yesterday! Folks generally are noting a sense of hopefulness and excitement this Earth Day, compared to last year.
For example, there's a raft of good bills working their way through the Texas Legislature. TLCV board president Jim Marston, along with Ken Kramer of the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club and Tom "Smitty" Smith of Public Citizen, talked about the hopefulness - and urgency - of this Earth Day in an op-ed in yesterday's Austin American-Statesman:
Smitty goes on to say (in the Texas Observer's Floor Pass blog):
"There are more good bills in the lege session than I can keep up with," Smitty says. "It is reminiscent of the 1991 legislative session when Ann Richards was elected and there was a wave of reform. This is the best session I've had in 18 years."
And it isn't just the usual suspects saying interesting things around Earth Day. Rep. David Swinford of Amarillo (who earned an unimpressive 31% on the League's 2007 Scorecard), has seen the light. Laying out his solar incentive bill, HB 3405, Rep. Swinford said, "Solar fits Texas like a glove." He made an excellent case for why the state should make an early investment in solar energy production. Texas, he said, should not miss out on the chance to establish major solar manufacturing businesses here. Our state can become the leader in yet another energy sector. Solar is smart business for Texas, and Rep. Swinford knows it. Here's hoping the rest of the Texas Legislature does, too!
There was plenty going on around Earth Day this year, and much of it was about the bright future for our state that legislators in Austin are working towards -- here's hoping they don't get derailed, and that good bills don't get vetoed by Governor Perry, at the end of the lege session.
Labels: Earth Day 2009
Happy Earth Day!
We are already working towards making next year's Earth Day better for every Texan.
On May 6th we are throwing a fundraising event to honor the pro-conservation class of 2009 and we are using this time to begin raising money for the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Action Committee.
Simply, this event will be a time to honor our conservation champions and also begin the long process of laying the groundwork to make sure there is a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House and Senate!
Monday, April 13, 2009On May 6th we are throwing a fundraising event to honor the pro-conservation class of 2009 and we are using this time to begin raising money for the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Action Committee.
Simply, this event will be a time to honor our conservation champions and also begin the long process of laying the groundwork to make sure there is a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House and Senate!
With your help and support we can preserve our Texas heritage and keep Texas a special place for future generations.
Tickets to the May 6th reception start at $50, but if you can't attend or make a donation of $50, please feel free to celebrate this Earth Day with a donation of any size to the Texas League of Conservation Voters today!
Every dollar you give goes directly to electing environmental leaders. What better way to celebrate Earth Day?
Thank for everything you do!
Join Us as We Honor the Pro-Conservation Class of 2009
Please Join Us as we
Honor the Pro-Conservation Class of 2009
Wednesday, May 6th
6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Home of Gary Lee Ewell and Teresa Oppedal
2313 Woodlawn Boulevard
You can help pass good environmental laws in Texas by supporting the League's work electing pro-conservation leaders to the legislature and holding them accountable for clean air, clean energy and green jobs.
The Board of Directors invites you to a special fundraising reception honoring freshman members of the Texas House and Senate elected in November with the League's endorsement:
Sen. Wendy Davis (Fort Worth)
Rep. Carol Kent (Richardson)
Rep. Diana Maldonado (Round Rock)
Rep. Robert Miklos (Mesquite)
Rep. Joe Moody (El Paso)
Rep. Kristi Thibaut (Alief)
Rep. Chris Turner (Arlington)
Rep. Carol Kent (Richardson)
Rep. Diana Maldonado (Round Rock)
Rep. Robert Miklos (Mesquite)
Rep. Joe Moody (El Paso)
Rep. Kristi Thibaut (Alief)
Rep. Chris Turner (Arlington)
(Legislators' attendance subject to Capitol business)
Sponsorships and Tickets can be purchased securely online.
(to be listed as a sponsor in event materials, please respond by May 1st)
The Texas Legislature concludes its session in a few short weeks. After electing a number of new pro-conservation champions last November, we've focused on getting legislators to address the most important environmental issues facing our state: investing the surplus to create green jobs, cleaning up Texas air quality, making Texas a renewable energy leader, and protect what's best about Texas for future generations. Our legislative scorecard, forthcoming late summer or fall, helps Texas voters choose better conservation leadership.
Your help, through your gift in support of our event, provides the resources we need to save the Texas environment one politician at a time. Please give generously and join us on the 6th, and thanks for all you do.
Questions? Need more information? Call us at (512) 477-4424 or e-mail at TLCV@TLCV.org
No Public Hearing for Cement Kiln Permit
Today's Dallas Morning News reports that TXI's cement plant in Midlothian, on the south edge of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, can operate for 10 more years. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality approved by a two-to-one vote TXI's permit renewal request, and declined to hold public hearings on the matter.
Said TCEQ Commissioner Bryan Shaw (who cast one of the two votes in favor of renewal), as quoted in the DMN:
He went on to say that economic concerns trump concerns over the Metroplex's horrible air quality:
For those unaware of the Midlothian cement kilns owned by TXI, they are the largest industrial plant in North Texas, as well as the biggest industrial source of air pollution, and - if that's not enough to raise red flags among TCEQ Commissioners - the only cement plant in Texas allowed to burn hazardous waste as fuel.
So the TCEQ renewed the permit and didn't allow a public hearing to occur on the questions. Rep. Lon Burnam (Fort Worth) was allowed, as a legislative courtesy, to speak at a TCEQ meeting where he said,
Part of the problem is that the laws of Texas governing this kind of thing aren't as clear as they need to be. You can see that in Commissioner Shaw's remarks above: he consistently says the law seems to say or seems to intend or seems to require.
Our leaders in Austin should work to remove the perception of what the law seems to do, and focus on some language that says specifically that when a huge polluter has a permit up for renewal, we can at least hold a public hearing. We can at least get some research to show just how much economic prosperity we may be buying with lower air quality. We can at least raise public awareness and provide opportunities for the public to demand that legislators hold polluters accountable.
Folks like Rep. Lon Burnam stand up every time for issues like this. There are good people in Midlothian and the surrounding areas who stand up to oppose the permit renewal. Those folks have been shut down again and again.
TCEQ needs instruction from the Legislature on how to interpret the laws it is tasked with enforcing, or it needs better laws.
The League is supporting a raft of proposals, developed through our coalition the Alliance for a Clean Texas, making their way through the legislative process right now in Austin that begin to address air quality issues in Texas cities and regions.
Involvement of Texas voters - particularly those impacted by poor air quality caused by the TXI cement kilns - can begin to turn the tide and require that air quality isn't the last thing considered when it comes to industrial plants. It should be at the top of the list, right behind economic opportunity.
Labels: cement kiln, cement plant, Commissioner Bryan Shaw, midlothian, TCEQ, TXI
Austin: Environmental Elections Forum April 9th!
There's a lot of local races going on in Texas for elections to city councils, for mayors, and more.
This week in Austin, there's an exciting event scheduled. The environmental elections forum is April 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the city council chambers at City Hall. Here are the details and some background:
From before its founding over 170 years ago, Austin has attracted outsiders and retained its native citizens due largely to its natural beauty and diverse setting straddling the Texas Hill Country and the Blackland Prairie to the East. But preserving our environmental heritage has never been easy and has always required the committed struggle of the citizenry.
Will Austin remain a green, livable city tomorrow? Only if Austinites take the initiative today to protect our environmental heritage.
Join us at the Combined Environmental Mayoral/City Council Forum on April 9 to ensure that voters select the candidates best suited to protect and preserve Austin's environmental inheritance. For further details and to view responses to our candidate questionnaire, please click here.
2009 Combined Environmental Mayoral/City Council Forum
Location: City Hall, Council Chambers
5:30pm: Reception + Intro
6:00pm-6:30pm: Place 6 (Cole (I) vs. Osemene)
6:35pm-7:05pm: Place 1 (Riley vs. Cavazos)
7:10pm-7:40pm: Place 2 (Martinez (I) vs. Quintero)
7:45pm-7:55pm: Place 5 (Spelman)
8:00pm-9:00pm: Mayor
Refreshments will be served.
Brought to you by the following groups:
American Youthworks, Austin Metro Trails and Greenways, Austin Permaculture Guild, Austin EcoNetwork, Central Texas Zero Waste Alliance, Citizen Gardner, Clean Water Action, Environment Texas, League of Bicycling Voters, OHPEN, PODER, Public Citizen, Save Barton Creek Association, Save Our Springs Alliance, Sierra Club, Austin Chapter, SEED Coalition, Solar Austin, Sustainable Food Center, Texas Campaign for the Environment, Texas Climate Emergency Campaign, Texas Environmental Democrats, Texas Green Network
Special kudos to Robin Schneider of the Texas Campaign for the Environment for bringing all this together. Austin - hope to see y 'all on Wednesday!
Wednesday, April 01, 2009This week in Austin, there's an exciting event scheduled. The environmental elections forum is April 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the city council chambers at City Hall. Here are the details and some background:
From before its founding over 170 years ago, Austin has attracted outsiders and retained its native citizens due largely to its natural beauty and diverse setting straddling the Texas Hill Country and the Blackland Prairie to the East. But preserving our environmental heritage has never been easy and has always required the committed struggle of the citizenry.
Will Austin remain a green, livable city tomorrow? Only if Austinites take the initiative today to protect our environmental heritage.
Join us at the Combined Environmental Mayoral/City Council Forum on April 9 to ensure that voters select the candidates best suited to protect and preserve Austin's environmental inheritance. For further details and to view responses to our candidate questionnaire, please click here.
2009 Combined Environmental Mayoral/City Council Forum
Location: City Hall, Council Chambers
5:30pm: Reception + Intro
6:00pm-6:30pm: Place 6 (Cole (I) vs. Osemene)
6:35pm-7:05pm: Place 1 (Riley vs. Cavazos)
7:10pm-7:40pm: Place 2 (Martinez (I) vs. Quintero)
7:45pm-7:55pm: Place 5 (Spelman)
8:00pm-9:00pm: Mayor
Refreshments will be served.
Brought to you by the following groups:
American Youthworks, Austin Metro Trails and Greenways, Austin Permaculture Guild, Austin EcoNetwork, Central Texas Zero Waste Alliance, Citizen Gardner, Clean Water Action, Environment Texas, League of Bicycling Voters, OHPEN, PODER, Public Citizen, Save Barton Creek Association, Save Our Springs Alliance, Sierra Club, Austin Chapter, SEED Coalition, Solar Austin, Sustainable Food Center, Texas Campaign for the Environment, Texas Climate Emergency Campaign, Texas Environmental Democrats, Texas Green Network
Special kudos to Robin Schneider of the Texas Campaign for the Environment for bringing all this together. Austin - hope to see y 'all on Wednesday!
Labels: austin city conucil
Global Warming Debate at SBOE: "Getting Out of Hand"
Here's more on the State Board of Education and science standards.
Op-ed in the Austin American Statesman by Jim Marston: "Texas, the Science Free Zone."
No, this isn't an April Fool's Day joke.
Monday, March 30, 2009Op-ed in the Austin American Statesman by Jim Marston: "Texas, the Science Free Zone."
No, this isn't an April Fool's Day joke.
Labels: climate change, state board of education, textbook standards
"Irked" about global warming "hooey" in the textbooks
The headline in the Austin American-Statesman and other Texas papers pretty much got it right: I'm irked.
The State Board of Education has adopted textbook standards that, at best, raise quesions about the existence of global climate change and, at worst, lead Texas students to join board members burying their heads in the sand rather than acknowledge that addressing climate change is of paramount importance to humanity's future on this planet.
For example (as quoted in the Austin article):
"Conservatives like me think the evidence (for human contributions to global warming) is a bunch of hooey," [State Board of Education chairman, and dentist, Don] McLeroy said.
Respectfully begging to differ, I say what's hooey is school board members who lack scientific or educational credentials passing judgement on sound science and educational philosophy. Furthermore, true conservatives accept science and acknowledge the existence of fact.
And we'll be exporting this hooey across the nation. Our State Board of Education, being such a big textbook customer, essentially gets to dictate what textbooks will say not just here in the Lone Star State but in upwards of 20 others. Irksome indeed.
It should be noted, finally, that board members are elected. That means Texas voters can decide to replace some board members with real experts - or at least academically curious individuals - next election.
Labels: climate change, don mcleroy, hooey, state board of education, textbook standards
You are my sunshine
Happy solar day! Today under the gray skies of Austin, the sun is shining into the Texas Capitol. Today's the day a whole bunch of solar energy bills are heard in the Texas Senate and House. From the Alliance for a Clean Texas:
The League encourages you let the sun shine in by contacting your legislators and asking them to support bills in the legislature that promote renewable energy -- renewable energy like solar power. Check this out before you call. It's a PDF fact sheet about renewable energy.
Take action today to put Texas' sunshine to productive use - generating clean, renewable power and creating green-collar jobs for Texans.
And that's how you can be my sunshine! :-)
Labels: solar day; renewable portfolio standard
Texas Energy Exchange
"We're ranching electricity now!"
Last weekend I visited a ranch in the Hill Country between Kerrville and Fredericksburg. The rancher showed me little green and orange flags marking out where power lines are about to be built across a corner of his land. "We're going to be ranching electricity, now!" he proclaimed -- allowing power lines to be built across your land comes with some financial compensation.
Then today, a press release came out from the companies that will be building power lines, transmitting wind power generated in West Texas to major urban centers like Austin. The release says that workers in Haltom City will assemble the metal lattices for the transmission towers from steel produced by workers in Jewett. Rep. Granger was on hand for the announcement in Fort Worth:
"This is a homegrown project that will provide good jobs here in Texas. Best of all, everything about the project is designed with environmental concerns in mind. Every transmission tower on this project will represent another step on the way to energy independence."
If the steel is manufactured in a way that doesn't pollute too much, this is an example of the kinds of jobs and the kinds of economic activity that will be created as Texas becomes a renewable energy economy. Here now is what some of the 'green jobs' of the future will look like: ranchers harvesting a new kind of "crop," steelworkers building new infrastructure, workers in different parts of Texas all playing a part.
This is a real world example leaders and legislators can keep in mind right now as they consider proposals to support our renewable energy industries, to reduce dependence on foreign energy sources, and to improve air quality - and thereby public health generally - by reducing emissions from polluting industries.
Labels: clean energy future, green economy, green-collar jobs, renewable energy, wind energy
The Texas Youth Climate Summit
Hundreds of students from across Texas will converge on Austin in just a few days for the ReEenergize Texas Summit, the largest Texas Youth Climate Summit ever.
There's a jam-packed agenda and it promises to be a great experience. Check out the details at www.ReEnergizeTexas.org, where you can find all kinds of useful information about participating, including this handy get-out-of-school note!
Date:
Dear [NAME OF TEACHER OR EMPLOYER],
Please excuse [YOUR NAME] from school on March 30th. [YOUR NAME] is attending the ReEnergize Texas Summit, the largest ever Texas Youth Climate Summit involving hundreds of youth from across the state! This conference will provide great training seminars for students and youth. [YOUR NAME] and other young people will learn from the nation's leading scientists, advocates, and organizers about subjects such as how to solve global warming, how to organize powerful education events, and how to make their voices heard and lobby politicians. This is also a great opportunity for [YOUR NAME] to network and share ideas with other students and young people, and make plans to return to [his/her] community and make a difference!
If you have any other questions or comments, please contact any of the following individuals:
Praween Dayananda [phone numbers omitted from blog posting]
Cassy Rivas
Trevor Lovell
Dear [NAME OF TEACHER OR EMPLOYER],
Please excuse [YOUR NAME] from school on March 30th. [YOUR NAME] is attending the ReEnergize Texas Summit, the largest ever Texas Youth Climate Summit involving hundreds of youth from across the state! This conference will provide great training seminars for students and youth. [YOUR NAME] and other young people will learn from the nation's leading scientists, advocates, and organizers about subjects such as how to solve global warming, how to organize powerful education events, and how to make their voices heard and lobby politicians. This is also a great opportunity for [YOUR NAME] to network and share ideas with other students and young people, and make plans to return to [his/her] community and make a difference!
If you have any other questions or comments, please contact any of the following individuals:
Praween Dayananda [phone numbers omitted from blog posting]
Cassy Rivas
Trevor Lovell
Anna Pierce
Thank you for your help and understanding, and we assure you that your [student's/employee's] time will not be wasted.
Thank you for your help and understanding, and we assure you that your [student's/employee's] time will not be wasted.
-The ReEnergize Texas Team
The League doesn't encourage any students to miss school without reason. But we also think that students will learn more in a day of advocacy and lobbying at the summit than they might on a typical school day.
Labels: reenergize texas summit, youth
Court Victory for the Neches River
From a press release from the Texas Conservation Alliance on Thursday:
The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals Thursday affirmed the July 2008 decision by Judge Jorge A. Solis in favor of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge. The City of Dallas and the Texas Water Development Board had filed suit hoping to overturn creation of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge and make way for a reservoir Dallas predicts might be needed in fifty years. Instead, Judge Solis upheld the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2006 creation of the refuge.
"This is wonderful news!" said Janice Bezanson, executive director of Texas Conservation Alliance. "The Neches River Refuge is exceptional wildlife habitat - one of the most important wildlife areas left in Texas. Thousands of Texans wrote letters or signed petitions in support of its creation."
Echoing Janet's quote, above, TLCV Executive Director James Canup said today, "Assuring adequate clean water resources for Texas cities and Texas wildlife is one of the most important challenges facing our state. This ruling from the 5th Circuit is the right decision and it sends the right message: before we build more lakes and reservoirs that destroy habitat and take private land, we should make sure we're doing all we can to conserve existing water resources."
"Thanks to the Court's ruling, Texas kids for generations to come will be able to enjoy a natural, scenic Neches River," he added.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals Thursday affirmed the July 2008 decision by Judge Jorge A. Solis in favor of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge. The City of Dallas and the Texas Water Development Board had filed suit hoping to overturn creation of the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge and make way for a reservoir Dallas predicts might be needed in fifty years. Instead, Judge Solis upheld the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2006 creation of the refuge.
"This is wonderful news!" said Janice Bezanson, executive director of Texas Conservation Alliance. "The Neches River Refuge is exceptional wildlife habitat - one of the most important wildlife areas left in Texas. Thousands of Texans wrote letters or signed petitions in support of its creation."
Echoing Janet's quote, above, TLCV Executive Director James Canup said today, "Assuring adequate clean water resources for Texas cities and Texas wildlife is one of the most important challenges facing our state. This ruling from the 5th Circuit is the right decision and it sends the right message: before we build more lakes and reservoirs that destroy habitat and take private land, we should make sure we're doing all we can to conserve existing water resources."
"Thanks to the Court's ruling, Texas kids for generations to come will be able to enjoy a natural, scenic Neches River," he added.
Labels: national wildlife refuge, neches river, texas conservation alliance
Cows are the new canaries
Something is messing with our cows, and it may be the industrial plant up the road.
Scientific American reports that cattle downwind from industrial facilities right here in Texas suffer genetic damage. Under weight cows, stillborn calves, three legged calves... all cited as results of genetic damage caused by pollution from nearby factories.
The article says:
"Tests have revealed that herds as far as six miles downwind of the factories have more DNA disturbances than other herds not downwind, according to scientists at Texas A & M University. The changes in chromosome structure and other genetic damage can increase the animal's risk of cancer and reproductive damage."
A factory spokesperson says the study's results aren't conclusive about blaming factories for the damage to the cattle:
"The highest evidence of DNA damage was some distance from the industrial plants, rather than close to them," he said, adding that the scientists said in their report that other environmental conditions or cattle herd management might be to blame."
However, the case appears strong for the factory emissions impacting the cows' health. And strong questions are also raised about the impact the emissions are having on non-cows: namely, human beings.
Scientific American goes on to note:
'Niladri Basu, an environmental toxicologist at the University of Michigan who was not involved in the study, said the findings indicate that living downwind of large industrial plants can harm DNA and perhaps harm the health of animals, ecosystems and people. "These results validate the health concerns raised by area residents and a human study is warranted," Basu said.'
In other words, says Randy Mumme, a rancher quoted in the article, "The most important question now is what long-lasting effects will this have on me and on my kids?"
Today in Texas, cattle near polluting factories are the canaries in the coal mine.
Scientific American reports that cattle downwind from industrial facilities right here in Texas suffer genetic damage. Under weight cows, stillborn calves, three legged calves... all cited as results of genetic damage caused by pollution from nearby factories.
The article says:
"Tests have revealed that herds as far as six miles downwind of the factories have more DNA disturbances than other herds not downwind, according to scientists at Texas A & M University. The changes in chromosome structure and other genetic damage can increase the animal's risk of cancer and reproductive damage."
A factory spokesperson says the study's results aren't conclusive about blaming factories for the damage to the cattle:
"The highest evidence of DNA damage was some distance from the industrial plants, rather than close to them," he said, adding that the scientists said in their report that other environmental conditions or cattle herd management might be to blame."
However, the case appears strong for the factory emissions impacting the cows' health. And strong questions are also raised about the impact the emissions are having on non-cows: namely, human beings.
Scientific American goes on to note:
'Niladri Basu, an environmental toxicologist at the University of Michigan who was not involved in the study, said the findings indicate that living downwind of large industrial plants can harm DNA and perhaps harm the health of animals, ecosystems and people. "These results validate the health concerns raised by area residents and a human study is warranted," Basu said.'
In other words, says Randy Mumme, a rancher quoted in the article, "The most important question now is what long-lasting effects will this have on me and on my kids?"
Today in Texas, cattle near polluting factories are the canaries in the coal mine.
Labels: air pollution, cattle, emissions
Legislators: Say "no" by saying "yes"
Every day at the capitol, lobbyists and special interests are asking legislators to "say 'no' to..." something. Say no to toll roads. Say no to higher utility bills. Say no to certain kinds of federal stimulus spending. It would be understandable for our elected officials to be looking around for something - anything - better that they can say "yes" to.
They could probably say "yes" to bills that bring Texans a return on their investment. They could say "yes" to bills that protect private land, to new ideas that build a positive future for our state, that direct federal stimulus funds in ways that contribute to the economic development of Texas communities without creating undue burdens on future taxpayers. They could say "yes," in other words, to any number of proposals that strengthen Texas' economic foundation, create jobs now, and build the economic engines that will power our economy forward in the future without a broad expansion of government into people's private lives.
Proposals like the common-sense ones supported by the Texas League of Conservation Voters.
The League's backing the legislative agenda developed by a range of conservation, public health and environmental organizations that, like us, are part of the Alliance for a Clean Texas. Organizations like the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, the Environmental Defense Fund, Texas Impact, Public Citizen and Environment Texas, among many others.
Today, legislators, instead of saying "no" once again, consider saying "yes" to:
Smart Growth policies at TxDOT that help prioritize creating multiple transit options versus toll roads.
A better Environmental Division at TxDOT, prohibiting land acquisition new roadways until an environmental impact study is completed.
More renewable power options - not just wind, but solar - and generation goals - not just continued dependence on coal-fired power plants.
Improve the energy efficiency of appliances and buildings, and help Texans weatherize their homes to save energy and save money.
Take steps to improve our air quality. Bad air is increasingly affecting Texas' ability to compete nationally and globally on luring business to our state. The longer we wait to improve our air quality, the more it will cost in the long run, the more economic advantages we'll lose out on to other, cleaner parts of the nation, and the longer children and families have to suffer from the health impacts of bad air quality, including high rates of asthma.
Pass "no regrets" legislation that finds out how Texas - by spending absolutely nothing - take some basic steps to address climate change.
Require television manufacturers to take back old TVs so that they don't overfill landfills with toxic metals, and so that Texans don't have to bear the cost of disposal themselves.
See, that isn't so difficult. These seem like real proposals that Texans, and Texas legislators, can say "yes" to.
And these are precisely the kinds of bills, if they come before the full House and Senate, the League will look at really closely as we assess which votes will count in our post-session 2009 Legislative Scorecard.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009They could probably say "yes" to bills that bring Texans a return on their investment. They could say "yes" to bills that protect private land, to new ideas that build a positive future for our state, that direct federal stimulus funds in ways that contribute to the economic development of Texas communities without creating undue burdens on future taxpayers. They could say "yes," in other words, to any number of proposals that strengthen Texas' economic foundation, create jobs now, and build the economic engines that will power our economy forward in the future without a broad expansion of government into people's private lives.
Proposals like the common-sense ones supported by the Texas League of Conservation Voters.
The League's backing the legislative agenda developed by a range of conservation, public health and environmental organizations that, like us, are part of the Alliance for a Clean Texas. Organizations like the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, the Environmental Defense Fund, Texas Impact, Public Citizen and Environment Texas, among many others.
Today, legislators, instead of saying "no" once again, consider saying "yes" to:
Smart Growth policies at TxDOT that help prioritize creating multiple transit options versus toll roads.
A better Environmental Division at TxDOT, prohibiting land acquisition new roadways until an environmental impact study is completed.
More renewable power options - not just wind, but solar - and generation goals - not just continued dependence on coal-fired power plants.
Improve the energy efficiency of appliances and buildings, and help Texans weatherize their homes to save energy and save money.
Take steps to improve our air quality. Bad air is increasingly affecting Texas' ability to compete nationally and globally on luring business to our state. The longer we wait to improve our air quality, the more it will cost in the long run, the more economic advantages we'll lose out on to other, cleaner parts of the nation, and the longer children and families have to suffer from the health impacts of bad air quality, including high rates of asthma.
Pass "no regrets" legislation that finds out how Texas - by spending absolutely nothing - take some basic steps to address climate change.
Require television manufacturers to take back old TVs so that they don't overfill landfills with toxic metals, and so that Texans don't have to bear the cost of disposal themselves.
See, that isn't so difficult. These seem like real proposals that Texans, and Texas legislators, can say "yes" to.
And these are precisely the kinds of bills, if they come before the full House and Senate, the League will look at really closely as we assess which votes will count in our post-session 2009 Legislative Scorecard.
Labels: 2009 legislative scorecard, 81st Texas Legislature, legislative agenda
Houston: Going in Circles?
How many circles of freeways does Houston need around its girth? One more, according to TXDOT's stimulus spending priorities. The idea of a "Grand Parkway," nearabouts 180 miles long, circling the Houston area way out beyond 610 or Sam Houston or Beltway 8.
A number of environmental and conservation groups oppose the Grand Parkway and want stimulus transportation funds devoted more to transit and less towards road construction.
Texas has to strike a balance between adding more roads, which in some cases are needed and in other cases just spur further sprawl and counteract attempts to create liveable cities, and investing in sound transit options like local rail, high speed rail connecting major Texas cities, and removing freight trains from tracks bisecting our big cities.
Meanwhile, the Houston Press says that Houston's green building program, ranked 3rd in the nation for number of green projects, may not be as good as it looks. The Press says other cities just aren't reporting their greenness as well as Houston does.
Let's take our good news however we can get it: whether Houston is really #3, or just looks that way because it reported the statistics, it means a lot to say that, in Texas where we are notorious the world over for our energy consumption and pollution output, the City of Houston is doing what it can to help.
Here's to tipping the balance from more far-flung suburban loop roads towards a vibrant city with lots of transit options and a healthy number of buildings that help address our air quality and energy consumption problems!
Thursday, February 26, 2009A number of environmental and conservation groups oppose the Grand Parkway and want stimulus transportation funds devoted more to transit and less towards road construction.
Texas has to strike a balance between adding more roads, which in some cases are needed and in other cases just spur further sprawl and counteract attempts to create liveable cities, and investing in sound transit options like local rail, high speed rail connecting major Texas cities, and removing freight trains from tracks bisecting our big cities.
Meanwhile, the Houston Press says that Houston's green building program, ranked 3rd in the nation for number of green projects, may not be as good as it looks. The Press says other cities just aren't reporting their greenness as well as Houston does.
Let's take our good news however we can get it: whether Houston is really #3, or just looks that way because it reported the statistics, it means a lot to say that, in Texas where we are notorious the world over for our energy consumption and pollution output, the City of Houston is doing what it can to help.
Here's to tipping the balance from more far-flung suburban loop roads towards a vibrant city with lots of transit options and a healthy number of buildings that help address our air quality and energy consumption problems!
Labels: grand parkway, green buildings, houston
Dress Up Your Car for Free
Are you driving around with a naked bumper? Let us help fix your bumper woes.
Did you know that one bumper sticker can be seen by over 10,000 people per year? Imagine 10,000 people seeing your support for preserving our Texas heritage and environment every year. Imagine the impact your bumper can make.
To help turn this into a reality we are giving away one of two limited edition bumper stickers.
You can tell everyone your car sees that you support the Texas League of Conservation voters, and about your desire to "Hunt, Fish, Vote" or "Camp, Hike, Vote."
All we need is your name, address and an e-mail address and the first bumper sticker is on us. Want to spread the message and give your friends and family we are asking for a small donation of $5 for 5 bumper stickers, $10 for 15, or a modest $20 for 30.
You can sign up to get your free bumper sticker here or make a small donation for a bulk purchase.
Make your car green by adding one of our original bumper stickers today.
Our supplies are limited so please make a donation today and tell everyone why you are a part of the Texas League of Conservation Voter.
Are you sure one is enough? Our bumper stickers also look great on:
Monday, February 23, 2009Did you know that one bumper sticker can be seen by over 10,000 people per year? Imagine 10,000 people seeing your support for preserving our Texas heritage and environment every year. Imagine the impact your bumper can make.
To help turn this into a reality we are giving away one of two limited edition bumper stickers.
You can tell everyone your car sees that you support the Texas League of Conservation voters, and about your desire to "Hunt, Fish, Vote" or "Camp, Hike, Vote."
All we need is your name, address and an e-mail address and the first bumper sticker is on us. Want to spread the message and give your friends and family we are asking for a small donation of $5 for 5 bumper stickers, $10 for 15, or a modest $20 for 30.
You can sign up to get your free bumper sticker here or make a small donation for a bulk purchase.
Make your car green by adding one of our original bumper stickers today.
Our supplies are limited so please make a donation today and tell everyone why you are a part of the Texas League of Conservation Voter.
Are you sure one is enough? Our bumper stickers also look great on:
- Bicycles!
- Trucks!
- Refrigerators!
- Store windows!
- Bulletin boards!
Labels: Bumper Stickers
A green economy that includes everybody
Last week, the League and our partners in the Alliance for a Clean Texas sponsored a successful citizen lobby day.
Thank you to the dozens of Texans who traveled to the capitol to tell legislators to create the green collar, clean energy jobs that will make sure Texas is the energy leader for decades to come.
Participants also attended the Texas Energy Future conference, and heard keynote Van Jones's remarks about building a green economy that includes everybody.
Here's a video excerpt of Van Jones's speech from our friends over at Texas Impact.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009Thank you to the dozens of Texans who traveled to the capitol to tell legislators to create the green collar, clean energy jobs that will make sure Texas is the energy leader for decades to come.
Participants also attended the Texas Energy Future conference, and heard keynote Van Jones's remarks about building a green economy that includes everybody.
Here's a video excerpt of Van Jones's speech from our friends over at Texas Impact.
Labels: van jones
A Conversation With Rep. Joe Moody
Last week we sat down with one of our newly elected pro-conservation leaders, Joe Moody. We talked about the recently closed Asarco plant, Franklin Mountain State Park, and what the League means for Rep. Moody.
This is the first in a series of videos with other elected officials. We will make sure to put all of our videos on our brand new YouTube channel. Also, if you have a Representative or Senator you would like us to sit down with, let us know in the comments.
Thank you, citizen lobbyists!This is the first in a series of videos with other elected officials. We will make sure to put all of our videos on our brand new YouTube channel. Also, if you have a Representative or Senator you would like us to sit down with, let us know in the comments.
Labels: asarco, el paso, franklin mountain state park, joe moody
Today dozens and dozens of volunteers from throughout the state of Texas converge on our state capitol building for the Alliance for a Clean Texas Lobby Day. Hoping to advance a legislative agenda of clean energy, clean air and green collar jobs for Texas, volunteer lobbyists will visit their senators and representatives and ask them to support good bills that make Texas better.
Last evening, the volunteers gathered in a church fellowship hall near the University of Texas campus for training, hearing lobbying tips and advice from leaders of the Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter, Environmental Defense Fund, Texas Impact, Environment Texas, Public Citizen the SEED Coalition and Texas Campaign for the Environment, among others.
The League's James Canup administered an oath of office to citizen lobbyists last night: "I (state your name) solemnly swear or affirm that I will conserve, protect and defend the Texas environment."
Not every Texan has the time or the means to travel to Austin and tell legislators what they think. Conservationists should give thanks to the voters who've volunteered for Lobby Day, and, using their example as a guide, take action when you can to protect and conserve the Texas environment. Step one is signing up to receive email alerts from the League - there's a place to do just that in the left hand column of your screen.
Friday, February 13, 2009Last evening, the volunteers gathered in a church fellowship hall near the University of Texas campus for training, hearing lobbying tips and advice from leaders of the Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter, Environmental Defense Fund, Texas Impact, Environment Texas, Public Citizen the SEED Coalition and Texas Campaign for the Environment, among others.
The League's James Canup administered an oath of office to citizen lobbyists last night: "I (state your name) solemnly swear or affirm that I will conserve, protect and defend the Texas environment."
Not every Texan has the time or the means to travel to Austin and tell legislators what they think. Conservationists should give thanks to the voters who've volunteered for Lobby Day, and, using their example as a guide, take action when you can to protect and conserve the Texas environment. Step one is signing up to receive email alerts from the League - there's a place to do just that in the left hand column of your screen.
Labels: Alliance for a Clean Texas, citizen lobby day
Thank you
Here's a nice thank you from Gene Karpinski, head of the national League of Conservation Voters, that's hereby echoed by us here at the Texas League:
Minutes ago, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi publicly thanked the League of Conservation Voters for helping to pass the economic recovery package through the House of Representatives.
When Speaker Pelosi thanked LCV, she was thanking you for the calls you made and the emails you sent to your representatives, which helped ensure the bill's success. Your hard work and your commitment to LCV have helped make a clean energy future possible.After it passes the Senate, which we expect to happen later today, this bill will be signed into law by President Obama. At that moment, our country will have made the largest investment in clean, renewable energy in the history of humankind. It will be an unprecedented step towards a cleaner, safer, more prosperous future for all of us.
Thank you for all that you do for LCV and for the future of the planet.
Sincerely,
Gene Karpinski
Now, if we can just assure that Governor Perry doesn't refuse the stimulus funding for all of Texas....
Labels: Rick Perry, thank you
For geeks like us, who not only want to understand the importance of fresh, clean water to Texans, to Texas agriculture, wildlife, wetlands, fishers, swimmers, boaters and surfers, but also to understand the threats to our water and what can be done to assure enough H20 for the future, TPWD's documentary film is a fantastic resource. Plus, it is pretty gorgeous. Lots of images of natural beauty, tree lined rivers, verdant wetlands, etc., etc.
A number of good friends of the League and the Texas environment showed up as well. This ain't a complete list, but we spied Ken Kramer of the Lone Star Sierra Club, Myron Hess of the National Wildlife Federation, and Mary Kelly of the Environmental Defense Fund (who almost stole the show from the rivers and animals with her comments about balancing energy and water needs, and positive message right at the end)... the list goes on.
Check out the website for a preview if you missed it on TV, and a chance to order the DVD. No doubt this rave review, plus others, will encourage Texas PBS stations to rerun the documentary, say every night until the end of the Legislative session? Well, we can hope, right?
Everyone wants the water we've got. Every river and waterway has more than enough straws sucking out the water, and enough water needs to make it to the wetlands on the Gulf to sustain those vital and sensitive ecosystems.
The big takeaways from the film: we can't meet future water needs by doing nothing; we can't build our way out of water crises simply by building more dams; but a little bit 'o conservation (of energy and of water) makes everything possible.
To that end, the folks up in Dallas area (and elsewhere) could take the folks in San Antonio as a guide: Dallas uses a lot more water per capita than San Antonio, mostly watering the grass.
