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Transmittal, Clean Air Act 7/21/89
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
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S
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MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Draft Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13497
Folder ID Number:
13497-004
Folder Title:
Transmittal, Clean Air Act 7/21/89
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
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G
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THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
MARK LANGE
SUBJECT:
REMARKS FOR TRANSMITTAL OF CLEAN AIR ACT
I. SUMMARY
Attached are your remarks for the signing ceremony
transmitting your Clean Air Act to Congress. This Rose Garden
event will occur at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 1989.
There will be an audience of 150.
II. DISCUSSION
This speech highlights important issues surrounding the
Administration's proposed Clean Air Act, in addition to
reiterating your commitment to use the power of the marketplace
in the fight against air pollution. The speech also thanks all
who worked together to write this balanced and bipartisan bill
and encourages passage this year.
(Lange/Simon)
July 20, 1989
6:00 p.m.
[TRANSMIT. DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues. The Economic Summit was largely
devoted to the environment, and what it means for the quality of
life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today is the
latest example of that leadership. And it's been made possible
thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support of
Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems
respect no borders, our solutions must transcend political
boundaries. That's why we're here today. And that's why this
legislation is such good news. It brings us one step closer
toward clean air.
2
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent
thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. The right questions have been asked -- and
together, we're finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the great
range of concerns that must be balanced. Economic growth, job
creation, environmental protection, mobility, and unfettered
commerce -- are all priorities that must be considered. And they
have been. In drafting this legislation, we've reached out.
Heard from groups all across the spectrum. We've listened to,
appreciated, and benefitted from their comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
[ I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to co-sponsor this bill. I can't thank you all enough.
I'm also grateful to the bill's principal sponsors: Senators
Burdick and Chafee; Congressmen Dingell and Lent. ] If this bill
becomes law, all of you will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every American
-- in every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will
stop the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this
century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
3
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But this
bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways -- tapping the power of the
marketplace, encouraging flexibility, and relying on the talents
and insights of those affected, to find solutions.
I'll leave you to read the legislation. Not only does this
bill match the letter and the spirit of my speech and fact sheet
of June 12th -- there are also a few specifics I'd like to touch
on here:
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce Sulfur Dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
Second, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
very
ok
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
best available control technologies we know of in practice.
Third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all of
toensure
meets all
the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and each
54
applicable
nforcement official clearly knows the limits for air toxics,
smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
7953
4 intentionally St.
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It is time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is time
to cooperate for clean air by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Administrator Reilly, Secretary Watkins and I will work
closely with the members on the Hill, to make clean air the law
of this land. Americans deserve it -- and I believe this
Congress can achieve it.
###
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
SOMETHING THAT WAS TRULY STRIKING DURING MY TRAVELS
IN EUROPE WAS THE TREMENDOUS EXCITEMENT AND ENTHUSIASM
SPREADING ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES. THE ECONOMIC
SUMMIT WAS LARGELY DEVOTED TO THE ENVIRONMENT, AND WHAT
IT MEANS FOR THE QUALITY OF LIFE ON OUR PLANET.
- 2 -
OUR NEIGHBORS ABROAD FEEL A SENSE OF SHARED
COMMITMENT. THEY'RE COOPERATING TO FIND SOLUTIONS.
AND WE'RE WORKING WITH THEM.
AROUND THE WORLD, IN EFFORTS TO CLEAN UP THE
ENVIRONMENT, AMERICA IS TAKING THE LEAD. THE NEXT STEP
IS CONGRESSIONAL ACTION.
- 2A -
LET ME MAKE ONE THING VERY, VERY CLEAR: CLEAN AIR
IS TOO IMPORTANT TO BE A PARTISAN ISSUE. ANYONE WHO
ALLOWS POLITICAL BICKERING TO WEAKEN OUR PROGRESS
AGAINST POLLUTION DOES A TRAGIC DISSERVICE TO EVERY
CITY IN AMERICA -- AND TO EVERY AMERICAN IN THIS
COUNTRY WHO WANTS AND DESERVES CLEAN AIR.
- 2B -
WE HAVE WORKED VERY HARD ON BOTH SIDES OF THE
AISLE, TO CRAFT A PROPOSAL THAT -- FOR THE FIRST TIME
IN TWO DECADES -- MAKES NEW PROGRESS FOR CLEAN AIR.
- 3 -
THE CLEAN AIR Act THAT I'M SENDING TO CONGRESS
TODAY HAS BEEN MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO THE OUTSTANDING
EFFORTS AND BIPARTISAN SUPPORT OF REPUBLICANS AND
DEMOCRATS ALIKE.
PROTECTING THE WORLD'S SHARED NATURAL HERITAGE MUST
BE A GLOBAL, UNIVERSAL PRIORITY. JUST AS ENVIRONMENTAL
PROBLEMS RESPECT NO BORDERS, OUR SOLUTIONS MUST
TRANSCEND POLITICAL BOUNDARIES.
- 4 -
THAT'S WHY WE'RE HERE TODAY. AND THAT'S WHY THIS
LEGISLATION IS SUCH GOOD NEWS. IT BRINGS US ONE STEP
CLOSER TOWARD CLEAN AIR.
THE REFORMS WE'RE PROPOSING TO THE CLEAN AIR AcT
REPRESENT THOUSANDS OF HOURS OF CAREFUL ANALYSIS,
NEGOTIATION, AND COOPERATION. THE RIGHT QUESTIONS HAVE
BEEN ASKED -- AND TOGETHER, WE'RE FINDING THE RIGHT
ANSWERS.
- 5 -
To MAKE THE CLEAN AIR ACT EFFECTIVE, YOU ALL KNOW
THE GREAT RANGE OF CONCERNS THAT MUST BE BALANCED.
ECONOMIC GROWTH, JOB CREATION, ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION, MOBILITY, AND UNFETTERED COMMERCE -- ARE
ALL PRIORITIES THAT MUST BE CONSIDERED. AND THEY HAVE
BEEN. IN DRAFTING THIS LEGISLATION, WE'VE REACHED OUT.
HEARD FROM GROUPS ALL ACROSS THE SPECTRUM. WE'VE
LISTENED To, APPRECIATED, AND BENEFITTED FROM THEIR
COMMENTS.
- 6 -
ENVIRONMENTALISTS, INDUSTRY LEADERS, MEMBERS OF
CONGRESS, EXPERTS FROM SCIENCE AND ACADEMIA -- LEADERS
FROM EVERY QUARTER HAVE ALL SHOWN THE WISDOM AND WILL
TO MAKE CLEAN AIR THE BIRTHRIGHT OF EVERY AMERICAN.
I AM PLEASED AND PROUD TO SEE THAT MANY OF YOU HAVE
DECIDED TO CO-SPONSOR THIS BILL. I CAN'T THANK YOU ALL
ENOUGH. CLEAN AIR IS A BI-PARTISAN ISSUE. THAT'S WHY
I'M GRATEFUL TO THE BILL'S PRINCIPAL SPONSORS: SENATOR
CHAFEE; CONGRESSMEN DINGELL AND LENT.
- 7 -
IF THIS BILL BECOMES LAW, ALL OF YOU WILL HAVE EARNED
THE GRATITUDE AND RESPECT OF GENERATIONS TO COME.
THIS PIECE OF LEGISLATION WILL SEE TO IT THAT EVERY
AMERICAN -- IN EVERY CITY IN AMERICA -- WILL BREATHE
CLEAN AIR. IT WILL STOP THE DEGRADATION CAUSED BY ACID
RAIN BY THE END OF THIS CENTURY. AND IT WILL CUT
AIRBORNE TOXIC CHEMICALS FROM MAJOR SOURCES BY AT LEAST
75 PERCENT.
- 8 -
THOSE ARE THE GOALS THAT I OUTLINED BACK IN JUNE.
BUT THIS BILL DOES MORE THAN SET BOLD OBJECTIVES. IT
MEETS THOSE GOALS IN ECONOMICALLY EFFICIENT WAYS --
TAPPING THE POWER OF THE MARKETPLACE, ENCOURAGING
FLEXIBILITY, CALLING ON AMERICAN INGENUITY IN AREAS
LIKE ALTERNATIVE FUELS, AND RELYING ON THE TALENTS AND
INSIGHTS OF THOSE AFFECTED, TO FIND SOLUTIONS.
