Newsom Takes Action to Protect the Health of Californians, Boost Economy

(SACRAMENTO, CA – September 23, 2020) Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a bold plan for a clean future for his state. The plan includes 100% zero emitting vehicles sales by 2035 and 100% zero emitting freight trucks and buses for all feasible operations by 2045, with accelerated progress in port areas where extensive pollution imposes a heavy burden on disadvantaged communities.

"In the midst of a historic wildfire crisis, Governor Newsom is taking strong action to protect California's economy and the health of its people. His announcement today will not only address the single largest source of climate and air pollution in California, but is a major step toward boosting his state's economic competitiveness and helping Californians who are suffering extraordinary harms from air pollution.

"This plan positions California to win a new generation of jobs building affordable zero emission vehicles – jobs that Europe and China are also hoping to capture. Importantly, major U.S. manufacturers also support winning the race to deploy 21st century solutions and create jobs, given the market shift to these innovative technologies a new report shows is happening rapidly.

 "Of critical importance is the governor's focus in taking steps to begin addressing the heavy and unjust burden of pollution placed on communities of color and economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Unjust policies and practices have left these Californians suffering serious and disproportionate health impacts while not having vital access to the economic benefits enjoyed by many others.

"The governor's actions provide a set of solutions designed to address California's urgent and extraordinary set of climate and air pollution challenges. Californians want affordable clean energy and healthier air and a safer future for their children. They also want their state to grab this enormous economic opportunity in innovation and advanced technologies.

"I congratulate Governor Newsom for doing what's best for his state, protecting the health and well-being of 40 million Californians, and continuing the Golden State's tradition of innovation and life-saving environmental and economic leadership."

• EDF President Fred Krupp