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The California Air Resources Board approved new regulations late last week that will impact the state’s environmental future. On Thursday, the board unanimously approved a plan to implement California’s Global Warming Solutions Act. The key provisions aimed at reducing the state’s greenhouse gas emissions back to 1990 levels by the year 2020 includes a cap-and-trade program, new renewable energy requirements, and new authorities for local governments to limit sprawling development. State regulators hailed the plan as a vanguard for the nation, while business owners bemoaned that it would hinder California’s already beleaguered economy. Arguing to the contrary, Governor Schwarzenegger said in a statement that the plan’s 31 rules will not only improve the state’s environment but also strengthen its economy. On Friday, the board followed up its decision on climate change with new regulations on diesel emissions. Costing a total of $5.5 billion, the approved requirement would mandate retrofits or replacements for long-haul trucks in order to cut emissions and air pollution.

GUEST: Tim Carmichael, senior policy director for the Coalition for Clean Air.

For more information, visit www.coalitionforcleanair.org.