- 9 -
THIS BILL MATCHES THE LETTER AND THE SPIRIT OF MY
SPEECH AND FACT SHEET OF JUNE 12TH; AND, WHILE I'LL
LEAVE YOU TO READ THE LEGISLATION, THERE ARE A FEW
SPECIFICS I'D LIKE TO TOUCH ON HERE:
FIRST, THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST AGGRESSIVE PIECES OF
ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION COMPETING ON THE HILL. IT
WILL, FOR EXAMPLE, REDUCE SULFUR DIOXIDE EMISSIONS BY
TWO MILLION TONS MORE THAN THE MOST POPULAR ACID RAIN
BILL CURRENTLY IN THE HOUSE.
- 10 -
SECOND, FOR THE REDUCTIONS IN AIRBORNE TOXIC
CHEMICALS WE SEEK, THIS LEGISLATION CALLS FOR VERY
TOUGH STANDARDS. NEW SOURCES MUST DO MORE THAN MATCH
EXISTING AVERAGE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY. THEY MUST BE AS
GOOD AS THE BEST. OUR REGULATIONS WILL ENSURE THAT
EVERY INDUSTRIAL PLANT IN THE COUNTRY HAS THE BEST
AVAILABLE CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES WE KNOW OF IN PRACTICE.
- 11 -
THIRD, WE'VE PROPOSED A STREAMLINED PERMIT SYSTEM
FOR ALL OF THE CLEAN AIR Act's REQUIREMENTS -- TO
ENSURE THAT EACH SOURCE MEETS ALL APPLICABLE LIMITS FOR
AIR TOXICS, SMOG, ACID RAIN.
- 12 -
AND FINALLY, THIS LEGISLATION HAS TEETH. IT
PROVIDES TOUGH SANCTIONS FOR CITIES THAT DON'T MAKE
REASONABLE EFFORTS AND SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS. AND TO
DETER FUTURE CRIMES AGAINST THE AIR WE BREATHE, ANY
INDIVIDUALS WHO WILLFULLY VIOLATE THIS CLEAN AIR ACT
WILL FACE FELONY LEVEL CRIMINAL SANCTIONS, THAT WILL BE
CAREFULLY, BUT DEFINITELY, APPLIED. THIS BILL MAKES
SURE THAT POLLUTERS WILL PAY.
- 13 -
IT IS TIME TO BREAK THE GRIDLOCK ON THIS ISSUE. IT
IS TIME TO COOPERATE FOR CLEAN AIR -- BY PASSING A NEW
CLEAN AIR Act THIS YEAR.
ADMINISTRATOR REILLY, SECRETARY WATKINS AND I WILL
WORK CLOSELY WITH THE MEMBERS ON THE HILL, TO MAKE
CLEAN AIR THE LAW OF THIS LAND. AMERICANS DESERVE IT -
- AND I BELIEVE THIS CONGRESS CAN ACHIEVE IT.
###
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
1:15 pm
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/C plune
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT coming only disk
PORTER Nancy 6554 calling Roger
DARMAN
STUDDERT
Chriss personally
BATES on way
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN drying do find
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
CICCONI
PINKERTON N/C
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY John Schnitz
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Read the announcement. missing
in emphasis & theme/ feesibility. + Market orientation
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
ISSS JUL 19 PM 6:31 C:
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, analysis negotiation, and cooperation The right
ve effort.
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
stimger
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. ]] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
Document No. 055194
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 07/20/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
----
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
(07/20 6:00 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
F
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
9
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
У
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
WINSTON
\
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
89JUL21 89 JUL 21 A9: 05
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
1989 JUL 20 FM 7:
July 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON w
FROM:
MARK LANGE mf
SUBJECT:
REMARKS FOR TRANSMITTAL OF CLEAN AIR ACT
I. SUMMARY
Attached are your remarks for the signing ceremony
transmitting your Clean Air Act to Congress. This Rose Garden
event will occur at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 1989.
There will be an audience of 150.
II. DISCUSSION
This speech highlights important issues surrounding the
Administration's proposed Clean Air Act, in addition to
reiterating your commitment to use the power of the marketplace
in the fight against air pollution. The speech also thanks all
who worked together to write this balanced and bipartisan bill
and encourages passage this year.
(Lange/Simon)
July 20, 1989
6:00 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues. The Economic Summit was largely
devoted to the environment, and what it means for the quality of
life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
the next step is Con gressional act con.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today is the
has
latest example of that leadership. And it's been made possible
thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support of
Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems
respect no borders, our solutions must transcend political
boundaries. That's why we're here today. And that's why this
legislation is such good news. It brings us one step closer
toward clean air.
2
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent
thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. The right questions have been asked -- and
together, we're finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the great
range of concerns that must be balanced. Economic growth, job
creation, environmental protection, mobility, and unfettered
commerce -- are all priorities that must be considered. And they
have been. In drafting this legislation, we've reached out.
Heard from groups all across the spectrum. We've listened to,
appreciated, and benefitted from their comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
[ I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to co-sponsor this bill. I can't thank you all enough.
I'm also grateful to the bill's principal sponsors: Senators
Burdick and Chafee; Congressmen Dingell and Lent. ] If this bill
becomes law, all of you will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every American
-- in every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will
stop the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this
century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
3
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But this
bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways -- tapping the power of the
calling an American inseruity in Wes area,
marketplace, encouraging flexibility, and relying on the talents
atternation
and insights of those affected, to find solutions.
fuels!
This bill matches the letter and the spirit of my speech and
fact sheet of June 12th; and, while I'll leave you to read the
legislation, there are a few specifics I'd like to touch on here:
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce Sulfur Dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
Second, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for [the toughest] standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
best available control technologies we know of in practice.
Third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all of
the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and each
enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air toxics,
smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
4
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It is time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is time
to cooperate for clean air --by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Administrator Reilly, Secretary Watkins and I will work
closely with the members on the Hill, to make clean air the law
of this land. Americans deserve it -- and I believe this
Congress can achieve it.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON w
FROM:
MARK LANGE mg
SUBJECT:
REMARKS FOR TRANSMITTAL OF CLEAN AIR ACT
I. SUMMARY
Attached are your remarks for the signing ceremony
transmitting your Clean Air Act to Congress. This Rose Garden
event will occur at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 1989.
There will be an audience of 150.
II. DISCUSSION
This speech highlights important issues surrounding the
Administration's proposed Clean Air Act, in addition to
reiterating your commitment to use the power of the marketplace
in the fight against air pollution. The speech also thanks all
who worked together to write this balanced and bipartisan bill
and encourages passage this year.
10:60 12 7nr 68
THE PRESIDENT HAS SEEN
(Lange/Simon)
July 20, 1989
6:00 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues. The Economic Summit was largely
devoted to the environment, and what it means for the quality of
life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The next stop is Congressional action
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today is the
latest example of that leadership. And has it's been made possible
thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support of
Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems
respect no borders, our solutions must transcend political
boundaries. That's why we're here today. And that's why this
legislation is such good news. It brings us one step closer
toward clean air.
2
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent
thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. The right questions have been asked -- and
together, we're finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the great
range of concerns that must be balanced. Economic growth, job
creation, environmental protection, mobility, and unfettered
commerce -- are all priorities that must be considered. And they
have been. In drafting this legislation, we've reached out.
Heard from groups all across the spectrum. We've listened to,
appreciated, and benefitted from their comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
[ I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to co-sponsor this bill. I can't thank you all enough.
I'm also grateful to the bill's principal sponsors: Senators
Burdick and Chafee; Congressmen Dingell and Lent. ] If this bill
becomes law, all of you will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every American
-- in every city in America will breathe clean air. It will
stop the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this
century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
3
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But this
bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways -- tapping the power of the
marketplace, encouraging flexibility, and relying on the talents
and insights of those affected, to find solutions.
