From more frequent heat waves to rising sea levels, global warming poses significant threats to communities across the country. While the federal government has been sitting on its hands when it comes to global warming, the states have been busy.  In addition to increasing our use of renewable energy in states all across the country, 12 states have adopted policies to put cleaner cars on the road.

Specifically, California and 11 other states have adopted tailpipe standards to reduce global warming pollution from cars and SUVs, amounting to one-third of the U.S. auto market. However, in order to implement the standards, California -- and the other states -- need a stamp of approval (called a Clean Air Act “waiver”) from the EPA, and the Bush EPA has been sitting on the decision for nearly a year and a half.