The Committee on Government Affairs will open 2010 with its second session focused on implementation of AB 32, the State of California’s Global Warming Solutions Act. This promises to be one of the most prominent issues in California politics during this new year, and is hotly contested in the state’s business community.   Particularly in light of the relatively inconclusive international Copenhagen climate change talks, California will serve as an example to American states, regions, and cities as to how to take the lead on climate change public policy-making…, or how not to…

On December 7, 2009, the Committee was fortunate to have as its guest speakers on this topic:

 

·       Susan Frank, Director of California Business Alliance for a Green Economy (CA-BAGE)

·       David Brodwin, Co-Founder of American Sustainable Business Council (ASBC)

 

They both spoke of the desire of their organizations to see a vigorous, rapid and meaningful implementation of AB 32.

On Monday, January 11, 2010, noon to 1:30 p.m., we will continue to explore implementation of AB 32. Speakers will be

 

·       Dave Fogarty, spokesperson for AB32Implementation Group, “ a coalition of more than 140 business organizations” which has “urged the California Air Resources Board to allow market-based systems that promote energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emission reductions as a key strategy to implement AB 32.”    Among those represented by the Implementation Group are the California Chamber of Commerce, the California Taxpayers Association, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, the California Trucking Association, the California Nevada Cement Association, and the Western States Petroleum Association.

 

·       Hank Ryan, Executive Director of Small Business California, a statewide non-profit advocacy organization (www.smallbusinesscalifornia.org), which he has represented before the California Public Utilities Commission. Hank is the principal in his energy efficiency consulting firm, Efficiency Data & Development. Hank is also the editor of the Chamber of Commerce Green Sheet, which is dedicated to building stronger chambers by successfully identifying funds and assistance for members from utilities districts, water agencies, and air districts, so that members can save money on energy, water, and pubic transit. It aims to attract new Chamber members by helping them understand how they can make money as green entrepreneurs.