This bill matches the letter and the spirit of my speech and
fact sheet of June 12th; and, while I'll leave you to read the
legislation, there are a few specifics I'd like to touch on here:
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce Sulfur Dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
Second, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for [the toughest] standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
best available control technologies we know of in practice.
Third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all of
the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and each
enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air toxics,
smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
4
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It is time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is time
to cooperate for clean air --by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Administrator Reilly, Secretary Watkins and I will work
closely with the members on the Hill, to make clean air the law
of this land. Americans deserve it -- and I believe this
Congress can achieve it.
# # #
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
89 JUL 21/20/189 30 OON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
All conments
RESPONSE:
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
1989 JUL 19 PM Co: 6:31
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT. DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today
And that's why this legislation is such good news. It brings us
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. TP The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that we have
hundreds
of
co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all, But if this
personally today.
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
at least 75 perceit
between 75 and 90 percent
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive ] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It's tenes to break the sudlock on this Issue
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
MASTER
(Lange/Simon)
July 20, 1989
6:00 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues. The Economic Summit was largely
devoted to the environment, and what it means for the quality of
life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today is the
latest example of that leadership. And it's been made possible
thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support of
Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
we
transcend political boundaries. That's why you re here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
It
bringo
us
taking
a
major
Today we are one step closer toward clean air.
The reforms
stet
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
2
analysis
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the great
range of concerns that must be balanced. Economic growth, job
?
creation, environmental protection, unchecked transportation and
mobility, and unfettered commerce -- are all priorities that must
be considered. And they have been. In drafting this
legislation, we've reached out. Heard from groups all across the
spectrum. We've listened to, appreciated, and benefitted from
their comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have decided
to co-sponsor this bill. I can't thank you all enough
I'm also
grateful to the bill's principal sponsors: Senators Burdick and
Chafee; Congressmen Dingell and Lent. If this bill becomes law,
all of you will have earned the gratitude and respect of
generations to come.
This bold piece of legislation will see to it that every
American -- in every city in America -- will breathe clean air.
It will stop the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of
from major
this century. And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic sources
at least
chemicals by between 75 and 90 percent.
Grody
Banky
3
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June.
I'm told
this is the most far-reaching piece of environmental legislation
attrib. gut
ever to come from the White House. It is certainly
comprehensive. But it does more than set bold objectives. It
meets those goals in economically efficient ways -- tapping the
power of the marketplace, encouraging flexibility, and relying on
the talents and insights of those affected, to find solutions.
Not only does this bill being to every thing
I'll leave you to read the legislation. But there are a few
l said on June 12
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
we know of practice
very best available control technologies
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It's time to break 4 the gudlock on this
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
Issue.
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Watkins
Administrator Reilly, Secretary Watson and I will work
closely with the members on the Hill, to make clean air the law
of this land. Americans deserve it -- and I believe this
Congress can do it.
# # #
STATEMENT OFFICE UNITED STATE
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20503
NOTICE:
Enclosed are comments from staff members of the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB). Such comments do not necessarily
represent the official position of the Director of OMB or of the
Office of Management and Budget. If you wish to have the
Director's personal comments, please let me know -- and contact
me if you have any questions.
David J. Haun
Executive Assistant
to the Director
89 JUL 20 P12: 09
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
w
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
ISSS JUL 19 P!! C: 3:
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
many, many
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. But there are a few
specifies
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
Grady 4844
Third
State,
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
we know of in practice
best available control technologies."]
First lest there he any question: this bill matches the letter ad the spirit
of my Second, 11.11 speech TI this and ..:M is fact one for sheet of exple, the of most get June two agressive million 12th. pieces tons 1] MNe of ...t environmental Sulfur ..:l diox ide van legislation emissions bill in party The reductions House, competing than on
3
Foorth,
Grady
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. individuals And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violated this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing Administrator a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
7/20 3:05 P.M. Correx by Alone from Mc Chere
M.F.
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
many of you have decided to
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
QD for this bill. thank you enough. lan if also grateful to
bill becomes law, each of you them will have earned the gratitude and
sponsors all I can't them all But this the sponsors: principal
Senators
respect of generations to come.
Congressiven Aingell
Burlay and Chafee
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
and Lent.
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. ]] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Administratory Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
Secretary Watson
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. ]] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
89 JUL 20/20/89 42
NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
No Comments
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
10
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
sloane -ok
RESPONSE:
OK
26 : Pld 20 70Γ 68
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
KOCCO
89 JUL 20 POFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON
July 20, 1989
MEMORANDUM FOR CHRISS WINSTON
FROM:
WILLIAM KRISTOL WK
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENT'S REMARKS FOR THE CLEAN AIR ACT
TRANSMITTAL
One suggestion for your consideration: it may be beneficial
to stress the flexibility and market benefits that the
President's proposal offers, by contrast with other proposals
such as the Mitchell bill. Midwest legislators and the business
community have grave concerns in this regard, and we might allay
these reservations by addressing them more directly.
CC: Jim Cicconi
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
17
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See Comments
89 JUL 20 P3: P3:28 28
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
1989 JUL 19 PM C: 3!
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
taking a major
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
- Energy- Kay Woodward 586-6210
- EPA- Tom Super
2
have found
questions have been asked -- and together, we re finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
exagerration?
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
from major source
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent keep
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
exagerration
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. ]] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
administrator
Sectetary Watkins
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
Simon edits
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.D
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
the growing number
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
wish I could
personally.
sponsors for this bill. I IAcan't can thank them allA But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. ]] But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
I have no way of independently checking this, but I
called Bob Grady to make him swear it was right.
Bob says it's OK with the changes he submitted.
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements --- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
EPA Adminstator [or Bill]
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
055194SS
Document No.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
JUL 19 P6:58
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20, 1989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
89 JUL 20 P4: 20
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
ISSS JUL 19 PM 6:31 6:
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
each of you are
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
analysis,
effort.
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of
co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
is designed
This legislation will see to it that every American in
achieve the result that
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing Administrator a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
A suggestime - (NOT ESSENTIAL)
2 Major Thoughts not mentimed ### that could be added
- Alternate fuels renewable, energy for thrusrow
clean
- Market oriented carto policy Besigned to
clean The air at the lowkst cost
and highest overall economic effraincy.
055194SS
Document No.
5682
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
7/19/89
7/20/89 NOON
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: CLEAN AIR ACT TRANSMITTAL
SUBJECT:
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
E
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
ROGERS
BREEDEN
WINSTON
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
Please forward any comments directly to Chriss Winston, Rm.
122, x2930, no later than NOON, Thursday, July 20 001989,
with an info copy to my office. Thank you.
89 JUL
RESPONSE:
July 20, 1989
The NSC concurs with the proposed Presidential remarks
on the Clean Air Act.
20 36
Brent Rate Scowcroft
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
(Lange/Simon)
July 19, 1989
1989 JUL 19 PM 6: 31
6:20 p.m.
[TRANSMIT. DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
[2:00 P.M.]
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending up to Congress today is
the latest example of that leadership. And it's been made
possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support
of Republicans and Democrats alike.
You understand that protecting the world's shared natural
heritage must be a global, universal priority. Just as
environmental problems respect no borders, our solutions must
transcend political boundaries. That's why you're here today.
And that's why this legislation is such good news.
Today we are one step closer toward clean air. The reforms
we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent thousands of hours
of careful effort, negotiation, and cooperation. The right
2
questions have been asked -- and together, we're finding the
right answers.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that we have hundreds of co-
sponsors for this bill. I can't thank them all. But if this
bill becomes law, each of them will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This legislation will see to it that every American -- in
every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will stop
the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this century.
And it will cut all categories of airborne toxic chemicals by
between 75 and 90 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. I'll
leave the fine print for the press corps. [[ Call it the Ten
Million Ton Bill. We're not sensitive. But there are a few
highlights and new advances I'd like to touch on here.
First, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for the toughest standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. [Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
very best available control technologies.]
3
Second, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all
of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and
each enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air
toxics, smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individual who willfully violates this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
There is no reason that Americans need to endure one more
year of this stalemate. It is time to cooperate for clean air --
by passing a new Clean Air Act this year.
