In the last year, Arizona PIRG Education Fund research, reports and advocacy helped to bring Arizona closer to adopting a Clean Cars Program in our state. By placing limits on automobile emissions, the Clean Cars Program will reduce air pollution, help to prevent public health problems such as asthma, and save consum-ers money at the pump. Thanks in part to the efforts of our affiliates, a dozen states have already adopted the program.

Over the last few months, progress has been made to move the Clean Cars Program forward in Arizona and across the country. In August, the National Conference of State Legislatures adopted a policy that supports the right of states to adopt the Clean Cars Program.

In September, Gov. Napolitano and a bipartisan group of twelve other governors sent a letter to auto industry executives. In part, the letter stated “… we do not believe it is productive for your industry to continue to fight implementation of clean tailpipe standards…Your companies are on record as supporting efforts to combat climate change. Selling cars that meet the clean car standards is a major step in fulfilling your commitment.”

Also in September, the governor’s office stated it will start the next necessary steps this fall for Arizona to move forward. This builds off the governor’s executive order and her commitment through the Western Climate Initiative to adopting and implementing this program.

The Arizona PIRG Education Fund is currently working to demonstrate the diverse support that exists for this program, which includes businesses, religious organizations and senior groups, to state leaders.