Thursday, February 12, 2009A number of good friends of the League and the Texas environment showed up as well. This ain't a complete list, but we spied Ken Kramer of the Lone Star Sierra Club, Myron Hess of the National Wildlife Federation, and Mary Kelly of the Environmental Defense Fund (who almost stole the show from the rivers and animals with her comments about balancing energy and water needs, and positive message right at the end)... the list goes on.
Check out the website for a preview if you missed it on TV, and a chance to order the DVD. No doubt this rave review, plus others, will encourage Texas PBS stations to rerun the documentary, say every night until the end of the Legislative session? Well, we can hope, right?
Everyone wants the water we've got. Every river and waterway has more than enough straws sucking out the water, and enough water needs to make it to the wetlands on the Gulf to sustain those vital and sensitive ecosystems.
The big takeaways from the film: we can't meet future water needs by doing nothing; we can't build our way out of water crises simply by building more dams; but a little bit 'o conservation (of energy and of water) makes everything possible.
To that end, the folks up in Dallas area (and elsewhere) could take the folks in San Antonio as a guide: Dallas uses a lot more water per capita than San Antonio, mostly watering the grass.
Labels: dallas water usage, water conservation, Water; Texas the state of water
2007 Legislative Scorecard scores of 2009 Key House Committee Members
Just a couple of hours ago, an announcement was made about the membership and leadership of Committees in the Texas House.
Following is a listing of committee members and their scores on the 2007 TLCV Legislative Scorecard.
Environmental Regulations Committee (Average Score: 67%*)
Chair Byron Cook 31%
Vice Chair Warren Chisum 28%
Lon Burnam 100%
Jim Dunnam 100%
Jessica Farrar 87%
Kelly Hancock 28%
Ken Legler n/a
Marc Veasey 96%
Randy Weber NA
Energy Resources Committee (Average Score 50%)
Chair - Jim Keffer 35%
Vice Chair - Myra Crownover 23%
Joe Crabb 35%
Rick Hardcastle 22%
Tom Craddick n/a (the former speaker was not a member of any committees last session)
David Farabee 52%
Yvonne Gonzalez Toureilles 89%
Tara Rios Ybarra n/a (elected November 2008)
Mark Strama 93%
Natural Resources Committee (Average Score 52%)
Chair Allan Ritter 44%
Vice Chair Bill Callegari 31%
Frank Corte 36%
Tracy King 55%
Trey Martinez Fischer 92%
John Smithee 33%
Brandon Creighton 32%
Stephen Frost 72%
Jodie Laubenberg 35%
Eddie Lucio, III 92%
Doug Miller n/a (elected November 2008)
State Affairs Committee (Average Score 55%)
Chair - Burt Solomons 29%
VC - Jose Menendez 77%
Tom Craddick n/a (the former speaker was not a member of committees in the last session)
Pete Gallego 100%
Harvey Hilderbran 30%
Rene Oliveira 100%
David Swinford 31%
Sylvester Turner 59%
Byron Cook 31%
David Farabee 52%
Charlie Geren 31%
Patricia Harless 25%
Delwin Jones 52%
Eddie Lucio III 92%
Diana Maldonado n/a (elected November 2008)
Land and Resource Management Committee (Average Score 52%)
Chair Dennis Bonnen 28%
Vice Chair Jessica Farrar 87%
Rob Orr 26%
Carol Alvarado n/a
Valinda Bolton 96%
Mike "Tuffy" Hamilton 35%
Mike Homer 58%
Ken Paxton 31%
Kristi Thibaut n/a (elected November 2008)
Transportation Committee (Average Score 51%)
Chair Joe Pickett 38%
Vice Chair Larry Phillips 44%
William "Bill" Callegari 31%
Yvonna Davis 96%
Tommy Merritt 38%
Todd Smith 26%
Jim Dunnam 100%
Ryan Guillen 56%
Linda Harper Brown 30%
Ruth Jones McClendon 80%
Wayne Smith 23%
Business and Industry (Average Score 48%)
Chair Joe Deshotel 52%
Vice Chair Gary Elkins 26%
Wayne Christian 27%
Dan Gattis 43%
Sid Miller 31%
Kirk England 69%
Helen Giddings 79%
Jim Keffer 35%
Rob Orr 26%
Chente Quintanilla 80%
Sylvester Turner 59%
County Affairs Committee (Average Score 59%) NEW! Added 02-14-09
Chair Garnet Coleman 100%
Vice Chair Geanie Morrison 27%
John E. Davis 41%
Wayne Smith 23%
Leo Berman 31%
Valinda Bolton 96%
Joaquin Castro 92%
Marisa Marquez n/a
Ralph Sheffield n/a
The League will have additional commentary on committees, committee chairs and committee membership in the coming days. Keep up with the latest from the League here at www.tlcv.org/blog.
* Average scores don't include any scores for newly elected Reps nor for former Speaker Craddick. It's expected that new Reps could increase the average scores for their committees, and Rep. Craddick may drag them down.
2007 Legislative ScorecardFollowing is a listing of committee members and their scores on the 2007 TLCV Legislative Scorecard.
Environmental Regulations Committee (Average Score: 67%*)
Chair Byron Cook 31%
Vice Chair Warren Chisum 28%
Lon Burnam 100%
Jim Dunnam 100%
Jessica Farrar 87%
Kelly Hancock 28%
Ken Legler n/a
Marc Veasey 96%
Randy Weber NA
Energy Resources Committee (Average Score 50%)
Chair - Jim Keffer 35%
Vice Chair - Myra Crownover 23%
Joe Crabb 35%
Rick Hardcastle 22%
Tom Craddick n/a (the former speaker was not a member of any committees last session)
David Farabee 52%
Yvonne Gonzalez Toureilles 89%
Tara Rios Ybarra n/a (elected November 2008)
Mark Strama 93%
Natural Resources Committee (Average Score 52%)
Chair Allan Ritter 44%
Vice Chair Bill Callegari 31%
Frank Corte 36%
Tracy King 55%
Trey Martinez Fischer 92%
John Smithee 33%
Brandon Creighton 32%
Stephen Frost 72%
Jodie Laubenberg 35%
Eddie Lucio, III 92%
Doug Miller n/a (elected November 2008)
State Affairs Committee (Average Score 55%)
Chair - Burt Solomons 29%
VC - Jose Menendez 77%
Tom Craddick n/a (the former speaker was not a member of committees in the last session)
Pete Gallego 100%
Harvey Hilderbran 30%
Rene Oliveira 100%
David Swinford 31%
Sylvester Turner 59%
Byron Cook 31%
David Farabee 52%
Charlie Geren 31%
Patricia Harless 25%
Delwin Jones 52%
Eddie Lucio III 92%
Diana Maldonado n/a (elected November 2008)
Land and Resource Management Committee (Average Score 52%)
Chair Dennis Bonnen 28%
Vice Chair Jessica Farrar 87%
Rob Orr 26%
Carol Alvarado n/a
Valinda Bolton 96%
Mike "Tuffy" Hamilton 35%
Mike Homer 58%
Ken Paxton 31%
Kristi Thibaut n/a (elected November 2008)
Transportation Committee (Average Score 51%)
Chair Joe Pickett 38%
Vice Chair Larry Phillips 44%
William "Bill" Callegari 31%
Yvonna Davis 96%
Tommy Merritt 38%
Todd Smith 26%
Jim Dunnam 100%
Ryan Guillen 56%
Linda Harper Brown 30%
Ruth Jones McClendon 80%
Wayne Smith 23%
Business and Industry (Average Score 48%)
Chair Joe Deshotel 52%
Vice Chair Gary Elkins 26%
Wayne Christian 27%
Dan Gattis 43%
Sid Miller 31%
Kirk England 69%
Helen Giddings 79%
Jim Keffer 35%
Rob Orr 26%
Chente Quintanilla 80%
Sylvester Turner 59%
County Affairs Committee (Average Score 59%) NEW! Added 02-14-09
Chair Garnet Coleman 100%
Vice Chair Geanie Morrison 27%
John E. Davis 41%
Wayne Smith 23%
Leo Berman 31%
Valinda Bolton 96%
Joaquin Castro 92%
Marisa Marquez n/a
Ralph Sheffield n/a
The League will have additional commentary on committees, committee chairs and committee membership in the coming days. Keep up with the latest from the League here at www.tlcv.org/blog.
* Average scores don't include any scores for newly elected Reps nor for former Speaker Craddick. It's expected that new Reps could increase the average scores for their committees, and Rep. Craddick may drag them down.
Labels: Texas House Committees
Folks, the link to our 2007 Legislative Scorecard isn't working today for some reason. While the tech folks try to fix it, I've uploaded a PDF of the 2007 scorecard below:
TLCV%20scorecard_2007.pdf
My sincere apologies for the problem.
Three environmental sites rank among most endangered in TexasTLCV%20scorecard_2007.pdf
My sincere apologies for the problem.
Labels: 2007 legislative scorecard
Preservation Texas lists the ten Most Endangered Places again this year. In addition to historic buildings, including the Governor's Mansion and the Secorro Mission Rectory in El Paso, three places on the list are significant for environmentalists and conservationists.
Hamiliton Pool: "Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural feature in southwest Travis County upstream from the confluence of Hamilton Creek and the Pedernales River. The pool occurs where Hamilton Creek spills out over limestone outcroppings, creating a 50-foot waterfall that plunges into the head of a steep box canyon. The waterfall never completely dries up though it slows to a trickle in dry times.
"Hamilton Pool Preserve is suffering from its own popularity as a recreational destination as well as from minimal regulation and increased suburban development. In May 2007, Hamilton Pool and Hamilton Creek suffered major silt and erosion runoff during the construction of a residential subdivision upstream. The damage to Hamilton Pool, Davis Creek, Cripple Creek, Hamilton Creek and 10 unnamed tributaries in the surrounding area has been devastating."
The Strand in Galveston: "Galveston Island is a city known for its wealth of nineteenth and twentieth-century architecture. The Strand/Mechanic Historic District is among the island's most significant collection of architecture, with more than 45 buildings in 12 blocks of significant architectural merit. This district, whose buildings date to the 1850s, has stood resilient to the point of heroic defiance though economic and natural disasters.
"On September 13, 2008, Galveston Island took a direct hit from Hurricane Ike. The streets and buildings in the Strand/Mechanic District were inundated with seawater, oil and debris. The buildings were immersed in up to 13 feet of water, which obliterated interiors and swamped mechanical systems. High winds damaged roofs. Water stood in these structures for more than two days, seeping into irreparable historic fabrics. Galveston urgently needs and deserves a renaissance."
Scenic Loop - Boerne Stage Corridor: "Located at the base of the Hill Country, Scenic Loop Road is a winding byway that was created as a scenic touring route for San Antonians in the 1920s. The Scenic Loop was originally 46.3 miles roundtrip from downtown San Antonio and was built to connect with the Boerne Stage Road. At that point, the Road turns north and continues as Boerne Stage Road to the Balcones Creek at the Kendall County Line
The history of the area spans several thousands of years. A drive along the route reveals evidence of prehistoric sites, nineteenth-century rock structures, historic ranches and farms, abundant wildlife habitat and the Old Spanish Trail.
"After nearly a century of sprawl, the remaining scenic and historic route is about a fifth of its original distance, totally about 10 miles. The residents fought the widening of the loop in 1985, and they continue to oppose adjacent development. However, as the site is outside of San Antonio's jurisdiction, developers have few regulations and are free to clear-cut properties or dynamite hills. After nearly a century of sprawl, the remaining scenic and historic route is still very much in danger."
That these sites of environmental importance are on the list is significant.
Truly, the protection and restoration of historic buildings and places is extremely important in order for Texans to have any connections with our past. But it strikes us at the League as uncommon for environmental sites - a threatened spring-fed pool, a downtown business district eviscerated by an environmental disaster of a magnitude still being assessed, and a roadway connecting a major city to the Hill Country - to receive such notice from historic preservationists.
Preservation Texas is right - these places are at risk and all need to be preserved. But especially, the three environmental ones are extremely timely and relevant. The message Preservation Texas seems to be sending is that it's not just historical buildings where our priceless heritage can reside - but also the natural places and those impacted by natural disasters made worse by environmental degradation.
Each day, future generations lose a little bit more of their heritage because of unencumbered development, poor land use and neglect. Those who struggle to clean up the Texas environment generally -- improving air quality, conserving water and generating clean power, for example -- need these magnificent environmental sites as touchstones of our heritage.
The League applauds Preservation Texas for including environmental sites on its most endangered list.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009Hamiliton Pool: "Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural feature in southwest Travis County upstream from the confluence of Hamilton Creek and the Pedernales River. The pool occurs where Hamilton Creek spills out over limestone outcroppings, creating a 50-foot waterfall that plunges into the head of a steep box canyon. The waterfall never completely dries up though it slows to a trickle in dry times.
"Hamilton Pool Preserve is suffering from its own popularity as a recreational destination as well as from minimal regulation and increased suburban development. In May 2007, Hamilton Pool and Hamilton Creek suffered major silt and erosion runoff during the construction of a residential subdivision upstream. The damage to Hamilton Pool, Davis Creek, Cripple Creek, Hamilton Creek and 10 unnamed tributaries in the surrounding area has been devastating."
The Strand in Galveston: "Galveston Island is a city known for its wealth of nineteenth and twentieth-century architecture. The Strand/Mechanic Historic District is among the island's most significant collection of architecture, with more than 45 buildings in 12 blocks of significant architectural merit. This district, whose buildings date to the 1850s, has stood resilient to the point of heroic defiance though economic and natural disasters.
"On September 13, 2008, Galveston Island took a direct hit from Hurricane Ike. The streets and buildings in the Strand/Mechanic District were inundated with seawater, oil and debris. The buildings were immersed in up to 13 feet of water, which obliterated interiors and swamped mechanical systems. High winds damaged roofs. Water stood in these structures for more than two days, seeping into irreparable historic fabrics. Galveston urgently needs and deserves a renaissance."
Scenic Loop - Boerne Stage Corridor: "Located at the base of the Hill Country, Scenic Loop Road is a winding byway that was created as a scenic touring route for San Antonians in the 1920s. The Scenic Loop was originally 46.3 miles roundtrip from downtown San Antonio and was built to connect with the Boerne Stage Road. At that point, the Road turns north and continues as Boerne Stage Road to the Balcones Creek at the Kendall County Line
The history of the area spans several thousands of years. A drive along the route reveals evidence of prehistoric sites, nineteenth-century rock structures, historic ranches and farms, abundant wildlife habitat and the Old Spanish Trail.
"After nearly a century of sprawl, the remaining scenic and historic route is about a fifth of its original distance, totally about 10 miles. The residents fought the widening of the loop in 1985, and they continue to oppose adjacent development. However, as the site is outside of San Antonio's jurisdiction, developers have few regulations and are free to clear-cut properties or dynamite hills. After nearly a century of sprawl, the remaining scenic and historic route is still very much in danger."
That these sites of environmental importance are on the list is significant.
Truly, the protection and restoration of historic buildings and places is extremely important in order for Texans to have any connections with our past. But it strikes us at the League as uncommon for environmental sites - a threatened spring-fed pool, a downtown business district eviscerated by an environmental disaster of a magnitude still being assessed, and a roadway connecting a major city to the Hill Country - to receive such notice from historic preservationists.
Preservation Texas is right - these places are at risk and all need to be preserved. But especially, the three environmental ones are extremely timely and relevant. The message Preservation Texas seems to be sending is that it's not just historical buildings where our priceless heritage can reside - but also the natural places and those impacted by natural disasters made worse by environmental degradation.
Each day, future generations lose a little bit more of their heritage because of unencumbered development, poor land use and neglect. Those who struggle to clean up the Texas environment generally -- improving air quality, conserving water and generating clean power, for example -- need these magnificent environmental sites as touchstones of our heritage.The League applauds Preservation Texas for including environmental sites on its most endangered list.
Labels: boerne stage corridor, hamilton pool, historic preservation, most endangered list, preservation texas, the strand
Texas Water
The Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife has made a really good hour-long documentary film about the state of water in Texas. The film, premiering PBS stations statewide tomorrow, invites viewers to:
Tune in (or tivo) at 8:00 p.m., Thursday, February 12th to your local public television station, including:
KLRU (Austin); KERA (Abilene, Dallas, Denton, Fort Worth, Longview, Lufkin, Marshall, Nacogdoches, Paris, San Angelo, Sherman, Texarkana, Tyler, Wichita Falls); KACV (Amarillo); KUHT (Beaumont, Galveston, Houston, Port Arthur, Texas City, Victoria); KMBH (Brownsville, Harlingen, McAllen, Mission); KAMU (Bryan, College Station); KEDT (Corpus Christi); KCOS (El Paso); KLRN (Kerrville, Laredo, San Antonio); KNCT (Killeen, Temple); KTXT (Lubbock); PBT
(Midland, Odessa); and KWBU (Waco).
(Midland, Odessa); and KWBU (Waco).
Labels: documentary, PBS, TPWD, Water; Texas the state of water
This legislative session, the Texas Department of Transportation is up for "sunset" review. Additionally, a number of legislators will bring proposals to change the way TxDOT operates. That means that Texas conservationists have opportunities to influence elected officials to increase TxDOT's accountability with regard to environmental issues.
Here are some environmental values that should become priorities for TxDOT:
Tuesday, February 10, 2009Here are some environmental values that should become priorities for TxDOT:
The Trans-Texas Corridor, if built, even partially, would be disastrous land use policy, and irreparably harm Texas wildlife habitat, farms, ranches and open space. Authority to establish and operate the Trans-Texas Corridor should be repealed. (Rep. Leibowitz and others have proposed just this in House Bill 11).
As many other states do, Texas should require higher fuel efficiency and emissions standards in new cars - adopting the standards of a state like California. Senator Ellis (SB 119) and Rep. Strama (HB 776) and others are advancing legislation on this front.
Texas transportation agencies need reform in order to better protect the environment and to promote clean air. For example, environmentalists working for TxDOT should be accountable to environmental staff at TxDOT headquarters, rather than to local district directors and managers. An expert on "Smart Growth" policies should be added to the staff of the Texas Transportation Commission. Furthermore, neither now nor ever should TxDOT begin acquiring land for roadway expansions until the final completion of a full environmental impact study.
Want to talk to your legislator about transit and transportation issues? Or other environmental issues? Join the Alliance for a Clean Texas lobby day next week! Learn more here and sign up now.
Labels: citizen lobby day, TxDOT
Texas Cities: Dereg led to higher power costs
The coalition Cities Aggregation Power Project, made up of more than 100 towns and cities (from Rockwall to Decatur, Texas City to Arlington), says that energy deregulation in Texas hasn't reduced power costs to consumers - it has raised them.
Generating (pardon the expression) statewide media attention, the Cities coalition released an extensive report detailing the impact of ten years of deregulation on Texas. Here are some highlights from the 82-page report (link is to a PDF version from the CAPP website):
* Texans have gone from having rates lower than the national average before deregulation to higher than the national average afterward.
* Enron, which was a big power player (again, apologies for the expression) in politics in Texas at the time, was responsible for much of the structure of the deregulated industries and creator of the problems Texans now face with regard to their electric bills.
* ERCOT has troubles managing Texas' grid.
* Infrastructure costs from creating renewable energy generation could contribute to higher prices in the future.
The League thinks the cities are right for the most part. Especially during a time of economic uncertainty, the higher electric bills caused by deregulation are a tough pill for Texas consumers to swallow.
Yet at the same time, the investment in infrastructure for renewable power generation - from solar, wind, etc. - is critically important to the future of the Texas economy and for the jobs needed in Texas today.
The challenge for elected officials - from mayors to the Legislature to the governor - is to create a system whereby Texas can increase the amount of renewable power we generate WITHOUT passing an undue amount of the burden of the cost of building it along to consumers, especially low income consumers.
There doesn't have to be a conflict between clean energy and low utility bills. With true leadership from Washington, Austin and cities across Texas - and with key partnerships with enlightened (pardon the expression again) power generators - Texans can have power that comes from the sun or the wind, not from dirty coal, at a cost that Texans can afford.
Especially with some help from the federal stimulus package....
Monday, February 09, 2009Generating (pardon the expression) statewide media attention, the Cities coalition released an extensive report detailing the impact of ten years of deregulation on Texas. Here are some highlights from the 82-page report (link is to a PDF version from the CAPP website):
* Texans have gone from having rates lower than the national average before deregulation to higher than the national average afterward.
* Enron, which was a big power player (again, apologies for the expression) in politics in Texas at the time, was responsible for much of the structure of the deregulated industries and creator of the problems Texans now face with regard to their electric bills.
* ERCOT has troubles managing Texas' grid.
* Infrastructure costs from creating renewable energy generation could contribute to higher prices in the future.
The League thinks the cities are right for the most part. Especially during a time of economic uncertainty, the higher electric bills caused by deregulation are a tough pill for Texas consumers to swallow.
Yet at the same time, the investment in infrastructure for renewable power generation - from solar, wind, etc. - is critically important to the future of the Texas economy and for the jobs needed in Texas today.
The challenge for elected officials - from mayors to the Legislature to the governor - is to create a system whereby Texas can increase the amount of renewable power we generate WITHOUT passing an undue amount of the burden of the cost of building it along to consumers, especially low income consumers.
There doesn't have to be a conflict between clean energy and low utility bills. With true leadership from Washington, Austin and cities across Texas - and with key partnerships with enlightened (pardon the expression again) power generators - Texans can have power that comes from the sun or the wind, not from dirty coal, at a cost that Texans can afford.
Especially with some help from the federal stimulus package....
Labels: deregulation, Texas cities coalition
Register Now: ACT Citizen Lobby Day
It's not too late to register for the ACT Lobby Day! Mark your calendars and join the League and many other conservation, environmental and public health organizations for our two day program of events Tuesday and Wednesday, February 17-18.
There's no better opportunity for Texans to let our elected officials know that we're counting on their leadership to create clean energy, to improve clean air and to provide the clean government Texans need in order to prosper.
At this extraordinary moment, there are unprecedented opportunities to change course in Texas - to replace outmoded, polluting energy models with renewable ones, to build on the efforts last session to oppose coal-fired power plans by creating a clean energy future for Texas, and to take advantage of Washington's stimulus package to generate green collar jobs that will propel the Texas economy forward.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for lobby day now.
And while you're at it, take a gander at the newly relaunched website for the Alliance for a Clean Texas. Lize Burr and the ACT coalition are making real progress uniting diverse organizations under the clean air/clean energy banner for the 81st Texas Legislature. Check it out.
Labels: Alliance for a Clean Texas, citizen lobby day
Call to Action: Tell Senators Cornyn and Hutchison to support State Wildlife Action Plans
More funding for urgent programs for the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife is possible through the federal State Wildlife Grants program! And, more funding for TPWD will create more green jobs for Texas.
Please call Texas Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison and ask them to support the Bingaman amendment, number 195, of the economic stimulus package. Senator Bingaman agreed yesterday to include $50 million for State Wildlife Grants in his proposed amendment. This money would have a direct implication on Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's ability to successfully carry out the implementation of the Texas Wildlife Action Plan, a comprehensive blue print for wildlife conservation.
Please call Senators Cornyn and Hutchison right now and urge them to support this amendment:
Senator Cornyn: (202) 224-2934
Senator Hutchison: (202) 224-2934
For more information on the State Wildlife Grants program, download this information (in PDF format):
AFWA%20Green%20Jobs%20Recommendations%20%28Final%29.pdf
Please call Texas Senators John Cornyn and Kay Bailey Hutchison and ask them to support the Bingaman amendment, number 195, of the economic stimulus package. Senator Bingaman agreed yesterday to include $50 million for State Wildlife Grants in his proposed amendment. This money would have a direct implication on Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's ability to successfully carry out the implementation of the Texas Wildlife Action Plan, a comprehensive blue print for wildlife conservation.
Please call Senators Cornyn and Hutchison right now and urge them to support this amendment:
Senator Cornyn: (202) 224-2934
Senator Hutchison: (202) 224-2934
For more information on the State Wildlife Grants program, download this information (in PDF format):
AFWA%20Green%20Jobs%20Recommendations%20%28Final%29.pdf
Thank you!
Labels: senator cornyn, senator hutchison, state parks, state wildlife grants, texas parks and wildlife department
Goodbye, Asarco - yet your presence lingers
We heard it on the Texas Observer blog first: the Asarco copper smelter is closed for good and it isn't coming back!
Asarco has been polluting El Paso for generations, making kids sick and leaving a horrible mess behind.
Yesterday it was announced in the El Paso Times: "Asarco LLC has informed the Texas Commission on Environmental that it does not plan to reopen its copper smelter in El Paso, company officials announced Tuesday....The decision is based on the dramatic downturn of the world economy in the last six months...."
The Observer goes on to say that Asarco leaves behind a site extremely contaminated and which will have to be remediated at great cost. Yet an editorial in today's El Paso Times commends Asarco for promises it has made to help clean up the site. Quoting an Asarco honcho, the editorial includes: " ... We also want to assure the community that we're working to ensure
that our property is left in a condition that will be an asset to a great community that we have." Let's hold Asarco to that assurance.
Today, though, we should celebrate: Asarco is dead!
Tomorrow, Texans should begin to confront the issues related to cleaning the place up, an effort the Sierra Club says could cost more than $100 million.
For far too long, Asarco has been not just a blight but an actual hazard to public health in El Paso. The closing is tremendous good news for El Paso. The lack of a giant smelter belching carcinogens near downtown will create opportunities for dramatic improvements to one of Texas' largest cities. Here's hoping that El Paso can use the closing to help stimulate all kinds of sustainable economic growth.
Notably, Asarco says the nail in the coffin was the economic downturn. Years of work by environmental activists, community leaders and public officials couldn't slay the bear; it took an economic crisis. With real leadership - such as that of El Paso's Senator Eliot Shapleigh and newly elected State Rep Joe Moody - and with proper stimulus, in a few years El Paso could have a real community asset instead - one which creates real jobs, contributes to the community and builds a stronger metropolis at the critically important Texas-Mexico-New Mexico border.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009Asarco has been polluting El Paso for generations, making kids sick and leaving a horrible mess behind.
Yesterday it was announced in the El Paso Times: "Asarco LLC has informed the Texas Commission on Environmental that it does not plan to reopen its copper smelter in El Paso, company officials announced Tuesday....The decision is based on the dramatic downturn of the world economy in the last six months...."
The Observer goes on to say that Asarco leaves behind a site extremely contaminated and which will have to be remediated at great cost. Yet an editorial in today's El Paso Times commends Asarco for promises it has made to help clean up the site. Quoting an Asarco honcho, the editorial includes: " ... We also want to assure the community that we're working to ensure
that our property is left in a condition that will be an asset to a great community that we have." Let's hold Asarco to that assurance.
Today, though, we should celebrate: Asarco is dead!
Tomorrow, Texans should begin to confront the issues related to cleaning the place up, an effort the Sierra Club says could cost more than $100 million.
For far too long, Asarco has been not just a blight but an actual hazard to public health in El Paso. The closing is tremendous good news for El Paso. The lack of a giant smelter belching carcinogens near downtown will create opportunities for dramatic improvements to one of Texas' largest cities. Here's hoping that El Paso can use the closing to help stimulate all kinds of sustainable economic growth.
Notably, Asarco says the nail in the coffin was the economic downturn. Years of work by environmental activists, community leaders and public officials couldn't slay the bear; it took an economic crisis. With real leadership - such as that of El Paso's Senator Eliot Shapleigh and newly elected State Rep Joe Moody - and with proper stimulus, in a few years El Paso could have a real community asset instead - one which creates real jobs, contributes to the community and builds a stronger metropolis at the critically important Texas-Mexico-New Mexico border.
Labels: asarco, el paso, eliot shapleigh, joe moody
Is high speed rail on track for Texas?
Pardon the pun, but is Texas on track to have high speed rail service between major cities? Could be. Even Governor Perry thinks so. The Star-Telegram editorializes...
Texas High Speed Rail and Transportation Corporation has a website all about it, where they list a "legislative caucus" including bipartisan members of the Texas House and Senate.
Getting folks out of cars (and off of I-35 and I-45) and onto trains can improve Texas air quality by removing polluting, largely single-passenger vehicles off of congested roadways.
Friday, January 30, 2009Texas High Speed Rail and Transportation Corporation has a website all about it, where they list a "legislative caucus" including bipartisan members of the Texas House and Senate.
Getting folks out of cars (and off of I-35 and I-45) and onto trains can improve Texas air quality by removing polluting, largely single-passenger vehicles off of congested roadways.
Labels: high speed rail, Rick Perry, thsrtc
Couple of Interesting Things
This fine Friday, the Texas League just has a couple of things to update y'all about:
Thank you Rep. Joe Farias!
Rep. Farias successfully amended House Bill 2 - the bill that sets the Texas House of Representatives' rules for the current session - to encourage more recycling at the capitol. In this case, he's talking about recycling paper and cutting down fewer trees to keep the capitol awash in paper. Leading by example, and thanks to Rep. Farias, the Texas Legislature will show Texas businesses that you can reduce the amount of paper you use, save money and save resources.
Rep. Farias earned an A+ on the League's last legislative scorecard (which you can read online - no paper! - here).
View the new release from Rep. Joe Farias here: Farias%20Release%20-%20Rules%20Amendment%20-%20January%2029%202009.pdf
The League Thanks President Obama and Ms. Carol Browner
The Texas League of Conservation Voters and more than 325 other conservation and environmental groups have together signed a letter thanking the President and Ms. Browner for their commitments to safeguard wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of climate change.
Here's the text of the letter and the full list of signers. Cool, huh?
On behalf of the following conservation groups and our millions of members across the country, we want to thank President Obama for his campaign commitment to safeguard wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of global warming.
Natural resources are the backbone of public health and the American economy. Healthy natural systems provide clean water, clean air and protect communities from catastrophic weather-related disasters, ranging from hurricanes to floods to forest fires. Outdoor recreation, which is based on our nation's natural environment and includes hunting, fishing, camping, climbing, hiking, paddling, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and other activities, contributes a total of $730 billion annually to the economy, supporting 6.5 million jobs (1 of every 20 jobs in the U.S.), and stimulates 8 percent of all consumer spending, according to The Outdoor Foundation. The economic value of the natural environment is far higher when the vast range of ecosystem services is also included; conservative estimates tally these benefits at trillions of dollars annually. Given the grave threats posed by global warming, investing in our natural resources today will provide huge economic benefits for generations.
Safeguarding natural resources, oceans, wildlife populations and the people that rely on these resources is also a moral issue. The United States has an historic opportunity to help sustain today's unsurpassed natural legacy for our children and grandchildren, but we will need to invest in our natural resources if they are to survive a changing climate.
We applaud the following commitment President Obama made during the campaign in his energy plan regarding how a cap-and-trade program should be implemented:
"A small portion of the receipts generated by auctioning allowances will be used... to provide new funding to state and federal land and wildlife managers to restore habitat, create wildlife migration corridors, and assist fish and wildlife to adapt to the effects of a warming climate."
We further applaud the reiteration of this position in President Obama's Plan to Support the Rights and Traditions of Sportsmen.
We look forward to working with you, the full Obama Administration and the incoming Congress to accomplish our shared goal of protecting wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of global warming.
Sincerely,
National Organizations
Access Fund
American Canoe Association
American Fisheries Society
American Hiking Society
American Lands Alliance
American Littoral Society
American Rivers
American Whitewater
American Wild Turkey Hunting Dog
Association
Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Boone & Crockett Club
Conservation Force
Defenders of Wildlife
Ducks Unlimited
Earth Friends Wildlife Foundation
Earthjustice
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Federation of Flyfishers
Gaia Global Consulting
HuntingLife.com
International Mountain Bicycling
Association
Izaak Walton League of America
Land Trust Alliance
National Audubon Society
National Parks Conservation Association
National Wildlife Federation
Nature Abounds
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Outdoor Alliance
Outdoor Industry Association
Pheasants Forever
Quail Forever
Quail Unlimited
Restore America’s Estuaries
Sierra Club
The Nature Conservancy
The Organization of Wildlife Planners
The Ruffed Grouse Society
The Trust for Public Land
The Wilderness Society
The Wildlife Society
Theodore Roosevelt Conservation
Partnership
Trout Unlimited
Waterkeeper Alliance
Wildlife Conservation Society
Wildlife Management Institute
Winter Wildlands Alliance
World Wildlife Fund
Xerces Society for Invertebrate
Conservation
Regional and Local Organizations
10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania
Alabama Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Alaska Conservation Alliance
Alaska SeaLife Center
Alaska Wildlife Alliance
Albemarle Environmental Association
Allegheny Plateau Audubon Society
American Sportsmen Against Poachers
Animal Protection of New Mexico
Animal Protection Voters
Appalachian Mountain Club
Arizona Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Arizona Ecumenical Council Earth Care
Commission
Arizona Wildlife Federation
Arkansas Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Arkansas Trappers Association
Arkansas Wildlife Federation
Arrowhead Chapter Trout Unlimited
Association of Northwest Steelheaders
Atlanta Audubon Society
Au Sable Big Water Preservation
Association
Audubon New York
Audubon of Kansas
Audubon Ohio
Beech Creek Watershed Association
Bill Dvorak's Kayak and Rafting
Expeditions
Blue Ridge Forever Coalition
Boone Soil and Water Conservation
District
Briarpatch Conservation Club
Bushnell, Caplan & Fielding
Canton Studio
Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy
Cedar Bog Association
Center for Native Ecosystems
Central Mountains and Plains Section of
The Wildlife Society
Chestnut Ridge Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Chichagof Conservation Council
Chickasaw County Conservation Board
Cienega Watershed Partnership
Citizens Against OLF
Citizens Campaign for the Environment
Citizens Committee to Complete the
Refuge
Clark Fork Coalition
Colorado Conservation Trust
Columbiana County Federation of
Conservation Clubs
Conemaugh Valley Conservancy
Connecticut Forest & Park Association
Conservation Council for Hawai'i
Conservation Federation of Missouri
Conservation Northwest
Conservation Trust for Florida, Inc.
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ
Delaware Audubon Society
Delaware Nature Society
Denver Chapter of Trout Unlimited
East Ascension Sportsman's League
ECHO
Elkhorn Slough Foundation
Environment Council of Rhode Island
Environmental Advocates of New York
Environmental and Cultural
Conservation Organization
Environmental Association of St.
Thomas
Environmental League of Massachusetts
Ernest Schwiebert Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Firelands Audubon Society
Florida Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Florida Native Plant Society
Florida Turtle Conservation Trust
Florida Wildlife Federation
Food Conspiracy Co-op
Freshwater Future
Friends of Alaska National Wildlife
Refuges
Friends of Pondicherry
Friends of Pool 9, Upper Miss Refuge,
IN
Friends of Saguaro National Park
Gallatin Wildlife Association
Gates Au Sable Lodge
Georgia Wildlife Federation
Georgia Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Georgia River Network
Great Lakes Council of the Federation of
Fly Fishers
Great Old Broads for Wilderness
Greathorn Properties
Greenway Network, Inc.
Groundwater Awareness League
Gulf Restoration Network
Habitat and Wildlife Keepers
Hackensack Riverkeeper, Inc.
