pic by Sclopit

The Clean Air Act of 1970 provides California as the only state along with the EPA whom can set vehicle pollution standards. However, California may set a stricter standard which the EPA must approve. Any state then can either abide by the federal or California standard. 13 states utilize the California standard which represents 40% of the vehicle market. In 2002 California passed a law to reduce green house gas by 30% by 2016. While there had been a surprised rejection in 2002, there law is be reconsidered by the EPA and is likely to become the stricter standard for the 13 states.

President Obama has a goal to put 1 million Plug-In Hybrid cars that can get up to 150 miles per gallon on the road by 2015, with the cars built in America.

The Stimulus bill includes within the appropriation support for $300,000,000 to be spent for replacing part of the federal fleet vehicles that meet a much higher standard.  This is a great opportunity towards jump starting new fuel  efficiency in a big way.  I would suggest that the Federal government allow states and nonprofits to join in any purpose plan to take advantage of any bulk buying discount they receive.  Thereby, allowing even more impact by the Stimulus bill.  I would further suggest to the degree possible try to meet the California standard.

I am waiting to buy my new vehicle once the fuel standards jump much higher, since I want to keep my gas costs low, I can and support the costs to change the USA energy use. I think keeping prices of gas at price floor provides money to provide incentives to increase fuel efficiencies, support use of alternative energies and the use of alternative transportation.  I going to bond to the California way of thinking.