Secretary Reilly and I will work closely with the members on
the Hill, to make clean air the law of this land. Americans
deserve it -- and I believe this Congress can do it.
# # #
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
July 21, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
DURING CEREMONY FOR
TRANSMITTAL OF
CLEAN AIR ACT LEGISLATION
The Rose Garden
2:02 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you all.
Welcome to the steamy Rose Garden, Mr. Speaker and distinguished
members of the Congress.
Something that was truly striking during my recent
travels in Europe was this genuine excitement and enthusiasm
spreading about the environmental issues. And the economic summit in
Paris was largely devoted to the environment and what it means for
the quality of life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working very
closely with them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
we, the United States of America, are taking the lead. And the next
step now is Congressional action. And let me make one thing very,
very clear: Clean air is too important to be a partisan issue.
Anyone who allows political bickering to weaken our progress against
pollution does a tragic disservice to every city in America and to
every American in this country who wants and deserves clean air.
And we've worked very hard on both sides of the aisle to
craft a proposal that, for the first time in two decades, makes new
progress for clean air.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today has
been made possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and the
bipartisan support of Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems respect
no borders, our solutions must transcend political boundaries. And
that's why we're here today, and that's why this legislation is such
good news. It brings us one step closer towards clean air.
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act
represent thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. And the right questions have been asked -- and
together, we are finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the
great range of concerns that have to be balanced. Economic growth
and job creation, environmental protection, mobility, unfettered
commerce are all priorities that have to be considered. And they
have been in our work here. In drafting this legislation, we've
reached out. We've heard from groups all across the spectrum, and
we've comments. listened to, appreciated, and certainly benefitted from their
Environmentalists industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from the science and academic area -- leaders from every
quarter have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
MORE
- 2 -
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to cosponsor this bill. And I can't thank you all enough
because clean air, once again, is a bipartisan issue. I've requested
Senators Burdick and Chafee and Congressmen Dingell and Lent -- Norm
-- to be the bill's prime sponsors, and if this bill becomes law, all
of you will have earned the gratitude and respect of generations to
come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every
American - in every city in America will breathe clean air. It
will stop the degradation that's been caused by acid rain by the end
of this century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But
the bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways tapping the power of the marketplace,
encouraging flexibility, calling on American ingenuity in areas like
alternative fuels and relying on the talents and insights of those
affected to find the solutions.
This bill matches the letter and the spirit of my speech
and the fact sheet on June 12th. And while I'll leave you to read
the legislation, there are a few specifics that I want to just
briefly touch on here.
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
And second, for the reductions in airborne toxic
chemicals we seek, this legislation calls for some very tough
standards. New sources must do more than match existing average
control technology. They must be as good as the best. Our
regulations will ensure that every industrial plant in the country
has the best available control technologies that we know of in
practice.
And third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for
all of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- to ensure that each source
meets all applicable limits for air toxics, smog and acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides
tough sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air we
breathe, any individuals who willfully violate the Clean Air Act will
face felony-level criminal sanctions that will be carefully,
definitively applied, however. This bill makes sure that the
polluters will pay.
And it's time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is
time to cooperate for clean air by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Bill Reilly, our able Administrator, and trusted
Secretary of Energy Jim Watkins and I will work closely with you
members on the Hill to make clean air the law of this land.
Americans deserve it. I am absolutely convinced that this Congress
can achieve it.
And thank you all for coming down here today, and now
we'll formalize this by one signature, and thank you all.
(Applause.)
END
2:09 P.M. EDT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
July 21, 1989
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
DURING CEREMONY FOR
TRANSMITTAL OF
CLEAN AIR ACT LEGISLATION
The Rose Garden
2:02 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you all.
Welcome to the steamy Rose Garden, Mr. Speaker and distinguished
members of the Congress.
Something that was truly striking during my recent
travels in Europe was this genuine excitement and enthusiasm
spreading about the environmental issues. And the economic summit in
Paris was largely devoted to the environment and what it means for
the quality of life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working very
closely with them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
we, the United States of America, are taking the lead. And the next
step now is Congressional action. And let me make one thing very,
very clear: Clean air is too important to be a partisan issue.
Anyone who allows political bickering to weaken our progress against
pollution does a tragic disservice to every city in America and to
every American in this country who wants and deserves clean air.
And we've worked very hard on both sides of the aisle to
craft a proposal that, for the first time in two decades, makes new
progress for clean air.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today has
been made possible thanks to the outstanding efforts and the
bipartisan support of Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems respect
no borders, our solutions must transcend political boundaries. And
that's why we're here today, and that's why this legislation is such
good news. It brings us one step closer towards clean air.
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act
represent thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. And the right questions have been asked -- and
together, we are finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the
great range of concerns that have to be balanced. Economic growth
and job creation, environmental protection, mobility, unfettered
commerce are all priorities that have to be considered. And they
have been in our work here. In drafting this legislation, we've
reached out. We've heard from groups all across the spectrum, and
we've listened to, appreciated, and certainly benefitted from their
comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from the science and academic area -- leaders from every
quarter have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
MORE
- 2 -
birthright of every American.
I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to cosponsor this bill. And I can't thank you all enough
because clean air, once again, is a bipartisan issue. I've requested
Senators Burdick and Chafee and Congressmen Dingell and Lent -- Norm
-- to be the bill's prime sponsors, and if this bill becomes law, all
of you will have earned the gratitude and respect of generations to
come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every
American -- in every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It
will stop the degradation that's been caused by acid rain by the end
of this century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But
the bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways -- tapping the power of the marketplace,
encouraging flexibility, calling on American ingenuity in areas like
alternative fuels and relying on the talents and insights of those
affected to find the solutions.
This bill matches the letter and the spirit of my speech
and the fact sheet on June 12th. And while I'll leave you to read
the legislation, there are a few specifics that I want to just
briefly touch on here.
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
And second, for the reductions in airborne toxic
chemicals we seek, this legislation calls for some very tough
standards. New sources must do more than match existing average
control technology. They must be as good as the best. Our
regulations will ensure that every industrial plant in the country
has the best available control technologies that we know of in
practice.
And third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for
all of the Clean Air Act's requirements -- to ensure that each source
meets all applicable limits for air toxics, smog and acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides
tough sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air we
breathe, any individuals who willfully violate the Clean Air Act will
face felony-level criminal sanctions that will be carefully,
definitively applied, however. This bill makes sure that the
polluters will pay.
And it's time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is
time to cooperate for clean air by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Bill Reilly, our able Administrator, and trusted
Secretary of Energy Jim Watkins and I will work closely with you
members on the Hill to make clean air the law of this land.
Americans deserve it. I am absolutely convinced that this Congress
can achieve it.
And thank you all for coming down here today, and now
we'll formalize this by one signature, and thank you all.
(Applause.)
END
2:09 P.M. EDT
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
June 23, 1989
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
I am pleased to transmit to the Congress the annual
report of the Council on Environmental Quality, Environmental
Quality 1987-1988. This report focuses on the Nation's air,
land, and water resources that are particularly affected by
the urbanization of our population and by other intensive
uses. It presents CEQ's analysis of the historical trends,
current status, and outlook for urban air quality, developed
water resources, and the growing burden of municipal solid
waste on the urban landscape. It also offers an assessment
of the Federal lands reserved for our national defense
installations, which present special environmental challenges.
Americans built great cities that have facilitated
commerce and economic growth and prosperity, and provided
homes to millions of new citizens from all over the world.
Today nearly three-fourths of our people reside in communities
classified as "urban," which make up only about 2 percent of
this country's total land acreage. As our Nation has
generally prospered by intensively developing these urban
areas, expectations for human health and quality of the
natural environment have also increased.
Hence, for nearly 2 decades, governments at all levels
have increased their efforts to address pollution and
environmental degradation. Parallel efforts in the private
sector have accompanied government programs to protect the
human environment. As a result, we can point proudly to
improvements on a number of fronts. Some of these are
reviewed in this CEQ report. For example, the Federal
motor vehicle control program, which sets emissions standards
for all new production vehicles, has brought about a clearly
demonstrated improvement in the quality of the air in cities
throughout the Nation.