Hawaii Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Heart of America Flyfishers
Hellgate Hunters and Anglers
High Country Citizens' Alliance
High Country Flies
High Sierra Rural Alliance
Hoosier Fly Fishers
Houston Audubon Society
Hutchinson Recreation Commission
Idaho Conservation League
Idaho Wildlife Federation
Indiana Wildlife Federation
Iowa Audubon
Iowa Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Iowa Environmental Council
Iowa Wildlife Federation
Izaak Walton League Michigan City
Chapter
Izaak Walton League of America
Pennsylvania Chapter
Izaak Walton League, Johnson County
Chapter
Jackson County Conservation Club
Joe Humphries Fly Fishing
Kansas Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Kansas Wildlife Federation
Keep Sedona Beautiful
Kindred Wild Life Club
Lacey Rail-Trail Environmental
Committee
Land Conservancy of Adams County
Lands Council
Las Vegas Flyfishing Club
League of Kentucky Sportsmen
League of Ohio Sportsmen
Lebanon Valley Conservancy
Lititz Run Watershed Association
Louisiana Wildlife Federation
Lynn Canal Conservation
Macbride Raptor Project
Maine Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Maryland/Delaware Chapter of The
Wildlife Society
Massachusetts Audubon
Matanuska Electric Ratepayers Alliance
Michigan United Conservation Clubs
Minnesota Conservation Federation
Mississippi Wildlife Federation
Missouri Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Missouri Environmental Education
Association
Missouri Master Naturalists –
Confluence Chapter
Missouri Smallmouth Alliance
Montana Audubon
Montana Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Montana Wildlife Federation
Moshannon Group, Sierra Club
National Wild Turkey Federation,
Georgia Chapter
Natural Resources Council of Maine
Natural Systems Solutions
Nebraska Wildlife Federation
Nevada Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Nevada Wildlife Federation
New England Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
New Hampshire Fish and Game
New Jersey Audubon Society
New Jersey Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
New Jersey Federation of Sportsman's
Clubs
New Mexico Wildlife Federation
New York Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
North Carolina Falconers Guild
North Carolina Wildlife Federation
Northeast Section of The Wildlife
Society
Northeast Wilderness Trust
Northern Alaska Environmental Center
Northern Forest Alliance
Northern Jaguar Project
Northwest Habitat Institute
Northwest River Guides
Northwest Sportfishing Industry
Association
Northwest Weed Management
Partnership
NorthWoods Stewardship Center
Ohio Bass Federation
Ohio Bird Conservation International
Ohio Environmental Council
Oregon Anglers
Oregon Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Oregon Council Trout Unlimited
Orion The Hunter Institute
Ozark Fly Fishers
Pacific Forest Trust
Passaic River Coalition
Pella Wildlife Company
Penns Creek Guides
Penns Valley Conservation Association
Pennsylvania Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Pennsylvania Forest Coalition
Planning and Conservation League
Prairie Rivers Network
Prescott College
Puerto Rico Ornithological Society
Quiet Use Coalition
Remington Arms Wildlife
Renewable Resources Coalition
Rio Grande Return
River Valley Wildlife Federation
Rocky Mountain Recreation Initiative
Sacramento-Shasta Chapter of The
Wildlife Society
San Miguel Greens of Colorado
Santa Cruz River Alliance
Save Our Stream
Save the Manatee Club
Shaw Nature Reserve
Sheep Mountain Alliance
Sierra Forest Legacy
Sierra Nevada Conservation
Sierra Nevada Deep Ecology Institute
Silvertip Production
Sirius Ecovillage
Sky Island Alliance
South Carolina Wildlife Federation
South Dakota Wildlife Federation
Southwest Consolidated Sportsmen
Southwest Environmental Center
Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers
Space Coast Climate Initiative
Spring River Sportsman Club
St. Croix Environmental Association
St. Francis Lake Association
St. Petersburg Audubon Society
Stoney Creek Valley Coalition
Sugar Pine Foundation
Tall Timbers Research Station and Land
Conservancy
Tennessee Clean Water Network
Tennessee Environmental Council
Tennessee Wildlife Federation
Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Texas Conservation Alliance
Texas League of Conservation Voters
The Atlanta Fly Fishing School
The Conservation League of Puerto Rico
The Fyke Nature Association
The Hilltop Conservation Club, Inc.
The Rewilding Institute
The Wilderness Society - Alaska
Chapter
The Wildlands Network
Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
Tom Baltz Guide Service
Trout Unlimited of California
Tucson Audubon Society
Tumbling Creek Cave Foundation
U.S. Home Designs, Inc.
Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper
Utah Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Utah Waterfowl Association
Valley Forge Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Vermont Natural Resources Council
Virgin Islands Conservation Society
Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Virginia Conservation Network
Virginia State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation
Virginia Teaming With Wildlife
Leadership Council
Wagner Conservation Coalition
Washington Wildlife Federation
Watershed Alliance of Adams County
Watershed Management Group
Wattensaw Bowhunters Association
Weatherby's Fisherman Resort
West Chester Fish, Game, and Wildlife
West Chester Gun Club
Westark Wildlife
Western Lake Erie Waterkeeper
Association
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
Western Rivers Conservancy
Western Section of The Wildlife Society
White River Conservancy
Wild Connections
Wilderness Fly Fishers
Wildlife Center of Virginia
Wildlife Foundation of Florida
Wildwood/Mahonia
Wisconsin Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Wisconsin Chapter of the Wildlife
Society
Wisconsin Wildlife Federation
Wolf Creek Community Alliance
WyEast Expeditions
Wyoming Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Wyoming Wildlife Federation
Yell County Wildlife Federation
Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures
Youth Conservation Club – Lavaca High
School
Youth Conservation Club –Mansfield
High School
Wednesday, January 28, 2009Thank you Rep. Joe Farias!
Rep. Farias successfully amended House Bill 2 - the bill that sets the Texas House of Representatives' rules for the current session - to encourage more recycling at the capitol. In this case, he's talking about recycling paper and cutting down fewer trees to keep the capitol awash in paper. Leading by example, and thanks to Rep. Farias, the Texas Legislature will show Texas businesses that you can reduce the amount of paper you use, save money and save resources.
Rep. Farias earned an A+ on the League's last legislative scorecard (which you can read online - no paper! - here).
View the new release from Rep. Joe Farias here: Farias%20Release%20-%20Rules%20Amendment%20-%20January%2029%202009.pdf
The League Thanks President Obama and Ms. Carol Browner
The Texas League of Conservation Voters and more than 325 other conservation and environmental groups have together signed a letter thanking the President and Ms. Browner for their commitments to safeguard wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of climate change.
Here's the text of the letter and the full list of signers. Cool, huh?
On behalf of the following conservation groups and our millions of members across the country, we want to thank President Obama for his campaign commitment to safeguard wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of global warming.
Natural resources are the backbone of public health and the American economy. Healthy natural systems provide clean water, clean air and protect communities from catastrophic weather-related disasters, ranging from hurricanes to floods to forest fires. Outdoor recreation, which is based on our nation's natural environment and includes hunting, fishing, camping, climbing, hiking, paddling, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and other activities, contributes a total of $730 billion annually to the economy, supporting 6.5 million jobs (1 of every 20 jobs in the U.S.), and stimulates 8 percent of all consumer spending, according to The Outdoor Foundation. The economic value of the natural environment is far higher when the vast range of ecosystem services is also included; conservative estimates tally these benefits at trillions of dollars annually. Given the grave threats posed by global warming, investing in our natural resources today will provide huge economic benefits for generations.
Safeguarding natural resources, oceans, wildlife populations and the people that rely on these resources is also a moral issue. The United States has an historic opportunity to help sustain today's unsurpassed natural legacy for our children and grandchildren, but we will need to invest in our natural resources if they are to survive a changing climate.
We applaud the following commitment President Obama made during the campaign in his energy plan regarding how a cap-and-trade program should be implemented:
"A small portion of the receipts generated by auctioning allowances will be used... to provide new funding to state and federal land and wildlife managers to restore habitat, create wildlife migration corridors, and assist fish and wildlife to adapt to the effects of a warming climate."
We further applaud the reiteration of this position in President Obama's Plan to Support the Rights and Traditions of Sportsmen.
We look forward to working with you, the full Obama Administration and the incoming Congress to accomplish our shared goal of protecting wildlife and natural resources from the impacts of global warming.
Sincerely,
National Organizations
Access Fund
American Canoe Association
American Fisheries Society
American Hiking Society
American Lands Alliance
American Littoral Society
American Rivers
American Whitewater
American Wild Turkey Hunting Dog
Association
Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Boone & Crockett Club
Conservation Force
Defenders of Wildlife
Ducks Unlimited
Earth Friends Wildlife Foundation
Earthjustice
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Federation of Flyfishers
Gaia Global Consulting
HuntingLife.com
International Mountain Bicycling
Association
Izaak Walton League of America
Land Trust Alliance
National Audubon Society
National Parks Conservation Association
National Wildlife Federation
Nature Abounds
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Outdoor Alliance
Outdoor Industry Association
Pheasants Forever
Quail Forever
Quail Unlimited
Restore America’s Estuaries
Sierra Club
The Nature Conservancy
The Organization of Wildlife Planners
The Ruffed Grouse Society
The Trust for Public Land
The Wilderness Society
The Wildlife Society
Theodore Roosevelt Conservation
Partnership
Trout Unlimited
Waterkeeper Alliance
Wildlife Conservation Society
Wildlife Management Institute
Winter Wildlands Alliance
World Wildlife Fund
Xerces Society for Invertebrate
Conservation
Regional and Local Organizations
10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania
Alabama Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Alaska Conservation Alliance
Alaska SeaLife Center
Alaska Wildlife Alliance
Albemarle Environmental Association
Allegheny Plateau Audubon Society
American Sportsmen Against Poachers
Animal Protection of New Mexico
Animal Protection Voters
Appalachian Mountain Club
Arizona Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Arizona Ecumenical Council Earth Care
Commission
Arizona Wildlife Federation
Arkansas Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Arkansas Trappers Association
Arkansas Wildlife Federation
Arrowhead Chapter Trout Unlimited
Association of Northwest Steelheaders
Atlanta Audubon Society
Au Sable Big Water Preservation
Association
Audubon New York
Audubon of Kansas
Audubon Ohio
Beech Creek Watershed Association
Bill Dvorak's Kayak and Rafting
Expeditions
Blue Ridge Forever Coalition
Boone Soil and Water Conservation
District
Briarpatch Conservation Club
Bushnell, Caplan & Fielding
Canton Studio
Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy
Cedar Bog Association
Center for Native Ecosystems
Central Mountains and Plains Section of
The Wildlife Society
Chestnut Ridge Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Chichagof Conservation Council
Chickasaw County Conservation Board
Cienega Watershed Partnership
Citizens Against OLF
Citizens Campaign for the Environment
Citizens Committee to Complete the
Refuge
Clark Fork Coalition
Colorado Conservation Trust
Columbiana County Federation of
Conservation Clubs
Conemaugh Valley Conservancy
Connecticut Forest & Park Association
Conservation Council for Hawai'i
Conservation Federation of Missouri
Conservation Northwest
Conservation Trust for Florida, Inc.
Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ
Delaware Audubon Society
Delaware Nature Society
Denver Chapter of Trout Unlimited
East Ascension Sportsman's League
ECHO
Elkhorn Slough Foundation
Environment Council of Rhode Island
Environmental Advocates of New York
Environmental and Cultural
Conservation Organization
Environmental Association of St.
Thomas
Environmental League of Massachusetts
Ernest Schwiebert Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Firelands Audubon Society
Florida Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Florida Native Plant Society
Florida Turtle Conservation Trust
Florida Wildlife Federation
Food Conspiracy Co-op
Freshwater Future
Friends of Alaska National Wildlife
Refuges
Friends of Pondicherry
Friends of Pool 9, Upper Miss Refuge,
IN
Friends of Saguaro National Park
Gallatin Wildlife Association
Gates Au Sable Lodge
Georgia Wildlife Federation
Georgia Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Georgia River Network
Great Lakes Council of the Federation of
Fly Fishers
Great Old Broads for Wilderness
Greathorn Properties
Greenway Network, Inc.
Groundwater Awareness League
Gulf Restoration Network
Habitat and Wildlife Keepers
Hackensack Riverkeeper, Inc.
Hawaii Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Heart of America Flyfishers
Hellgate Hunters and Anglers
High Country Citizens' Alliance
High Country Flies
High Sierra Rural Alliance
Hoosier Fly Fishers
Houston Audubon Society
Hutchinson Recreation Commission
Idaho Conservation League
Idaho Wildlife Federation
Indiana Wildlife Federation
Iowa Audubon
Iowa Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Iowa Environmental Council
Iowa Wildlife Federation
Izaak Walton League Michigan City
Chapter
Izaak Walton League of America
Pennsylvania Chapter
Izaak Walton League, Johnson County
Chapter
Jackson County Conservation Club
Joe Humphries Fly Fishing
Kansas Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Kansas Wildlife Federation
Keep Sedona Beautiful
Kindred Wild Life Club
Lacey Rail-Trail Environmental
Committee
Land Conservancy of Adams County
Lands Council
Las Vegas Flyfishing Club
League of Kentucky Sportsmen
League of Ohio Sportsmen
Lebanon Valley Conservancy
Lititz Run Watershed Association
Louisiana Wildlife Federation
Lynn Canal Conservation
Macbride Raptor Project
Maine Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Maryland/Delaware Chapter of The
Wildlife Society
Massachusetts Audubon
Matanuska Electric Ratepayers Alliance
Michigan United Conservation Clubs
Minnesota Conservation Federation
Mississippi Wildlife Federation
Missouri Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Missouri Environmental Education
Association
Missouri Master Naturalists –
Confluence Chapter
Missouri Smallmouth Alliance
Montana Audubon
Montana Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Montana Wildlife Federation
Moshannon Group, Sierra Club
National Wild Turkey Federation,
Georgia Chapter
Natural Resources Council of Maine
Natural Systems Solutions
Nebraska Wildlife Federation
Nevada Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Nevada Wildlife Federation
New England Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
New Hampshire Fish and Game
New Jersey Audubon Society
New Jersey Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
New Jersey Federation of Sportsman's
Clubs
New Mexico Wildlife Federation
New York Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
North Carolina Falconers Guild
North Carolina Wildlife Federation
Northeast Section of The Wildlife
Society
Northeast Wilderness Trust
Northern Alaska Environmental Center
Northern Forest Alliance
Northern Jaguar Project
Northwest Habitat Institute
Northwest River Guides
Northwest Sportfishing Industry
Association
Northwest Weed Management
Partnership
NorthWoods Stewardship Center
Ohio Bass Federation
Ohio Bird Conservation International
Ohio Environmental Council
Oregon Anglers
Oregon Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Oregon Council Trout Unlimited
Orion The Hunter Institute
Ozark Fly Fishers
Pacific Forest Trust
Passaic River Coalition
Pella Wildlife Company
Penns Creek Guides
Penns Valley Conservation Association
Pennsylvania Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Pennsylvania Forest Coalition
Planning and Conservation League
Prairie Rivers Network
Prescott College
Puerto Rico Ornithological Society
Quiet Use Coalition
Remington Arms Wildlife
Renewable Resources Coalition
Rio Grande Return
River Valley Wildlife Federation
Rocky Mountain Recreation Initiative
Sacramento-Shasta Chapter of The
Wildlife Society
San Miguel Greens of Colorado
Santa Cruz River Alliance
Save Our Stream
Save the Manatee Club
Shaw Nature Reserve
Sheep Mountain Alliance
Sierra Forest Legacy
Sierra Nevada Conservation
Sierra Nevada Deep Ecology Institute
Silvertip Production
Sirius Ecovillage
Sky Island Alliance
South Carolina Wildlife Federation
South Dakota Wildlife Federation
Southwest Consolidated Sportsmen
Southwest Environmental Center
Southwest Missouri Fly Fishers
Space Coast Climate Initiative
Spring River Sportsman Club
St. Croix Environmental Association
St. Francis Lake Association
St. Petersburg Audubon Society
Stoney Creek Valley Coalition
Sugar Pine Foundation
Tall Timbers Research Station and Land
Conservancy
Tennessee Clean Water Network
Tennessee Environmental Council
Tennessee Wildlife Federation
Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Texas Conservation Alliance
Texas League of Conservation Voters
The Atlanta Fly Fishing School
The Conservation League of Puerto Rico
The Fyke Nature Association
The Hilltop Conservation Club, Inc.
The Rewilding Institute
The Wilderness Society - Alaska
Chapter
The Wildlands Network
Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
Tom Baltz Guide Service
Trout Unlimited of California
Tucson Audubon Society
Tumbling Creek Cave Foundation
U.S. Home Designs, Inc.
Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper
Utah Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Utah Waterfowl Association
Valley Forge Chapter of Trout
Unlimited
Vermont Natural Resources Council
Virgin Islands Conservation Society
Virginia Chapter of The Wildlife Society
Virginia Conservation Network
Virginia State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation
Virginia Teaming With Wildlife
Leadership Council
Wagner Conservation Coalition
Washington Wildlife Federation
Watershed Alliance of Adams County
Watershed Management Group
Wattensaw Bowhunters Association
Weatherby's Fisherman Resort
West Chester Fish, Game, and Wildlife
West Chester Gun Club
Westark Wildlife
Western Lake Erie Waterkeeper
Association
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
Western Rivers Conservancy
Western Section of The Wildlife Society
White River Conservancy
Wild Connections
Wilderness Fly Fishers
Wildlife Center of Virginia
Wildlife Foundation of Florida
Wildwood/Mahonia
Wisconsin Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Wisconsin Chapter of the Wildlife
Society
Wisconsin Wildlife Federation
Wolf Creek Community Alliance
WyEast Expeditions
Wyoming Chapter of The Wildlife
Society
Wyoming Wildlife Federation
Yell County Wildlife Federation
Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures
Youth Conservation Club – Lavaca High
School
Youth Conservation Club –Mansfield
High School
Labels: carol browner, climate change, president obama, recycling, rep. joe farias
National League Calls on Congress to Sieze the Moment
As Congress prepares to debate, amend and vote on President Barack Obama’s economic recovery package, we wanted to share with you national League of Conservation Voters President Gene Karpinski's statement about the proposed legislation:
"Before the banks burned and before the housing crisis caught fire, it was soaring gas prices that sparked this economic wildfire. President Obama's economic recovery package seizes the opportunity to put out today's flames and prevent future flare-ups by putting Americans to work to end our crippling addiction to oil. Members of Congress must seize this moment to act for the benefit of this and future generations.
"President Obama and the congressional leaders who authored this package have shown tremendous foresight in coupling immediate economic stimulus with the expansion and development of clean energy technologies. It represents the beginning of a greater shift in America's use of energy, a shift that will reap benefits for decades. The money for this package has been borrowed from future generations, so it is right and fitting that our children will benefit from the investments we make today. If we follow up on the investments made in this package, our children will face a cleaner, safer, more prosperous future.
"Every effort should be made to strengthen and to pass this bill. One amendment, offered by Representative Nadler, will significantly increase the funds available to build new mass transit systems across the country. It will reduce traffic, cut pollution, save consumers money, and reduce our need for oil. We encourage each Member of Congress to support this amendment and the final bill."
Clean air, clean water and clean energy for Texas stand to benefit considerably through the stimulus proposals which, if passed, could result in a federal investment here in the Great State of more than 7% of the proposed $825 billion package.
NOTE: The Texas League of Conservation Voters gratefully receives support and guidance from national LCV, but TLCV and other state leagues are not affiliates, nor chapters nor branches of the national LCV; we're independent.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009"Before the banks burned and before the housing crisis caught fire, it was soaring gas prices that sparked this economic wildfire. President Obama's economic recovery package seizes the opportunity to put out today's flames and prevent future flare-ups by putting Americans to work to end our crippling addiction to oil. Members of Congress must seize this moment to act for the benefit of this and future generations.
"President Obama and the congressional leaders who authored this package have shown tremendous foresight in coupling immediate economic stimulus with the expansion and development of clean energy technologies. It represents the beginning of a greater shift in America's use of energy, a shift that will reap benefits for decades. The money for this package has been borrowed from future generations, so it is right and fitting that our children will benefit from the investments we make today. If we follow up on the investments made in this package, our children will face a cleaner, safer, more prosperous future.
"Every effort should be made to strengthen and to pass this bill. One amendment, offered by Representative Nadler, will significantly increase the funds available to build new mass transit systems across the country. It will reduce traffic, cut pollution, save consumers money, and reduce our need for oil. We encourage each Member of Congress to support this amendment and the final bill."
Clean air, clean water and clean energy for Texas stand to benefit considerably through the stimulus proposals which, if passed, could result in a federal investment here in the Great State of more than 7% of the proposed $825 billion package.
NOTE: The Texas League of Conservation Voters gratefully receives support and guidance from national LCV, but TLCV and other state leagues are not affiliates, nor chapters nor branches of the national LCV; we're independent.
Labels: federal stimulus, president obama
Perry's State of the State Address
Today Governor Perry lays out his legislative agenda in his State of the State address to a joint session of the House and Senate in Austin.
The Quorum Report provided the text of the governor's remarks, and we make it available here (in Word format):
Perry%20State%20of%20the%20State%2001-27-2009.doc
Here are some points from Perry's speech related to conservation issues, grouped by theme:
Water
As we turn our eyes toward that shared future, we must continue focusing on the things that government is supposed to do, provide for the additional transportation, electricity and water infrastructure and resources our state needs to grow and prosper.
Ask yourself, will the decisions we make in this session ensure your children and grandchildren have the resources they need to thrive in Texas?
When they turn on the faucet, will clean, affordable water flow? Let's answer that question before this session ends and make it a resounding yes.
Make this 81st Session memorable as the moment when Texas finally invested in your water plan that is well-researched and locally-developed...but not-yet-funded.
Let's ensure that our citizens, our children and grandchildren, have access to this most vital of resources for the next fifty years.
Let's also make sure that, when they flip a light switch, the lights will come on and stay on.
Let's not leave a legacy of rolling blackouts because we didn't keep pace with our power infrastructure.
The best long-term method for controlling utility costs is not to centralize control of rates, but to diversify the supply of energy...and keep taxes lower.
Energy
Unfortunately, our strength in petrochemical production and refining makes us a big target on the radar of an increasingly activist EPA, whose one-size-fits-all approaches could severely harm our energy sector; an agency whose potential to harm our state with punitive actions will only increase in the months and years to come.
Rather than wait for more mandates and punishments for environmental non-attainment, let's continue encouraging innovation.
I support giving Texans in the non-attainment areas of our state a $5,000 incentive towards a purchase of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles, using the funds Texans have already paid to reduce emissions, while providing a unique way to store wind energy.
This will keep Texas competitive in an emerging technology and take advantage of an energy portfolio that grows deeper and more diverse every day.
Texas has been taking an all-of-the-above approach to energy, increasing our affordable supplies of traditional energy sources, as well as wind, solar, bio-fuels, and nuclear, as a way to bolster our economy and move us closer to energy independence.
Texas is leading a national renaissance in nuclear power. With six potential new reactors on the drawing board, we need to encourage the production of this clean and reliable form of energy.
Texas has a huge opportunity in bio-fuels if we'll continue leveraging our state's energy expertise while avoiding use of food crops for energy, a practice that harms our farmers and ranchers, and drives up the family grocery bill.
Of all the renewable energy sectors, our biggest success story is in wind. Texas not only leads the nation in installed capacity, we have more wind-generated megawatts than all but three countries.
As with all electricity, however, one of our biggest challenges is getting the power from the source to homes and businesses where it is needed.
So whether it's West Texas wind or nuclear power from South Texas, we need to build out the transmission and distribution lines, streamline the regulations, and cut the red tape, so we can move this power to where it's needed.
Truth in Budgeting
We should only spend tax dollars on the express purpose for which they were collected. That's what Texans expect and that's what they should get.
Let's show it can be done in this session by shifting funding for the Department of Public Safety back into general revenue.
This will free up existing gasoline tax dollars to fulfill their original purpose: the construction and maintenance of our state's roads.
Driving Clean in TexasThe Quorum Report provided the text of the governor's remarks, and we make it available here (in Word format):
Perry%20State%20of%20the%20State%2001-27-2009.doc
Here are some points from Perry's speech related to conservation issues, grouped by theme:
Water
As we turn our eyes toward that shared future, we must continue focusing on the things that government is supposed to do, provide for the additional transportation, electricity and water infrastructure and resources our state needs to grow and prosper.
Ask yourself, will the decisions we make in this session ensure your children and grandchildren have the resources they need to thrive in Texas?
When they turn on the faucet, will clean, affordable water flow? Let's answer that question before this session ends and make it a resounding yes.
Make this 81st Session memorable as the moment when Texas finally invested in your water plan that is well-researched and locally-developed...but not-yet-funded.
Let's ensure that our citizens, our children and grandchildren, have access to this most vital of resources for the next fifty years.
Let's also make sure that, when they flip a light switch, the lights will come on and stay on.
Let's not leave a legacy of rolling blackouts because we didn't keep pace with our power infrastructure.
The best long-term method for controlling utility costs is not to centralize control of rates, but to diversify the supply of energy...and keep taxes lower.
Energy
Unfortunately, our strength in petrochemical production and refining makes us a big target on the radar of an increasingly activist EPA, whose one-size-fits-all approaches could severely harm our energy sector; an agency whose potential to harm our state with punitive actions will only increase in the months and years to come.
Rather than wait for more mandates and punishments for environmental non-attainment, let's continue encouraging innovation.
I support giving Texans in the non-attainment areas of our state a $5,000 incentive towards a purchase of Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles, using the funds Texans have already paid to reduce emissions, while providing a unique way to store wind energy.
This will keep Texas competitive in an emerging technology and take advantage of an energy portfolio that grows deeper and more diverse every day.
Texas has been taking an all-of-the-above approach to energy, increasing our affordable supplies of traditional energy sources, as well as wind, solar, bio-fuels, and nuclear, as a way to bolster our economy and move us closer to energy independence.
Texas is leading a national renaissance in nuclear power. With six potential new reactors on the drawing board, we need to encourage the production of this clean and reliable form of energy.
Texas has a huge opportunity in bio-fuels if we'll continue leveraging our state's energy expertise while avoiding use of food crops for energy, a practice that harms our farmers and ranchers, and drives up the family grocery bill.
Of all the renewable energy sectors, our biggest success story is in wind. Texas not only leads the nation in installed capacity, we have more wind-generated megawatts than all but three countries.
As with all electricity, however, one of our biggest challenges is getting the power from the source to homes and businesses where it is needed.
So whether it's West Texas wind or nuclear power from South Texas, we need to build out the transmission and distribution lines, streamline the regulations, and cut the red tape, so we can move this power to where it's needed.
Truth in Budgeting
We should only spend tax dollars on the express purpose for which they were collected. That's what Texans expect and that's what they should get.
Let's show it can be done in this session by shifting funding for the Department of Public Safety back into general revenue.
This will free up existing gasoline tax dollars to fulfill their original purpose: the construction and maintenance of our state's roads.
Labels: Rick Perry, state of the state address
"You don't have to believe in global warming to think that if they're making cars that are better engineered cars, Texans have the right to drive those cars too."
- State Representative Mark Strama
"If Texas was a separate country, we would be the eighth largest contributor to greenhouse gases in the world.... We are the energy capital of the United States... and we are clearly the No. 1 energy user in the world. So I think it makes it incumbent upon us in Texas to also be leaders in having a greener economy and doing as much as we can to reduce the (amount) of greenhouse emissions going into the air."
- State Senator Rodney Ellis
Sen. Ellis and Rep. Strama yesterday introduced legislation that would require, as of 2012, all new automobiles sold in Texas to meet the strict emissions and fuel efficiency standards set by the state of California.
These bills (SB 119 and its House companion, HB 776), while a long while in the making, were perfectly timed to make news yesterday, after the announcement from the Obama administration in Washington that federal regulators should re-look at allowing California and other states to adopt tougher standards in an effort to clean up our air.
If Texas joins the other states in adopting the higher standards, or if the federal government adopts a single higher standard for all states, it could have a tremendous impact on the poor air quality of Texas. These bills are being supported by TLCV and by our environmental coalition, the Alliance for a Clean Texas, and represent a big step forward for the state of Texas.
Whether or not the feds increase the national standards, Texas should sign on to the California standard, along with the other states that have already done so. Nothing could send a stronger message than for the two largest states in population, Texas and California, to stand together behind clean cars.
Indeed, TLCV's "Hunt, Fish, Vote" and "Camp, Hike, Vote" bumper stickers look pretty good the bumpers of clean cars. We'd like to see a lot more of them across Texas, especially if those cars are emitting less bad stuff into our air.
What's not to like about these proposals? The criticism we've found so far (in Elise Hu's story for KVUE) comes from a legislator who doesn't like 'em just because they are from California:
"I don't think you'll ever get them adopted in the state of Texas. And for good reason. I would oppose them anyway, because we don't want California making the standard for us."
- State Representative Warren Chisum
- State Representative Mark Strama
"If Texas was a separate country, we would be the eighth largest contributor to greenhouse gases in the world.... We are the energy capital of the United States... and we are clearly the No. 1 energy user in the world. So I think it makes it incumbent upon us in Texas to also be leaders in having a greener economy and doing as much as we can to reduce the (amount) of greenhouse emissions going into the air."
- State Senator Rodney Ellis
Sen. Ellis and Rep. Strama yesterday introduced legislation that would require, as of 2012, all new automobiles sold in Texas to meet the strict emissions and fuel efficiency standards set by the state of California.
These bills (SB 119 and its House companion, HB 776), while a long while in the making, were perfectly timed to make news yesterday, after the announcement from the Obama administration in Washington that federal regulators should re-look at allowing California and other states to adopt tougher standards in an effort to clean up our air.
If Texas joins the other states in adopting the higher standards, or if the federal government adopts a single higher standard for all states, it could have a tremendous impact on the poor air quality of Texas. These bills are being supported by TLCV and by our environmental coalition, the Alliance for a Clean Texas, and represent a big step forward for the state of Texas.
Whether or not the feds increase the national standards, Texas should sign on to the California standard, along with the other states that have already done so. Nothing could send a stronger message than for the two largest states in population, Texas and California, to stand together behind clean cars.
Indeed, TLCV's "Hunt, Fish, Vote" and "Camp, Hike, Vote" bumper stickers look pretty good the bumpers of clean cars. We'd like to see a lot more of them across Texas, especially if those cars are emitting less bad stuff into our air.
What's not to like about these proposals? The criticism we've found so far (in Elise Hu's story for KVUE) comes from a legislator who doesn't like 'em just because they are from California:
"I don't think you'll ever get them adopted in the state of Texas. And for good reason. I would oppose them anyway, because we don't want California making the standard for us."
- State Representative Warren Chisum
Labels: clean cars, mark strama, rodney ellis
What do cars and textbooks have in common?
The Austin American-Statesman's green blog, "Salsa Verde," notes President Obama's directive today to compel federal regulators to quickly accept a recommendation from California and other states to increase fuel efficiency and emissions standards in cars.
Statesman reporter Asher Price, writing in "Salsa Verde," says that the United States could see one of two outcomes from this fast-tracking: Either our nation will have two car standards (the California one, which will apply mostly to the East and West Coast regions; and the rest of us, which includes the middle of the country, and Texas. Or automakers will decide that it is too hard to divide the country up into two auto markets and implement the higher standards nationwide, including miles and miles of Texas.
This is analogous, Price notes, to the current debates at the State Board of Education regarding textbook adoption: because Texas is such a big customer for textbook publishers, textbook standards for Texas end up becoming defacto national standards since the publishers can't make a whole lot of versions of textbooks.
California is setting higher standards that the federal government for auto emissions, and now perhaps the Obama administration will follow their lead and require the feds to step up.
This is an important role for big, leading states like California and Texas. Many leaders in Texas view higher emissions and fuel standards for cars as harmful to our unfettered business environment, discounting the benefits to be achieved from higher standards: better air quality, better public health, and an opportunity to create green jobs building and supporting a cleaner auto industry.
We'll see what happens for Texas and other states as the California standards become approved by the federal government, and continue to work for the day when Texas and California can stand together as leading states, both calling for sound conservation policies that protect our environment while promoting our economies.
Labels: California emissions standards, fuel efficiency and emissions standards, president obama
Quorum Report just sent an email saying that the Texas House has proposed rules to consider for its operations this session. Included in the rules is information about the committee structure - including names of committees, consolidation of some committees into others, and the size of each committee. QR also uploaded the text of a memo detailing the changes, here.
According to the memo, the Environmental Regulations Committee is proposed to increase in size from 7 members to 9. Notably, it wasn't consolidated, nor were any committees consolidated into it. Most conservation bills live or die by their reception at this important House committee, chaired most recently by Rep. Dennis Bonnen.
No changes proposed to Land and Resource Management Committee. Public Health Committee and Transportation Committee each go from 7 to 9 members.
Natural Resources Committee gets a new issue to work with - "jurisdiction over the impact of electric generation on state water resources."
Still no word on committee chairmanships and membership.
Thursday, January 22, 2009According to the memo, the Environmental Regulations Committee is proposed to increase in size from 7 members to 9. Notably, it wasn't consolidated, nor were any committees consolidated into it. Most conservation bills live or die by their reception at this important House committee, chaired most recently by Rep. Dennis Bonnen.
No changes proposed to Land and Resource Management Committee. Public Health Committee and Transportation Committee each go from 7 to 9 members.
Natural Resources Committee gets a new issue to work with - "jurisdiction over the impact of electric generation on state water resources."
Still no word on committee chairmanships and membership.
Labels: committee rules, environmental regulations committee, Texas House, Texas House Committees
This is your call to action
President Obama said it in his inauguration speech on Tuesday:
"What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character than giving our all to a difficult task."
Today, as a result of the economic downturn, Texas government is facing billions of dollars in cuts to revenue projections for the next biennium. To protect our cherished environment, and to build our clean energy future, Texas needs you to take action.
There is no doubt that part of the solution to the economy is investment in the creation of green-collar jobs that can build renewable energy sources while putting Texans to work.
Our Legislature, meeting for the next few months here in Austin, needs to hear from you and from others who share our view that protecting the environment and building a better business climate aren't mutually exclusive - they can both happen at the same time. Indeed, given the threats to our air, our water and our lands, they simply have to happen at the same time.
However, there are many worthy, competing interests for our state's limited resources, and legislators need to hear from those of us who can get to the Capitol and tell them how we would like them to decide the important questions before them.
Sign up for lobby day and the free conference here. We need you to come tell legislators that clean air and clean energy will lead to a cleaner economy and create new jobs for Texans while making our state a better place to live and raise a family.
What are you waiting for? Please sign up today.
Give your all to the difficult tasks before us, become a part of the solution to the problems confronting Texas, and participate in an enriching experience as a volunteer lobbyist for environmental conservation.
Just click here and sign up. See you in February!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009"What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility -- a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character than giving our all to a difficult task."
Today, as a result of the economic downturn, Texas government is facing billions of dollars in cuts to revenue projections for the next biennium. To protect our cherished environment, and to build our clean energy future, Texas needs you to take action.There is no doubt that part of the solution to the economy is investment in the creation of green-collar jobs that can build renewable energy sources while putting Texans to work.
Our Legislature, meeting for the next few months here in Austin, needs to hear from you and from others who share our view that protecting the environment and building a better business climate aren't mutually exclusive - they can both happen at the same time. Indeed, given the threats to our air, our water and our lands, they simply have to happen at the same time.
However, there are many worthy, competing interests for our state's limited resources, and legislators need to hear from those of us who can get to the Capitol and tell them how we would like them to decide the important questions before them.
All of our elected officials depend on constituents to tell them about their concerns and wishes. Legislators and legislative staffers depend on citizens from their home districts to advise them about the issues that matter most to them. Every legislator in Texas needs to hear from as many of their constituents as possible the simple message that clean energy and green jobs are a solution to the economic crises facing our state and nation.
Therefore, this is your first call to action from your League to get involved in this legislative session: make plans to join us, and the Alliance for a Clean Texas coalition of environmental and conservation organizations, at our statewide lobby day and conference February 17-18, 2009.Sign up for lobby day and the free conference here. We need you to come tell legislators that clean air and clean energy will lead to a cleaner economy and create new jobs for Texans while making our state a better place to live and raise a family.
What are you waiting for? Please sign up today.
Give your all to the difficult tasks before us, become a part of the solution to the problems confronting Texas, and participate in an enriching experience as a volunteer lobbyist for environmental conservation.
Just click here and sign up. See you in February!
Labels: Alliance for a Clean Texas, citizen lobby day
They're on notice.
Last week we began putting Texas legislators on notice.
After the huge success of the League's 80th Legislative Session Scorecard, we want elected officials and legislative staffers to know that we will continue to provide this service to every Texan. Our scorecard tracks important votes in the Legislature -- and reports to the public which legislators vote for environmental conservation, and which do not.
With committee assignments in flux and house leadership all shaken up, we will use our scorecard to empower Texans to hold their elected officials accountable on clean air, clean water, and clean government. It is important to open up the process and allow sunshine in.
