Senator Whitehouse Applauds New Auto Emissions Standards

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May 19, 2009 -- Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, today praised President Obama's announcement of a new uniform federal standard to regulate fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks.

"This is an enormous step forward: a national standard that makes cars both cleaner and more efficient, saving consumers money and protecting our environment," Whitehouse said.

"That President Obama was able to get carmakers and environmental advocates to join hands in this effort is a testament to his ability to find consensus solutions to the problems our nation faces. We can no longer afford inaction in the face of global warming, and I'm confident American workers and businesses will meet this challenge with energy, vision, and ingenuity."

The new program, which adopts tough standards previously set by California, Rhode Island, and other states, will require cars produced in 2016 to reach an average of 35.5 miles per gallon. As a result, oil consumption will drop by about 1.8 billion barrels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 900 million metric tons.

Source: Senator Sheldon Whitehouse