But we can do better. That is why we are committed to
cleaner air in the Nation's cities, and why we believe that a
fresh approach to the Clean Air Act can help meet the Nation's
environmental needs without compromising our record of
unprecedented economic growth. It is now clear that different
cities have varying climatic conditions, industrial mixes, and
automobile use patterns. Cleaner air in our cities will thus
require credible commitment, timetables, and strategies for
the different regions of the country. Innovative solutions
tailored to meet local circumstances will be required.
Draconian limits on economic growth and on the use of the
automobile should not be necessary in order to give Americans
clean air at levels they are willing to pay for, but it will
require significant Federal, State, and local leadership and
innovative approaches from government and industry.
We must do better. This country must make every effort
to stem the rising tide of garbage and industrial waste
through a more aggressive use of waste minimization and
recycling practices. America as a nation is filling landfills
more
(OVER)
2
faster than it can establish new ones. The waste problem is
not going away, and it can no longer be neglected. Waste
minimization must start at home and in the local communities,
by reducing household garbage and separating wastes for
recycling. In many cases it is in the economic self-interest
of industry to recycle its wastes, to minimize waste
generation at the source, or to adopt less polluting
processes. Innovative techniques that have proven effective
in reducing wastes both in industry and in local communities
should be widely shared.
We will do better. The development of America's abundant
water resources has stimulated economic advancement in nearly
all regions of the country and has facilitated growth in
interstate commerce generally. Since 1972, a national
expenditure of $350 billion for water pollution abatement and
control has restored water quality in many places so that
today some three-fourths of our rivers, lakes, and estuaries
can fully support fishing and swimming. But the pollution
that washed ashore on popular beaches last summer has again
focused attention on the condition of the Nation's coastal
waters. Abuses of the oceans and the Great Lakes must end and
will end, and we will work closely with the States to enforce
and strengthen the effectiveness of the Ocean Dumping Act and
the Clean Water Act. We must also better protect America's
wetlands, by working towards a goal of no net loss through a
coordinated wetlands policy. We are also committed to
protecting the Nation's surface and ground water resources
from contamination by fertilizers and pesticides without
jeopardizing the economic vitality of U.S. agriculture, and
we will work with farmers to adopt environmentally sound
production practices, safer chemicals, and biological pest
controls.
Doing a better job of cleaning the air will make our
cities more healthful. Doing a better job of solid waste
management will make our landscapes safer and more attractive.
Doing a better job of protecting our water resources will add
importantly to the overall opportunities for outdoor
recreation within and near our urban communities, closer to
where most Americans spend most of their time. Recent studies
of outdoor recreation have pointed out the enormous popularity
of water-based recreation activities and have stressed the
positive relationship between improvements in water quality
and the effective use of urban lands available for outdoor
recreation.
A better life for all Americans is our great common
desire, and I believe that economic growth and a clean
environment are both part of what all Americans understand a
better life to mean. The protection of the environment and
the conservation and wise management of our natural resources
must have a high priority on our national agenda. Giyen sound
research, hard work, sufficient public and private funds,
and -- most important -- the necessary political will, we can
achieve and maintain an environment that protects the public
health and enhances the quality of life for us all.
GEORGE BUSH
THE WHITE HOUSE,
June 23, 1989.
###
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
June 12, 1989
FACT SHEET:
PRESIDENT BUSH'S CLEAN AIR PLAN
Fulfilling a major campaign commitment, President Bush
today proposed a comprehensive program to provide clean air
for all Americans.
The President's plan calls for the first sweeping revisions
to the Clean Air Act since 1977, and represents the first time an
Administration has put forward a proposal since that time.
The President's plan is designed to curb three major threats
to the nation's environment and to the health of millions of
Americans: acid rain, urban air pollution, and toxic air
emissions.
While emissions of some pollutants -- such as sulfur
dioxide, urban ozone, and carbon monoxide -- have been reduced
since passage of the 1970 law, progress has not come quickly
enough. The President's plan will dramatically accelerate the
pace of pollution reduction and put America on the path toward
markedly cleaner air by the end of the century.
The President's plan will:
Cut sulfur dioxide emissions virtually in half
by the year 2000. The plan calls for a 10 million ton
reduction in SO2, and a 2 million ton cut in nitrogen
oxide (NOx) emissions, for a total reduction of 12
million tons in acid-rain causing emissions.
Bring all cities currently not meeting the health
standards for ozone and carbon monoxide into
attainment. Most cities will attain the standard by
1995, and the plan is designed to ensure attainment in
all but the most severely impacted cities by the year
2000.
Require factories and plants emitting toxic compounds
into the air to employ the best technology currently
available in order to achieve in the near term a cut
estimated at 75 to 90 percent in pollutants suspected
of causing cancer. Taken together with efforts to
reduce cancer-causing emissions from cars and trucks,
it is estimated that the plan will eliminate in its
first phase over three-fourths of the annual cancer
deaths that air toxics are suspected of causing.
Fundamental Principles
Five goals underlie the President's clean air proposals and
the means for accomplishing them:
Protecting the Public's Health. The goal of the
legislation is to prevent public exposure to cancer-
causing agents and to protect those citizens,
especially vulnerable populations, such as the elderly,
asthmatics and children, who live in cities with dirty
air that does not conform to national health standards.
Improving the Quality of Life. The proposal will
improve the quality of life for all Americans by
exercising responsible stewardship over the environment
for future generations.
Achieving Early Reductions and Steady Progress. The
proposal establishes realistic timetables to meet air
quality standards, but contains provisions to cut
substantial amounts of air pollution in the near term,
while requiring steady progress toward reducing
emissions that are harder to control.
Harnessing the Power of the Marketplace. The proposal
calls for the use of marketable permits to achieve acid
rain reductions and emissions trading to achieve
reductions from automobile pollution, so as to clean
the air to a definite standard while minimizing the
burden on the American economy.
Employing Innovative Technologies. The proposal
encourages development of clean coal technology,
alternative fuel systems for automobiles, and other
cost-effective means of using new technology to cut
pollution.
The President's plan allows for both environmental
protection and economic growth, two long-standing concerns often
considered at odds with each other. By incorporating both
concerns in his proposal, the President seeks to break the
gridlock which has characterized the debate on clean air for the
past several years.
ACID RAIN
Highlights
Requires sulfur dioxide reductions of 10 million tons
and nitrogen oxide reductions of 2 million tons.
Calls for five million tons of reductions in the first
phase by the end of 1995.
Establishes a system of marketable permits to allow
maximum flexibility for utilities to achieve required
reductions in the most efficient and least costly
manner.
Background
"Acid rain" occurs when sulfur dioxide (S02) and nitrogen oxide
(NOx) emissions undergo a chemical change in the atmosphere and
return to the earth in rain, fog, or snow.
Approximately 20 million tons of SO2 are emitted annually in the
U.S., three-quarters from the burning of fossil fuels by electric
utilities; 20 percent from other, more widely dispersed
industrial sources; and 5 percent from transportation sources.
The source of most SO2 emissions causing acid rain are old (pre-
1971) electric power plants, not subject to the existing Clean
Air Act's strict emissions requirements on newer plants. Fifty
power plants are responsible for about half of all SO2 emissions.
Acid rain causes damage to lakes, forests, and buildings,
contributes to reduced visibility, and is suspected of causing
damage to human health.
Since 1970, the U.S. has spent $225 billion to control air
pollution. American industry spends about $33 billion a year on
air pollution controls ($10 billion by the electric utility
industry). One result of this expenditure is that SO2 emissions
have been reduced by almost 20% since 1977, despite a substantial
increase in coal consumption during the period since then.
Any acid rain control program will increase electricity rates for
affected utilities. Generally speaking, however, proposals with
greater flexibility will result in smaller rate increases. Thus,
the President's proposal to allow trading among utility companies
will ensure that protection from acid rain is achieved in a less
costly fashion than many of the more traditional "command and
control" proposals that have been advanced.
The President's plan represents a major new innovation in
harnessing the power of the marketplace to protect the
environment.
The President's proposal calls for:
A reduction of 10 million tons of sulfur dioxide by the
year 2000, using a baseline year of 1980 for tons of
SO2 emitted, primarily from coal-fired power plants.
