SACRAMENTO – Most California Democratic legislators voted consistently to protect our air, water and wild places, while the vast majority of their Republican counterparts continued to be obstacles to environmental progress, Sierra Club California’s annual Legislative Report Card finds.
Sierra Club California tracked the votes of California’s Assemblymembers and Senators, recording each Earth-friendly vote as a positive score. From clean energy to water conservation to protecting state parks, the measures addressed many of California’s most urgent 2011 environmental priorities.
“Overall, there were fewer very high scores this year than last year. That’s because many Democratic members voted for two leadership-backed bills that we believe weaken environmental protections,” said Kathryn Phillips, Director, Sierra Club California. “Those who didn’t vote with leadership on these bills demonstrated strong commitment to protecting California’s environment and public health, despite political pressure.”
Statewide, out of 120 legislators, only one, Assemblymember Mariko Yamada scored a perfect 100% on our 2011 report card. Legislators scoring over a 90% on our report card include Senators Noreen Evans and Mark Leno; and Assemblymembers: Tom Ammiano; Marty Block; Wesley Chesbro; Jared Huffman; and Das Williams. Of the 11 bills that reached the Governor’s desk, Governor Brown took actions consistent with Sierra Club California positions 6 times for a score of 55%.
“We use our Legislative Report Cards to shine a light on what happens in the Capitol, and to help our members hold their representatives accountable,” said Jim Metropulos, Senior Advocate, Sierra Club California. “Most Democrats scored well, while most Republicans scored dismally again this year, even though opinion surveys show support among Republican voters for environmental safeguards and clean energy. As a non-partisan organization, we would like to see all elected officials competing to keep up with the environmental values of their constituents.”
Click to read the 2011 Report Card