The people's business cannot be done behind closed doors. Elected officials should be held accountable for votes that pollute our air and water and destroy our parks and heritage. State representatives and senators should be praised for cleaning up our air and water, and for working to create the new, green energy jobs that can help turn our economy around.
This year, for the first time, our scores will be broken down into specific issues areas, including renewable power issues like wind and solar, energy efficiency like clean cars and buses, water conservation and protecting our parks, wetlands and open spaces. Texas is a big state and energy and the environment will be front and center this year.
We plan on being at the legislature for all the important votes and tracking the important bills.
We will continue to let you know when bad legislation is presented to a committee or the House and Senate. We will let you know when good bills get passed, and who carried the legislation that will clean up and conserve Texas for future generations.
We need your help holding legislators accountable for their decisions. Please sign up today for our action alerts and newsletter. Our work needs more folks getting involved if we are to succeed, please recruit just 1 or 2 of you friends to sign up today. Together we can make Texas the leader in renewable energy and green jobs. With your help we can clean up our water and air and preserve Texas for future generations.
It's time to get to work. With your help, Texas can become a better place to raise a family, build a business and celebrate our natural heritage.
On other fronts, our legislative coalition, the Alliance for a Clean Texas (ACT) will be at the Texas Capitol February 17th and 18th. ACT will arrange lobby meetings with key legislators and there will be a full-day legislative conference "Texas Energy Future: Clean Power and Green Jobs" in the capitol auditorium. There is no charge for this event. All you need to do is sign up today!
Thank you for all you do.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009After the huge success of the League's 80th Legislative Session Scorecard, we want elected officials and legislative staffers to know that we will continue to provide this service to every Texan. Our scorecard tracks important votes in the Legislature -- and reports to the public which legislators vote for environmental conservation, and which do not.
With committee assignments in flux and house leadership all shaken up, we will use our scorecard to empower Texans to hold their elected officials accountable on clean air, clean water, and clean government. It is important to open up the process and allow sunshine in.
The people's business cannot be done behind closed doors. Elected officials should be held accountable for votes that pollute our air and water and destroy our parks and heritage. State representatives and senators should be praised for cleaning up our air and water, and for working to create the new, green energy jobs that can help turn our economy around.
This year, for the first time, our scores will be broken down into specific issues areas, including renewable power issues like wind and solar, energy efficiency like clean cars and buses, water conservation and protecting our parks, wetlands and open spaces. Texas is a big state and energy and the environment will be front and center this year.
We plan on being at the legislature for all the important votes and tracking the important bills.
We will continue to let you know when bad legislation is presented to a committee or the House and Senate. We will let you know when good bills get passed, and who carried the legislation that will clean up and conserve Texas for future generations.
We need your help holding legislators accountable for their decisions. Please sign up today for our action alerts and newsletter. Our work needs more folks getting involved if we are to succeed, please recruit just 1 or 2 of you friends to sign up today. Together we can make Texas the leader in renewable energy and green jobs. With your help we can clean up our water and air and preserve Texas for future generations.
It's time to get to work. With your help, Texas can become a better place to raise a family, build a business and celebrate our natural heritage.
On other fronts, our legislative coalition, the Alliance for a Clean Texas (ACT) will be at the Texas Capitol February 17th and 18th. ACT will arrange lobby meetings with key legislators and there will be a full-day legislative conference "Texas Energy Future: Clean Power and Green Jobs" in the capitol auditorium. There is no charge for this event. All you need to do is sign up today!
Thank you for all you do.
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, citizen lobby day, Scorecard
President Obama makes conservation issues a theme of inaugural address
Just a few minutes ago, President Obama delivered his inaugural address. Including a profound call to action to build and rebuild our nation, the new president mentioned the urgency and importance of conservation issues to the new administration and to America's future, issues such as generating renewable power and threats to our planet's health.
The new president said [emphases added]:
"....[F]or everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act - not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do...."
Sandwiched between national security messages, the president spoke eloquently about the challenges of climate change, and America's role to counteract them:
"....We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you...."
In words directed to the world's poor, President Obama spoke about America's new role under his presidency:
"....[W]e pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it...."
His address concluded with words intended to inspire and gird Americans for action:
"In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."
To those of us who work for environmental conservation, to protect the clean air, water and land from which our prosperity arises, those who help us through your volunteerism, support and involvement, and those of you who serve our state and our nation as elected officials: we've got work to do.
Labels: inaugural address, president obama
Speaker Joe Straus III
The League was at the Capitol today. I watched the House of Representatives convene, get blessed by the new Cardinal, and take the oath of office administered by Secretary of State Hope Andrade.
Then I saw members elect Rep. Joe Straus as Speaker of the House by acclamation - 150 to 0.
In his remarks, Speaker Straus touched a bit on the important work before the House this session [emphasis added]:
"We must work to provide quality education -- at all levels -- for our children... We must continue to improve access to healthcare; we must improve our transportation system... We must be better stewards of our natural resources and protect our environment."
"Let us reach across the aisle, then reach across the rotunda, to build a better future for Texas."
Thank you, Speaker Straus. The environmental and conservation communities are ready to work with you and all members of the House to advance a common sense agenda for the renewable energy programs that will strengthen Texas' economy while protecting our important natural heritage, our air, our land and our precious water.
It's a new day in Texas, and the Legislature is in Session. Keep a regular eye on this blog for more news and updates from the Capitol.
Next up: who's going to chair the Environmental Regulations Committee?
Monday, January 12, 2009Then I saw members elect Rep. Joe Straus as Speaker of the House by acclamation - 150 to 0.
In his remarks, Speaker Straus touched a bit on the important work before the House this session [emphasis added]:
"We must work to provide quality education -- at all levels -- for our children... We must continue to improve access to healthcare; we must improve our transportation system... We must be better stewards of our natural resources and protect our environment."
"Let us reach across the aisle, then reach across the rotunda, to build a better future for Texas."
Thank you, Speaker Straus. The environmental and conservation communities are ready to work with you and all members of the House to advance a common sense agenda for the renewable energy programs that will strengthen Texas' economy while protecting our important natural heritage, our air, our land and our precious water.
It's a new day in Texas, and the Legislature is in Session. Keep a regular eye on this blog for more news and updates from the Capitol.
Next up: who's going to chair the Environmental Regulations Committee?
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, environmental regulations committee, speaker straus
Welcome Legislators!
Tomorrow is the first day of the 81st Texas Legislature. All members of the Texas Senate and House of Representatives will be sworn in during a public ceremony at the Capitol, and House members will elect their new Speaker - likely to be San Antonio Republican, Rep. Joe Straus III.
On behalf of the Texas League of Conservation Voters, it is my privilege to welcome newly-elected House members and Senators to Austin, particularly those who were elected with the endorsement and support of the League's Political Committee:
Senator Wendy Davis, District 10, Fort Worth/Tarrant County.
Rep. Carol Kent, District 102, Dallas County.
Rep. Diana Maldonado, District 52, Williamson County.
Rep. Robert Miklos, District 101, Mesquite.
Rep. Joe Moody, District 78, El Paso.
Rep. Kristi Thibaut, District 133, Harris County.
Rep. Chris Turner, District 96, Tarrant County.
Conservationists have high expectations for these talented leaders, and we look forward to working with them, and all members of the Texas Senate and House, on building a brighter future for our state.
!Adelante!
Senator Wendy Davis, District 10, Fort Worth/Tarrant County.
Rep. Carol Kent, District 102, Dallas County.
Rep. Diana Maldonado, District 52, Williamson County.
Rep. Robert Miklos, District 101, Mesquite.
Rep. Joe Moody, District 78, El Paso.
Rep. Kristi Thibaut, District 133, Harris County.
Rep. Chris Turner, District 96, Tarrant County.
Conservationists have high expectations for these talented leaders, and we look forward to working with them, and all members of the Texas Senate and House, on building a brighter future for our state.
!Adelante!
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, carol kent, chris turner, diana maldonado, joe moody, kristi thibaut, robert miklos, speaker, wendy davis
Green Building - Worlds 1st LEED-Platinum Hospital
"Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas...is the first hospital in the world to receive the Leadership in Environmental Energy & Design Platinum designation by the U.S. Green Building Council."
- Community Impact Newspaper
This is good, and you'd expect Austin, with its conservation and environmental orientation, would be near the top of the list of cities building LEED-certified buildings for its institutions. The new AT&T Conference Center at the University of Texas is also a LEED building.
You might not expect that Houston has a lot of LEED-certified buildings as well. The City of Houston's award-winning programs (link is to a PDF file) including an effort to make all new and rehabilitated city buildings LEED-certified at the silver level. [Learn more here.]
These are great steps in the right direction. What's needed today - please note, Texas Legislature members - is a revision of statewide building codes to begin to assure that all other buildings and renovations in Texas are starting to take steps to build in a sustainable way. Construction pollution is an important factor in our air quality; improving building codes is one way to make Texas better.
Labels: Dell Children's Medical Center, houston, LEED
I've been asked one question again and again the past few days:
How's the new Speaker going to be on conservation issues?
I haven't talked to the Speaker-apparent, Rep. Joe Straus of San Antonio, but I've talked to other folks, and I've been reading up. There was an interview he gave to Texas Monthly last year that is illustrative. Read the whole thing here, and here's an excerpt:
Q: You chair the Subcommittee on Energy Conservation and Efficiency. Do you believe Texas has the potential to be a leader in the production of alternative energies?
A: In many respects, Texas already is a leader in the production of renewable energy. We are the national leader in wind energy, and we're making strides in solar power and biomass. I authored and passed a bill that enhances the state's existing energy efficiency programs. It requires all electric providers to participate in efficiency programs, adds new incentives for the sale of energy efficient products, enables customers to better manage their own electric consumption, and updates public building energy codes in order to increase conservation.
I think we are getting to the point where renewable energy represents such a promising market that the large energy companies no longer view it as a small research investment, but a serious source of energy that will help power the energy economy. I see the day fast arriving when alternative energy is a mainstream source to power Texans' lives.
This passes the sniff test: I think Joe Straus really cares about building a green economy in Texas, and continuing our state's historical position as the leading energy state. Contrast Rep. Straus's lucid, sensible remarks above with those of Rep. Tony Goolsby, who tried to sound like he was turning green, but couldn't quite sound convincing. Here's Goolsby in an interview with KERA radio in Dallas from October talking about his commitment to sound conservation policy on air quality:
"I know we're working hard with the Texas air quality. Power plants that are being built are going to add on to the nuclear which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants are not going to be putting out as much carbon monoxide."
Voters sent Goolsby back home to Dallas on Election Day, selecting Carol Kent instead. And Texas House members are certain to elevate Rep. Straus to Speaker on Tuesday. There's a lesson there:
Texas voters want politicians of every stripe to do something to clean up our air quality, generate cleaner power... and improve the economy while they're at it.
Leaders who understand that get elected. Those who don't, increasingly, get to give up the gavel.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters looks forward to working with Rep. Straus as Speaker, and have high hopes that his appointments to key committees will be folks we can work with to pass good laws for "the fresh clean air."
President-elect Obama Ready to Put Americans to Work with Green Jobs - but Where is Texas?How's the new Speaker going to be on conservation issues?
I haven't talked to the Speaker-apparent, Rep. Joe Straus of San Antonio, but I've talked to other folks, and I've been reading up. There was an interview he gave to Texas Monthly last year that is illustrative. Read the whole thing here, and here's an excerpt:
Q: You chair the Subcommittee on Energy Conservation and Efficiency. Do you believe Texas has the potential to be a leader in the production of alternative energies?
A: In many respects, Texas already is a leader in the production of renewable energy. We are the national leader in wind energy, and we're making strides in solar power and biomass. I authored and passed a bill that enhances the state's existing energy efficiency programs. It requires all electric providers to participate in efficiency programs, adds new incentives for the sale of energy efficient products, enables customers to better manage their own electric consumption, and updates public building energy codes in order to increase conservation.
I think we are getting to the point where renewable energy represents such a promising market that the large energy companies no longer view it as a small research investment, but a serious source of energy that will help power the energy economy. I see the day fast arriving when alternative energy is a mainstream source to power Texans' lives.
This passes the sniff test: I think Joe Straus really cares about building a green economy in Texas, and continuing our state's historical position as the leading energy state. Contrast Rep. Straus's lucid, sensible remarks above with those of Rep. Tony Goolsby, who tried to sound like he was turning green, but couldn't quite sound convincing. Here's Goolsby in an interview with KERA radio in Dallas from October talking about his commitment to sound conservation policy on air quality:
"I know we're working hard with the Texas air quality. Power plants that are being built are going to add on to the nuclear which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants are not going to be putting out as much carbon monoxide."
Voters sent Goolsby back home to Dallas on Election Day, selecting Carol Kent instead. And Texas House members are certain to elevate Rep. Straus to Speaker on Tuesday. There's a lesson there:
Texas voters want politicians of every stripe to do something to clean up our air quality, generate cleaner power... and improve the economy while they're at it.
Leaders who understand that get elected. Those who don't, increasingly, get to give up the gavel.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters looks forward to working with Rep. Straus as Speaker, and have high hopes that his appointments to key committees will be folks we can work with to pass good laws for "the fresh clean air."
Labels: carol kent, clean energy future, joe straus, tony goolsby
Today, the president-elect gave an economic stimulus speech, laying out priorities for investment in the work of America. Our national partner, the national League of Conservation Voters applauded President-elect Obama's speech and noted:
"America's economy is ailing and the prognosis for the planet is dire. The cure for both these ills is a new clean energy future. Putting millions of people to work installing solar panels, producing wind turbines and making two million homes more efficient is just what the doctor ordered. President-elect Obama’s prescriptions will address the twin challenges of an ailing economy and the threat of global warming."
Indeed.
Texas companies are eyeing the prospect of a massive federal stimulus, hoping for tax breaks to encourage consumer spending and home building.
What could really be helpful is federal investment in the infrastructure needed for a green economy - the power grid and renewable energy generation, new transportation options that move folks away from gas guzzlers and toward more efficient cars running on improved roadways, or even non-car options like high speed rail, as is being suggested in other parts of the country, and - most importantly - help in creation of new, green jobs that will allow Texas to continue to be a world energy leader.
This session, TxDOT is up for sunset review. That means leaders in Austin have a chance to make changes to our state's transportation agency that result in prioritizing better forms of transit over more roads. Federal stimulus + new priorities for Texas = a solution that creates jobs, improves mobility and makes a big dent in Texas air quality problems caused by auto traffic jammed up on our highways.
Conservation Lobby Day - Save the Date!"America's economy is ailing and the prognosis for the planet is dire. The cure for both these ills is a new clean energy future. Putting millions of people to work installing solar panels, producing wind turbines and making two million homes more efficient is just what the doctor ordered. President-elect Obama’s prescriptions will address the twin challenges of an ailing economy and the threat of global warming."
Indeed.
Texas companies are eyeing the prospect of a massive federal stimulus, hoping for tax breaks to encourage consumer spending and home building.
What could really be helpful is federal investment in the infrastructure needed for a green economy - the power grid and renewable energy generation, new transportation options that move folks away from gas guzzlers and toward more efficient cars running on improved roadways, or even non-car options like high speed rail, as is being suggested in other parts of the country, and - most importantly - help in creation of new, green jobs that will allow Texas to continue to be a world energy leader.
This session, TxDOT is up for sunset review. That means leaders in Austin have a chance to make changes to our state's transportation agency that result in prioritizing better forms of transit over more roads. Federal stimulus + new priorities for Texas = a solution that creates jobs, improves mobility and makes a big dent in Texas air quality problems caused by auto traffic jammed up on our highways.
Labels: federal stimulus, green economy, TxDOT
The 81st Texas Legislature convenes Tuesday and will meet until the end of May, and many legislators and lobbyists are saying this will be a "green" session - one in which conservation issues and environmental bills have a high priority. Indeed, this session, Texas can strengthen efforts to create the green-collar jobs that will power our economy forward.
And you can help!
The League and our partners in the Alliance for a Clean Texas are organizing a Citizen Lobby Day February 18th, with lobby training on the 17th. Register now here.
Keep up with the latest news and information about environmental legislation at the legislature here at the TLCV blog, and via our regular email alerts.
Together, we can change Texas for the better for the future.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009And you can help!
The League and our partners in the Alliance for a Clean Texas are organizing a Citizen Lobby Day February 18th, with lobby training on the 17th. Register now here.
Keep up with the latest news and information about environmental legislation at the legislature here at the TLCV blog, and via our regular email alerts.
Together, we can change Texas for the better for the future.
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, Alliance for a Clean Texas, citizen lobby day
House Speaker-Apparent Joe Straus: Energy Efficiency Advocate
Last session, Rep. Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) authored HB 3693, which passed the Texas House 141 to 0 and was signed into law by Governor Perry. This bill got watered down a good deal in the process, but it is notable today for two reasons: 1. The bill did improve electric utility conservation programs, building codes and energy-saving efforts by local governments.
2. Rep. Joe Straus wrote it, and as of today he has more than enough pledged votes to succeed Rep. Tom Craddick as House Speaker.
That's right. Texas could soon have a House Speaker who not only isn't opposed to every good environmental bill as a matter of principle, but who actually authored a good bill last session!
January 13th will be a new dawn in the Texas House should Rep. Straus be elected Speaker as expected. Conservation groups hope that Speaker Strauss will appoint pro-conservation leaders to head committees, particularly the House Environmental Regulations Committee (currently chaired by Rep. Bonnen (who earned a paltry 28% score on the League's legislative scorecard last session).
We don't expect the new Speaker and House leadership to be rubber-stampers of the environmental agenda. Rather, we expect the new leadership to give good environmental bills a fair shot, to manage the business of the House in an evenhanded way, and to help build bipartisan consensus on the urgent conservation issues facing Texas: improving our air quality, generating the renewable power that will drive our economy forward and developing sound, sustainable transportation practices.
Texas League of Conservation Voters extends our best wishes to Speaker-apparent Straus, and we look forward to working with him and all House members on building a stronger Texas for tomorrow.
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, energy efficiency, speaker, Texas House
Green-tinged Speaker?
Austin American-Statesman's Asher Price got a few words with Rep. Joe Strauss, who will most likely become the next Speaker of the Texas House. While many folks have been saying "ABC" ("Anybody But Craddick" for Speaker), it looks as if there may be somebody in the Speaker's chair who give a fair, evenhanded chance to environmental conservation this session, even - we hope! - appointing a Chair of the Environmental Regulations Committee who's isn't simply a lapdog for big polluters. That's a New Year's surprise everybody can be happy about!
Speaker's RaceLabels: joe strauss, speaker, Texas House, tom craddick
Texas League of Conservation Voters thanks Rep. Tom Craddick for his years of service as Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives, and we look forward to working with the new speaker, when elected, and legislators in the new legislatives session.
While neither of the frontrunners to be the next speaker has a high score on the League's last legislative scorecard (Rep. John Smithee = 33%; Rep. Joe Strauss = 30%), our hope and expectation is that either one will run the House in an evenhanded way, giving sound environmental bills a fair shot at being heard, debated and passing.
Monday, December 22, 2008While neither of the frontrunners to be the next speaker has a high score on the League's last legislative scorecard (Rep. John Smithee = 33%; Rep. Joe Strauss = 30%), our hope and expectation is that either one will run the House in an evenhanded way, giving sound environmental bills a fair shot at being heard, debated and passing.
Labels: speaker, Texas House
In memorium: Ned Fritz
Conservationists were saddened to learn of the passing this weekend of Edward C. "Ned" Fritz. Mr. Fritz was a founder of our organization in 1970, and the boards of directors and staff of the Texas League of Conservation Voters and TLCV Educational Fund extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Dubbed the Father of Texas Conservation by the Nature Conservancy, Ned Fritz was a founder and leader of a variety of conservation and environmental organizations, including the Nature Conservancy in Texas and the Texas Land Conservancy. TLCV board member David Todd remarked to the Austin American Statesman, "He was a firebrand; he was so outspoken about things," who later became, "very spiritual, poetic, really, about nature."
In July 1970, Ned Fritz and four other conservationists (P. Burgess Geirsenbeck, Dr. Daniel E. Willard, Margaret Louise Hancock and Dr. M. Lea Rudee) sent a letter to key Texans announcing the founding of the Texas League:
It is with great pleasure that we announce the formation of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. The League is a nonpartisan campaign committee which gives active support to legislators working to protect the environment. We base our decisions upon the advice and information of conservation leaders from many groups. Our goal is to prove that issues like pollution, population, and conservation can decide an election, thus greatly increasing the political pull of all groups working on these problems.
The League's primary purposes are three fold: (1) to keep a record of the decisions and votes of all elected public officials in Texas; (2) to endorse those candidates for state and local election whose record or platform demonstrate their environmental concern; (3) to inform the various conservation organizations and the public at large on these issues.
Donations to the League will be used to defray office and travel expenses for the State Coordinator and for assisting strong conservation candidates through paid ads or direct contributions.
....Please help us by donating and getting your friends to make their donation.
Today, Texas League of Conservation Voters still adheres to those primary purposes. We work each day to turn environmental values into priorities for Texas officials by educating, advocating and acting in spirited defense of what makes Texas special - our air, our land and our water.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitute to Ned Fritz, and mourn his passing.
The League is accepting memorial contributions in memory of Ned Fritz. Gifts of any amount are accepted, and will be used to pay for legislative advocacy and other key League programs in fulfillment of our organization's three original purposes. You may choose to make your gift online or by mailing a check to: TLCV, 44 East Avenue, Austin, TX 78701.
There will be a memorial service for Ned Fritz Friday, January 2, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church in Dallas.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008Dubbed the Father of Texas Conservation by the Nature Conservancy, Ned Fritz was a founder and leader of a variety of conservation and environmental organizations, including the Nature Conservancy in Texas and the Texas Land Conservancy. TLCV board member David Todd remarked to the Austin American Statesman, "He was a firebrand; he was so outspoken about things," who later became, "very spiritual, poetic, really, about nature."
In July 1970, Ned Fritz and four other conservationists (P. Burgess Geirsenbeck, Dr. Daniel E. Willard, Margaret Louise Hancock and Dr. M. Lea Rudee) sent a letter to key Texans announcing the founding of the Texas League:
It is with great pleasure that we announce the formation of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. The League is a nonpartisan campaign committee which gives active support to legislators working to protect the environment. We base our decisions upon the advice and information of conservation leaders from many groups. Our goal is to prove that issues like pollution, population, and conservation can decide an election, thus greatly increasing the political pull of all groups working on these problems.
The League's primary purposes are three fold: (1) to keep a record of the decisions and votes of all elected public officials in Texas; (2) to endorse those candidates for state and local election whose record or platform demonstrate their environmental concern; (3) to inform the various conservation organizations and the public at large on these issues.
Donations to the League will be used to defray office and travel expenses for the State Coordinator and for assisting strong conservation candidates through paid ads or direct contributions.
....Please help us by donating and getting your friends to make their donation.
Today, Texas League of Conservation Voters still adheres to those primary purposes. We work each day to turn environmental values into priorities for Texas officials by educating, advocating and acting in spirited defense of what makes Texas special - our air, our land and our water.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitute to Ned Fritz, and mourn his passing.
The League is accepting memorial contributions in memory of Ned Fritz. Gifts of any amount are accepted, and will be used to pay for legislative advocacy and other key League programs in fulfillment of our organization's three original purposes. You may choose to make your gift online or by mailing a check to: TLCV, 44 East Avenue, Austin, TX 78701.
There will be a memorial service for Ned Fritz Friday, January 2, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church in Dallas.
Labels: Ned Fritz; founder;
Environmental Leadership Institute
Last week, the TLCV staff went to the Environmental Leadership Institute (ELI), a conference for nonprofit environmental workers which was held in Austin. ELI isnt always in Austin, so we considered ourselves very lucky to get the chance to stay close to home. I dont know about James, but I foolishly thought we might be able to go for scenic walks around town in our down-time. I was so wrong!
I think Im getting ahead of myself. The way ELI works is to take environmentalists from all over the country and put them in one of four groups working on mock campaigns. All of the campaigns are different. During the day, there are all kinds of presentations given by experts on various parts of a campaign and how to make them successful. At night hellish assignments are given to put the lessons dutifully learned into practice and to torture the members with lack of sleep and controversial tasks until they finally finish the assignments at 3, 4, 5 in the morning and fall into bed like so many dominos, to rise again before 8 to return to their lessons.
You can see what I mean about not having free time to explore. In some ways it was refreshing during this intense week to come out of the hotel where we spent every minute of every day and to realize that we were just down the street from the university, and our houses were close by. Im a mass transit kind of girl, and I would gaze down the street and picture all the buses that could have brought me home…
Part of the reason Im writing all of this is that this mock campaign was very realistic. The point of being overworked and under energized in some ways was to show just how much hard work goes into a campaign. Working with a group of people we didnt know was also realistic, in that this happens a lot in campaign projects, that people come together who have never worked together before. And theyre told to put together a complicated plan while learning each others quirks at the same time. Im sure under those circumstances the thought that ‘I could just go home and everything would be back to normal’ crosses everyones mind at least once, but theyre all there for a reason and if one leaves it hurts the morale and strength of the group.
Besides learning about the realities of working campaigns, though, there was another strong message we took away from this conference. Even while being torn between the haze of sleepiness and inner hum of productivity and raw, work driven energy, we began to appreciate each other. It was fascinating the first day to meet people from all over the country and have them all in one room (“I dont think Ive ever met someone from Alaska!”). By the end of the week, it became a far deeper admiration. It became, “Look at all of these people I didnt even know who care as much about the environment as I do.” It was the feeling that suddenly I wasnt one of the only ones fighting the battle against the corrupt, and working to conserve. It was a group effort, with invisible allies everywhere, and just a small fraction had just gone through the crazy experience I had.
We were better armed for the upcoming battles with everything we had learned, as well as each other there to make sure we make it through. The non profit world can be frustrating when every day is a struggle to convince people the environment is important so they will help the organization keep moving (a sure-fire way to feel like a lonely voice) and constantly battling for conservation. Its hard at times not to go home and decide not to come out until global warming is over. This conference armed us with the rejuvenating knowledge and a clearer grasp on what needs to be done to make a successful campaign, so we could go back to our world beyond the hotel with a firm grasp on our full binders and confidence for the road ahead.
Also, now we know who to call to hear someone talk about why they care about the environment. That kind of a reminder is even better than hiding under the covers.
Friday, December 05, 2008I think Im getting ahead of myself. The way ELI works is to take environmentalists from all over the country and put them in one of four groups working on mock campaigns. All of the campaigns are different. During the day, there are all kinds of presentations given by experts on various parts of a campaign and how to make them successful. At night hellish assignments are given to put the lessons dutifully learned into practice and to torture the members with lack of sleep and controversial tasks until they finally finish the assignments at 3, 4, 5 in the morning and fall into bed like so many dominos, to rise again before 8 to return to their lessons.
You can see what I mean about not having free time to explore. In some ways it was refreshing during this intense week to come out of the hotel where we spent every minute of every day and to realize that we were just down the street from the university, and our houses were close by. Im a mass transit kind of girl, and I would gaze down the street and picture all the buses that could have brought me home…
Part of the reason Im writing all of this is that this mock campaign was very realistic. The point of being overworked and under energized in some ways was to show just how much hard work goes into a campaign. Working with a group of people we didnt know was also realistic, in that this happens a lot in campaign projects, that people come together who have never worked together before. And theyre told to put together a complicated plan while learning each others quirks at the same time. Im sure under those circumstances the thought that ‘I could just go home and everything would be back to normal’ crosses everyones mind at least once, but theyre all there for a reason and if one leaves it hurts the morale and strength of the group.
Besides learning about the realities of working campaigns, though, there was another strong message we took away from this conference. Even while being torn between the haze of sleepiness and inner hum of productivity and raw, work driven energy, we began to appreciate each other. It was fascinating the first day to meet people from all over the country and have them all in one room (“I dont think Ive ever met someone from Alaska!”). By the end of the week, it became a far deeper admiration. It became, “Look at all of these people I didnt even know who care as much about the environment as I do.” It was the feeling that suddenly I wasnt one of the only ones fighting the battle against the corrupt, and working to conserve. It was a group effort, with invisible allies everywhere, and just a small fraction had just gone through the crazy experience I had.
We were better armed for the upcoming battles with everything we had learned, as well as each other there to make sure we make it through. The non profit world can be frustrating when every day is a struggle to convince people the environment is important so they will help the organization keep moving (a sure-fire way to feel like a lonely voice) and constantly battling for conservation. Its hard at times not to go home and decide not to come out until global warming is over. This conference armed us with the rejuvenating knowledge and a clearer grasp on what needs to be done to make a successful campaign, so we could go back to our world beyond the hotel with a firm grasp on our full binders and confidence for the road ahead.
Also, now we know who to call to hear someone talk about why they care about the environment. That kind of a reminder is even better than hiding under the covers.
Philosophizing green: What do you think?
Climate change is a huge issue right now. Even people who don’t believe humans are the cause admit that something is shifting. Still, the fact that there even are people who still reject the concept of human caused global warming means that it’s harder for people to figure out what they want to do about it. Most of the debates on the topic involve such polarized viewpoints that we’re still arguing so much about causes we aren’t looking at solutions.
On the other hand, many of the solutions commonly accepted revolve around reducing carbon offsets, so even talks about ways to prevent the earth from heating up too much ruffle feathers.
While I understand the sides to this debate, it does lead me to wonder…what’s the big deal? If environmentalists are wrong and using solar energy, planting more wildlife and using biofuels fail, we’ve still managed to cut down our pollution immensely. And scientists have shown there’s a connection between asthma and other health related issues and smog and chemicals.
I’ve seen a lot of arguments that going green will lose us a lot of green, especially in Texas which has a oil-based economy. Another fact that everyone concedes, however, is that the oil we have in the United States isn’t enough to fuel us for much longer. If we don’t jump on the boat early, we’ll be left in the dust when other parts of the country find ways to continue benefiting from automotive fuel and we’re still desperately looking at possibilities to reach out to other unstable countries that can give us some black gold.
To be honest, I am of the belief that going green to reduce carbon emissions is the right way to go about stopping global warming. You probably are too, if you’re reading this. But a lot of the changes we need to make to bring about a greener United States are worth doing for themselves, not just for the over-arching goal of slowing/stopping global warming. Maybe this form of argument can help get support from people who aren’t sure what causes climate change, but are tired of seeing their children hacking up a lung in the front yard after a bus drives by.
What do you think?
Tuesday, December 02, 2008On the other hand, many of the solutions commonly accepted revolve around reducing carbon offsets, so even talks about ways to prevent the earth from heating up too much ruffle feathers.
While I understand the sides to this debate, it does lead me to wonder…what’s the big deal? If environmentalists are wrong and using solar energy, planting more wildlife and using biofuels fail, we’ve still managed to cut down our pollution immensely. And scientists have shown there’s a connection between asthma and other health related issues and smog and chemicals.
I’ve seen a lot of arguments that going green will lose us a lot of green, especially in Texas which has a oil-based economy. Another fact that everyone concedes, however, is that the oil we have in the United States isn’t enough to fuel us for much longer. If we don’t jump on the boat early, we’ll be left in the dust when other parts of the country find ways to continue benefiting from automotive fuel and we’re still desperately looking at possibilities to reach out to other unstable countries that can give us some black gold.
To be honest, I am of the belief that going green to reduce carbon emissions is the right way to go about stopping global warming. You probably are too, if you’re reading this. But a lot of the changes we need to make to bring about a greener United States are worth doing for themselves, not just for the over-arching goal of slowing/stopping global warming. Maybe this form of argument can help get support from people who aren’t sure what causes climate change, but are tired of seeing their children hacking up a lung in the front yard after a bus drives by.
What do you think?
Governor Perry: Pro-Emissions!
The League was going to write a good rant about Governor Rick Perry's opposition to efforts to reduce climate change. Just look at what he says:
"I've heard Al Gore talk about man-made global warming so much that I'm starting to think that his mouth is the leading source of all that supposedly deadly carbon dioxide."
C'mon, guv. Don't turn the most important environmental crisis we've seen into a punchline at the expense of Al Gore! As we say, we were going to rant a good bit. But the blog Eye on Williamson did a good job of the task here.
Monday, November 24, 2008"I've heard Al Gore talk about man-made global warming so much that I'm starting to think that his mouth is the leading source of all that supposedly deadly carbon dioxide."
C'mon, guv. Don't turn the most important environmental crisis we've seen into a punchline at the expense of Al Gore! As we say, we were going to rant a good bit. But the blog Eye on Williamson did a good job of the task here.
Labels: climate change, Rick Perry
Ring in Conservation with Bell
In 2006, TLCV-PAC endorsed Chris Bell for Governor of Texas. He deserved our endorsement for governor then, and he deserves our endorsement for the Texas Senate today because:
Chris Bell is committed to creating the clean air, clean energy policies that will improve air quality for our kids and create the green-collar jobs that will rebuild the Texas energy economy.
Today TLCV-PAC is working to make sure that Chris Bell can win his runoff election December 16th against Joan Huffman. He can do it - with our help. Making your gift right now to TLCV-PAC will help in two ways:
Thursday, November 20, 2008Chris Bell is committed to creating the clean air, clean energy policies that will improve air quality for our kids and create the green-collar jobs that will rebuild the Texas energy economy.
Today TLCV-PAC is working to make sure that Chris Bell can win his runoff election December 16th against Joan Huffman. He can do it - with our help. Making your gift right now to TLCV-PAC will help in two ways:
Your gift says, "Let's elect Chris Bell to the Senate!"
Your gift says, "Let's make sure Chris Bell knows Texans expect him to stand up for environmental values once elected."
Now that's a Texas two-step that can help a good conservation leader waltz into the Texas Capitol!
Please give now. And thank you.
You know we can do it, right? The League's PAC - with generous help from lots of friends across Texas - helped re-elect pro-conservation leaders like Rep. Hubert Vo, elect pro-conservation challengers like Joe Moody, and defeat bad incumbents like Rep. Tony Goolsby. We can do it for Chris Bell, too. But only with your help.
Early voting starts in 2 weeks.
Labels: chris bell, Texas Senate
Finish the Job
Texas League of Conservation Voters PAC committed to electing two new pro-conservation legislators to the Texas Senate on Election Day, and we came really close. Wendy Davis defeated Senator Kim Brimer for District 10 in Tarrant County, and Chris Bell landed in a runoff with Joan Huffman for District 17.
We've got to send Chris Bell to the Senate, and we can do it by helping him win his runoff.
Chris Bell is committed to clean air and clean energy for the Gulf Coast and for Texas. He's going to deliver on Ike recovery efforts, and he's going to be an advocate for addressing climate change which makes hurricanes bigger and worse. His opponent will deliver more of what we've had too much of for too long: support for anti-conservation policies that help the polluters and the insurance companies get richer.
Texas needs to create the green collar jobs that will build our future clean energy economy. Joan Huffman won't be able to do that. Chris Bell is the right person for the job.
Help the League's PAC send Chris Bell to the Senate. Senator Bell will be a voice for common sense, pro-conservation change in Texas. Please give now.
Thursday, November 13, 2008We've got to send Chris Bell to the Senate, and we can do it by helping him win his runoff.
Chris Bell is committed to clean air and clean energy for the Gulf Coast and for Texas. He's going to deliver on Ike recovery efforts, and he's going to be an advocate for addressing climate change which makes hurricanes bigger and worse. His opponent will deliver more of what we've had too much of for too long: support for anti-conservation policies that help the polluters and the insurance companies get richer.
Texas needs to create the green collar jobs that will build our future clean energy economy. Joan Huffman won't be able to do that. Chris Bell is the right person for the job.
Help the League's PAC send Chris Bell to the Senate. Senator Bell will be a voice for common sense, pro-conservation change in Texas. Please give now.
Labels: chris bell, Texas Senate
Top Billing
Legislators started filing bills in the House and Senate for the 81st Texas Legislature on Tuesday. Though the session doesn't begin until January, more than 400 bills have already been filed. While by no means comprehensive, the League's review of bills filed finds several dealing with environmental and conservation issues. Here is a selection:
Tuesday, November 11, 2008Repeal authority to create the harmful Trans Texas Corridor (HB 11 by Rep. Leibowitz).