A two-phase program in order to ensure early
reductions. A reduction of five million tons is
required during the first phase, by the end of 1995.
All dates assume enactment of this legislation by
December 31, 1989.
A 2 million ton reduction of NOX in Phase II.. The
plan would allow utilities to trade reductions of NOX
for reductions of SO2 or vice versa, and thus
represents a call for a total reduction of 12 million
tons in acid rain-causing pollutants.
A three-year extension of the Phase II deadline for
plants adopting clean coal repowering technologies,
combined with regulatory incentives designed to smooth
their transition into the marketplace. This will allow
the United States to make good on the major investment
the President has called for in clean coal, and will
ensure that coal continues to play an important role in
America's energy future.
Freedom of choice in cutting pollution. The plan
requires all plants above a certain size in affected
states to meet the same emissions standard, but does
not dictate to plant managers how the standard should
be met. The plan requires the largest polluting plants
to make the greatest cuts in pollution. The emissions
standard would be set at the rate necessary to achieve
five million tons in the first phase. The plan
envisions a standard of 2.5 lbs. per million BTU, which
would affect 107 plants in 18 states. The standard
would then be tightened to approximately 1.2 lbs. per
million BTUs so as to achieve a ten million ton
reduction in Phase II.
Maximum flexibility in obtaining reductions. The plan
would allow utilities to trade required reductions so
that they will be achieved in the least costly fashion.
In the first phase, trading would be allowed among
electric plants within a state or within a utility
system. In addition, full interstate trading would be
allowed in phase II.
The estimated cost of the President's proposal would be
$3.8 billion annually in the second phase, and
approximately $700 million per year in the first phase.
While this represents an increase of over two percent
by the year 2000 in the nation's $160 billion a year
electricity bill, the flexibility built into the
President's plan reduces, by up to half, the cost of
various competing proposals mandating the use of
specific technologies.
URBAN AIR QUALITY
Highlights
Employs a mix of Federal measures and state initiatives
to cut sharply air pollution in our Nation's cities.
The Federal measures alone will cut emissions that
cause urban ozone -- the primary contributor to urban
air pollution -- nearly in half, and help bring all
cities into compliance with air quality standards.
Sets realistic timetables for attaining the
standards but is designed to ensure steady progress
toward meeting that goal.
Contains new initiatives to promote alternative fuels
to reduce pollution from cars, buses, trucks and motor
fuels, and to harness the power of the marketplace to
ensure cost-effective reductions.
OZONE
Background
Based on data measured during the summers of 1985 to 1987, over
100 million people live in 81 urban areas across the country that
exceed the health standard for ozone. In some cities, such as
Los Angeles, the situation is persistent and severe (176 days in
violation of the health standard in 1988); in other cities the
problem is marginal (Lancaster, PA, is listed as a non-attainment
area, but, in fact, has exceeded the Federal standard for only a
few hours in the last 3 years).
The President's plan is designed to ensure that over two-thirds
of the cities now out of attainment -- all but about 25 cities --
come into attainment by 1995. All but the three most seriously
polluted areas (Los Angeles, Houston, and New York) will come
into attainment by the year 2000; and these special cases will be
given until 2010 -- contingent upon a requirement in the
President's plan that they show significant annual progress
toward cleaning the air and meeting the health standard.
Ozone is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are mixed
with nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight. Heat
speeds up the reaction, and therefore concentrations are usually
higher in the summer months. Exceedances of the ozone standard
(.12 parts per million) grew sharply during the especially hot
summer of 1988. If a city exceeds the standard for at least one
hour on four or more days during a three year period, it is
judged to be "out of attainment" with the standard.
Exposure to ozone causes short term effects, such as shortness of
breath, coughing, and chest pains, that are particularly acute
for asthmatics, children, and senior citizens. Moreover, ozone
is suspected of playing a role in the long-term development of
chronic lung diseases and permanent lung structure damage.
In addition to health effects, ozone has effects on vegetation,
including crops such as soybeans, wheat and corn; is damaging
forests in California; and is suspected as a contributing agent
in damage to forests in the Southeastern U.S.
The major sources of VOCs, the most important ozone pre-cursor,
are motor vehicles (40%) ; small "area sources," e.g., bakeries,
dry cleaners, and consumer solvents (40%) ; large point sources,
e.g., petroleum refineries (15%); and gasoline refueling (5%).
Many large point sources have already been required to reduce
emissions by roughly 80 percent from uncontrolled levels under
the Clean Air Act, and tailpipe emissions from new vehicles have
been reduced by 96 percent. The smaller "area" sources are
largely uncontrolled.
VOC and NOx emissions have decreased nationally since 1978 --
VOCs by 17 percent and NOx by 8 percent -- despite growth in
population, travel and industrial activity. As a consequence,
the trend in ambient ozone concentrations declined by 9 percent
from 1979 to 1987. Increases occurred again, however, in the hot
summers of 1987 and 1988.
The deadline for meeting urban ozone standards set back in 1977
under the existing Clean Air Act has already expired. Despite
this progress in reducing ozone, the health standards have not
been met within the deadlines. Without new legislation, the EPA
will be required by law to impose Federal Implementation Plans
(FIPs) on several major American cities. Courts are, for
example, already preparing to impose such requirements on Chicago
and Los Angeles. These FIPs could involve extraordinary controls
that would sharply curb economic growth and dramatically alter
the lifestyles of local residents.
Over the next decade, both EPA and the Federal Highway
Administration estimate that growth in automobile use will begin
to outstrip reductions occuring from fleet turnover, so that VCC
emissions will increase after 2000.
Thus, additional measures to reduce ozone-causing emissions are
needed if Americans are to have air that is clean enough to meet
the health standard. The President's plan sets forth these
additional clean air measures.
Some measures required under current law will help reduce VOC's.
These include:
The effect of tightened automobile and truck tailpipe
emission standards, which will continue to cut
emissions as older cars are replaced with new ones;
The implementation of required inspection and
maintenance programs for motor vehicles by state and
local governments;
Volatility controls on gasoline. Earlier this year,
the Bush Administration required a reduction
of gasoline volatility (to a standard of 10.5 pounds
per square inch);
Selected stationary source controls on refineries and
other factories.
It is estimated that these measures will reduce VOC emissions
from baseline levels by 18% by 2005. They will bring 23 cities
into attainment by 1995, but without additional controls,
increased automobile use would cause many of these to slip back
out of attainment, leaving 72 cities out of attainment by 2005.
Additional Federal Measures Under the President's Proposal
In an ambitious effort to bring all cities into attainment, the
President's proposals call for:
Further tightening the volatility requirements for
gasoline nationwide during the summer months to reduce
evaporative emissions which cause ozone formation.
This will reduce VOC emissions by an estimated 8
percent.
Reductions in vehicle evaporative emissions caused by
automobile running losses, which will cut VOC emissions
by an estimated 4.2%.
Federal regulations to control emissions from
treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous wastes,
which will cut VOC emissions by 3.2%.
Providing EPA with the authority to regulate VOC
emissions from small sources and consumer
products, such as consumer solvents and paints, which
EPA estimates will cut VOC emissions by 2.5%.
Tightening hydrocarbon emission tailpipe standards for
automobiles by almost 40%. The current standard will
be tightened to the level soon to be required on all
California vehicles (from .41 to .25 grams per mile).
This will cut VOC emissions by 0.4%.
A first time requirement for light duty trucks to meet
the same tailpipe standard now required of automobiles
(.41 gpm). This will cut VOC emissions by 0.2%.
Expanded vehicle inspection and maintenance programs in
serious non-attainment areas, which will cut VOC
emissions by 1.2%.
Controls to reduce evaporative emissions which occur
during refueling of motor vehicles. These "stage II"
controls would require refueling stations to install
special nozzles on gasoline pumps in non-attainment
areas, and are expected to reduce VOCS by up to 2% in
such areas.
Provide EPA new authority to issue control technology
guidelines (CTGs) to major stationary source emitters
(factories and plants). The most cost-effective
control guidelines will be issued first. These
guidelines are expected to result in a 3.5% reduction
in VOC emissions.
