On progressive environmental policies: “For 30 years in public life
I have committed to environmental protection. My commitment is driven by the belief that we can safeguard the environment and grow our economy. I have fought hard to reduce the threat of glo-bal warming by supporting renewable energy and increased funding for climate change research. I have also called on Bush to stop blocking progress and to engage in international efforts to mitigate the threat of climate change.” (MoveOn.org interview, 6/27/03)
Agenda: “As President, I hope to enact a federal budget with strong funding for public health and environmental programs; help the millions of Americans facing environmental injustice; enact an energy policy that will protect the environment and make America more secure.” (League of Conservation Voters, 2003)
General: “On Earth Day 2003, I announced a proposal to resume the battle against environmental injustice, in part by greatly elevating it priority for the EPA and other federal enforcement agencies and in part by creating environmental empowerment zones, in which the impact of federal decisions on the health of low-income and minority citizens would have to be taken into account before they are implemented. … I also called for a measure that will be critical not only in dealing with environmental injustice but also in dealing with environmental health issues generally: establishing a national tracking system for chronic diseases and environmental health hazards.” (A Call to Service, 10/1/03)
NOT VOTING on cloture vote on Energy Policy Act of 2003, a bill with goals of conservation and securing U.S. energy supply; bill defeated; opposed by some environmental groups (H.R.6, 11/21/03).
Voted NO to confirm the nomination of Gale Norton as Secretary of Interior (PN 96, 1/30/01).
Voted NO on more funding for forest roads and fish habitat (H.R. 2466, The Bryan Amdt. No. 1588, 9/14/99).
Voted YES on reduced funding for Forestry Service Road Construction (H. Res. 277, H. Res. 181, H.R. 2107;
became Public Law No. 105-83, 11/20/97).