Avoid Severe Climate Change in California

Dear Governor Schwarzenegger:

I am concerned about global warming and the threat that resulting climate change poses for California's health, economy, and environment. Consequently, I am writing to thank you for your support of the strong regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new passenger cars and light trucks recently approved by the California Air Resources Board (ARB). I'd also like to urge you to stand up to the auto companies' attempts to weaken or overturn our states historic decision through expensive litigation.

[Your personal comments here.]

Last month, the case for state action on global warming emissions was bolstered when a new study by 19 internationally acclaimed scientists was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences with disturbing news about the likely impacts of global warming in California. Major findings include a dramatic increase in extreme heat and heat-related mortality and significant reductions in Sierra snow pack. Rising temperatures could not only lead to cascading impacts on water supply, but could also imperil vital sectors of the state's economy.

The Public Policy Institute of California found in July of this year that 81 percent of Californians support the law requiring automakers to reduce global warming emissions from new cars and light trucks. I am one of those who support the proposed regulations, which would reduce greenhouse gas emissions from new cars and light trucks by 30% by 2016. I hope you will defend these regulations vigorously and hope you will appeal to the major auto companies to support rather than undermine California's landmark campaign to build cleaner cars and a cleaner California.

Sincerely,

(Your Name)