Provide for the use of alternative fuels -- such as
clean burning methanol, natural gas, and ethanol -- in
the most serious non-attainment areas. The President's
plan is designed to ensure that one million
clean-fueled vehicles per year are introduced into
America's most polluted cities by the year 1997. The
program will not only reduce VOC emissions by an
additional 2 to 5%, it will dramatically reduce toxic
air emissions such as benzene, toluene, and xylene.
It is estimated that these new federal measures to curb
ozone pollution will add $3 to $4 billion in annual
costs to the economy when fully implemented.
The Long-Term Clean Fuels Program
The clean fuels program proposed by the President is perhaps the
most innovative and far-reaching component of his proposal. It
is designed to provide a long-term reconciliation of the
environment and the automobile -- so that Americans can continue
to enjoy economic growth, freedom in using their motor vehicles,
and clean air.
The Administration proposes to replace a portion of the motor
vehicle fleet in certain cities with new vehicles that operate on
clean burning fuels. In the 9 major urban areas where current
data shows the greatest concentration of ozone, the
Administration's plan calls for a ten-year program for the
phased-in introduction of alternative fuels, and clean-fueled
vehicle sales according to the following schedule:
500,000 vehicles in 1995
750,000 vehicles in 1996
1,000,000 vehicles each year from 1997 through 2004
The major metropolitan areas affected by the plan are: Los
Angeles, Houston, New York City, Milwaukee, Baltimore,
Philadelphia, Greater Connecticut, San Diego, and Chicago.
If these areas are able to demonstrate that they can achieve
analagous reductions in VOC's and toxic air chemicals through
other measures, the plan would allow them to "opt out" of the
clean-fueled vehicle and alternative fuels program, in which case
the vehicle target numbers would be scaled down proportionately.
The plan would also allow other cities to be included in the
program at their request.
The President's alternative fuels program, combined with other
motor vehicle and fuel measures in the plan, will shrink the
contribution of vehicles to the ozone problem from the current 40
percent to ten percent. This represents not only an alternative
to some of the more disruptive driving controls currently being
considered by some states, but also a bold and innovative means
of reconciling continued use of the automobile by a growing
society with the need for cleaner air.
Effect of the Federal Measures Proposed by the President
Taken together, the Federal measures proposed by the President,
combined with the effect of measures being pursued under current
law, will cut ozone-causing VOC emissions nearly in half. EPA
estimates the program will reduce annual emissions by 45% by the
year 2005. In and of themselves, these measures will bring all
but about 20 cities into attainment of the ozone standard.
Because of the President's commitment to ensuring clean air in
all American cities, however, his plan calls for additional
measures to be undertaken by the states in order to meet the
standard for healthy air.
State Measures Under the President's Proposal
Under the President's proposal, the roughly 20 cities with the
most serious ozone pollution problems would be required to take
steps to cut ozone-causing emissions by 3 percent per year
beginning with enactment of the legislation.
This will guarantee that, even as more realistic deadlines for
meeting the standard are set, those cities with the most
significant air pollution problems will be on a steady path
toward cleaner air.
Because of ozone transport, some areas may be unable to attain
the standard in spite of adequate efforts to control their own
pollution. Cities under 200,000 in population, which are not
part of regional airsheds but whose attainment is prevented as a
result of ozone pollution transported from other cities or
regions, will not be subject to sanctions under these
circumstances.
Emissions Trading: Harnessing the Power of the Marketplace to
Protect the Environment
The President has also directed the EPA to develop rules and
regulations which will provide companies with the maximum
flexibility in achieving the pollution reductions called for in
his plan.
Specifically, the President's plan would require the
Administrator to issue regulations within 18 months to allow
automobile manufacturers to engage in "emissions trading" and
refiners to engage in "fuel pooling" to the maximum extent
feasible. Such regulations shall establish preformance standards
for vehicles and transportation fuels marketed in the most
serious and severe non-attainment areas. Companies would then be
able to choose to engage in "emissions trading" and "fuel
pooling" so long as they can demonstrate to EPA that the
combination of measures they select will allow them to achieve
the same emissions reductions as the control measures outlined in
the President's program.
This "emissions trading" concept is already being considered by
the State of California. It represents a market-based means of
reducing both VOCs and reactive aromatics in the most
cost-effective way. The EPA would publish these regulations at
the same time as it publishes regulations implementing the other
control measures in the President's plan. If companies cannot
demonstrate alternative means of achieving the same amount of
pollution reduction, they would be required to implement the
control measures outlined above.
CARBON MONOXIDE
Background
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that tends to
reduce the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. It is a
particularly serious health threat to individuals who suffer from
cardiovascular disease, especially those with angina or heart
disease. Unlike ozone, carbon monoxide problems are worse in
cold weather.
Two-thirds of CO emissions come from motor vehicles. Emissions of
carbon monoxide decreased 25 percent from 1978 to 1987, despite a
24 percent increase in vehicle miles travelled during that
period, largely because of controls already in place on emissions
from cars, buses, and trucks. Some improvement from these
controls will continue, as older, more heavily polluting cars are
gradually replaced on America's roads by newer, cleaner vehicles.
Currently, cars purchased before 1981 amount to only 38 percent
of the vehicles miles traveled (VMT), but they account for over
86 percent of CO emissions.
As use of the automobile continues to grow, however, it is
expected that many American cities will not attain the
health-based carbon monoxide standard. That standard is 9 parts
per million (ppm), measured over an 8-hour period. If a
representative reading of monitors in an area shows that it
exceeds the standard for two or more 8-hour periods, it is
classified in "non-attainment."
There are currently about 50 American cities not meeting the
standard. As with ozone, in some cases cities exceed the
standard only moderately. About 6 urban areas, however, have a
carbon monoxide problem classified by EPA as "serious".
EPA estimates that even as vehicle miles travelled (VMT) grow,
the effect of fleet turnover will bring almost half of those
cities currently violating the standard into attainment. Several
of the measures in the President's proposal designed to curb
ozone-causing emissions will also help reduce carbon monoxide.
These include the measures described above to tighten tailpipe
standards for light duty trucks, and to improve state and local
inspection and maintenance programs.
Even with these measures, however, several American cities will
continue to have a carbon monoxide problem. To bring these
cities into compliance with the health-based standard, the
President's proposal contains several important measures designed
to cut carbon monoxide emissions.
Specifically, the President's plan calls for:
A major new program to promote the use of clean-burning
oxygenated fuels, which emit dramatically less carbon
monoxide. The plan would require those cities with the
most serious carbon monoxide problems to use gasoline
blended with oxygenated fuels during the winter months.
Oxygenated fuels include ethanol, methanol, ETBE, and
MTBE.
Blending oxygenates into fuel will not only reduce
carbon monoxide, it will also sharply reduce toxic air
emissions caused by aromatics in conventional gasoline.
Ethanol and ETBE are generally produced in the US from
corn, wheat and potato crops. They offer the
opportunity both to clean the air and to provide
expanded markets for America's farmers.
The President's plan would allow cities to "opt out"
of the oxygenated fuels requirement, if they could
demonstrate to EPA that they would come into attainment
of the carbon monoxide standard using other measures.
EPA estimates that requiring oxygenated fuels in areas
with serious carbon monoxide problems will reduce
carbon monoxide emissions by an additional 18% in these
areas.
Giving EPA the authority to issue regulations for a
carbon monoxide cold temperature standard. Carbon
monoxide problems are exaggerated when motor vehicles
start in exceptionally cold weather. This standard has
the potential to reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 7
to 12 percent.
The President's plan will bring the vast majority of cities into
attainment with the carbon monoxide standard by 1995, and will
bring all American cities into attainment by the year 2000.
PARTICULATE MATTER
Background
Particulate matter (PM10) includes acid sulfates, toxic organics
and metals, and insoluble dusts that come from traditional stack
emissions, as well as area sources such as wood stoves and open
burning. Construction, roadways and mobile sources also
contribute to the problem.
PM10 can cause premature death in elderly and ill persons,
aggravation of existing respiratory disease, increased
respiratory illness and other effects.
Particulate matter (PM10). standards were revised in 1987 to
address smaller particulate matter particles most likely to
penetrate the lungs.
