The 2010 Legislative Session
OEC forwarded two proposals in February 2010: One seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through transportation and land use planning and another to reduce our children's exposure to harmful chemicals.
OEC forwarded two proposals during the month-long session in February 2010. One to create climate-friendly communities, the other to protect children's health from toxic BPA.
Senate Bill 1059: Creating Climate-Friendly Communities
OEC applauds the Oregon Legislature for passage of SB 1059. SB 1059 creates a foundation of tools and resources to help urban Oregon plan for future population and employment growth while simultaneously meeting the climate challenge. SB 1059 requires state agencies to develop a state-level strategy to reduce greenhouse gases from transportation; set transportation-related greenhouse gas reduction targets for Oregon’s six major metropolitan areas; develop a toolkit to assist local governments and metropolitan planning organizations in reducing greenhouse gases from transportation; educate the public; and develop guidelines for scenario planning (sophisticated transportation and land use planning that meets multiple goals, including protecting our climate).
As advanced transportation and land use planning is implemented, the citizens of climate-friendly communities will enjoy reduced infrastructure costs, greater energy independence, a wider range of less expensive transportation options, and a cleaner, healthier environment. delineated
Learn more about Senate Bill 1059, the co-benefits of climate-friendly communities, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization Greenhouse Gas Emissions Task Force, which developed the recommendations SB 1059 is based on.
Protecting Children’s Health from Toxic BPA
OEC was encouraged by the passion and commitment of doctors, parents, children’s advocates, environmentalists and faith groups united in a common cause: to end use of toxic bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles and food containers.
The good news: Moms, doctors and scientists gave great testimony in support of a ban. Editorials, guest columns and blogs spread the word nationwide. And the nation took notice: together, we are keeping pressure on lawmakers and industry to ensure that products are safe.
The disappointing news: The Oregon Senate voted 15-15, one vote short of passing a ban on BPA in bottles and sippy cups. Oregon’s citizens remain concerned, and our coalition remains committed. We won’t rest until all children are protected from unnecessary exposure to risky chemicals. Read more.
