Creating Smart Policy
The Oregon Environmental Council is gearing up for an exciting legislative session in 2009. We are forwarding several proposals, many in coordination with a broad group of allies. We’ll need your help! Much of our legislative work happens with the support of Oregon's citizens, through letters to the editor, calling and writing legislators, and engaging decision-makers in meaningful dialogue on the issues. Please sign up to receive our action alerts. For weekly updates during the legislative session in Salem, consider signing up for the Oregon Conservation Network's 'Salem Watch' updates.
Children’s Safe Products Act
This legislation will protect children from toxic chemicals in toys and other kids’ products by creating the infrastructure needed to provide citizens information on toxic chemicals; managing chemicals based on hazards; and substituting safer alternatives for highly hazardous toxins found in children’s toys and personal care products. Read more about the Children's Safe Products Act.
Healthy Schools Act
This legislation will create high-performing schools that reduce student and staff exposure to chemicals of concern by requiring the use of green cleaning products, Integrated Pest Management techniques, diesel school bus replacement, and green building design and construction techniques. Read more about the Healthy Schools Act.
Global Warming Solutions
The goals of this legislation are to ensure Oregon’s implementation of a cap-and-trade system via the Western Climate Initiative and to establish complementary polices that will help each carbon-emitting sector meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Climate-Friendly, People-Friendly Transportation
OEC is working to ensure that 2009 transportation legislation leads Oregon to a more cost-effective and sustainable 21st century transportation system. We are supporting the Governor's Jobs & Transportation Act of 2009, which is the most comprehensive and greenest transportation initiative in Oregon's history. Our goal is to ensure that legislators pass a package that harmonizes with the state’s greenhouse gas reduction goals, provides alternatives to driving alone, and meets other environmental and community needs.
Low-Carbon Fuel Standard
A low-carbon fuel standard will spur the providers of transportation fuels to bring to market more climate-friendly fuels. California has adopted a low-carbon fuel standard requiring a 10 percent reduction in fuel carbon intensity by the year 2020. British Columbia recently followed suit, and Washington will be considering adoption during its upcoming legislative session. Oregon should join its neighbors to the south and north to create a “West Coast Low-Carbon Fuel Corridor.”