The President's program will:
Require reasonably available control measures to meet
the standard.
Ensure that the majority of cities meet the standard by
1994, and that all cities meet PM10 standards by 2001.
TOXIC AIR POLLUTANTS
Highlights
Dramatically accelerates progress in controlling major
toxic air pollutants.
Uses best technology available to cut air toxics.
Promises certifiable progress in regulating sources of
toxic air emissions on a set schedule.
Background
The emission of toxic chemicals into the air is believed to cause
cancer and other health effects in humans.
Since 1974, EPA has been required to regulate such emissions in
order to provide an "ample margin of safety" to the public.
Because this margin has been difficult to define and has been the
subject of continued litigation, EPA has had difficulty
proceeding with regulation under the law. Since passage of the
statute, it has published regulations for only seven toxic air
pollutants.
Because the statute has proven unworkable, the President has
proposed a major revision of the law in order to guarantee
greatly accelerated progress in reducing the damaging effects of
toxic air pollution.
Data recently released by the EPA indicate that 2.7 billion
pounds of toxic chemicals are emitted into the air each year.
EPA estimates that these emissions contribute to approximately
1500-3000 fatal cancers annually. Toxic chemical emissions are
associated also with respiratory disease and birth defects.
Motor vehicles and stationary sources each account for
approximately half of air toxic emissions. The measures in the
President's plan designed to curb VOC emissions and promote
alternative fuels will sharply reduce emissions from motor
vehicles.
The President's plan also includes a major new initiative to
reduce air toxic emissions from stationary sources (factories,
plants, and other such sources).
A majority of identified carcinogens are emitted by about 30
industrial categories, including steel mills (coke ovens),
rubber, pulp and paper, chromium electroplating, and solvent
users. The President's plan is designed to reduce quickly
emissions from these sources.
The President's program will:
Establish a set schedule for regulating major sources
of toxic air pollution. Under the plan, EPA will
publish regulations for controlling ten source
categories within two years, 25 percent of source
categories within four years, 50 percent of source
categories within seven years, and all necessary
additional categories of air toxics within ten years.
Require emitters of toxic air pollution to use the
Maximum Available Control Technology (MACT) to sharply
cut pollution. This means that EPA would set a
standard based on the best technology currently
available. Plants would then be required to meet that
standard, with some exceptions to add flexibility for
those who have already reduced most air toxics and for
very small plants.
Encourage voluntary reductions early, before standards
are even published, by providing credit for those
reductions against the MACT requirement.
After Phase I is implemented, the EPA Administrator
shall assess any remaining risk after reductions from
state-of-the-art technology and determine if there is a
need for further controls. Based on his assessment,
the EPA Administrator would set additional standards to
prevent the public from being exposed to "unreasonable
risk", which would allow considerations of cost and
technical feasibility as well as health-based risks.
It is estimated that the President's air toxics initiative will
eliminate in the first phase about three-quarters of the cancer
deaths caused by toxic air emissions from factories and plants.
The annual costs of the program are difficult to estimate until
actual standards are published, but current EPA estimates center
at about $2.0 billion per year.
######
Document No. 055194
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 07/20/89
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
----
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
(07/20 6:00 p.m. draft)
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
F
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
X
PORTER
DARMAN
STUDDERT
BATES
UNTERMEYER
BREEDEN
ROGERS
CARD
PINKERTON
CICCONI
WINSTON
\
DEMAREST
FITZWATER
GRAY
HAGIN
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
€0:6 6 ₩ 12 7nr 68
James W. Cicconi
Assistant to the President
and Deputy to the Chief of Staff
Ext. 2702
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
1989 JUL 20 FII 7:
July 20, 1989
INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
CHRISS WINSTON
3
FROM:
MARK LANGE mL
SUBJECT:
REMARKS FOR TRANSMITTAL OF CLEAN AIR ACT
I. SUMMARY
Attached are your remarks for the signing ceremony
transmitting your Clean Air Act to Congress. This Rose Garden
event will occur at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 21, 1989.
There will be an audience of 150.
II. DISCUSSION
This speech highlights important issues surrounding the
Administration's proposed Clean Air Act, in addition to
reiterating your commitment to use the power of the marketplace
in the fight against air pollution. The speech also thanks all
who worked together to write this balanced and bipartisan bill
and encourages passage this year.
(Lange/Simon)
July 20, 1989
6:00 p.m.
[TRANSMIT.DOC]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS:
TRANSMITTAL, CLEAN AIR ACT
THE ROSE GARDEN
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 1989
2:00 P.M.
Something that was truly striking during my travels in
Europe was the tremendous excitement and enthusiasm spreading
about environmental issues. The Economic Summit was largely
devoted to the environment, and what it means for the quality of
life on our planet.
Our neighbors abroad feel a sense of shared commitment.
They're cooperating to find solutions. And we're working with
them.
Around the world, in efforts to clean up the environment,
America is taking the lead.
The Clean Air Act that I'm sending to Congress today is the
latest example of that leadership. And it's been made possible
thanks to the outstanding efforts and bipartisan support of
Republicans and Democrats alike.
Protecting the world's shared natural heritage must be a
global, universal priority. Just as environmental problems
respect no borders, our solutions must transcend political
boundaries. That's why we're here today. And that's why this
legislation is such good news. It brings us one step closer
toward clean air.
2
The reforms we're proposing to the Clean Air Act represent
thousands of hours of careful analysis, negotiation, and
cooperation. The right questions have been asked -- and
together, we're finding the right answers.
To make the Clean Air Act effective, you all know the great
range of concerns that must be balanced. Economic growth, job
creation, environmental protection, mobility, and unfettered
commerce -- are all priorities that must be considered. And they
have been. In drafting this legislation, we've reached out.
Heard from groups all across the spectrum. We've listened to,
appreciated, and benefitted from their comments.
Environmentalists, industry leaders, members of Congress,
experts from science and academia -- leaders from every quarter
have all shown the wisdom and will to make clean air the
birthright of every American.
[ I am pleased and proud to see that many of you have
decided to co-sponsor this bill. I can't thank you all enough.
I'm also grateful to the bill's principal sponsors: Senators
Burdick and Chafee; Congressmen Dingell and Lent. ] If this bill
becomes law, all of you will have earned the gratitude and
respect of generations to come.
This piece of legislation will see to it that every American
-- in every city in America -- will breathe clean air. It will
stop the degradation caused by acid rain by the end of this
century. And it will cut airborne toxic chemicals from major
sources by at least 75 percent.
3
Those are the goals that I outlined back in June. But this
bill does more than set bold objectives. It meets those goals in
economically efficient ways -- tapping the power of the
marketplace, encouraging flexibility, and relying on the talents
and insights of those affected, to find solutions.
This bill matches the letter and the spirit of my speech and
fact sheet of June 12th; and, while I'll leave you to read the
legislation, there are a few specifics I'd like to touch on here:
First, this is one of the most aggressive pieces of
environmental legislation competing on the Hill. It will, for
example, reduce Sulfur Dioxide emissions by two million tons more
than the most popular acid rain bill currently in the House.
Second, for the reductions in airborne toxic chemicals we
seek, this legislation calls for [the toughest] standards. New
sources must do more than match existing average control
technology. They must be as good as the best. Our regulations
will ensure that every industrial plant in the country has the
best available control technologies we know of in practice.
Third, we've proposed a streamlined permit system for all of
the Clean Air Act's requirements -- so that each source and each
enforcement official clearly knows the limits for air toxics,
smog, acid rain.
And finally, this legislation has teeth. It provides tough
sanctions for cities that don't make reasonable efforts and
significant progress. And to deter future crimes against the air
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
4
we breathe, any individuals who willfully violate this Clean Air
Act will face felony level criminal sanctions, that will be
carefully, but definitely, applied. This bill makes sure that
polluters will pay.
It is time to break the gridlock on this issue. It is time
to cooperate for clean air --by passing a new Clean Air Act this
year.
Administrator Reilly, Secretary Watkins and I will work
closely with the members on the Hill, to make clean air the law
of this land. Americans deserve it -- and I believe this
Congress can achieve it.
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