Sierra Club State Legislative Priorities –
81st Texas Legislature (2009)

Clean Air

Strengthening of statutory requirements and provision of significant funding for efforts to reduce toxic and other harmful air emissions from existing industrial plants and electric power plants, prevent air quality deterioration by new coal-fired power plants, and reduce air emissions from vehicles

Smart Energy Solutions

Expansion of requirements and incentives for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency and increased reliance on renewable energy sources in a manner that addresses concerns about climate change, assists low-income utility customers, meets true needs for electric power generation, and promotes the development of new jobs and economic opportunities

Parks & Wildlife Funding

Dependable and dedicated sources of funding for wildlife management, for the local parks grants program, and for the acquisition, maintenance, and management of Texas state parks at funding levels sufficient to achieve a high quality state parks system

Transportation System Reforms

Changes in the structure and operation of the Texas Department of Transportation that will lead to a publicly accountable and responsive state transportation agency and a comprehensive and environmentally sound state transportation policy, including an expansion of options for public transit and alternative modes of travel

Water Conservation

Funding of the statewide public awareness program on water and of other water conservation initiatives recommended by the state Water Conservation Advisory Council in order to advance efficient use of water by Texas consumers, agricultural producers, businesses, and institutions