Governor Bill Richardson (D)

Environment in a Larger Context

International Trade Agreements [click here to read question twenty-seven]

“I have long supported strong environment and labor protections in international trade agreements. They are essential to create a race to the top, and avoid a race to the bottom.”

Federal Pre-emption of State Laws [click here to read question twenty-eight]

“I was the first to require GCC BACT analysis and ran up against EPA opposition. I supported the old NSR rule and opposed the Administration in court. I joined with California to adopt and protect California car standards. As a Governor, part of my message has been the states are the laboratory for new progress and policy, in environment or health or education. I strongly support states’ rights to exceed federal standards. My record shows it, and my philosophy reflects it.”

World population [click here to read question twenty-nine]

“The Bush Administration has set balanced, legitimate, necessary family planning back decades. As a former United Nations Ambassador, I know the importance of these programs to countries that are desperate to grow and develop. I know the individual, moving stories of people whose lives have been affected around the world. And again, I don’t just profess support for this goal, my record shows that I worked for it and believe in it.”

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) [click here to read question thirty]

“NEPA is a crucial law, but it may need strengthening. One example is that here in the West the federal government and others are proposing major new transmission lines. I support new transmission where needed to move renewables to larger markets – but NEPA doesn’t allow consideration of the SOURCE of energy on transmission lines, only the lines’ direct impact. That’s an example of where national energy policy and NEPA need to be reconciled – and will be in a Richardson Administration.”