Make it illegal for homeowners associations to prohibit homeowners from installing solar panels (HB 25 by Rep. Leibowitz and SB 236 by Sen. West)
Make it harder for water authorities to limit the transfer of water outside of a water district when issuing a permit for a well (HB 43 by Rep. Corte).
Exempting counties from paying the diesel fuel tax (HB 64 by Rep. Aycock)
Restricting the places where injection wells may be drilled and other restrictions on injection wells (HB 178 and HB 179 by Rep. Creighton and SB 273, SB 274 and SB 275 by Sen. Nichols).
Proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution dedicating a portion of gasoline and motor vehicle fuel tax revenue to highway construction (HJR 13 by Rep. Leibowitz).
Amending the Texas Constitution to create a right to hunt and to fish (HJR 20 by Rep. Anderson).
Creating a green job skills training program (SB 108 by Sen. Ellis).
Relating TCEQ's creation of a low emission vehicles program (SB 119 by Sen. Ellis)
Creating higher permitting requirements for polluting facilities that are located in poor or minority neighborhoods (SB 124 by Sen. Ellis).
A moratorium on coal-fired power plant permits (SB 126 by Sen. Ellis).
Exemption from sales tax for some renewable energy devises (SB 130 by Sen. Ellis).
Letting hybrid vehicles drive in HOV lanes even with only one person in the car (SB 132 by Sen. Ellis).
Sales tax exemption for certain energy-efficient products (SB 133 and SB 134 by Sen. Ellis).
A cap-and-trade program for reducing greenhouse gas emissions (SB 136 by Sen. Ellis).
Related to emissions standards for air pollution under the Texas Clean Air Act (SB 171 by Sen. Gallegos).
Reducing to air emissions and the reporting of emissions (SB 173 and SB 176 by Sen. Gallegos).
Relating to "no regrets" greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies (SB 184 by Sen. Watson).
Creating the Texas Partnership for Children in Nature (SB 205 by Sen. Shapleigh).
Requiring utility companies to meet energy efficiency requirements before increasing utility bills (SB 211 by Sen. Shapleigh).
Prohibiting the use of eminent domain to take private property for recreational purposes (SB 219 by Sen. Nichols).
Relating to restrictions on the location and operation of concrete crushing facilities (SB 259 by Sen. Ellis).
Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the dedication of the revenue received from the sporting goods sales tax to TPWD and Texas Historical Commission (SJR 6 by Sen. Ellis).
Already, certain themes are emerging from the bills that have been filed:
Attempting to improve air quality
Providing incentives for energy efficient products
There's a lot more to come - generally about 6,000 bills are introduced during the legislative session; only about 1/5 of those are ever going to come close to becoming the law of the land. The League will keep an eye on bills filed; we'll support pro-conservation bills and oppose anti-conservation bills.
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, bill filing
Alliance for Clean Texas hiring Coordinator for Legislative Session
The election is over - it's time to govern.
Texas League of Conservation Voters and other environmental groups active at the State Capitol are organized through the Alliance for a Clean Texas coalition.
The Coalition is hiring a Legislative Coordinator for the next session of the Texas Legislature.
Interested folks may download the job posting here:
Alliance%20for%20a%20Clean%20Texas%20Job%20Description%20-%202009%20Session.doc
Wednesday, November 05, 2008Texas League of Conservation Voters and other environmental groups active at the State Capitol are organized through the Alliance for a Clean Texas coalition.
The Coalition is hiring a Legislative Coordinator for the next session of the Texas Legislature.
Interested folks may download the job posting here:
Alliance%20for%20a%20Clean%20Texas%20Job%20Description%20-%202009%20Session.doc
Labels: 81st Texas Legislature, Alliance for a Clean Texas
The Texas Environment Wins at the Ballot Box!
At this singular moment in American elections, voters nationwide and in Texas embraced change, and our environment will be better for it.
Conservation voters made real progress at the ballot box, again. From El Paso to Texarkana, Houston to the Metroplex, conservation candidates and incumbents won tough races, in part because of their clean air, clean energy positions. In each recent election including this one, pro-conservation leaders picked up seats in the Texas House. Our future clean energy economy is closer to becoming a reality because of yesterday’s election.
Download TLCV-PAC's full list of wins and losses for the Texas House and Senate here: Election%20Night%202008%20for%20Public.pdf
Twenty-six of 34 leaders in contested races endorsed by the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee won at the ballot box, possibly setting the stage for the election of a pro-conservation Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives. In our 14 top priority races for the Texas House, the pro-conservation leader won 11.
Conservation Incumbents Returned to Texas House of Representatives
The League’s Political Committee’s victories include helping return the following incumbents, all in difficult races, to office:
- Rep. Hubert Vo, District 149, Houston. Thanks in part to the financial support of conservation voters, our mail efforts and our telephone calls, Rep. Hubert Vo can continue to be a clean air leader in the House.
- Rep. Allen Vaught, District 107, Dallas. Last session, Rep. Vaught championed efforts to stop dirty coal plants. Our efforts helped Rep. Vaught get re-elected, and his leadership will continue to benefit the Texas environment in Austin.
- Rep. Stephen Frost, District 1, Northeast Texas. Rep. Frost earned and deserves re-election because of his commitment to stopping the harmful Marvin Nichols reservoir. The League looks forward to work with this expert ‘water guy’ in the next session.
- Rep. Chuck Hopson, District 11, East Texas. Rep. Hopson earned our endorsement because of his true commitment to protecting wildlife habitat and strengthening our state parks system. He eked out a very narrow victory over an anti-conservation challenger, and we look forward to working with him to secure parks funding next session.
Conservation challengers win big in Texas House
These challengers were able to upset anti-conservation incumbents or win open seats:
- Joe Moody, District 78, El Paso. Voters sent a powerful message with the election of Joe Moody, who will bring common sense leadership to El Paso to urgent conservation issues such as keeping Asarco closed, reforming clean air policies that encourage pollution, and expanding our ailing state parks system.
- Carol Kent, District 102, Dallas County. Carol Kent is more than just an alternative to a mealy-mouthed, false-promise-making incumbent – she’s ready to be a clean air leader for Texas. Rep. Goolsby lost this campaign because he’s out of touch with voters in his district, who needed, and elected, a leader ready to work on improving North Texas’ abysmal air quality.
- Diana Maldonado, District 52, Williamson County. Education leader Diana Maldonado won an impressive victory in a formerly conservative district. She earned our support and endorsement because of her commitment to building Texas’ future green economy.
- Robert Miklos, District 101, Mesquite. In this Dallas suburb, Robert Miklos’s clean air leadership won a clear victory over his opponent, a former mayor.
- Kristi Thibaut, District 133, Harris County. The incumbent lost in a close race to pro-conservation Kristi Thibaut in a real victory that can lead to cleaner air quality for Houston.
- Chris Turner, District 96, Tarrant County. Defeating a bad incumbent, former U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards’ staffer Chris Turner picked up this critical seat in the Fort Worth area. Chris joins a slate of pro-conservation officials from Tarrant County, including Reps Lon Burnam, Paula Pierson and newly elected Senator Wendy Davis.
The Speakers Race
One of the most important questions to be answered during the election remains unanswered: is there going to be a pro-conservation Speaker of the Texas House? Speaker Craddick’s anti-conservation practices are well known, and they have cost him dearly. His leadership of the House remains extremely tenuous, with, as of today, a razor-thin 76-74 Republican majority, with one key race so close there will likely be a recount, possibly resulting in a 75-75 tie.
The Texas Senate
The League’s Political Committee endorsed three leaders for the Texas Senate, only one of whom lost:
- Chris Bell, District 11. Former gubernatorial candidate Chris Bell garnered the most votes in this special election for this Gulf Coast district, but not enough to avoid a runoff. TLCV-PAC will be active in the runoff election in order to elect Chris Bell to the Senate.
- Wendy Davis, District 10. In a difficult race against an entrenched incumbent in Tarrant County, Wendy Davis pulled off a narrow victory. She will be a new conservation leader in the Senate.
- Regretfully, Joe Jaworski was unable to topple “Toxic Mike” Jackson for District 17 in Galveston.
Our Pro-Conservation Agenda for the Texas Legislature
As the Political Committee’s electoral efforts are wrapped up in the coming days, the League will shift our focus to preparing for the next session of the Texas Legislature, which begins in January. There, the League and our partner organizations will advance a common agenda for a cleaner future for Texas, including:
- Clean Air
- Clean Energy
- Clean Water
- Recycling
- Parks, Beaches and Open Space
- Wildlife Habitat
- Outdoor Recreation
All New Website!
The League ‘goes live’ with our new website today at http://www.tlcv.org/. The new website makes it easier for conservation voters to get informed, take action and make a difference for the Texas environment.
Conservation Voters Deserve Thanks
On behalf of the Texas League of Conservation Voters and our Political Committee, please accept our most sincere appreciation for all you’ve done in this urgent, important election. Stand with us now as we take our powerful agenda for Texas’ future to the Legislature in January. Together, we’re turning environmental values into real priorities for Texas’ future. Thank you.
Download a list of Election Results from TLCV-PAC races here:
Election%20Night%202008%20for%20Public.pdf
Labels: election results, website
Monday, November 03, 2008
Tarrant County: real choices for real change
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram has recommended several candidates and incumbents who also appear on the TLCV-PAC's list of endorsements for tomorrow's election:
Houston Chronicle Endorses Pro-Conservation Texans- Rep. Lon Burnam, District 90
- Rep. Paula Pierson, District 93
- Chris Turner, District 96
- Rep. Dan Barrett, District 97
The Fort Worth paper and TLCV-PAC agree: clean air voters in Tarrant County should return Reps. Burnam, Pierson and Barrett to Austin and send Chris Turner instead of Rep. Zedler.
Labels: chris turner, dan barrett, lon burnam, paula pierson
The Houston Chronicle endorsed some excellent candidates and incumbents in Harris County. These were also endorsed by the TLCV-PAC:
Dallas Morning News spotlights 3 TLCV-PAC priority races in Dallas County- Joe Jaworski, Texas Senate District 11, rather than Sen. Mike Jackson
- Kristi Thibaut, Texas House District 133
- Joel Redmond, Texas House District 144
- Rep. Jessica Farrar, Texas House District 148
- Rep. Hubert Vo, Texas House District 149
Votes for these leaders will be a breath of fresh air for Houston.
Labels: hubert vo, jessica farrar, joe jaworski, joel redmond, kristi thibaut
On Sunday, the Dallas Morning News spotlighted a number of important races for the Texas House, including three top priority races for the TLCV Political Committee.
Friday, October 31, 2008- Robert Miklos against Mike Anderson (District 102, Mesquite)
- Carol Kent against Rep. Tony Goolsby (District 102, North Dallas, Richardson)
- Rep. Allen Vaught against Bill Keffer (District 107, East Dallas)
The TLCV-PAC has endorsed all three of these leaders for the Texas House. Rep. Vaught earned an A+ in our last scorecard. Pro-conservation Texans need his continued leadership in Austin. Carol Kent has been running an outstanding campaign against Rep. Goolsby, who makes promises about being for clean air and clean energy, but then votes against them almost every time. And Robert Miklos has a great chance for an open seat against Mike Anderson in Mesquite.
Folks in Dallas County are reminded to think about clean air, clean energy and clean water and then to cast a vote for a clean legislature in Austin tomorrow!
Labels: allen vaught, carol kent, robert miklos
Halloween Reminder...
Teaming with Wildlife Coalition: Fund Parks and Wildlife with All of the Sporting Goods Tax
The Teaming with Wildlife Coalition, a group of pro-conservation organizations, businesses and agencies, wants all of the tax dollars collected from Texas' sporting goods tax to be devoted to funding state parks and the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife.
The Texas coalition, which includes the League and groups such as Environmental Defense Fund, Audubon Texas, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours, Texas Conservation Alliance and The Nature Conservancy - Texas Chapter, has submitted a letter and testified before the Joint Committee on Use of the Sales Tax on Sporting Goods.
The sporting goods sales tax was always supposed to have funded Parks and Wildlife, but somehow only a portion of the tax revenue was ever allocated to the department, the rest remaining in the General Fund. It's time for Texas to devote the resources needed in order for our state parks to deliver the kind of positive economic impact Texas communities need. It's time for Parks and Wildlife to have the funds it needs to fulfill its mission. Texas is rapidly growing and losing parks and open space to development and other uses. It's time for Parks and Wildlife to have the support it needs. Texas state parks should be a point of pride for Texans, not a point of embarassment. And Texas kids need to get outdoors and into the wild landscapes more and more often. Only by fulling funding the parks deparment with all of the sporting goods tax can this be accomplished.
The Teaming with Wildlife Coalition will be doing all we can to help assure needed funding for our precious parks and for wildlife protection.
View the Teaming with Wildlife Coalition's letter to the Joint Committee here:
10-27-08%20Ltr%20to%20Joint%20Committee%20on%20Use%20of%20the%20Sales%20Tax%20on%20Sporting%20Goods.pdf
Where are the "Teddy Roosevelt Republicans?"The Texas coalition, which includes the League and groups such as Environmental Defense Fund, Audubon Texas, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours, Texas Conservation Alliance and The Nature Conservancy - Texas Chapter, has submitted a letter and testified before the Joint Committee on Use of the Sales Tax on Sporting Goods.
The sporting goods sales tax was always supposed to have funded Parks and Wildlife, but somehow only a portion of the tax revenue was ever allocated to the department, the rest remaining in the General Fund. It's time for Texas to devote the resources needed in order for our state parks to deliver the kind of positive economic impact Texas communities need. It's time for Parks and Wildlife to have the funds it needs to fulfill its mission. Texas is rapidly growing and losing parks and open space to development and other uses. It's time for Parks and Wildlife to have the support it needs. Texas state parks should be a point of pride for Texans, not a point of embarassment. And Texas kids need to get outdoors and into the wild landscapes more and more often. Only by fulling funding the parks deparment with all of the sporting goods tax can this be accomplished.
The Teaming with Wildlife Coalition will be doing all we can to help assure needed funding for our precious parks and for wildlife protection.
View the Teaming with Wildlife Coalition's letter to the Joint Committee here:
10-27-08%20Ltr%20to%20Joint%20Committee%20on%20Use%20of%20the%20Sales%20Tax%20on%20Sporting%20Goods.pdf
Labels: state parks, Teaming with Wildlife, TPWD
The Houston Chronicle reports that a Texas Senate committee backed out of a series of recommendations that would have addressed Houston's terrible air quality conditions:
Where are the "Teddy Roosevelt Republicans" - the true conservationists who believe that an important part of being conservative is conserving our natural resources and protecting the environment? Don't the Senate Republicans understand that terrible air quality is going to drive business away from Texas, make children sick with asthma and other conditions, and result in lost federal transportation dollars because of violations of the Clean Air Act? Don't they care about the future of Texas?
The League would love to work with pro-conservation Republicans who are ready to take on the most pressing issues facing our state. The quiet vote of the Senate committee to back away from air quality recommendations doesn't demonstrate the kind of leadership Texans need from their government at this critical time.
On Election Day, Texans can change the makeup of the Texas Senate, and the League's political committee has endorsed three challengers who will stand up for clean air: Chris Bell, Wendy Davis and Joe Jaworski.
Thursday, October 30, 2008"Sen. Jeff Wentworth, a San Antonio Republican who chairs the [jurisprudence] committee, said he had second thoughts about the recommendations after hearing from a Senate colleague and business lobbyists who asserted that the committee had overreached."Why would you do this, Senator Wentworth? Could it be that you and the other Republican leaders of the committee decided to play politics rather than address one of Texas' biggest problems? Houston Mayor Bill White is agitating for cities to have the ability to do more to regulate emissions of pollutions. And Mayor White may have higher political ambitions for statewide office. If he succeeds in being able to control Houston's air quality more, then he may have a stronger platform for running for Texas governor or U.S. Senate. That prospect appears to have gotten Texas Senate Republicans in a tizzy, and may be why they're suddenly backing away from looking at air quality.
Where are the "Teddy Roosevelt Republicans" - the true conservationists who believe that an important part of being conservative is conserving our natural resources and protecting the environment? Don't the Senate Republicans understand that terrible air quality is going to drive business away from Texas, make children sick with asthma and other conditions, and result in lost federal transportation dollars because of violations of the Clean Air Act? Don't they care about the future of Texas?
The League would love to work with pro-conservation Republicans who are ready to take on the most pressing issues facing our state. The quiet vote of the Senate committee to back away from air quality recommendations doesn't demonstrate the kind of leadership Texans need from their government at this critical time.
On Election Day, Texans can change the makeup of the Texas Senate, and the League's political committee has endorsed three challengers who will stand up for clean air: Chris Bell, Wendy Davis and Joe Jaworski.
Labels: "Teddy Roosevelt Republicans", clean air, houston, Jeff Wentworth, Mayor Bill White, Texas Senate
It's toxic, and it's coming from the TV!
"Toxic Mike" TV
The message that Sen. Mike Jackson is toxic for Texas voters is catching on! Watch the TV commercial here.
For months, the League's "Toxic Mike" site has been the go-to place for information about Sen. Jackson's record - or lack thereof - on conservation issues like clean air and clean energy when it comes to representing the concerns of citizens in his district. Hurricane Ike also washed up information about Jackson's insurance company campaign contributors, like the commercial points out.
Election Day is Tuesday, and times have changed. Texans need new leadership for new times. "Toxic Mike" isn't going to build the clean energy economy for the future, and he isn't going to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that make hurricanes more powerful and more frequent.
Joe Jaworski is endorsed by the political committee of the Texas League of Conservation Voters because he's the clean air alternative to "Toxic Mike" Jackson. (and Friends of Joe Jaworski put out that "Toxic Mike" video).
The TV commercial and the website both show that "Toxic Mike" doesn't seem like the right choice for clean air, clean energy - or a clean legislature.
The League on the Radio: Rep. Goolsby's RecordThe message that Sen. Mike Jackson is toxic for Texas voters is catching on! Watch the TV commercial here.
For months, the League's "Toxic Mike" site has been the go-to place for information about Sen. Jackson's record - or lack thereof - on conservation issues like clean air and clean energy when it comes to representing the concerns of citizens in his district. Hurricane Ike also washed up information about Jackson's insurance company campaign contributors, like the commercial points out.
Election Day is Tuesday, and times have changed. Texans need new leadership for new times. "Toxic Mike" isn't going to build the clean energy economy for the future, and he isn't going to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that make hurricanes more powerful and more frequent.
Joe Jaworski is endorsed by the political committee of the Texas League of Conservation Voters because he's the clean air alternative to "Toxic Mike" Jackson. (and Friends of Joe Jaworski put out that "Toxic Mike" video).
The TV commercial and the website both show that "Toxic Mike" doesn't seem like the right choice for clean air, clean energy - or a clean legislature.
Labels: joe jaworski, mike jackson, Toxic mike
KERA Radio in Dallas-Fort Worth ran a story this morning following up on a report from Monday in which Rep. Tony Goolsby of Dallas stated that he's always been in support of clean air and clean energy initiatives.
The League responded that Goolsby's voting record doesn't reflect much of a commitment to air quality or renewable energy. Indeed, Goolsby's average score for the past five sessions of the Texas Legislature on the League's scorecards is 24%. Last session, he voted with the environmental community 30% of the time, and he voted against 10 of 13 clean air/energy measures tracked by the League that session.
Thankfully, the news professionals at KERA decided it couldn't let Rep. Goolsby's statements remain unchallenged, and today KERA ran a new story talking about Goolsby's record, and including quotes from the League's director, James Canup.
To listen to and read a transcript of the radio news story, visit KERA online here.
Because Rep. Goolsby can't be counted on to fight for better air quality in the Metroplex (despite his promises to the contrary), the League's Political Committee has endorsed Goolsby's opponent, Carol Kent for his seat.
Carol Kent will be a true clean air leader for District 102 and for Texas.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008The League responded that Goolsby's voting record doesn't reflect much of a commitment to air quality or renewable energy. Indeed, Goolsby's average score for the past five sessions of the Texas Legislature on the League's scorecards is 24%. Last session, he voted with the environmental community 30% of the time, and he voted against 10 of 13 clean air/energy measures tracked by the League that session.
Thankfully, the news professionals at KERA decided it couldn't let Rep. Goolsby's statements remain unchallenged, and today KERA ran a new story talking about Goolsby's record, and including quotes from the League's director, James Canup.
To listen to and read a transcript of the radio news story, visit KERA online here.
Because Rep. Goolsby can't be counted on to fight for better air quality in the Metroplex (despite his promises to the contrary), the League's Political Committee has endorsed Goolsby's opponent, Carol Kent for his seat.
Carol Kent will be a true clean air leader for District 102 and for Texas.
Labels: clean air, clean energy future, tony goolsby
Joe Moody is the Clean Air Candidate for El Paso
Joe Moody is running a great race in El Paso for Rep. 
Pat Haggerty's former seat in the Texas House. Rep. Haggerty (who stood with the League on some conservation issues, like parks funding) lost the Republican primary to a far-right challenger, Dee Margo, and that's who Moody faces in the general election. Margo is now even losing support from his fellow party members in the city, and Moody is well placed for a win on Election Day.
Pat Haggerty's former seat in the Texas House. Rep. Haggerty (who stood with the League on some conservation issues, like parks funding) lost the Republican primary to a far-right challenger, Dee Margo, and that's who Moody faces in the general election. Margo is now even losing support from his fellow party members in the city, and Moody is well placed for a win on Election Day.Our PAC has made Joe Moody's race one of our top priorities because Joe has the leadership and commitment to improve air quality for El Paso and Texas. Here's one of our mailings which is hitting mailboxes in El Paso just about now.
Joe Moody is a new leader for a part of our state in dire need of fresh leadership. He understands the needs of his community. He's ready to bring his skills to bear on all of the important issues facing El Paso, including addressing air quality while protecting jobs.
Labels: campaigns, endorsements, joe moody
Rep. Goolsby no friend of "fresh clean air"
The League is issuing a Press Release in response to Rep. Tony Goolsby's interview on KERA Radio this morning, where he states, in part:
“I know that we're working hard with the Texas air quality. And the new power plants that are being built, they're going to be adding on to nuclear, which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants, they're not going to be putting out as much of the carbon monoxide.”
Here's the press release.
Rep. Tony Goolsby No Friend of "Fresh Clean Air"
Incumbent Misstates Support for Clean Air Environmental Initiatives
Rep. Tony Goolsby may have misled voters and misstated his environmental record in an interview aired today on KERA Radio in Dallas-Fort Worth. In the interview, reporter Bill Brown states, “Goolsby defends his records, saying he's always…supported clean environmental initiatives, including alternative forms of energy like wind, solar and nuclear.”
"Rep. Goolsby’s record, in fact, does not indicate much support for clean air at all," said James Canup, Executive Director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. “Looking just at the votes in the last legislative session in 2007, Rep. Goolsby voted against clean air and clean energy the vast majority of the time, earning a grade of F in the League’s 2007 Legislative Scorecard,” he added. Specifically, in 13 particular votes last session (detailed at the end of this release), Rep. Goolsby voted against clean air and clean energy 10 times (and in the remaining 3 votes, 2 were consensus measures that passed the House unanimously). Moreover, when you look at all of the votes with environmental impacts cast last session, Rep. Goolsby’s voting record is an abysmal 30%.
Going back to prior sessions of the legislature, Rep. Goolsby scored 23% in the 2005 session, 31% in the 2003 session, 4% in the 2001 session and 31% in the 1999 session, giving him an average score of 24% for the past five legislative sessions.
In the interview with KERA, Rep. Goolsby went on to say, “I know that we're working hard with the Texas air quality. And the new power plants that are being built, they're going to be adding on to nuclear, which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants, they're not going to be putting out as much of the carbon monoxide.”
This statement, though unclear, appears to indicate Rep. Goolsby’s support for improving Texas’ air quality. But his voting record says otherwise.
“Representative Goolsby may say he is for ‘fresh clean air,’ but his voting record is among the worst of any House member when it comes to supporting clean air legislation. The real clean air candidate for District 102 is Carol Kent,” said TLCV’s Canup. TLCV-PAC endorsed Carol Kent for District 102 over Rep. Goolsby.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters (TLCV) is the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization devoted to turning environmental values into priorities for Texas. Through its Political Committee, the League works to elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate. The Political Committee has endorsed a slate of pro-conservation candidates and incumbents for Texas who will vote for clean air, clean water and clean energy in Austin.
Read and listen to the KERA interview here.
Friday, October 24, 2008“I know that we're working hard with the Texas air quality. And the new power plants that are being built, they're going to be adding on to nuclear, which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants, they're not going to be putting out as much of the carbon monoxide.”
Here's the press release.
Rep. Tony Goolsby No Friend of "Fresh Clean Air"
Incumbent Misstates Support for Clean Air Environmental Initiatives
Rep. Tony Goolsby may have misled voters and misstated his environmental record in an interview aired today on KERA Radio in Dallas-Fort Worth. In the interview, reporter Bill Brown states, “Goolsby defends his records, saying he's always…supported clean environmental initiatives, including alternative forms of energy like wind, solar and nuclear.”
"Rep. Goolsby’s record, in fact, does not indicate much support for clean air at all," said James Canup, Executive Director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. “Looking just at the votes in the last legislative session in 2007, Rep. Goolsby voted against clean air and clean energy the vast majority of the time, earning a grade of F in the League’s 2007 Legislative Scorecard,” he added. Specifically, in 13 particular votes last session (detailed at the end of this release), Rep. Goolsby voted against clean air and clean energy 10 times (and in the remaining 3 votes, 2 were consensus measures that passed the House unanimously). Moreover, when you look at all of the votes with environmental impacts cast last session, Rep. Goolsby’s voting record is an abysmal 30%.
Going back to prior sessions of the legislature, Rep. Goolsby scored 23% in the 2005 session, 31% in the 2003 session, 4% in the 2001 session and 31% in the 1999 session, giving him an average score of 24% for the past five legislative sessions.
In the interview with KERA, Rep. Goolsby went on to say, “I know that we're working hard with the Texas air quality. And the new power plants that are being built, they're going to be adding on to nuclear, which helps the fresh clean air. The new coal plants, they're not going to be putting out as much of the carbon monoxide.”
This statement, though unclear, appears to indicate Rep. Goolsby’s support for improving Texas’ air quality. But his voting record says otherwise.
“Representative Goolsby may say he is for ‘fresh clean air,’ but his voting record is among the worst of any House member when it comes to supporting clean air legislation. The real clean air candidate for District 102 is Carol Kent,” said TLCV’s Canup. TLCV-PAC endorsed Carol Kent for District 102 over Rep. Goolsby.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters (TLCV) is the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization devoted to turning environmental values into priorities for Texas. Through its Political Committee, the League works to elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate. The Political Committee has endorsed a slate of pro-conservation candidates and incumbents for Texas who will vote for clean air, clean water and clean energy in Austin.
Read and listen to the KERA interview here.
View the TLCV 2007 Legislative Scorecard here.
###
The Votes
- Toxic School Bus Pollution. Would have protected children from exposure to dangerous chemicals by providing funds to clean up diesel emissions from Texas school buses. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST.
- Dirty Coal (I). Provided fast-tracking and tax breaks for coal-fired power plants. Rep. Goolsby voted FOR dirty coal plants.
- Dirty Coal (II). Improved emissions for approved coal-fired plants. Rep. Goolsby voted FOR dirty coal plants.
- Reducing Toxic Air Emissions. Amendments proposed to SB 12 that would have reduced toxic air emissions. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST reducing emissions.
- Tracking Pollution Levels. Would have installed more air quality monitors in Dallas area and other parts of Texas. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST monitoring air quality.
- Dirty Coal (III). The Senate/House conference committee bill for coal plants did not include enough protections for clean air. Rep. Goolsby voted FOR dirty coal plants.
- Cumulative impact of toxins on Texans’ health. Would have required TCEQ to consider the cumulative impacts of toxins and other pollutants before issuing air quality permits. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST stricter permitting requirements.
- Retrofit diesel trucks. Rep. Goolsby voted, along with every other House member, to increase the funding for retrofitting diesel engines.
- Clean Energy. Would have directed $60 million from Emerging Technology Fund to cutting edge renewable energy technologies. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST this clean, renewable energy proposal.
- Clean Energy. Would have required at least 15% of Emerging Technology Fund to be used for cutting edge renewable energy technologies. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST this clean, renewable energy proposal.
- Making Renewable Energy Count. Fixed a loophole limiting the growth of wind energy in Texas. Rep. Goolsby voted AGAINST this popular measure, with only 16 other House members.
- Energy Efficiency. Improved electric utility conservation programs building codes and energy saving efforts. Rep. Goolsby, along with every other House member, for improved efficiency programs.
- Tax Incentives for Nuclear Plants. Provided property tax breaks to build nuclear power plants. Rep. Goolsby voted FOR tax subsidies for nuclear plants.
Labels: clean air, tony goolsby
Champion of Conservation: Joel Redmond
Joel Redmond is a native of Pasadena, son of a popular Baptist minister and leader of his own ministry in Texas prisons and jails. He's also a candidate for Texas House District 144 (Southeast Harris County).The League's Political Committee has endorsed and supported the campaign of Joel Redmond. Growing up in Pasadena, we know that Joel has seen firsthand the negative environmental impact of polluting factories and refineries. He understands that in order for Texas to continue as an economic powerhouse we have to develop the green collar jobs in renewable energy industries.
Moreover, Joel Redmond is among a slate of candidates this cycle who, when they win on Election Day, will become a part of a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House. New leadership in the Texas House means a lot of good things for Texas' environment: new chairs of committees that address environmental issues, higher priority for environmental issues to come before the full House for a vote, etc.
That's why the League was proud to endorse Joel Redmond for District 144.
Labels: endorsements, joel redmond, texxas house
Rep. Stephen Frost isn't your typical "tree hugging" environmentalist. He's a small town lawyer whose public service has been devoted to improving public education and children's health care. He represents a rural area (District 1) in far Northeast Texas, a district that includes places like Texarkana, Mount Pleasant, Atlanta and, notable to eco-tourists and fishing fans, the North shore of Caddo Lake.
But if you talk to Rep. Frost today about his top priority for Texas, he'll tell you that he's the water guy at the Texas Legislature.
Rep. Frost is gearing up for a full-tilt opposition to the proposed Marvin Nichols reservoir. The proposed dam to create the reservoir would flood thousands of acres of land in order to supply water to a thirsty (and, we should add, not particularly conservation-minded) populace in the Dallas Metroplex.
Water is becoming an increasingly important political issue in Texas. There might not be enough of it to go around. And everybody wants some. Mushrooming metropolises like Dallas are looking to build reservoirs in East Texas to satisfy their thirst. And East Texans want to protect rivers and habitats from being dammed up. There are no easy solutions. But Rep. Frost is working on some good solutions.
His commitment to creating sound water policy in Texas is notable, and necessary. Texas needs a leader like Stephen Frost in the House to make sure that common sense solutions to big water problems are found.
That's why the League's Political Committee has endorsed and supported the re-election of Rep. Stephen Frost.
But don't just take our word for it. Rep. Frost has also earned the endorsements of groups as diverse as the Texas AFL-CIO and the Texas Association of Realtors.
Labels: endorsements, stephen frost, Texas House
Champion of Conservation: Carol Kent
Many Texas House candidates put their opinions on a small list of key issues on their campaign websites. Perhaps of necessity, these lists are short and vague. They talk about things that everyone can be for and no one can be against: happy kids, plentiful jobs, low taxes, free cupcakes.
Few candidates list any conservation issues among their issue priorities. A glowing exception is Carol Kent, running for District 102 in Richardson, Dallas County. Carol puts a top conservation issue right there on her list of priorities. Here it is:
Carol Kent has the right position on the right issue at the right time. She will be an outstanding advocate for the children of her district and for kids statewide who have a right to breathe clean air. That's why the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee endorsed and is supporting her campaign to defeat Rep. Goolsby.
Champion of Conservation: Dan BarrettFew candidates list any conservation issues among their issue priorities. A glowing exception is Carol Kent, running for District 102 in Richardson, Dallas County. Carol puts a top conservation issue right there on her list of priorities. Here it is:
Texas continues to have some of the dirtiest air in the nation and childhood asthma rates continue to rise. We need energy solutions that make sense for our citizens and our pocketbooks.
Here in North Texas, we struggle to meet minimum federal air quality standards. Clean air isn’t just important for our health, it’s important for business. Clean air helps our economy by allowing existing businesses to grow and new businesses to locate here. It helps our workers by keeping them healthy and attracting bright workers who want clean air for themselves and their families.
I suggest the development of public/private partnerships between our government and clean fuel producers to develop cleaner and more efficient means of energy production. The legislature should encourage the research and development in conjunction with our universities and research institutions.
These investments will make sure that Texans have a healthy environment and clean, affordable sources of energy at home for the long term. We can continue to grow and still be green.
Carol Kent has the right position on the right issue at the right time. She will be an outstanding advocate for the children of her district and for kids statewide who have a right to breathe clean air. That's why the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee endorsed and is supporting her campaign to defeat Rep. Goolsby.
But don't just take our word for it. Carol Kent has also been endorsed by the Dallas Morning News, Texas State Teachers Association, SEIU and Annie's List, among others.
Labels: carol kent, endorsements, Texas House
Rep. Dan Barrett was elected in a special election after the end of the 2007 legislative session. That means he's an incumbent without a voting record - Rep. Barrett is not scored on the League's 2007 scorecard.
Nonetheless, Dan Barrett is the conservation candidate for District 97 (Fort Worth/Tarrant County).
Rep. Barrett has been committed to improving the air quality in the Metroplex, to conserving precious water resources, to generating the renewable energy that creates jobs long before he ran for the state House. The League's Political Committee has backed Dan Barrett since the beginning, and we are proud to endorse and support his campaign for re-election.
In this race, and others across Texas, voter concerns about clean air and energy issues are raising the profile of pro-conservation candidates like Dan Barrett. With the League's help, Rep. Barrett will return to Austin this January as part of a conservation majority in the Texas House.
But don't just take our word for it. Rep. Barrett has received the endorsements of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Fort Worth Firefighters Association, and Texas Parent PAC, among others.
Endorsements SummaryNonetheless, Dan Barrett is the conservation candidate for District 97 (Fort Worth/Tarrant County).
Rep. Barrett has been committed to improving the air quality in the Metroplex, to conserving precious water resources, to generating the renewable energy that creates jobs long before he ran for the state House. The League's Political Committee has backed Dan Barrett since the beginning, and we are proud to endorse and support his campaign for re-election.
In this race, and others across Texas, voter concerns about clean air and energy issues are raising the profile of pro-conservation candidates like Dan Barrett. With the League's help, Rep. Barrett will return to Austin this January as part of a conservation majority in the Texas House.
But don't just take our word for it. Rep. Barrett has received the endorsements of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the Fort Worth Firefighters Association, and Texas Parent PAC, among others.
Labels: dan barrett, endorsements, Texas House
This post recaps the Texas League of Conservation Voters - Political Committee's endorsements this election cycle, and gives a little more information about key races the Political Committee decided to be involved in.
The TLCV-PC's endorsements were based on three main criteria:
Wednesday, October 22, 2008The TLCV-PC's endorsements were based on three main criteria:
- Endorse the re-election of every Texas House member who scored an A+ on the League's 2007 legislative scorecard.
- Endorse other pro-conservation incumbents who need our help because they are being challenged by anti-conservation candidates.
- Endorse pro-conservation challengers who have a chance to win with our help.
It should be noted that TLCV-PC has focused on the Texas House of Representatives. This is for two reasons. One, there is an opportunity to build a pro-conservation majority in the House. And two, given our limited resources, it was one battleground where our dollars and our involvement could make a difference. We did endorse three challengers for the Texas Senate - Chris Bell in District 17, Wendy Davis in District 10, and Joe Jaworski in District 11 - and we want them to be elected to the Senate. But we've focused on the House.
