At this election time we encourage our members to vote for the environment and commit time to work on local and statewide campaigns supported by the Club. This effort also includes reaching out to friends and family throughout the state who may not have access to the same information you receive in our newsletter. Connecting to a wide circle of voters with emails and phone calls can have a great impact on the outcome of the elections and make a difference in the direction State Government takes in planning for clean air, global warming, parkland, a sustainable water supply, and clean energy.

Defeating Proposition 23, a ballot initiative to suspend California law curbing greenhouse gas emissions (AB 32- the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006), is a national priority for Sierra Club. Records show more than $8 million has been spent on the ballot measure, 80% of which has come from special interests including oil companies outside of California. The oil companies funding Prop 23 are being criticized by a wide spectrum of businesses, newspapers, and independent economists in addition to conservation organizations for the deceptive nature of their campaign and false claims.

Club members have high hopes that Proposition 21, the State Parks and Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund Act of 2010, will pass. This measure will provide designated, reliable funding to the 278 parks in the State Park System which has a backlog of more than a billion dollars in needed repairs and improvements. More funding will help with operation, maintenance, and repair of facilities, including visitor centers, restrooms, campsites, and ranger stations in the State Park System. It will also expand public access to State Parks and improve protection for our natural and cultural resources, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat.

Please read the voter guide. Support protection of the environment with your vote.

—Rita Dalessio

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