As many other states do, Texas should require higher fuel efficiency and emissions standards in new cars - adopting the standards of a state like California. Senator Ellis (SB 119) and Rep. Strama (HB 776) and others are advancing legislation on this front.

Texas transportation agencies need reform in order to better protect the environment and to promote clean air. For example, environmentalists working for TxDOT should be accountable to environmental staff at TxDOT headquarters, rather than to local district directors and managers. An expert on "Smart Growth" policies should be added to the staff of the Texas Transportation Commission. Furthermore, neither now nor ever should TxDOT begin acquiring land for roadway expansions until the final completion of a full environmental impact study.

Want to talk to your legislator about transit and transportation issues? Or other environmental issues? Join the Alliance for a Clean Texas lobby day next week! Learn more here and sign up now.