Here's a look at the endorsements, broken out by metropolitan area/region. Key races we're focused on include links to the candidates' web sites.
Greater Houston Region
- Rep. Alma Allen, 131
- Rep. Garnet F. Coleman, 147
- Rep. Jessica Farrar, 148.
- Rep. Ana Hernandez, 143
- Rep. Scott Hochberg, 137
- Sherrie Matula, 129.
- Virginia McDavid, 138
- Rep. Dora Olivo, 127
- Joel Redmond, 144
- Kristi Thibaut, 133
- Rep. Senfronia Thompson, 141
- Rep. Hubert Vo, 149
Dallas-Fort Worth Region
- Rep. Rafael Anchia, 103
- Rep. Dan Barrett, 97
- Rep. Lon Burnam, 90
- Rep. Yvonne Davis, 111
- Rep. Terri Hodge, 100
- Carol Kent, 102
- John McClelland, 64
- Robert Miklos, 101
- Rep. Paula Pierson, 93
- Chris Turner, 96
- Rep. Allen Vaught, 107
- Rep. Marc Veasey, 95
Austin-Central Texas Region
- Rep. Valinda Bolton
- Donnie Dippel, 17
- Rep. Donna Howard, 48
- Diana Maldonado, 52
- Rep. Elliott Naishtat, 49
- Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, 51
- Rep. Mark Strama, 50
San Antonio Region
- Rep. Joaquin Castro, 125
- Rep. Joe Farias, 118
- Rep. David McQuade Leibowitz, 117
- Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, 116
Rio Grande Valley
- Rep. Veronica Gonzales, 41
- Rep. Eddie Lucio III, 38
- Rep. Armando Martinez, 39
- Rep. Rene O. Oliveira, 37
Coastal Bend Region
- Rep. Juan Garcia, 32
- Rep. Abel Herrero, 34
- Rep. Solomon Ortiz Jr., 33
El Paso - West Texas Region
- Rep. Norma Chavez, 76
- Rep. Pete Gallego, 74
- Joe Moody, 78
Heart of Texas Region
- Rep. Jim Dunnam, 57
- Sam Murphey, 55
Laredo Region
- Rep. Richard Raymond, 42
East Texas
- Rep. Stephen Frost, 1
- Rep. Chuck Hopson, 11
The League's Political Committee hopes Texas voters will remember to vote for clean air, clean water and clean energy this election by building a clean legislature. If you live in a district where we've made an endorsement, please vote for the pro-conservation candidate. If you don't live in one of those districts, encourage your friends and relatives who do. And it's not quite too late to invest in these races - give what you can today to help elect a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House.
From the top of the ballot to the bottom, there are clear choices for conservation voters this election season. Get educated and vote in every single race where you can make a difference for Texas' environment.
Labels: endorsements, Texas House
New TLCV Mailer: "Thanks, Representative Vo!"
Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee has issued a mailing about our endorsement of the re-election of Rep. Hubert Vo for Houston's House District 149.Selected voters in District 149 will receive our mailling in the coming days.
Labels: hubert vo
"At this point, I'd say Dee Margo is going to win..."
So says an expert quoted in the El Paso Times today. TLCV's response? Not if pro-conservation voters in El Paso have anything to say about it.
The League has endorsed Joe Moody over Dee Margo to represent District 78. Joe Moody will stand up to big polluters while protecting jobs. He will fight in Austin for clean air, clean water and clean energy. He'll do what it takes to make sure the El Paso area gets its fair shake in the battles to fund our state parks and protect open space and habitat. Joe Moody earned and deserves the pro-conservation endorsement.
This seat used to be held by Rep. Pat Haggerty. Rep. Haggerty wasn't the worst friend of the Texas environment at the capitol (that title may be held by several others) - earning a grade of "D" on the League's 2007 scorecard. But Dee Margo would be a step further backwards. And Joe Moody representing District 78 would be a leader all Texas could be proud of.
There are a few ways that Moody can close the gap and win this election.
Monday, October 20, 2008The League has endorsed Joe Moody over Dee Margo to represent District 78. Joe Moody will stand up to big polluters while protecting jobs. He will fight in Austin for clean air, clean water and clean energy. He'll do what it takes to make sure the El Paso area gets its fair shake in the battles to fund our state parks and protect open space and habitat. Joe Moody earned and deserves the pro-conservation endorsement.
This seat used to be held by Rep. Pat Haggerty. Rep. Haggerty wasn't the worst friend of the Texas environment at the capitol (that title may be held by several others) - earning a grade of "D" on the League's 2007 scorecard. But Dee Margo would be a step further backwards. And Joe Moody representing District 78 would be a leader all Texas could be proud of.
There are a few ways that Moody can close the gap and win this election.
- Hope for a big win at the top of the ticket. The nonpartisan TLCV can't help but notice that a big win for the Obama-Biden ticket in El Paso could pull Moody into office. [TLCV has not endorsed any candidate for federal office, including president and vice president. The national League of Conservation Voters has.]
- Hope for crossover votes. Folks committed to McCain-Palin at the top of the ticket can still cross party lines to support other candidates - like Joe Moody - down ballot. Texans are independent and it's likely that lots of voters will vote a split ticket.
- Hope for high turnout. Early voting turnout across Texas is breaking records. Extremely high turnout in the district could surprise the pundits and predictors - and put Moody in the legislature.
- Keep campaigning. The Moody campaign isn't resting, and neither is TLCV. We're still doing more to help Joe Moody get elected as the pro-conservation candidate for District 78. Your dollars and volunteer support can help.
Likewise, there are four corresponding things El Pasoans can do to help elect Joe Moody.
- Vote.
- Vote.
- Vote.
- Give and volunteer. (You can do those two whether you're in El Paso or not.)
Here are the early voting locations in El Paso.
Labels: dee margo, early voting, el paso, joe moody
League Endorses Rep. Jessica Farrar
Houston and Texas have benefited from Rep. Jessica Farrar’s leadership in the House of Representatives for more than a decade. She has been a true leader on environmental issues in the House and beyond.
Rep. Farrar consistently earns high scores on the League’s biennial legislative scorecard. But beyond simply her vote, she stands up to anti-conservationists and speaks out bravely in favor of clean air, clean water and clean energy. One way Houstonians can effectively improve their air quality is to return Jessica Farrar to the Texas House on Election Day.
That's why the Texas League of Conservation Voters has endorsed Rep. Jessica Farrar's re-election. Learn more about Rep. Farrar's leadership online here.
Friday, October 17, 2008Rep. Farrar consistently earns high scores on the League’s biennial legislative scorecard. But beyond simply her vote, she stands up to anti-conservationists and speaks out bravely in favor of clean air, clean water and clean energy. One way Houstonians can effectively improve their air quality is to return Jessica Farrar to the Texas House on Election Day.
That's why the Texas League of Conservation Voters has endorsed Rep. Jessica Farrar's re-election. Learn more about Rep. Farrar's leadership online here.
Labels: endorsements, jessica farrar, Texas House
National League Releases Environmental Scorecard - Texas ranks near bottom of list
Texas Delegation Sets a Bad Example on Clean Energy and Conservation
League of Conservation Voters Releases 2008 National Environmental Scorecard
Full Scorecard Available here.
WASHINGTON, D.C. –The League of Conservation Voters, which works to turn environmental values into national priorities, today released the 2008 National Environmental Scorecard. For 30 years, the non-partisan National Environmental Scorecard from LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate Members of Congress on conservation and energy issues.
LCV President Gene Karpinski announced the release of LCV’s 2008 National Environmental Scorecard today, saying: “This scorecard reflects more clearly than perhaps ever before that America is truly at a crossroads when it comes to our energy future. In the face of gas prices that shot above four dollars a gallon, unrest around the world, and increasing global warming pollution, it could not be more obvious that we must reduce our dependence on oil, yet in 2008, Congress went in the wrong direction.”
Like too many in Congress, Texas’s representatives tended to favor continued dependence on oil and other dirty fossil fuels over renewable energy and energy efficiency. Although several representatives earned scores of 85 percent or higher, the majority of Texas’ delegation received scores of less than 50 percent, with almost half earning a flat out zero. While Texas’ senators and representatives had numerous opportunities to support clean energy, most of the delegation consistently sided with polluters over the interests of their constituents.
The average Texas Senate score was 18 percent, and the average Texas House score was 33 percent. For the full list of scores, see the bottom of this release.
"For generations, Texas has been our nation's energy leader. But in 2008, the Texas delegation led our state and nation the wrong way. Instead of providing leadership for Texas' future energy economy, our state's leaders - with rare exceptions - sided time and again with outmoded and polluting energy industries," said James Canup, Executive Director of Texas League of Conservation Voters. "Frankly, I'm tired of seeing my state ranked at or near the bottom of these lists, and I think most Texans are, too. When are our leaders going to stop listening to the big polluters that have made Texas' air quality among the worst in the nation, and start advancing common sense, renewable and clean solutions? This scorecard gives Texas voters the facts about how much our politicians really care about conserving our environment.”
The 2008 Scorecard includes 11 Senate and 13 House votes dominated by energy but also encompassing other environmental issues. This year, 67 House members and 27 senators earned a perfect 100 percent score, which is significantly higher than the 33 House members and 3 senators who earned a 100 percent in 2007. This year, 70 House members and 2 senators earned an appalling score of zero percent, compared with 48 House members and 9 senators in 2007. The average House score in 2008 was 56 percent, and the average Senate score was 57 percent, which is slightly higher than the 53 percent House and 52 percent Senate averages in 2007. California, Connecticut, Michigan, Montana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin all had perfect Senate averages of 100 percent, while Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and South Carolina’s senators averaged just 9 percent. In the House, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, and Maryland all averaged above 90 percent, while Montana and Wyoming were both below 10 percent.
“The 110th Congress began with great promise of bringing about a new energy economy, especially with the first increase in fuel economy of cars and light trucks in a generation,” said LCV Legislative Director Tiernan Sittenfeld. “The success of 2007 should have led to even more progress in 2008, but a vocal minority of Big Oil allies instead turned the year into a series of missed opportunities and major steps backward.”
While Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) fought for meaningful legislation to end our addiction to oil, reduce global warming pollution, and bring about a new energy economy, a vocal minority led by Minority Leaders Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and John Boehner (R-OH) used every trick in the book to help their allies in Big Oil and Big Coal. Though in the minority, these politicians not only defended billions of dollars in tax breaks and subsidies for the oil industry, they insisted on increasing offshore drilling, and created new handouts for dirty fuels like oil shale, tar sands, and liquid coal.
A focal point for the debate over our energy future was the Climate Security Act, a global warming bill advanced by Environment & Public Works Committee Chair Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and John Warner (R-VA). LCV worked hard to strengthen and pass the Climate Security Act. After a debate cut short by Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) and other allies of Big Oil, 48 senators voted to move forward, and 6 senators who were absent issued statements indicating that they would have voted that way as well – bringing the total number of senators who supported taking action to address global warming to 54. While short of the 60 votes necessary to override a filibuster, it’s significant that a majority of senators went on the record in support of making progress to combat global warming.
After turning their back on the need to reduce global warming pollution, “Drill, baby, drill,” became the war cry of Republican leadership who – along with President Bush, Senator McCain, and Newt Gingrich - spearheaded the campaign to mislead Americans into believing that new offshore drilling would lead to lower gas prices. Despite the Department of Energy’s assessment that the negligible impacts on gas prices would not occur until 2030, the campaign succeeded in ending the moratorium on offshore drilling.
“As we prepare for a new Congress and a new Administration, it’s all too obvious that America is desperate for change,” Sittenfeld said. “The good news is that a new energy policy can bring about just the change we need. LCV is committed to working with the 111th Congress and the new Administration to take bold action. It’s time to increase our production of clean, renewable energy, cut our dependence on oil, and invest in a new energy economy.”
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Texas Delegation 2008 Scores:
League of Conservation Voters Releases 2008 National Environmental Scorecard
Full Scorecard Available here.
WASHINGTON, D.C. –The League of Conservation Voters, which works to turn environmental values into national priorities, today released the 2008 National Environmental Scorecard. For 30 years, the non-partisan National Environmental Scorecard from LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate Members of Congress on conservation and energy issues.
LCV President Gene Karpinski announced the release of LCV’s 2008 National Environmental Scorecard today, saying: “This scorecard reflects more clearly than perhaps ever before that America is truly at a crossroads when it comes to our energy future. In the face of gas prices that shot above four dollars a gallon, unrest around the world, and increasing global warming pollution, it could not be more obvious that we must reduce our dependence on oil, yet in 2008, Congress went in the wrong direction.”
Like too many in Congress, Texas’s representatives tended to favor continued dependence on oil and other dirty fossil fuels over renewable energy and energy efficiency. Although several representatives earned scores of 85 percent or higher, the majority of Texas’ delegation received scores of less than 50 percent, with almost half earning a flat out zero. While Texas’ senators and representatives had numerous opportunities to support clean energy, most of the delegation consistently sided with polluters over the interests of their constituents.
The average Texas Senate score was 18 percent, and the average Texas House score was 33 percent. For the full list of scores, see the bottom of this release.
"For generations, Texas has been our nation's energy leader. But in 2008, the Texas delegation led our state and nation the wrong way. Instead of providing leadership for Texas' future energy economy, our state's leaders - with rare exceptions - sided time and again with outmoded and polluting energy industries," said James Canup, Executive Director of Texas League of Conservation Voters. "Frankly, I'm tired of seeing my state ranked at or near the bottom of these lists, and I think most Texans are, too. When are our leaders going to stop listening to the big polluters that have made Texas' air quality among the worst in the nation, and start advancing common sense, renewable and clean solutions? This scorecard gives Texas voters the facts about how much our politicians really care about conserving our environment.”
The 2008 Scorecard includes 11 Senate and 13 House votes dominated by energy but also encompassing other environmental issues. This year, 67 House members and 27 senators earned a perfect 100 percent score, which is significantly higher than the 33 House members and 3 senators who earned a 100 percent in 2007. This year, 70 House members and 2 senators earned an appalling score of zero percent, compared with 48 House members and 9 senators in 2007. The average House score in 2008 was 56 percent, and the average Senate score was 57 percent, which is slightly higher than the 53 percent House and 52 percent Senate averages in 2007. California, Connecticut, Michigan, Montana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin all had perfect Senate averages of 100 percent, while Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and South Carolina’s senators averaged just 9 percent. In the House, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, and Maryland all averaged above 90 percent, while Montana and Wyoming were both below 10 percent.
“The 110th Congress began with great promise of bringing about a new energy economy, especially with the first increase in fuel economy of cars and light trucks in a generation,” said LCV Legislative Director Tiernan Sittenfeld. “The success of 2007 should have led to even more progress in 2008, but a vocal minority of Big Oil allies instead turned the year into a series of missed opportunities and major steps backward.”
While Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) fought for meaningful legislation to end our addiction to oil, reduce global warming pollution, and bring about a new energy economy, a vocal minority led by Minority Leaders Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and John Boehner (R-OH) used every trick in the book to help their allies in Big Oil and Big Coal. Though in the minority, these politicians not only defended billions of dollars in tax breaks and subsidies for the oil industry, they insisted on increasing offshore drilling, and created new handouts for dirty fuels like oil shale, tar sands, and liquid coal.
A focal point for the debate over our energy future was the Climate Security Act, a global warming bill advanced by Environment & Public Works Committee Chair Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and John Warner (R-VA). LCV worked hard to strengthen and pass the Climate Security Act. After a debate cut short by Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) and other allies of Big Oil, 48 senators voted to move forward, and 6 senators who were absent issued statements indicating that they would have voted that way as well – bringing the total number of senators who supported taking action to address global warming to 54. While short of the 60 votes necessary to override a filibuster, it’s significant that a majority of senators went on the record in support of making progress to combat global warming.
After turning their back on the need to reduce global warming pollution, “Drill, baby, drill,” became the war cry of Republican leadership who – along with President Bush, Senator McCain, and Newt Gingrich - spearheaded the campaign to mislead Americans into believing that new offshore drilling would lead to lower gas prices. Despite the Department of Energy’s assessment that the negligible impacts on gas prices would not occur until 2030, the campaign succeeded in ending the moratorium on offshore drilling.
“As we prepare for a new Congress and a new Administration, it’s all too obvious that America is desperate for change,” Sittenfeld said. “The good news is that a new energy policy can bring about just the change we need. LCV is committed to working with the 111th Congress and the new Administration to take bold action. It’s time to increase our production of clean, renewable energy, cut our dependence on oil, and invest in a new energy economy.”
###
Texas Delegation 2008 Scores:
- Sen. Cornyn - 18
- Sen. Hutchison - 18
- Rep. Gohmert - 8
- Rep. Poe - 0
- Rep. Johnson, S. - 8
- Rep. Hall, R. - 0
- Rep. Hensarling - 8
- Rep. Barton - 0
- Rep. Culberson - 0
- Rep. Brady, K. - 0
- Rep. Green, A. - 85
- Rep. McCaul - 8
- Rep. Conaway - 0
- Rep. Granger - 0
- Rep. Thornberry - 0
- Rep. Paul - 0
- Rep. Hinojosa - 85
- Rep. Reyes - 85
- Rep. Edwards, C. - 77
- Rep. Jackson Lee, S. - 77
- Rep. Neugebauer - 0
- Rep. Gonzalez - 85
- Rep. Smith, L. - 0
- Rep. Lampson - 23
- Rep. Rodriguez - 77
- Rep. Marchant - 0
- Rep. Doggett - 92
- Rep. Burgess - 0
- Rep. Ortiz - 77
- Rep. Cuellar - 77
- Rep. Green, G. - 85
- Rep. Johnson, E.B. - 92
- Rep. Carter - 0
- Rep. Sessions - 0
Labels: Congress, National, Scorecard
It is hard to vote when you're displaced by a hurricane
National Public Radio reports on what it's like to try to vote after a natural disaster.
A number of candidates endorsed by the League are in districts impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Ike. Senate candidate Joe Jaworski, whom we've endorsed, lost his home in the storm (as did his opponent, Senator Mike Jackson, whom we oppose). Sherrie Matula's campaign, in district which includes Clearlake, has had to focus on relief efforts and hasn't had much of a district to campaign in. In the wake of a disaster like Ike, voting may be the last thing on people's minds.
But it shouldn't be. Decisions made by candidates elected this election will affect how well Texas recovers from Ike, and how well Texas will be prepared for future disasters. Decisions about climate change, which is happening and which makes hurricanes bigger and worse, will be made in the Texas legislature.
Texans statewide should support efforts to get out the vote in hurricane areas. And Texans from the Gulf Coast have more things to worry about on top of all the destruction - who's going to represent you in Austin, and what are they going to do for our state's future?
Texans not affected by Ike should be inspired by voters from the Gulf Coast. They will find their way to the polls on Election Day, or early vote, or absentee vote. On top of rebuilding their homes and businesses, they will cast a ballot to rebuild our state for the better. If those voters will make the effort at this difficult time, every Texan should.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008A number of candidates endorsed by the League are in districts impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Ike. Senate candidate Joe Jaworski, whom we've endorsed, lost his home in the storm (as did his opponent, Senator Mike Jackson, whom we oppose). Sherrie Matula's campaign, in district which includes Clearlake, has had to focus on relief efforts and hasn't had much of a district to campaign in. In the wake of a disaster like Ike, voting may be the last thing on people's minds.
But it shouldn't be. Decisions made by candidates elected this election will affect how well Texas recovers from Ike, and how well Texas will be prepared for future disasters. Decisions about climate change, which is happening and which makes hurricanes bigger and worse, will be made in the Texas legislature.
Texans statewide should support efforts to get out the vote in hurricane areas. And Texans from the Gulf Coast have more things to worry about on top of all the destruction - who's going to represent you in Austin, and what are they going to do for our state's future?
Texans not affected by Ike should be inspired by voters from the Gulf Coast. They will find their way to the polls on Election Day, or early vote, or absentee vote. On top of rebuilding their homes and businesses, they will cast a ballot to rebuild our state for the better. If those voters will make the effort at this difficult time, every Texan should.
Labels: hurricane ike; recovery; gulf coast, voter turnout
Jaworski earns Chronicle endorsement
Texas League of Conservation Voters knows how to pick 'em. Last month, we endorsed Joe Jaworski over incumbent Senator "Toxic Mike" Jackson for District 11.
Today, the Houston Chronicle followed our lead. The Chron wrote:
Need we add that Jaworski will also be a strong vote for environmental conservation, clean air, and good stewardship of our environment in the Senate? And may we remind you that, if elected, Joe will replace Sen. Mike Jackson, who never met a good environmental bill he didn't hate?
It's time to clean up the Texas environment by cleaning Mike Jackson out of the Texas Senate, and Joe Jaworski is the man for the job.
Friday, October 10, 2008Today, the Houston Chronicle followed our lead. The Chron wrote:
In a district that includes portions of hurricane-ravaged Galveston, constituents need a forceful and energetic senator to promote their interests in next year's legislative session. The Chronicle believes the right candidate for the job is Democratic challenger Joe Jaworski, an attorney and fourth-generation Texan from a prestigious line of litigators, including his grandfather, Watergate special prosecutor Leon Jaworski.
The candidate lives in Galveston with his wife and two children and has already compiled a record of distinctive public service there. Jaworski served three terms on Galveston City Council, the last as mayor pro tem. He chaired the city's ethics commission and promises to push ethics reforms with high standards for public officials in Austin....
Need we add that Jaworski will also be a strong vote for environmental conservation, clean air, and good stewardship of our environment in the Senate? And may we remind you that, if elected, Joe will replace Sen. Mike Jackson, who never met a good environmental bill he didn't hate?
It's time to clean up the Texas environment by cleaning Mike Jackson out of the Texas Senate, and Joe Jaworski is the man for the job.
Labels: endorsements, joe jaworski, mike jackson
We still don't know all about Ike
Tom Curtis, a friend of mine from Galveston who evacuated during Ike, writes a "Letter from Galveston" in the latest Texas Observer issue. Tom points out that Texans and Americans haven't seen the full destruction and tragedy from hurrican Ike because, "[C]ity leaders don't even seem to want their own citizens, much less outsiders, to see their island in this sad state of dishabille or, worse, battered and stark nakedness."
And Tom suggests that the reason officials don't want the world to see what Galveston really looks like post-Ike is because they're afraid it will impact the election. The local newspaper publisher is quoted as saying the efforts to keep eyes shut to Galveston is, "a desparate effort to avoid embarassment for the Republican administration in charge of FEMA." He goes on: "It is, after all, about six weeks from a presidential election. Nobody wants another Katrina this time." Indeed.
There are local elections going on, too, including an interesting one for state senate that pits incumbent Senator Mike Jackson against challenger Joe Jaworski (the League has endorsed Jaworski). Perhaps the candidates could debate and lay out their visions for hurricane recovery, even discuss how to minimize the damage from future storms? Not gonna happen. Jackson failed to show up for a debate yesterday. Apparently, the strategy - from FEMA on down to Mike Jackson - is to keep the cameras off, don't talk about it, close their eyes and keep their fingers crossed until Election Day.
I'm reminded of folks who chose to ignore the threat of Ike and stayed on the island. They, too, crossed fingers, closed their eyes and hoped for a minimal damage. No doubt some of them now regret their choice.
Thursday, October 09, 2008And Tom suggests that the reason officials don't want the world to see what Galveston really looks like post-Ike is because they're afraid it will impact the election. The local newspaper publisher is quoted as saying the efforts to keep eyes shut to Galveston is, "a desparate effort to avoid embarassment for the Republican administration in charge of FEMA." He goes on: "It is, after all, about six weeks from a presidential election. Nobody wants another Katrina this time." Indeed.
There are local elections going on, too, including an interesting one for state senate that pits incumbent Senator Mike Jackson against challenger Joe Jaworski (the League has endorsed Jaworski). Perhaps the candidates could debate and lay out their visions for hurricane recovery, even discuss how to minimize the damage from future storms? Not gonna happen. Jackson failed to show up for a debate yesterday. Apparently, the strategy - from FEMA on down to Mike Jackson - is to keep the cameras off, don't talk about it, close their eyes and keep their fingers crossed until Election Day.
I'm reminded of folks who chose to ignore the threat of Ike and stayed on the island. They, too, crossed fingers, closed their eyes and hoped for a minimal damage. No doubt some of them now regret their choice.
Labels: galveston, hurricane ike, joe jaworski, mike jackson
Thank you
Thanks to everyone who has contributed to Texas League of Conservation Voters - PAC this cycle! Our fall fundraiser has raised nearly $25,000 to date, and was well attended.
The League is proud to acknowledge the generous Texans who are supporting our efforts to elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate:
Frances and Pete Schenkkan
Garrett and Cecilia Boone
Dan and Annette Carlozzi Bullock
Jeff Eller
David and Joan Hilgers
John Hirschi
Jim Marston and Annette Lovoi
Jack Martin
Melanie and Mark McAfee
David Newberger
Linda Aaker and Bob Armstrong
James Canup
Grayson Cecil
Laura and Ken Cho
Mary Decker
Catherine Mauzy
Colin Rowan
Babe and Marilyn Schwartz
Gerald Torres
Tom and Delane Weber
David Bamburger
Bob and Mary Cocke
Chris and Tish Elliott
John Foshee
Tom Fritz Fritz
Mary Kelly and Rick Lowerre
Ashley and Travis Phillips
Bob King
Colin Leyden
Beverly Reeves
David Todd
Bob and Jean Warneke
Robbie and Tom Ausley
Randie and Sam Canup
Harley and Patti Clark
Brian Donovan
Sally Drews
Meta Butler Hunt
Mary Beth Maher
Carrie McManus
Barbara Miller
Susan Rieff
Cynthia Riley
Nancy Wilson Scanlan
Chris Smith
Jill Turner
Mack Turner
Ira Jon Yates
The League is particularly grateful to Linda Aaker and Bob Armstrong, who hosted our fundraiser on October 7th. Special thanks to Representatives Valinda Bolton, Donna Howard and Mark Strama -- all with A+ records in the Texas House for voting for the environment -- who joined us at the party.
It's not too late to help the League elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate (and it's not too late to help us defeat anti-conservation candidates)!
Join the heroic Texans listed above by standing with the Texas League of Conservation Voters! Make your contribution right away.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008The League is proud to acknowledge the generous Texans who are supporting our efforts to elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate:
Frances and Pete Schenkkan
Garrett and Cecilia Boone
Dan and Annette Carlozzi Bullock
Jeff Eller
David and Joan Hilgers
John Hirschi
Jim Marston and Annette Lovoi
Jack Martin
Melanie and Mark McAfee
David Newberger
Linda Aaker and Bob Armstrong
James Canup
Grayson Cecil
Laura and Ken Cho
Mary Decker
Catherine Mauzy
Colin Rowan
Babe and Marilyn Schwartz
Gerald Torres
Tom and Delane Weber
David Bamburger
Bob and Mary Cocke
Chris and Tish Elliott
John Foshee
Tom Fritz Fritz
Mary Kelly and Rick Lowerre
Ashley and Travis Phillips
Bob King
Colin Leyden
Beverly Reeves
David Todd
Bob and Jean Warneke
Robbie and Tom Ausley
Randie and Sam Canup
Harley and Patti Clark
Brian Donovan
Sally Drews
Meta Butler Hunt
Mary Beth Maher
Carrie McManus
Barbara Miller
Susan Rieff
Cynthia Riley
Nancy Wilson Scanlan
Chris Smith
Jill Turner
Mack Turner
Ira Jon Yates
The League is particularly grateful to Linda Aaker and Bob Armstrong, who hosted our fundraiser on October 7th. Special thanks to Representatives Valinda Bolton, Donna Howard and Mark Strama -- all with A+ records in the Texas House for voting for the environment -- who joined us at the party.
It's not too late to help the League elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate (and it's not too late to help us defeat anti-conservation candidates)!
Join the heroic Texans listed above by standing with the Texas League of Conservation Voters! Make your contribution right away.
North Texas is ready to vote!
Dallas Morning News reports:
Help increase Houston voter turnout!- 125,000 new voters in Dallas County
- 11% more voters in Colin County
- 8% more voters in Tarrant County
- New voter Anthony Ogbulu, discussing his voter registration: "I just became a citizen last year. It's a point of duty," he said. "I have been wanting so long for this opportunity."
Labels: Dallas, Fort Worth, voter registration
Texas League of Conservation Voters invites you to....
Houston Votes!
Host committee: Kit Ashby, Troy Chandler, Allison Gabbart, Seth Kretzer, Monique Ward, Marlen Whitley.
(Houston Votes is a collaborative, non-partisan, 501 (c)(3) non-proft project to increase voter registration and voter turnout in the Houston area.)
Monday, October 06, 2008Houston Votes!
- Happy Hour!
- Live Music!
- October 22
- 5:30 p.m.
- Dean's Credit Clothing
- 316 Main Street
- Houston
Host committee: Kit Ashby, Troy Chandler, Allison Gabbart, Seth Kretzer, Monique Ward, Marlen Whitley.
(Houston Votes is a collaborative, non-partisan, 501 (c)(3) non-proft project to increase voter registration and voter turnout in the Houston area.)
Labels: houston, voter registration, voter turnout
Ike: Half-a-million gallons spilled; 1,500 sites to clean up
Today's Dallas Morning News reports an AP investigation into the environmental toll of Hurricane Ike, including:
Act Now! Voter Registration Deadline Today!In the days before and after the deadly storm, companies and residents reported at least 448 releases of oil, gasoline and dozens of other substances into the air and water and onto the ground in Louisiana and Texas.
Labels: hurricane ike; recovery; gulf coast, oil spill
Texas' deadline for voter registration is today, Monday, October 6, 2008.
Unregistered voters have to mail their registration forms today in order to be registered to vote on Election Day, November 4th.
Find out about voter registration here.
Don't let today's deadline slip past - be sure you're registered!
Friday, October 03, 2008Unregistered voters have to mail their registration forms today in order to be registered to vote on Election Day, November 4th.
Find out about voter registration here.
Don't let today's deadline slip past - be sure you're registered!
Labels: voter registration
Let's send 'em to Austin!
It has been noted elsewhere that this is an election of some importance. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for change. For the Texas House of Representatives.
On November 4th, Texans have the chance build a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House, if you support the League's work today. Texas' environmental community could have a chance to work with an effective House to pass good, pro-conservation laws in Texas addressing our air quality, precious water resources, and renewable energy. We can see real action on rebuilding the Texas coast, and take steps to minimize the horrific impact of future storms. Texas children can have cleaner air to breathe, safer and better parks and open space. Texas can implement sound, common sense solutions that protect natural habitats and rivers while providing enough water for thirsty megalopolises like Dallas-Fort Worth.
We have the opportunity to accomplish these goals for Texas only if the Texas House of Representatives comes to truly represent Texas' pro-conservation majority. Luckily, Texas is blessed with a slate of great candidates from every part our state. Visit our endorsements page here.
I wanted to tell y'all about a few campaigns, in particular, where victories for the conservation community are possible, even likely, if we keep working hard until Election Day.
Rep. Stephen Frost's number one issue is stopping the proposed Marvin Nichols reservoir in the far Northeast Texas District 1. Rep. Frost has been a good friend of Texas' environment, as evidenced by his grade of A in our last scorecard. (I'm personally interested in Rep. Frost's re-election because his district includes the northern shore of Caddo Lake, where my folks have "retired."). Help the League re-elect Rep. Frost here.
Rep. Dan Barrett is running a great campaign in Fort Worth. The League has been behind him from the beginning. In our 2007 endorsement, my predecessor Colin Leyden wrote that Dan earned the League's endorsement because he will:
When Chris Turner wins in District 97, Reps. Turner, Barrett and Burnam could carpool in a hybrid from Fort Worth to Austin. I've been fortunate to know Chris Turner for about 20 years. He was president of my high school class in East Dallas (Go Raiders!); he was ready to serve in the legislature back in 1991, and his work with Rep. Chet Edwards these past few years have only made him a better leader. Chris is committed to working for better air quality in the Metroplex and Texas, whether or not he joins the carpool. Help the League elect Chris Turner here.
I've really got my fingers crossed for Sherrie Matula and the folks in District 129 in Southeast Harris County. These folks were heavily impacted by Hurricane Ike and for so many of the voters there, they are dealing with the horrific damage from the storm to their homes and neighborhoods. Good folks are working hard to make sure everyone there has every opportunity to vote, but the State of Texas didn't extend Monday's voter registration deadline for people in the impacted areas. Let's hope they're getting the help they need with the recovery, and that they are able to cast a ballot in this critically important election. (Those of us in other parts of Texas have no excuse for not voting.) Send Sherrie Matula some money so her future constituents have a chance to vote for her and, so that everybody has a fair chance to get to the ballot box, help out Houston Votes, in addition.
Texas is rapidly diversifying in population. Lots of urban and suburban districts may switch parties this time, and pro-conservation candidates have great opportunities to win in these districts with the help of environmental voters: Virginia McDavid, Joel Redmond, and Kristi Thibaut ("thee-bout," she tells me) in Harris County; Carol Kent and Robert Miklos in Dallas County; and Diana Maldonado in Williamson County. Help the League elect Virginia McDavid, Joel Redmond, Kristi Thibaut, Carol Kent, Robert Miklos and Diana Maldonado here.
There are a lot more great candidates and I could go on and on. But I wanted y'all to know about these races because they're important and because we can make a difference together. I hope you'll give money to support the League's work, and contribute directly to the campaigns of your choice.
Let's send a message that Texans demand strong leadership on the environment. Let's elect a pro-conservation majority to the Texas House. Can the environment count on you this election?
Prestigious blog salutes our gutsOn November 4th, Texans have the chance build a pro-conservation majority in the Texas House, if you support the League's work today. Texas' environmental community could have a chance to work with an effective House to pass good, pro-conservation laws in Texas addressing our air quality, precious water resources, and renewable energy. We can see real action on rebuilding the Texas coast, and take steps to minimize the horrific impact of future storms. Texas children can have cleaner air to breathe, safer and better parks and open space. Texas can implement sound, common sense solutions that protect natural habitats and rivers while providing enough water for thirsty megalopolises like Dallas-Fort Worth.
We have the opportunity to accomplish these goals for Texas only if the Texas House of Representatives comes to truly represent Texas' pro-conservation majority. Luckily, Texas is blessed with a slate of great candidates from every part our state. Visit our endorsements page here.
I wanted to tell y'all about a few campaigns, in particular, where victories for the conservation community are possible, even likely, if we keep working hard until Election Day.
Rep. Stephen Frost's number one issue is stopping the proposed Marvin Nichols reservoir in the far Northeast Texas District 1. Rep. Frost has been a good friend of Texas' environment, as evidenced by his grade of A in our last scorecard. (I'm personally interested in Rep. Frost's re-election because his district includes the northern shore of Caddo Lake, where my folks have "retired."). Help the League re-elect Rep. Frost here.
Rep. Dan Barrett is running a great campaign in Fort Worth. The League has been behind him from the beginning. In our 2007 endorsement, my predecessor Colin Leyden wrote that Dan earned the League's endorsement because he will:
- require power plants up-wind of Fort Worth to significantly reduce NOx emissions in order to reduce the burden on local businesses
- require the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to consider cumulative impacts of new coal plant permits in conjunction with all other pollutant emitters
- work with nearby cement kilns to adopt and meet the best emission control technologies and standards being met by other cement kilns in the U.S;
- and help Texas reduce green-house gas emissions by investing in renewable power sources, supporting viable public transportation systems between major Texas cities, and increasing investment in proven scientific methods for carbon reduction.
When Chris Turner wins in District 97, Reps. Turner, Barrett and Burnam could carpool in a hybrid from Fort Worth to Austin. I've been fortunate to know Chris Turner for about 20 years. He was president of my high school class in East Dallas (Go Raiders!); he was ready to serve in the legislature back in 1991, and his work with Rep. Chet Edwards these past few years have only made him a better leader. Chris is committed to working for better air quality in the Metroplex and Texas, whether or not he joins the carpool. Help the League elect Chris Turner here.
