George Bush's stance on the Clean Air Act

Clean Air Act/Clean Skies Act of 2003: The 2003 act established federally enforceable emissions limits or caps for three pollutants, which include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury. It maintains the authority of the state and local governments set source emission level so a standard air quality can be met. The act mandates a cut of 70 percent air pollution from power plants over the next 15 years; the Clean Skies Act builds off of the Clean Air Act.

George Bush

Description of Candidate's position: President Bush launched the Clean Skies Act. The act would reduce levels of mercury, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, but not carbon dioxide in power plants by 70 percent over the next 15 years. Bush also plans on helping states meet air emission requirements in hopes of a cleaner environment and to support higher standards for air quality. 

Quotation from candidate: "I have sent you Clear Skies legislation that mandates a 70 percent in air pollution of power plants…I urge you to pass (this measure) for the good of both our environment and our economy. link

Assessment of Proposal

Positive: Clear Skies Initiatives as proposed by Bush, would reduce power plant emissions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury levels by 70 percent. He would also help states meet the new air emission levels. Also if completes the Clean Air Interstate Rule would require the steepest emissions cuts in over a decade. President Bush is the first president to propose caps on the emissions of mercury as well. (Bush website)

Negative: According to the Sierra Club Bush's Clear Skies Act would not reduce carbon dioxide levels, which is the leading green house gas. Also it will delay the standard for public health and creates loopholes for power plants to improve their air quality levels

Comparison:

Kerry wants to set new standards for environmental excellence in the United States. He believes that as a nation, we need to value and protect the environment and defend our environmental rights. Kerry wants to reverse the Bush-Cheney actions taken towards the environment. He wants to take action to plug the loopholes in the Clean Air Act, to stop acid rain, wants to reduce mercury and other emissions that affect global warming, as according to the Kerry website.

Link to Kerry's Clean Air brief