August 27, 2005
Environment
:The Bush Administration announced on Tuesday a plan to force automakers to raise fuel efficiency in all automobiles by 2011 and SUVs by 2008. This comes in response to high gas prices and a few weeks after new energy and transportation bills. Environmental advocates panned the approach as it does not effect the largest SUVs (like Hummer’s H2) or passenger cars, which are already required to maintain an average of 27.5 miles per gallon. It is alleged that it would also create new loopholes that would weaken the requirements and not help reduce dependence on foreign oil.
Meanwhile, nine Northeastern states and three Western states are moving to reduce pollution emissions by 10% by 2020. These state initiatives are in response to global warming concerns and beginning to replace what would have usually been a Federal responsibility.