I've really got my fingers crossed for Sherrie Matula and the folks in District 129 in Southeast Harris County. These folks were heavily impacted by Hurricane Ike and for so many of the voters there, they are dealing with the horrific damage from the storm to their homes and neighborhoods. Good folks are working hard to make sure everyone there has every opportunity to vote, but the State of Texas didn't extend Monday's voter registration deadline for people in the impacted areas. Let's hope they're getting the help they need with the recovery, and that they are able to cast a ballot in this critically important election. (Those of us in other parts of Texas have no excuse for not voting.) Send Sherrie Matula some money so her future constituents have a chance to vote for her and, so that everybody has a fair chance to get to the ballot box, help out Houston Votes, in addition.
Texas is rapidly diversifying in population. Lots of urban and suburban districts may switch parties this time, and pro-conservation candidates have great opportunities to win in these districts with the help of environmental voters: Virginia McDavid, Joel Redmond, and Kristi Thibaut ("thee-bout," she tells me) in Harris County; Carol Kent and Robert Miklos in Dallas County; and Diana Maldonado in Williamson County. Help the League elect Virginia McDavid, Joel Redmond, Kristi Thibaut, Carol Kent, Robert Miklos and Diana Maldonado here.
There are a lot more great candidates and I could go on and on. But I wanted y'all to know about these races because they're important and because we can make a difference together. I hope you'll give money to support the League's work, and contribute directly to the campaigns of your choice.
Let's send a message that Texans demand strong leadership on the environment. Let's elect a pro-conservation majority to the Texas House. Can the environment count on you this election?
Labels: endorsements, Texas House
Today Off the Kuff blog saluted our endorsements:
Thanks, Kuff!
Rep. Myra CrownoverThe newspapers (some of them, anyway) may be dragging a bit in getting their endorsements together, but the various PACs and interest groups have been busy. I get a lot of these in my Inbox, way more than I can keep track or or post about, but there's a couple I'd like to highlight here. First up is the Texas League of Conservation Voters, which has a comprehensive list of endorsees here. It's all Democrats, which shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone who pays attention to how the Lege operates, but what caught my interest is the fact that it's not just incumbents or nominees for sure-thing open seats. They've gone out on a limb and endorsed six challengers to sitting members - Sherrie Matula, Virginia McDavid, Kristi Thibaut, Carol Kent, John McClelland, and Chris Turner - plus five open-seat contenders who would represent a party switch if they won - Joel Redmond, Robert Miklos, Diana Maldonado, Sam Murphey, and Joe Moody. That's putting some skin in the game, and I think it should be applauded, because it's a real risk for them. For every one of these races where they back the wrong horse, their ability to get legislation passed (or blocked) next session diminishes by a little bit. It takes guts to advocate for change like this, and I salute them for it.
Thanks, Kuff!
We read this.
And endorsed her opponent.
Because leaders who have misconceptions like this...
...shouldn't get away with it.
Thursday, October 02, 2008And endorsed her opponent.
Because leaders who have misconceptions like this...
"In Texas and the Gulf of Mexico, we have been producing millions of barrels of oil for years with no environmental consequences."
...shouldn't get away with it.
Senate Endorsements
Today the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee endorsed three candidates for the Texas Senate.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008Joe Jaworski is a great candidate who will deliver sound environmental leadership in the Senate. But just as importantly, he will replace Sen. "Toxic Mike" Jackson. Senator Jackson has been the opposite of a friend to the Texas environment during his tenure representing District 17, which stretches along the Gulf Coast in the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Ike. Because so many Texans have been displaced and uprooted as a result of Ike, assuring that everyone in the District has an opportunity to vote is the most important priority for electing a pro-conservation senator for District 17. Voter registration closes on Monday, October 6th, and the State of Texas has NOT decided to extend voter registration in the hurricane-impacted areas.
Mike and Ike - both are bad news for Texas.
Labels: chris bell, joe jaworski, mike jackson, Texas Senate, wendy davis
West Texas Needs Pete Gallego's Continued Leadership
We've focused on the parts of Texas impacted by Hurricane Ike recently here on TLCV Blog. But Texas, as has been noted elsewhere, is a big state. In West Texas, Rep. Pete Gallego is running a great re-election campaign, and the TLCV Political Committee was proud to endorse him.
Rep. Gallego earned a score of A+ on the League's 2007 legislative scorecard because of his outstanding pro-conservation leadership in the Texas House. He's been a reliable vote for the environmental community, and we need him back in Austin in January.
Today, Rep. Gallego sent an email to his supporters trumpeting the League's endorsement:
"Gloom and Doom" Post-IkeRep. Gallego earned a score of A+ on the League's 2007 legislative scorecard because of his outstanding pro-conservation leadership in the Texas House. He's been a reliable vote for the environmental community, and we need him back in Austin in January.
Today, Rep. Gallego sent an email to his supporters trumpeting the League's endorsement:
Texas League of Conservation Voters Endorses Rep. Gallego
(Alpine)--One of the leading voices for environmental protection and conservation in Texas, the Texas League of Conservation Voters, has proudly endorsed State Representative Pete Gallego for re-election this November.
"West Texans should be as proud of Representative Gallego as they are of their beautiful mountains and scenery," said James Canup, Executive Director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. "They are fortunate to have such a strong advocate in the Texas House who shares their desire to clean our air, clean our water, increase our renewable and alternative energy sources, protect our public parklands, and make Texas more energy efficient."
"I want to thank the Texas League of Conservation Voters for their endorsement, their friendship, and the trust they continue to place in my leadership on environmental issues from energy conservation and efficiency to environmental protection," said Rep. Gallego. "I will continue to fight for cleaner water, cleaner air, protected public parklands, and against low-level nuclear waste dumps in West Texas."
According to the TLCV letter endorsing Rep. Gallego, "Because of you're A+ grade in our 2007 legislative scorecard for voting with Texas' environmental communities, we're pleased to endorse your re-election. Your leadership addressing environmental issues both in your district and across Texas is inspirational, and critically important for our future as Texans."
"Working together with organizations like the Texas League of Conservation Voters, we will make Texas a safer, cleaner, more energy efficient state for all Texas families," said Rep. Gallego. "I am humbled by their support and look forward to continuing our work to make our water and air cleaner, our
parks more accessible, and our energy more efficient." Rep. Gallego's pro-environment positions and accomplishments:
- Rep. Gallego has consistently authored, supported and voted for legislation to increase renewable and alternative energy by increasing the state's renewable portfolio standard
- Rep. Gallego has been a leading proponent of and champion for West Texas wind farms, creating both clean energy and green collar jobs for West Texas Rep. Gallego lead the fight opposing the effort to make HD 74 near Sierra Blanco the nation's primary low level radioactive waste dump
- Rep. Gallego has consistently fought to ensure Big Bend Ranch State Park, the Christmas Mountains, and other Texas parklands remain open and accessible to all Texans
- Rep. Gallego has consistently fought to increase funding for state and local parks
- Rep. Gallego has consistently supported legislation supporting cleaner water and cleaner air
- Rep. Gallego earned a grade of A+ on the Texas League of Conservation Voters 2007 legislative scorecard
We couldn't have said it better ourselves. Good luck on November 4th, Rep. Gallego!
Labels: endorsements, pete gallego, west texas
Other big news about the economy and politics have taken Hurricane Ike's impact off of front pages and put it out of mind of many Americans, but the vast destruction and devastation of the storm is just beginning to be assessed.
The storm attacked Texas' already-stressed upper coast, writes the Houston Chronicle today, noting that development, rising seas and sinking land have conspired to wreak havoc on Galveston and beyond. Here's an assessment from the Chron article:
Tuesday, September 30, 2008The storm attacked Texas' already-stressed upper coast, writes the Houston Chronicle today, noting that development, rising seas and sinking land have conspired to wreak havoc on Galveston and beyond. Here's an assessment from the Chron article:
- The storm "wash[ed] debris into Galveston Bay and the Gulf...imperiling animals, fish and plants by pouring excessive amounts of saltwater into marshes."
- Already-threatened beaches were reduced or erased, with "as much as 200 feet of beach vanishing in some areas."
- "The surge pushed saltwater into freshwater habitats far from the coast and destroyed grasses for grazing cattle and other vegetation."
- '"This will have a huge impact on the birds," said Gina Donovan, executive director of the Houston Audubon Society. "The warblers eat so many berries that the juice gets all over their feathers. It's like watching a child eat ice cream. Without the food to fatten them for a 600-mile journey, the birds will starve and perish."'
- "[T]he debris and untreated sewage in Galveston Bay and the bayous around Greater Houston are sucking the oxygen out of the water, leaving little or none for marine life. The carcasses of carp and other fish could be seen in Buffalo Bayou last week."
- "The city of Houston estimated that as much as 5 million gallons[of raw sewage]...flowed into the bayous because of Ike-related power outages."
Is there a silver lining? There wasn't a huge oil or chemical spill, say experts.
What can help now? Some rain. Chron quotes Jim Sutherlin of the J.D. Murphree Wildlife Management Area on how salt water from the surge is affecting things inland: "That exasperates everything that needs freshwater," he said. "If we don't get a lot of rain soon, then it's gloom and doom for fish, insects and some mammals."
Whether or not the rains come soon, there's still enough gloom and doom from Ike. As other news bumps Ike off the front page, hurricane recovery -- for habitat and for humans -- is still very important.
Labels: ike recovery
Will Ike Keep Incumbents in Office?
It's hard to register folks to vote in November when they've been impacted by Hurricane Ike, according to a recent AP story that ran in papers statewide. But Galveston County officials are taking steps to have polling locations in place by Election Day.
This is a critically important election, one of the most important elections in memory by any account. It would be a great tragedy if victims of Hurricane Ike weren't heard from at the polls on Election Day, and it would be a tragic loss for democracy in Texas.
The tasks confronting folks returning home to Galveston and other hurricane-damaged areas are almost insurmountable. Let's hope officials are able to accept late voter registration from the Gulf Coast and are able to provide proper, functioning polling places as close to their regular locations as possible.
Texas harmed by Ike may understandably be discouraged, disgusted and discombobulated. Let's hope they're also not disenfranchised.
Make sure you're registered to vote. The deadline is Monday.
Monday, September 29, 2008This is a critically important election, one of the most important elections in memory by any account. It would be a great tragedy if victims of Hurricane Ike weren't heard from at the polls on Election Day, and it would be a tragic loss for democracy in Texas.
The tasks confronting folks returning home to Galveston and other hurricane-damaged areas are almost insurmountable. Let's hope officials are able to accept late voter registration from the Gulf Coast and are able to provide proper, functioning polling places as close to their regular locations as possible.
Texas harmed by Ike may understandably be discouraged, disgusted and discombobulated. Let's hope they're also not disenfranchised.
Make sure you're registered to vote. The deadline is Monday.
Labels: hurricane ike, voter registration
"Green the Bailout"
In Saturday's New York Times, Thomas Friedman wants to "Green the Bailout" by investing, instead of entirely in Wall Street firms, also in America's future "green-collar" economy:
Friedman and Jones are right: America's future depends on growing a green economy. And a greening economy for America is an opportunity for Texas: clean, renewable energy production will clean up our air, provide plentiful, affordable power, create green-collar jobs and assure Texas' continued prominence as an energy leader.
But Texas won't be a leader unless we send pro-conservation leaders to Austin. Texas League of Conservation Voters is endorsing the best and the brightest leaders for our state - leaders who can help Texas be cleaner and greener, thereby assuring quality of life for Texas for generations to come.
Thursday, September 25, 2008"....when this bailout is over, we need the next president — this one is wasted — to launch an E.T., energy technology, revolution with the same urgency as this bailout. Otherwise, all we will have done is bought ourselves a respite, but not a future. The exciting thing about the energy technology revolution is that it spans the whole economy — from green-collar construction jobs to high-tech solar panel designing jobs. It could lift so many boats.
"In a green economy, we would rely less on credit from foreigners “and more on creativity from Americans,” argued Van Jones, president of Green for All, and author of the forthcoming “The Green Collar Economy.” “It’s time to stop borrowing and start building. America’s No. 1 resource is not oil or mortgages. Our No. 1 resource is our people. Let’s put people back to work — retrofitting and repowering America. ... You can’t base a national economy on credit cards. But you can base it on solar panels, wind turbines, smart biofuels and a massive program to weatherize every building and home in America.”
Friedman and Jones are right: America's future depends on growing a green economy. And a greening economy for America is an opportunity for Texas: clean, renewable energy production will clean up our air, provide plentiful, affordable power, create green-collar jobs and assure Texas' continued prominence as an energy leader.
But Texas won't be a leader unless we send pro-conservation leaders to Austin. Texas League of Conservation Voters is endorsing the best and the brightest leaders for our state - leaders who can help Texas be cleaner and greener, thereby assuring quality of life for Texas for generations to come.
Labels: clean energy future, endorsements, green economy
Texas belches CO2 as other states reduce emissions
What do the following states have in common?
Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
They have all teamed up through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to implement a cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the RGGI auctions off its first CO2 emissions allowances today under the "first mandatory, market-based CO2 emissions reduction program in the United States." Likewise, on the West Coast states like California already have their own greenhouse gas reduction programs underway.
States are taking these steps and implementing these programs because of inaction in Washington. Today's New York Times opines that, "[u]ntil Washington takes more responsibility for addressing global warming, the states must lead."
Where's Texas on this stuff? Why isn't the second-most populous state in the nation a leader in this area? We're not even on the map. Last legislative session, the Texas House voted against even creating a task force to examine the impact of climate change - which is impacted by CO2 emissions. Fifty-two house members voted for the creation of the task force. Eighty-eight voted against it.
Texas alone is the 8th largest emitter of CO2 in the world. Our state contributes almost as much CO2 into the atmosphere as Canada. Actions of states like Vermont, with its small population and limited amount of industry, won't have a big impact on CO2 emissions. But if Texas did something, there could be tremendous impact. Perhaps the solution is a cap-and-trade system for Texas. Perhaps Texas can bring creativity and independent thinking to bear on finding solutions other than a cap-and-trade system. Our state has been an energy leader for more than a hundred years -- we've got the talent and capacity to tackle problems like CO2 emissions and to make a tremendous difference.
Bigger, nastier hurricanes like Ike are one result of climate change caused by CO2 emissions, according to a recent study by Nature. Texas officials -- and leaders in Washington, D.C. -- can't continue to ignore our mounting climate change crisis, nor the disastrous changes to the weather and the environment that are resulting.
On Election Day, and when the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin in January, Texans need to send a message that we're not going keep our heads in the sands as hurricanes are made worse by toxic emissions from Texas cars and industry. Texas League of Conservation Voters has endorsed a slate of candidates and incumbents who will stand up for clean air.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
They have all teamed up through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative to implement a cap-and-trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the RGGI auctions off its first CO2 emissions allowances today under the "first mandatory, market-based CO2 emissions reduction program in the United States." Likewise, on the West Coast states like California already have their own greenhouse gas reduction programs underway.
States are taking these steps and implementing these programs because of inaction in Washington. Today's New York Times opines that, "[u]ntil Washington takes more responsibility for addressing global warming, the states must lead."
Where's Texas on this stuff? Why isn't the second-most populous state in the nation a leader in this area? We're not even on the map. Last legislative session, the Texas House voted against even creating a task force to examine the impact of climate change - which is impacted by CO2 emissions. Fifty-two house members voted for the creation of the task force. Eighty-eight voted against it.
Texas alone is the 8th largest emitter of CO2 in the world. Our state contributes almost as much CO2 into the atmosphere as Canada. Actions of states like Vermont, with its small population and limited amount of industry, won't have a big impact on CO2 emissions. But if Texas did something, there could be tremendous impact. Perhaps the solution is a cap-and-trade system for Texas. Perhaps Texas can bring creativity and independent thinking to bear on finding solutions other than a cap-and-trade system. Our state has been an energy leader for more than a hundred years -- we've got the talent and capacity to tackle problems like CO2 emissions and to make a tremendous difference.
Bigger, nastier hurricanes like Ike are one result of climate change caused by CO2 emissions, according to a recent study by Nature. Texas officials -- and leaders in Washington, D.C. -- can't continue to ignore our mounting climate change crisis, nor the disastrous changes to the weather and the environment that are resulting.
On Election Day, and when the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin in January, Texans need to send a message that we're not going keep our heads in the sands as hurricanes are made worse by toxic emissions from Texas cars and industry. Texas League of Conservation Voters has endorsed a slate of candidates and incumbents who will stand up for clean air.
Labels: cap-and-trade, climate change, hurricane ike, Texas House
Residents Return to Galveston
"When you come back it's not going to be the same Galveston Island you left. It's been damaged. It's been broken."
Monday, September 22, 2008- Galveston Mayor Pro-Tem Danny Weber
Indeed.
Labels: galveston, hurricane ike
Ike destroys vital coastal habitat
You don't have to read a lot of newpapers to find coverage of the damage Hurricane Ike has done to vital coastal habitat.
Sunday, September 21, 2008- Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge (USA Today)
- J. D. Murphee Wildlife Management Area (The Guardian - London):
"We're going to take the critters that crawl or walk, and for the full
stretch of the coastal zone that got the full impact of the coastal flood,
they're just eliminated."
- Galveston and Sea Rim state parks (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
- South Texas ecosystems (Lubbock Avalanche-Journal)
- Beaumont-Big Thicket area forests (Beaumont Enterprise):
"About 612 million cubic feet of timber on an expanse of 473,000 acres was
damaged and affected as a result of the storm."
It will take Texans years to recover from the damage of Ike. It may take our coastal habitats even longer.
Labels: hurricane ike; recovery; gulf coast
Politics and governance have a role post-Ike
Dallas Morning News editorial today:
In addition to Galveston, Houston and Texas' Gulf Coast, one place the impact of Ike may be felt for generations is the Texas Legislature, and the shape of the legislature will be determined on Election Day.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008The last thing Galvestonians are thinking about today is what Ike's destruction means for the rest of Texas. When your primary concerns are whether you still have a house and when you'll ever get to sleep in it, you're in no frame of mind to take the big-picture view.
But the folks managing the state's budget, insurers with a stake in this hurricane, and taxpayers and consumers face several grim realities.
In addition to Galveston, Houston and Texas' Gulf Coast, one place the impact of Ike may be felt for generations is the Texas Legislature, and the shape of the legislature will be determined on Election Day.
Labels: election day, hurricane ike, Texas House, Texas Senate
Ike Aftermath: Toxic Chemicals in Galveston
- Ian Urbina and Thayer Evans, The New York Times
Today, word from the New York Times that Hurricane Ike's path of destruction left a toxic layer across Galveston Island. And as time goes by, blooms of toxic mold, swarms of insects and other pest are increasing in intensity. The Times quotes Galveston resident John Strange on the bugs:
“They could fly away with your hat,” he said. “The roaches are bigger than I’ve ever seen in New York City. They’d whip a New York roach. The mosquitoes are as big as your thumbnail. You name them, you know, like ‘Hey, George.’ ”While Ike has not turned out to be "the big one" for the Texas gulf coast, this natural disaster has vast environmental and public health repercussions that are only just beginning to be felt.
Ike recovery, and mitigation of future storms, ought to be a top topic for Texas candidates between now and Election Day. And it ought to be a top priority for the upcoming session of the Texas Legislature which begins in January.
Labels: hurricane ike, toxic soup
A Houston Chronicle blog, "Texas on the Potomac," lists a number of organizations providing relief to victims of Hurricane Ike in the Houston area.
View the list here.
Sunday, September 14, 2008View the list here.
Hurricane Ike Relief
The boards of directors and staff of Texas League of Conservation Voters and Texas League of Conservation Voters Educational Fund encourage people to help provide relief to Texans affected by Hurricane Ike by volunteering time and giving money.
Please help Texans recover from the destruction of Hurricane Ike by giving to or volunteering with the relief organization of your choice, or consider helping one of the following groups:
- American Red Cross - Beaumont Chapter
- American Red Cross - Houston Region
- Direct Relief International
- Feeding America (Formerly Second Harvest)
- Houston Food Bank
- Rebuilding Together
- Souls4Soles
Our thoughts and prayers are with people who are impacted by this hurricane and its aftermath.
Labels: hurricane ike
Have Texas' gulf coast area House Reps done all they could to minimize danger from hurricanes?
How well do gulf coast-area leaders work to prepare and to protect their districts from hurricanes like Ike? How concerned have they been about global climate change increasing the number and intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes? Yesterday, we told you about the new study linking increased storms to global warming. Today, we look at how Texas leaders whose districts are being impacted by Hurricane Ike voted on creating a global warming research task force last legislative session.
Certainly, no elected official wants Texans to be unprepared for any natural disaster. But most Texas House members, when given the opportunity to support a simple effort that could help understand what's causing stronger storms and how to begin to address those causes, voted against it.
For example, in the last session of the Texas legislature, a bill to create a task force to develop a balanced and authoritative assessment of the likely global warming impacts on Texas failed 52-88. Here's how the six House members whose districts line the Texas coast from Corpus Christi to the Sabine River voted on the creation of the global warming task force.
Supported creation of task force:
Wednesday, September 10, 2008Certainly, no elected official wants Texans to be unprepared for any natural disaster. But most Texas House members, when given the opportunity to support a simple effort that could help understand what's causing stronger storms and how to begin to address those causes, voted against it.
For example, in the last session of the Texas legislature, a bill to create a task force to develop a balanced and authoritative assessment of the likely global warming impacts on Texas failed 52-88. Here's how the six House members whose districts line the Texas coast from Corpus Christi to the Sabine River voted on the creation of the global warming task force.
Supported creation of task force:
- Rep. Craig Eiland (District 23, Galveston and Chambers counties)
- Rep. Juan Garcia III (District 32, Nueces, San Patricio, Aransas, Calhoun counties)
- Rep. Dennis Bonnen (District 25, Brazoria County)
- Rep. Mike O'Day (District 29, Matagorda County)
- Rep. Allen Ritter (District 21, Jefferson County)
- Rep. Larry Taylor (District 24, Galveston County)
Labels: climate change, gulf coast, Texas House
Time: Global Warming responsible for Worsening Hurricanes
NOTE: TLCV encourages Texans who may be in the path of Hurricane Ike to seek shelter, to evacuate if necessary, and to take precautions to protect themselves. Our thoughts are with our Gulf Coast friends as Ike approaches.
Time magazine reports on a new study by Nature which concludes that rising ocean temperatures caused by global climate change are responsible for hurricanes becoming a greater threat.
From the Time article:
Million dollar lobbyists far outnumber pro-conservation lobbyists at the state capitolTime magazine reports on a new study by Nature which concludes that rising ocean temperatures caused by global climate change are responsible for hurricanes becoming a greater threat.
From the Time article:
Read the full article here.All these hurricanes in such a short period of time begs the question: are storms getting stronger, and if so, what's causing it? According to a new paper in Nature, the answer is yes — and global warming seems to be the culprit.
....
Think of the damage that hurricans have caused even without the possible effect of warming: Hurricane Camille in 1969, which caused over $9 billion in damages, and Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which caused $38 billion in damages. Now imagine those storms potentially amplified by the unpredictable effect of global warming. We need to be prepared. Gustav caused far less damage than Katrina because it was a weaker storm, yes, but also because we were ready this time. But we also need to reduce carbon emissions and blunt climate change — or we may experience storms for which there is no preparation.
Labels: climate change, gulf, hurricanes
Today, Texans for Public Justice released a new report on the impact of big time lobbyists on Texas government:
Houston Votes! Benefit event for voter registrationLed by the old and new TXU, “Energy & Natural Resources” clients spent more on the lobby than any other industry (up to $60 million), accounting for 17 percent of Texas’ total lobby expenditures.
It's remarkable that environmental advocates have had much of an impact at all at the Texas Legislature since we are always outspent by the other side.
At the same time, TLCV and our partners accomplish more with less than any oil, energy or polluter lobby. TLCV is a smart buy for Texans interested in turning environmental values into Texas law: we get the job done for less.
TLCV's PAC is active right now raising funds to elect pro-conservation candidates to the Texas House and Senate. Your support gives us the resources to take on the big time polluters who are working as hard as we are (and spending more money) to get more government handouts for their industries.
Labels: lobbying
On September 17th, a number of pro-voter registration groups, including Texas League of Conservation Voters, hold a benefit in Houston to aid efforts for voter registration.
View the invitation here: Houston%20Votes%20Invitation%209-17-08.pdf
TLCV, along with groups like Texans Together Educational Fund, Texas Freedom Network, Equality Texas, Planned Parenthood and NARAL, want more voters registered in Houston/Harris County so that more Texans will vote on Election Day.
TLCV Friends in Houston are urged to come out for this event. Should be a lot of fun, and it should help a good cause a good deal.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008View the invitation here: Houston%20Votes%20Invitation%209-17-08.pdf
TLCV, along with groups like Texans Together Educational Fund, Texas Freedom Network, Equality Texas, Planned Parenthood and NARAL, want more voters registered in Houston/Harris County so that more Texans will vote on Election Day.
TLCV Friends in Houston are urged to come out for this event. Should be a lot of fun, and it should help a good cause a good deal.
Labels: houston, voter registration
New Law - Computer Recycling
On September 1st, a new Texas law went into effect, a computer take back and recycling program.
Today the Houston Chronicle says that Texas is the 4th state to have such a law, which requires computer makers "to take back old computers, keyboards, monitors, mice and other parts," rather than putting them in the garbage. These old computers and accessories contain toxic materials like mercury and lead. HB 14, the bill for this law, was supported by TLCV and the environmental community, and passed unanimously through the Texas House last session thanks to support from industry leaders like Dell Computer, Inc. (This bill was one reason no legislator earned a goose egg in their score in TLCV's legislative scorecard.)
Before dumping your old machine (or mice) in the river, visit www.texasrecyclescomputers.com, a TCEQ website that links you with the computer recycling websites of more than 100 computer makers. For example, the TCEQ site links to you Texas-based Dell's recycling program here.
It appears to be a little cumbersome - you have to click around for a while and you have to find a serial number or service code before they will accept your item for recycling, and the program isn't centralized -- i.e. you can't take your HP printer and your Lenovo desktop down to the computer recycling box on the courthouse square -- but rather each manufacturer runs their own program. Still, it's a tad bit of progress, and your Texas House of Representatives voted for this law unanimously.
I suspect you may have a box somewhere, full of old keyboards, cables, mice (are you sure it's not mouses?), dead printers, etc. Now you can give it all back to the factory for them to reuse or recycle. If you can find the service codes and serial numbers.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008Today the Houston Chronicle says that Texas is the 4th state to have such a law, which requires computer makers "to take back old computers, keyboards, monitors, mice and other parts," rather than putting them in the garbage. These old computers and accessories contain toxic materials like mercury and lead. HB 14, the bill for this law, was supported by TLCV and the environmental community, and passed unanimously through the Texas House last session thanks to support from industry leaders like Dell Computer, Inc. (This bill was one reason no legislator earned a goose egg in their score in TLCV's legislative scorecard.)
Before dumping your old machine (or mice) in the river, visit www.texasrecyclescomputers.com, a TCEQ website that links you with the computer recycling websites of more than 100 computer makers. For example, the TCEQ site links to you Texas-based Dell's recycling program here.
It appears to be a little cumbersome - you have to click around for a while and you have to find a serial number or service code before they will accept your item for recycling, and the program isn't centralized -- i.e. you can't take your HP printer and your Lenovo desktop down to the computer recycling box on the courthouse square -- but rather each manufacturer runs their own program. Still, it's a tad bit of progress, and your Texas House of Representatives voted for this law unanimously.
I suspect you may have a box somewhere, full of old keyboards, cables, mice (are you sure it's not mouses?), dead printers, etc. Now you can give it all back to the factory for them to reuse or recycle. If you can find the service codes and serial numbers.
Labels: recycling, Texas House
TLCV is attending Hobby Policy Conference
Texas League of Conservation Voters will be represented at the upcoming Hobby Policy Conference.
This conference, presented by the highly regarded Austin-based Center for Public Policy Priorities, is focused on increasing Texans' prosperity, and includes a significant environmental component, "Impact of Climate Change on Low-Income Communities" on the conference's last day. This session is co-sponsored by Environmental Defense Fund and features:
Thursday, August 28, 2008This conference, presented by the highly regarded Austin-based Center for Public Policy Priorities, is focused on increasing Texans' prosperity, and includes a significant environmental component, "Impact of Climate Change on Low-Income Communities" on the conference's last day. This session is co-sponsored by Environmental Defense Fund and features:
- Senator Rodney Ellis of Houston
- Bob Greenstein, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
- Ramon Alvarez, Environmental Defense Fund
- Cyrus Reed, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club
- Dick Lavine, Center for Public Policy Priorities
Here are details on this session: Strong and effective measures are needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent costly and potentially catastrophic environmental and economic damage as a result of climate change. This workshop combines Environmental Defense’s expertise in environmental policy with CPPP’s focus on the impact that climate-change policies can have on low- and moderate-income Texas families and on the state budget. If Congress decides to adopt a cap-and-trade approach, a key issue will be whether to auction off most or all of the emission allowances, and, if so, how to use the proceeds.
Learn more about the conference and register to attend here.
Labels: climate change, conference
Champions of Conservation Endorsements!
Here's our news release announcing our first round of endorsements!
Texas League of Conservation Voters Endorses Champions of Conservation
First Round of Endorsements go to 33 Incumbents Who Earned A+ Scores in 80th Legislature
AUSTIN - The Texas League of Conservation Voters (TLCV), the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization devoted to turning environmental values into priorities for Texas, today announces our first round of endorsements for the 2008 general election. The endorsees are running for seats in the Texas House of Representatives.
“The 33 incumbents we endorse today are reliable and consistent votes for environmental conservation in the Texas House of Representatives,” said James Canup, Executive Director of TLCV. “All of these officials earned a top grade of A+ in the League’s 2007 scorecard for standing firm at the legislature for clean air, clean water and clean energy, and for proper stewardship of Texas’ priceless – and threatened – beaches, state parks and open spaces,” he added.
“We encourage Texans to vote for these champions of conservation on November 4th,” said Canup.
Endorsees represent districts across the state, from urban regions and rural areas. This round includes 7 endorsees from the Houston region, 7 from the Dallas-Fort Worth region, 5 from Austin-Central Texas, 4 from the San Antonio area, 4 from the Rio Grande Valley, 2 from the El Paso region, 2 from the Corpus Christi-Coastal Bend Region, and one each from Laredo and the Heart of Texas areas.
We will announce additional endorsements in the days and weeks leading up to the November 4th Election Day.
Texas League of Conservation Voters works to turn environmental values into priorities for Texas by helping pass laws that protect our environment, by helping elect pro-conservation candidates, by lobbying on environmental issues at the state legislature and by reporting on how officials voted in our biannual Legislative Scorecard.
Greater Houston Region
Rep. Alma Allen, 131
Rep. Garnet F. Coleman, 147
Rep. Ana Hernandez, 143
Rep. Scott Hochberg, 137
Rep. Dora Olivo, 27
Rep. Senfronia Thompson, 141
Rep. Hubert Vo, 149
Dallas-Fort Worth Region
Rep. Rafael Anchia, 103
Rep. Lon Burnam, 90
Rep. Yvonne Davis, 111
Rep. Terri Hodge, 100
Rep. Paula Pierson, 93
Rep. Allen Vaught, 107
Rep. Marc Veasey, 95
Austin-Central Texas Region
Rep. Valinda Bolton, 47
Rep. Donna Howard, 48
Rep. Elliiott Naishtat, 49
Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, 51
Rep. Mark Strama, 50
San Antonio Region
Rep. Joaquin Castro, 125
Rep. Joe Farias, 118
Rep. David McQuade Leibowitz, 117
Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, 116
Rio Grande Valley
Rep. Veronica Gonzales, 41
Rep. Eddie Lucio III, 38
Rep. Armando Martinez, 39
Rep. Rene O. Oliveira, 37
Coastal Bend Region
Rep. Abel Herrero, 34
Rep. Solomon Ortiz Jr., 33
El Paso Region
Rep. Norma Chavez, 76
Rep. Pete Gallego, 74
Heart of Texas Region
Rep. Jim Dunnam, 57
Laredo Region
Rep. Richard Raymond, 42
Wednesday, August 27, 2008Texas League of Conservation Voters Endorses Champions of Conservation
First Round of Endorsements go to 33 Incumbents Who Earned A+ Scores in 80th Legislature
AUSTIN - The Texas League of Conservation Voters (TLCV), the nonprofit, nonpartisan organization devoted to turning environmental values into priorities for Texas, today announces our first round of endorsements for the 2008 general election. The endorsees are running for seats in the Texas House of Representatives.
“The 33 incumbents we endorse today are reliable and consistent votes for environmental conservation in the Texas House of Representatives,” said James Canup, Executive Director of TLCV. “All of these officials earned a top grade of A+ in the League’s 2007 scorecard for standing firm at the legislature for clean air, clean water and clean energy, and for proper stewardship of Texas’ priceless – and threatened – beaches, state parks and open spaces,” he added.
“We encourage Texans to vote for these champions of conservation on November 4th,” said Canup.
Endorsees represent districts across the state, from urban regions and rural areas. This round includes 7 endorsees from the Houston region, 7 from the Dallas-Fort Worth region, 5 from Austin-Central Texas, 4 from the San Antonio area, 4 from the Rio Grande Valley, 2 from the El Paso region, 2 from the Corpus Christi-Coastal Bend Region, and one each from Laredo and the Heart of Texas areas.
We will announce additional endorsements in the days and weeks leading up to the November 4th Election Day.
Texas League of Conservation Voters works to turn environmental values into priorities for Texas by helping pass laws that protect our environment, by helping elect pro-conservation candidates, by lobbying on environmental issues at the state legislature and by reporting on how officials voted in our biannual Legislative Scorecard.
Greater Houston Region
Rep. Alma Allen, 131
Rep. Garnet F. Coleman, 147
Rep. Ana Hernandez, 143
Rep. Scott Hochberg, 137
Rep. Dora Olivo, 27
Rep. Senfronia Thompson, 141
Rep. Hubert Vo, 149
Dallas-Fort Worth Region
Rep. Rafael Anchia, 103
Rep. Lon Burnam, 90
Rep. Yvonne Davis, 111
Rep. Terri Hodge, 100
Rep. Paula Pierson, 93
Rep. Allen Vaught, 107
Rep. Marc Veasey, 95
Austin-Central Texas Region
Rep. Valinda Bolton, 47
Rep. Donna Howard, 48
Rep. Elliiott Naishtat, 49
Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, 51
Rep. Mark Strama, 50
San Antonio Region
Rep. Joaquin Castro, 125
Rep. Joe Farias, 118
Rep. David McQuade Leibowitz, 117
Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, 116
Rio Grande Valley
Rep. Veronica Gonzales, 41
Rep. Eddie Lucio III, 38
Rep. Armando Martinez, 39
Rep. Rene O. Oliveira, 37
Coastal Bend Region
Rep. Abel Herrero, 34
Rep. Solomon Ortiz Jr., 33
El Paso Region
Rep. Norma Chavez, 76
Rep. Pete Gallego, 74
Heart of Texas Region
Rep. Jim Dunnam, 57
Laredo Region
Rep. Richard Raymond, 42
Labels: endorsements
Endorsement: Champions of Conservation
This week the Texas League of Conservation Voters will begin announcing our first round of endorsements for the November 4th general election for the Texas House of Representatives.
Our first round of endorsements go to incumbents in the House who earned scores of A+ in the League's 2007 legislative scorecard for the 80th session of the Texas Legislature.
We encourage voters to vote for these candidates and to help them advance a positive agenda of environmental conservation for Texas.
Check TLCV Blog early and often as we announce our endorsements.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008Our first round of endorsements go to incumbents in the House who earned scores of A+ in the League's 2007 legislative scorecard for the 80th session of the Texas Legislature.
We encourage voters to vote for these candidates and to help them advance a positive agenda of environmental conservation for Texas.
