State Senator Kevin Parker Scores High In 2008 Environmental Report Card

Senate Democrats Scored an Average of 90 during the 2008 legislative session

Brooklyn, NY - State Senator Kevin Parker is recognized by this year’s Environmental Advocates Voters’ Guide for his leadership on one or more environmentally beneficial measures. The Environmental Advocates of New York shined light on both 80 members of the State Assembly and 18 New York State Senators who supported the environmental community’s priority "super bills" this year. Currently, Senator Parker is the ranking member on Energy and Telecommunications and also sits on the Environmental Conservation committee.

" I have always felt that it is important to be part of the decision-making on environmental issues that will affect the health and quality of life for my constituents, said, Sen. Parker. I commend the Environmental Advocates of New York for releasing this report because it is important that citizens know who’s fighting on their behalf. A well informed and active public means more topics can be introduced on effective environmental legislation by my office, he added."

The environmental community’s ‘Super Bills’ are previously selected by the Green Panel, which includes representatives of green groups from across New York State. The 2008 super bills include the;

• Wetlands Protection Act, which would protect wetlands of an acre or more;

• The Bigger Better Bottle Bill, which would expand the definition of returnable containers to include bottled water and sports drink; and

• The Global Warming/ Greenhouse Gas Pollution Control Act, which would reduce climate-altering pollution.

EPL/Environmental Advocates was founded in 1969 as one of the first organizations in the nation to advocate for the future of a state’s environment and the health of its citizens. Environmental Advocates has also been New York’s fighter in ensuring that environmental laws are enforced. In addition, The Voters’ Guide, created by EPL, became the first and only record of New York State lawmakers’ votes on legislation that will impact the environment. The Guide is produced and distributed statewide.