Check TLCV Blog early and often as we announce our endorsements.
Labels: endorsements
League of Conservation Voters at the Denver Convention
The national League of Conservation Voters is in Denver at the Democratic Convention, and is blogging about it.
Click here to read LCV's Act Green blog.
Thursday, August 21, 2008Click here to read LCV's Act Green blog.
Labels: convention, LCV
Conservationist Hunters
Hunting season begins in Texas on September 1st, and TLCV salutes Texas hunters who care about conserving wildlife habitat.
The National Rifle Association doesn't have a strong conservation platform, as perhaps they should since recreational hunting takes place in outdoor natural settings that are at risk.
There's another group, American Hunters and Shooters Association which, in conjunction with the national League of Conservation Voters, is exposing the NRA-endorsed politicians in Washington with the worst record on environmental conservation.
While the TLCV doesn't have a position on gun rights, we applaud hunters and fishermen (and women) who stand up to protect and conserve Texas lands and wildlife habitat.
It doesn't make any sense for hunters to support gun rights without supporting conservation.
To get a TLCV "Hunt. Fish. Vote." bumper sticker, make a gift to TLCV today and we'll send you one. Perfect for displaying on your bumper, on your boat, or inside your duck blind.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008The National Rifle Association doesn't have a strong conservation platform, as perhaps they should since recreational hunting takes place in outdoor natural settings that are at risk.
There's another group, American Hunters and Shooters Association which, in conjunction with the national League of Conservation Voters, is exposing the NRA-endorsed politicians in Washington with the worst record on environmental conservation.
While the TLCV doesn't have a position on gun rights, we applaud hunters and fishermen (and women) who stand up to protect and conserve Texas lands and wildlife habitat.
It doesn't make any sense for hunters to support gun rights without supporting conservation.
To get a TLCV "Hunt. Fish. Vote." bumper sticker, make a gift to TLCV today and we'll send you one. Perfect for displaying on your bumper, on your boat, or inside your duck blind.
Taming the Wild Neches River
The Neches River runs from northeast Texas near Tyler 400+ miles to the Gulf of Mexico near Beaumont. Relatively untamed by reservoirs and human development, especially as it courses through the Big Thicket, the Neches today is perhaps the most politically important river in our state.
Dallas wants to build a reservoir on the Neches to satisfy its growing thirst (and Dallas recently received a big setback in its effort to build it).
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and many Neches-area residents want to designate a portion of the river as a National Wildlife Refuge (and judge recently stopped the NWR effort, at least until the 5th Circuit rules on the reservoir vs. refuge debate).
Meanwhile, some area residents have their own plans. Some want to turn riverside tree farms into private recreational areas, while others want to enhance eco-tourism along a pristine river.
It appears that the Neches brings up precisely the kind of water issues that will be confronting Texans statewide in the coming years:
- When does a metro area's need for drinking water supercede the need to protect wildlife and recreational uses of waterways?
- When should private economic interests trump public and environmental interests?
- What do we do with our limited water supplies when our needs for more water are growing faster than we can keep up with them?
- How do we manage our limited water resources to meet the needs of as many Texans as possible?
These questions and others can be litigated, and they can be handled through the administrative processes of agencies like TCEQ.
But they will be best resolved through our representative democracy. Texas needs elected representatives with the commitment to sustainable water use to make good decisions about how we use our precious and limited water resources.
By 2040 there will be at least 40 million people in Texas. We've got to figure out how to divide our water resources so that there's enough for everyone to drink, enough for recreational uses like fishing and boating, enough to sustain wildlife all the way along our waterways from the headwaters to the gulf....
The most important things conservationists in Texas can do to protect our water are to elect pro-conservation candidates to public office, and then to hold them to their promises to make sound decisions that provide for current and future needs for our water.
We will be watching elected officials whose districts include parts of the Neches watershed - including Senator Robert Nichols and Representative Chuck Hopson - and hoping they make sound decisions about protecting the Neches for all Texans. They have a chance to exhibit leadership here that can help Texas address our looming water issues statewide. And they have a chance to blow it completely.
Citizens and experts need to provide their advice and counsel to these officials so they have the best possible chance of making the right decisions.
Labels: rivers, water wars
The League on Facebook!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Climate Change Sessions at Hobby Policy Conference
From the Center for Public Policy Priorities, an Austin-based public policy think tank:
Friday, August 08, 2008This session is part of CPPP's 2008 William P. Hobby Policy Conference. The conference is September 18-19 at the Doubletree Hotel in Austin. Click here for more information and to register for the conference.Please join Environmental Defense and the Center for Public Policy Priorities on September 19 in Austin for lunch and a discussion of the effect of potential political responses to climate change on low-income families.
Bob Greenstein, executive director of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities in Washington, D.C., will give a presentation during lunch on the impact of a cap-and-trade approach on low-income people and communities.
Following the lunch, Senator Rodney Ellis, Ramon Alvarez of Environmental Defense, Cyrus Reed of the Sierra Club, and Dick Lavine of CPPP will engage in a panel discussion on the measures needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the consequences of creating caps on emission. This workshop combines the expertise in environmental policy of Environmental Defense and the Sierra Club with CPPP’s focus on low- and moderate-income Texas families and on the state budget. Senator Ellis will offer his insider’s view of the possibility for action on climate change by the 81st Legislature.
Labels: climate change
Lipstick on a Pig
Today the New York Sun newspaper ("It shines for you!") contains an op-ed, "Drill Like Texas," by Myra Crownover, Republican state rep from Lake Dallas and chair of the Budget and Oversight for the Energy Resources Committee.
She had a thing or two to tell the New Yorkers about how we take care of the environment down here in the Lone Star State. We've got it all figured out, she's determined. Because the government and industry work together here, as partners, as friends, the environment is just fine, no problems whatsoever.
Frankly, this must be news to the Texans who care about the environment, and indeed to the rest of the civilized world, who knew that Texas leads the pack in almost every criteria measurable about the quality of our environment. We have been trying to solve problems that don't exist is what Rep. Crownover would no doubt say we've been doing.
You've got to read what she's written. To whet your whistle, here's a couple of samples:
Thursday, August 07, 2008She had a thing or two to tell the New Yorkers about how we take care of the environment down here in the Lone Star State. We've got it all figured out, she's determined. Because the government and industry work together here, as partners, as friends, the environment is just fine, no problems whatsoever.
Frankly, this must be news to the Texans who care about the environment, and indeed to the rest of the civilized world, who knew that Texas leads the pack in almost every criteria measurable about the quality of our environment. We have been trying to solve problems that don't exist is what Rep. Crownover would no doubt say we've been doing.
You've got to read what she's written. To whet your whistle, here's a couple of samples:
"In Texas and the Gulf of Mexico, we have been producing millions of barrels of oil
for years with no environmental consequences."
"Texas has chosen to work with the industry instead of against it, and as a result, the Texas coast is cleaner and more productive than ever."
"When it comes to energy and the economy, we look at the industry as part of the solution, not part of the problem. So far the results have been good."
Lord have mercy. Her sweeping assessments are based upon a limited view and a careful selection of edited "facts" spun within an inch of their lives.
She could have written another op-ed, this one accurate, focusing the areas where Texas solutions are making a difference for our environment, wind power being the primary example. But instead she just sprinked in a little wind power blurb after a remark about how the "rigs to reefs" program is saving the Gulf of Mexico all by itself.
She could have written how industry and the environmental community can become good partners in order to protect both Texas' air, water and open space AND our strong business climate, and even cited some of the few relevant examples. She could have talked about how the growth industries delivering real economic advantages to their home states in the coming years will be ones that produce clean energy and new technology. But she didn't.
She could have explained her own votes in the House of Representatives (last session the League gave her a grade of "F" for voting with the environmental community 34% of the time). For example, what was she thinking when she voted against school buses that pollute and waste tax dollars, against parks funding, against publishing the environmental compliance records of industry on the TCEQ website...
She instead put lipstick on a pig and tried to pass it off as Miss Texas.
Now Texans do enjoy a little bit of bragging, especially to New Yorkers. And what fisherman hasn't tried to impress city folks with tales of catching a fish that gets bigger each time it is told? But with Rep. Crownover's op-ed in the New York paper, the problem is not just the size of her fish tales, it's the smell.
Labels: Texas House
There's a Capitalist Behind the Pickens Plan!
T. Boone Pickens is not motivated purely by selfless regard for our nation's energy future. He's also motivated by the opportunity to make some more money.That's what a Dallas Morning News story implies. "Boone Pickens' Motives in Energy Plan Questioned" suggests that the Pickens Plan can't be trusted because, if adopted, the plan will just mean Boone's own pockets will just get a little fuller.
Texas oil billionaire Pickens has gotten national attention recently because of the Pickens Plan, an effort to expand natural gas and wind power production in order to reduce dependence on imported petroleum. He's investing his own millions in promoting his plan, and no doubt expects to earn millions more if the wind farms he proposes get the green light from the government.
Texas environmentalists also know that at the same time Mr. Pickens is promoting wind energy, he's also trying to corner the market on aquifer water from the Panhandle, to be sold off to a burgeoning megalopolis like Dallas/Fort Worth.
What's an honorable, ethical environmentalist to do? Support the Pickens plan, because it will lead to more clean energy produced (and therefore less non-renewable, polluting energy generation like from coal)? Or oppose it because the money Pickens makes selling wind power might be used to help him drain the aquifer?
Politics (it has been noted elsewhere) makes strange bedfellows. In order to win votes in Congress or the Texas Legislature, environmentalists have to be willing to work with uncommon allies, and folks we don't necessarily view as ideologically pure. And that has to be OK if we want to save the planet. Our issues are so urgent and important, right here, right now, that we can't afford to dismiss even one potential ally (especially a potential ally with the money to make a real difference). Too much is at stake.
Wealthy, influential decision-makers are precisely the kinds of folks who should become persuaded that the time has come to get our energy from clean, renewable sources. Their support will help make clean energy get her faster. Climate change science tells us we don't have much time to change course; we have to act now.
After decades of addiction, moving beyond oil won't be easy, but it can be done. It will take hard work and a national commitment. It will take a willingness to embrace new solutions like significantly increasing fuel efficiency and renewable energy instead of the tired answers of the last century. If an oil man can get there, can Texas and the whole country be far behind?
Mr. Pickens should be able to count on Texas environmentalists to stand with him in support of generating more wind energy. And he should also count on us to oppose him when he proposes something that harms Texas and Texans.
Labels: pickens plan, wind energy
Edouard Come to Texas
As I type, tropical storm Edouard is making its way inland near Houston. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Texas League of Conservation Voters are with those who are in the storm's path, and they have our hopes for minimal damage and loss.
It is hard to look at the up-side of disasterous storms, but today's Houston Chronicle describes the benefit the strom is bringing to threatened Gulf Coast waters:
As Tropical Storm Eduard moves toward the Upper Texas coast, it is providing a little-noticed service. In churning the normally languid summertime coastal waters, it is curbing the spread of an 8,000-square-mile dead zone.
The zone, first detected in the 1970s, is created when the outflow of the Mississippi River dumps nitrogen and phosphates from crop fertilizer runoff and human effluent into the Gulf of Mexico, sparking intense blooms of algae. As the algae decompose and sink into the depths, oxygen is absorbed from the water, creating an environment where fish, crabs and shrimp cannot survive. The phenomenon known as hypoxia typically occurs during the summer months, and dissipates with the arrival of cooler weather. This year's dead zone is tied for the second-largest on record, topped only by an 8,500-square-mile monster in 2002.
The dead zone's growth this year was also hampered by last month's Hurricane Dolly. Gulf waters get stirred up by the raging storms, mixing needed oxygen into the dead zone and preventing, or slowing, its growth.
How do you kill the dead zone altogether? There seem to be two choices: (1) wait for more hurricanes (not an attractive solution any way you look at it), or (2) Stop dumping sewage and fertilizer runoff in America's rivers. There's a bill in Congress to begin doing just that, authored by Senator Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), who voted with the national League of Conservation Voters 80% of the time during the 1st session of the 110th Congress, and Senator Bill Nelson (D-Florida, who scored 100% with the LCV during the 110th Congress.
Our Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison voted with the national League 7% of the time during the same period, doing much better than Senator John Cornyn, who scored 0%. I'm certain they're not in favor of more hurricanes - they just must not understand how a growing dead zone in the Gulf threatens livelihoods up and down the Texas Gulf Coast. Right?
Preventing Wildlife from Becoming Endangered
The Texas Teaming with Wildlife Coalition is a group of organizations, businesses and individuals working to prevent wildlife from becoming endangered in Texas. The Coalition represents sportsmen and environmentalists, fish and wildlife managers and tourism and nature businesses who all want to advocate in support of State Wildlife Grants, the only federal program in this area in every state. According to Teaming with Wildlife, since 2001, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has received more than $24 million in State Wildlife Grants.
The Coalition also works to educate the public and officials about the importance of the State Wildlife Action Plan developed by TPWD-- aiming, ultimately, for dedicated public funding for the prevention of wildlife endangerment.
Endorsements of this type are good and helpful, but it is doubtful that the Texas legislators will devote sufficient resources to the Parks and Wildlife Department, to our state parks and for the protection of wildlife until they are forced to by their constituents.
All the more reason to support pro-environmental candidates in November's election for the Texas House and Texas Senate.
Labels: parks and wildlife, state parks, TPWD
Texas Beaches: Cleaner or Dirtier?
How dirty are Texas beaches?
This week, the Natural Resources Defense Council released a nationwide report rating beach conditions (as reported in the Dallas Morning News). Two beaches in Texas got a gold star! Great news, right? Think again: Officials earned the gold stars for Stewart Beach in Galveston and McGee Beach in Corpus Christi for promptly reporting pollution problems, not for being clean.
And our beaches were tested for fecal bacteria (which were found) but not for carcinogens and toxic industrial pollutants (which they didn't look for). From the DMN article:
Ellis Pickett, a Texas leader of the Surfrider Foundation, a national conservationist group, said he’s especially worried about what most states, including Texas, don’t test for — carcinogens and toxins in water at the beach.
The state General Land Office tests at 167 beach sites for the bacterium Enterococcus, which indicates fecal contamination and is usually caused by stormwater runoff.
However, Mr. Pickett said, the sampling yields no information about possible pollutants “that will give you cancer or destroy an internal organ or cause birth defects.”
Six Texas beaches -- instead of a gold star, let's give 'em a brown star -- exceeded federal Enterococcus standards 25% of the time or more, according to the report.
Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson reported selective statistics contradicting the NRDC report - "Texas beaches are a great place to be" - saying that closed-beach advisories the summer of 2007 were fewer than summer 2006.
How, the prospective-beach-going public might ponder, can folks express the true Texas value that our beaches should be protected and healthy for human and animal life? One way is to help the Texas League of Conservation Voters elect a pro-conservation majority to the Texas House and Senate on Tuesday, November 4th.
Labels: beaches, water pollution
Why I Joined the League
The environment is where we all meet; where all have a mutual interest; it is the one thing all of us share. It is not only a mirror of ourselves, but a focusing lens on what we can become.
- Lady Bird Johnson
Hi y'all. I'm James Canup, the new director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. I wanted to take some time today to introduce myself to you, and to tell you some of the plans we're working on here at the League.
I joined the League because I believe we have an opportunity -- at this time, in this state -- to begin to turn the tide away from the old time Texas politics of environmental destruction toward a new politics of environmental accountability. Texans need and deserve leaders who will stand up for clean air, clean water and clean energy. We need elected officials who will protect access to public lands, and who will fund our state parks and wildlife programs.
You know the problems we face - Houston has the worst air pollution in the nation. Dallas/Fort Worth's air quality isn't much better. We don't spend enough money to maintain our state parks, and we're rushing headlong toward dirty, polluting energy production. At the same time, there are clear rays of hope. Texas is #1 in wind energy production, and just this month a Texas oil billionaire announced that he is investing his money in wind energy. Dozens of Texas mayors worked together last year to stop the permitting of new dirty coal plants, and few if any Texan leaders can continue to legitimately believe that climate change - global warming - is a myth. Texans across the political spectrum are realizing that our environment is at risk and that elected officials have a duty to protect it.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters is ramping up to confront these situations.
New Executive Director for Texas League!- Lady Bird Johnson
Hi y'all. I'm James Canup, the new director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters. I wanted to take some time today to introduce myself to you, and to tell you some of the plans we're working on here at the League.
I joined the League because I believe we have an opportunity -- at this time, in this state -- to begin to turn the tide away from the old time Texas politics of environmental destruction toward a new politics of environmental accountability. Texans need and deserve leaders who will stand up for clean air, clean water and clean energy. We need elected officials who will protect access to public lands, and who will fund our state parks and wildlife programs.
You know the problems we face - Houston has the worst air pollution in the nation. Dallas/Fort Worth's air quality isn't much better. We don't spend enough money to maintain our state parks, and we're rushing headlong toward dirty, polluting energy production. At the same time, there are clear rays of hope. Texas is #1 in wind energy production, and just this month a Texas oil billionaire announced that he is investing his money in wind energy. Dozens of Texas mayors worked together last year to stop the permitting of new dirty coal plants, and few if any Texan leaders can continue to legitimately believe that climate change - global warming - is a myth. Texans across the political spectrum are realizing that our environment is at risk and that elected officials have a duty to protect it.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters is ramping up to confront these situations.
- Our Political Committee has begun the process of assessing the current crop of candidates for the state legislature. We're meeting with the candidates, asking them about their commitment to environmental priorities. We'll make endorsements and, in key races where we can make a real difference, investments of dollars and other resources. (And I hope you'll let me know the candidates you think will be true to the environment and who, with our help, have a chance to win.)
- We're creating a brand-new website for www.tlcv.org which will include a better blog, new ways to take action and get involved, and we'll use email as a means to connect in meaningful ways with Texans statewide. We're removing every barrier to involvement and have high hopes that hundreds of Texans will take a stand for the environment through our new website. (And blog readers will be among the first to know when our new site goes live in the coming weeks!)
- We're embarking on an ambitious strategic planning process which will tell us how to position ourselves to make the most difference over the next five critical years. (And you can tell us how you think our organization should grow and evolve over the coming years.)
- And we're reaching out to everyone interested in working for a cleaner Texas. That includes our traditional partners in the environmental movement, and it also includes non-traditional potential allies such as pro-conservation conservatives, hunting and fishing aficionados, ranchers and others. As Texas becomes larger and more diverse, we must sustain dialogs with new communities of support, including Texas' future Latino majority. (And you'll hopefully help us spread the good news and connect with Texans who can support our mission and goals.)
Your continued support and involvement are critical to our efforts. I hope that you will let me know how we're doing, how you think we should focus our limited resources, and how we can grow to obtain more resources. I hope you'll be an ambassador for our organization, helping me introduce the League to Texans who should be standing with us. And I hope you'll continue giving generously to us -- especially in advance of this November's elections.
I'll close today with another quote from Lady Bird Johnson. “As I look back across a span of more than seven decades," she said, "I’m grateful for the joy that nature has given me and for the lifetime of experiences that led me to believe that I might repay a part of the debt I’ve incurred for beauty enjoyed.”
That's my commitment for the Texas League of Conservation Voters, and my challenge to you: to express our gratitude for the joy of nature by working to assure that everyone can enjoy it tomorrow. Help make environmental protection a true Texas value. Stand with us today by continuing your generous support, by advocating in support of pro-conservation candidates and in opposition to anti-conservation candidates, and by voting for the environment in each and every election.
¡Adelante!
Labels: new executive director
James Canup is the new Executive Director of the Texas League of Conservation Voters, Board President Jim Marston announced in late June, 2008. "James is a Texas native with deep roots, a skilled administrator with a strong track record in advocacy organizations, and more importantly, a leader with a true commitment to turning the tide of environmental protection in the state of Texas. That’s why our board is delighted to name him as our new director,” said Marston.
James Canup has more than 14 years experience in nonprofit and advocacy organizations, and he joins the League from the ACLU Foundation of Texas, where he served as Director of Development for the past four years. “I’m honored and humbled that the board has given me this opportunity. I’m excited about bringing my skills to help elect candidates who will stand up for clean air, clean water, and clean energy – and defeat those who won’t,” said Canup. “Texas voters are tired of politicians who pay lip service to the environment, and then vote against it. The League is going to make sure those voters have an opportunity to make their voices heard, especially in advance of the November elections,” Canup added. He succeeds Colin Leyden, who ably led the League from 2006 to 2008.
James Canup has more than 14 years experience in nonprofit and advocacy organizations, and he joins the League from the ACLU Foundation of Texas, where he served as Director of Development for the past four years. “I’m honored and humbled that the board has given me this opportunity. I’m excited about bringing my skills to help elect candidates who will stand up for clean air, clean water, and clean energy – and defeat those who won’t,” said Canup. “Texas voters are tired of politicians who pay lip service to the environment, and then vote against it. The League is going to make sure those voters have an opportunity to make their voices heard, especially in advance of the November elections,” Canup added. He succeeds Colin Leyden, who ably led the League from 2006 to 2008.
Canup also announced that the League will unveil a new plan to increase its capacity to effect positive change. “We’re going to sit down and talk with the experts about how to change course here in Texas. We’re going to focus our efforts on legislators who have helped make our cities the most polluted in the nation, and those across Texas who, time and time again, refuse to protect our air and water quality. We’re going to recruit and educate voters, and make sure their energy and enthusiasm is translated into success at the polls,” said Canup.
As Executive Director, Canup will also lead the Texas League of Conservation Voters Educational Fund and the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters is the nonpartisan political action arm of Texas’ environmental movement. We work to protect the environmental quality of our state by increasing public awareness of the environmental performance of elected officials, working to elect environmentally responsible candidates, and holding them accountable to the environmental agenda once elected.
As Executive Director, Canup will also lead the Texas League of Conservation Voters Educational Fund and the Texas League of Conservation Voters Political Committee.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters is the nonpartisan political action arm of Texas’ environmental movement. We work to protect the environmental quality of our state by increasing public awareness of the environmental performance of elected officials, working to elect environmentally responsible candidates, and holding them accountable to the environmental agenda once elected.
Labels: new executive director
Voters should reject Bill Keffer…again
In 2006, voters in Dallas County stated unambiguously that they were pro-clean air, and pro-conservation by electing Allen Vaught over the incumbent polluter protector, Bill Keffer. It appears as though former Representative Keffer is going to once again attempt to impose his anti-environment ideology on Dallas County and the state of Texas. The recent press and blog attention highlighting alarming amounts of radioactive pollution from increased gas drilling over the Barnett Shale (more on this below) gives voters the opportunity to once again remember why, in 2006, they un-elected Bill Keffer, and elected his opponent, Allen Vaught.
In 2006, The Texas League of Conservation Voters strongly backed Allen Vaught in his bid to unseat Bill Keffer, and we intend to do the same in 2008. Texans who care about their health and safety and our natural resources can’t afford to have a guy like Bill Keffer back in Austin.
Few House members, in such a short time, have compiled worse environmental records than former Rep. Keffer did from 2003-2005.
Consider former Rep. Keffer’s radical, anti-environment agenda and record:
- Former Rep. Keffer supported the fast-tracking of TXU’s 16 new coal-fired plants that would further pollute Dallas air. (Dallas Morning News Oct. 5, 2006)
- Former Rep. Keffer voted Against Gov. Perry-backed legislation to increase renewable energy in Texas and lessen our dependence on foreign oil. (SB 743, RV# 753, 2005)
- Former Rep. Keffer voted for legislation that ties the hands of local district attorneys trying to prosecute environmental crimes, and instead gives bureaucrats in Austin this power. This bill was strongly opposed by District Attorney’s across the state, including the Dallas County District Attorney. (SB 1265 RV#501 – 2003 Session)
- Former Rep. Keffer voted for legislation that gutted funding for our state parks and redirected dedicated money for our parks to general revenue. (House Bill 1, 2003, 2005)
- Former Rep. Keffer was consistently one of the absolute lowest rated representatives, earning a Texas League of Conservation Voters Score of 0 in 2003, and 15% in 2005.
You really have to put a lot of effort into getting a “0”.
Keffer would make radioactive waste problem worse
In 2005, when former Rep. Keffer was in the Texas House, he filed HB 2881 (2005 Session) that would have given gas drilling companies “de-facto” immunity from NORM contamination. The seemingly innocuous acronym of NORM stands for Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material. These are natural yet harmful by-products of oil and gas drilling. Two recent stories in the Denton Record Chronicle highlight growing concerns over the explosion of new gas wells being drilled over the Barnett Shale that are bringing these radioactive elements to the surface. As the press clips point out, cleaning up these harmful by-products at drilling sites where they are heavily concentrated can be a difficult and costly expense – one that many drillers would rather avoid.
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) is charged with “regulating” all oil and gas drilling, but it is up to a drilling company to self-report if there are high levels of NORM at any given site. Clearly, self-regulation and reporting is not the answer. So, what’s the best way to make a bad situation worse? HB 2881 by former Rep. Keffer.
This bill would have required landowners whose property had been contaminated by NORM to first file a complaint with the Texas Railroad Commission. The RRC can then investigate the complaint itself or hire an outside private “entity”. If the RRC, or private “entity”, finds that damages have indeed occurred, they are then tasked with proposing a solution. In other words, under the proposed Keffer bill, the RRC, or its designated “independent entity”, would have the power to act as the police, the investigator, the judge, and the jury.
If this all sounds familiar, it’s because former Rep. Keffer’s bill is modeled after the Texas Residential Construction Commission which was set up to stop homeowners, who found their slab was cracked or the plumbing didn’t work, from seeking restitution from the courts. The TRCC has widely been viewed as a lopsided disaster – an agency that works for the homebuilders rather than unfortunate and aggrieved homeowners. If former Rep. Keffer had passed his bill, he would have made a bad situation worse by giving drilling companies a blank check to poison us with radioactive material. Adding insult to injury, they would have never been held accountable for doing such a horrible thing.
It should come as no surprise that former Rep. Bill Keffer makes his living as a lawyer defending oil and gas companies from environmental lawsuits. His first big fundraiser this year was hosted by oil company executives, and the honorary host and emcee was Elizabeth Ames Jones, who just happens to be, wait for it … a Texas Railroad Commissioner.
But, as his radical agenda and indefensible record indicates, former Rep. Keffer’s disdain for protecting our natural resources, energy independence, and a common-sense approach to protecting the health and safety of Texans doesn’t stop or start with protecting oil and gas companies from accountability.
In direct contrast to former Rep. Keffer’s disdain for our environment, State Rep. Allen Vaught has proven his commitment to our state’s natural resources and the health and safety of his constituents. In his first legislative session, he scored a 96% on our legislative scorecard. He also sponsored an amendment on the House floor which would have lowered smog-producing pollutants for any future coal fired power plants. Allen Vaught is the kind of leadership we need in Austin. I hope all of you who support a cleaner environment will join us in helping to re-elect State Rep. Allen Vaught.
The Texas League of Conservation Voters is a coalition of Texans committed to clean air, clean water, and access to public lands, water, fish and wildlife. TLCV works to preserve and enhance the quality of life of Texans by making conservation a top priority with Texas elected officials, political candidates, and voters.
Follow the Money - Bonnen's Contribution List
It's often said that if you want to know why things are the way they are in politics, follow the money. So we did. Here's a quick look at Dennis "The Menace" Bonnen's political contributions from 2003 - 2006. Ladies and gentlemen, the fox is eating the hens.Dennis Bonnen 2003 – 2006 Contributions
Total Contributions: $472,356
Percentage of Contributions from Special Interests: 92%
Total Contributions: $472,356
Percentage of Contributions from Special Interests: 92%
Individual Donors: $38,806 - 8% of total contributions
Energy & Natural Resources: $116,345
Construction: $70,150
Lobbyists & Lawyers: $73,695
Transportation: $18,915
Finance, Insurance & Real Estate: $51,268
Health/Medical: $26,641
Communications/Electronics: $15,173
Miscellaneous Business: $22,090
Agriculture: $14,245
Labor: $4,700
Other PAC (Ideological, Education, Political): $20,326
Energy & Natural Resources: $116,345
Construction: $70,150
Lobbyists & Lawyers: $73,695
Transportation: $18,915
Finance, Insurance & Real Estate: $51,268
Health/Medical: $26,641
Communications/Electronics: $15,173
Miscellaneous Business: $22,090
Agriculture: $14,245
Labor: $4,700
Other PAC (Ideological, Education, Political): $20,326
Source: Texas Ethics Commission
Toxic Air: Who's Unreasonable Now?
Texas Legislature Fails to Address Toxic Pollution
For years, industry has cried for "sound science" and tried to paint environmentalists as unreasonable. Yet despite the scientific community's agreement that Houston's toxic pollution is harmful to public health, industry stopped all attempts to address the problem at the Texas Legislature. Who's being unreasonable?
Scientific experts, including those at the University of Texas School of Public Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Rice University, University of Texas Medical Branch, and Texas Southern University's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, agree that levels of toxic pollutants in some Houston neighborhoods are high enough to cause adverse health effects, including increased risk of cancer.
We can do better. Refineries operating in other states (including Louisiana) emit significantly less cancer-causing pollution per barrel of refined oil than their counterparts in Texas. Texas has 30% of national refining capacity, but Texas' refineries emit almost 50% of national cancer-causing emissions.
Fifteen bills were introduced in the Texas Legislature to address this problem. None of them passed. The Chairman of the Environmental Regulation Committee - Dennis Bonnen - refused to give any of the bills introduced by House members a hearing. Two Senate bills - by Senator Gallegos - were heard in the Senate Natural Resources Committee. One of these made it out of committee and passed the Senate, only to die in the House.
Were these bills unreasonable? Clearly no. One of the bills required the state environmental agency, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), to designate “hotspots” where toxic pollution exceeds safe levels and to clean up that pollution within seven years. TCEQ would have decided how toxic levels should be reduced and who should make the reductions. The second bill didn’t even require pollution reductions. It required TCEQ list on its website those areas where toxic pollution was unsafe, and to explain what the agency was doing to reduce that pollution. Seems reasonable, no?
Lots of people thought so. The bills’ supporters included: the Texas Medical Association, the Texas Parent Teacher Association, Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, the City of Houston Mayor’s Office, the Christian Life Coalition, and the Harris County Commissioner’s Court, as well as local and statewide environmental groups.
So who opposed the bills? Five industry associations: the Texas Chemical Council, the Texas Oil and Gas Association, the Texas Association of Business, the American Electronics Association, and the Association of Electrical Companies of Texas.
For years, industry has cried for "sound science" and tried to paint environmentalists as unreasonable. Yet despite the scientific community's agreement that Houston's toxic pollution is harmful to public health, industry stopped all attempts to address the problem at the Texas Legislature. Who's being unreasonable?
Scientific experts, including those at the University of Texas School of Public Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Rice University, University of Texas Medical Branch, and Texas Southern University's College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, agree that levels of toxic pollutants in some Houston neighborhoods are high enough to cause adverse health effects, including increased risk of cancer.
We can do better. Refineries operating in other states (including Louisiana) emit significantly less cancer-causing pollution per barrel of refined oil than their counterparts in Texas. Texas has 30% of national refining capacity, but Texas' refineries emit almost 50% of national cancer-causing emissions.
Fifteen bills were introduced in the Texas Legislature to address this problem. None of them passed. The Chairman of the Environmental Regulation Committee - Dennis Bonnen - refused to give any of the bills introduced by House members a hearing. Two Senate bills - by Senator Gallegos - were heard in the Senate Natural Resources Committee. One of these made it out of committee and passed the Senate, only to die in the House.
Were these bills unreasonable? Clearly no. One of the bills required the state environmental agency, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), to designate “hotspots” where toxic pollution exceeds safe levels and to clean up that pollution within seven years. TCEQ would have decided how toxic levels should be reduced and who should make the reductions. The second bill didn’t even require pollution reductions. It required TCEQ list on its website those areas where toxic pollution was unsafe, and to explain what the agency was doing to reduce that pollution. Seems reasonable, no?
Lots of people thought so. The bills’ supporters included: the Texas Medical Association, the Texas Parent Teacher Association, Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, the City of Houston Mayor’s Office, the Christian Life Coalition, and the Harris County Commissioner’s Court, as well as local and statewide environmental groups.
So who opposed the bills? Five industry associations: the Texas Chemical Council, the Texas Oil and Gas Association, the Texas Association of Business, the American Electronics Association, and the Association of Electrical Companies of Texas.
Written by the Texas League of Conservation Voters, GHASP, and Environmental Defense.
Jim Marston: Perry keeping us stuck in the dark ages
Governors of both parties fight greenhouse gases, but not here
Here's a little quiz: Which governors made these comments? (Answers follow.)
1. "Climate change is the major environmental challenge of our era, and we need the help of everyone – not just government – to successfully address it."
2. "The nation has been asleep at the switch, but here in [our state] we are kick-starting the future by increasing our nation-leading per capita renewable fuel use, boosting cost-saving measures and tackling greenhouse gas emissions."
3. "Climate change is a real issue and one that we all need to get smart about it. ...We are leading the charge. We are not waiting for Washington any longer."
4. "I believe global climate change is one of the most important issues that we will face this century. ... [Our state] is more vulnerable to rising ocean levels and violent weather patterns than any other state. ... There's no reason why [our state] cannot be the national leader in the production of alternative energy."
5. "We simply must do everything in our power to slow down global warming before it's too late."
Surprise!
These statements were all made by Republican governors:
1. M. Jodi Rell of Connecticut, one of the seven Northeastern states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
2. Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota, as he signed a law requiring that utilities generate a quarter of their power from renewable sources by 2025.
3. Jon Huntsman of Utah, the next chair of the Western Governors Association.
4. Charlie Crist of Florida, announcing a Florida Summit on Global Climate Change to be held this month.
5. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California, the state leading the charge on reducing global warming emissions.
The fact is that Republican governors are doing as much to address the climate crisis as Democratic governors. It's not a partisan issue. As Wyoming's Democratic Gov. Dave Freudenthal says, "If we're going to solve this, it's going to be all hands on deck."
Yet here in the nation's leading greenhouse-gas-producing state, Gov. Rick Perry recently vetoed a Republican-authored bill calling for an in-depth assessment of our long-term energy needs and opportunities.
And he vetoed a noncontroversial bill that would have prohibited Texas school bus drivers from idling their diesel engines while waiting for classes to let out. (Not only
Here's a little quiz: Which governors made these comments? (Answers follow.)
1. "Climate change is the major environmental challenge of our era, and we need the help of everyone – not just government – to successfully address it."
2. "The nation has been asleep at the switch, but here in [our state] we are kick-starting the future by increasing our nation-leading per capita renewable fuel use, boosting cost-saving measures and tackling greenhouse gas emissions."
3. "Climate change is a real issue and one that we all need to get smart about it. ...We are leading the charge. We are not waiting for Washington any longer."
4. "I believe global climate change is one of the most important issues that we will face this century. ... [Our state] is more vulnerable to rising ocean levels and violent weather patterns than any other state. ... There's no reason why [our state] cannot be the national leader in the production of alternative energy."
5. "We simply must do everything in our power to slow down global warming before it's too late."
Surprise!
These statements were all made by Republican governors:
1. M. Jodi Rell of Connecticut, one of the seven Northeastern states participating in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
2. Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota, as he signed a law requiring that utilities generate a quarter of their power from renewable sources by 2025.
3. Jon Huntsman of Utah, the next chair of the Western Governors Association.
4. Charlie Crist of Florida, announcing a Florida Summit on Global Climate Change to be held this month.
5. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California, the state leading the charge on reducing global warming emissions.
The fact is that Republican governors are doing as much to address the climate crisis as Democratic governors. It's not a partisan issue. As Wyoming's Democratic Gov. Dave Freudenthal says, "If we're going to solve this, it's going to be all hands on deck."
Yet here in the nation's leading greenhouse-gas-producing state, Gov. Rick Perry recently vetoed a Republican-authored bill calling for an in-depth assessment of our long-term energy needs and opportunities.
And he vetoed a noncontroversial bill that would have prohibited Texas school bus drivers from idling their diesel engines while waiting for classes to let out. (Not only