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americanchemistry.com/impact | pdf version
January 2009
In This Issue:
- State Outlook for 2009
- New Lawmakers, New Administration: How Can I Help?
- Issue Accent: Energy
- Online Poll: Express Your Opinion!
- Tell A Friend
State Outlook for 2009
As lawmakers return to state capitols in 2009, one issue permeates most of the hallway discussions- the Economy! Without a doubt, legislators will be looking closely at the federal economic recovery package and its various stimulus plans to revitalize the states. With revenues declining during the fiscal slump and the pressure to meet balanced budget obligations, states often raise taxes and/or cut spending by eradicating services and suspending projects. According to the National Conference of State Legislators, 31 states reported that they collectively addressed a $40 billion shortfall in their FY 2009 budgets, more than triple the amount reported by states in FY 2008.
Although this subject will frame debates, there will be plenty of other issues that affect the business of chemistry. In particular, chemical and plastic products have recently been under increased attack and this trend will continue in 2009. 2008 saw a 300 increase in potential chemical products bans and a 200 increase in plastic packaging restrictions, and these numbers could rise in the New Year. ACC will work diligently to defeat onerous ban measures that are not based on principles of sound science and sustainable chemistry.
2009 also promises to be a year of opportunity for our industry, particularly on energy policy. Lawmakers recognize that conservation is one of the cheapest ways to increase energy supply and this often starts in homes and buildings. The products of chemistry are essential to make structures more energy efficient, such as insulation, thermal coatings and vinyl windows, and ACC will be aggressively advocating policies that encourage construction of energy efficient, high performance buildings and residential homes. Stay tuned for more state legislative developments and ways to get involved in the upcoming weeks.
New Lawmakers, New Administration: How Can I Help?
2009 ushers in many changes on the political landscape. A new president, congress, state legislatures, and governors will take office. These policy makers will tackle tough issues such as the economy, energy and climate change, and freight rail transportation, all of which impact the business of chemistry.
Your political involvement does not end with your vote in the election, but instead enters another phase. Freshmen members need to be informed on the issues, and who better to educate lawmakers than you.
Now is the best time to contact these legislators!
- Invite legislators to take a tour of your local facility so they can see how essential chemistry is to their constituents and to the economy.
- When legislation affecting the chemical industry comes up for debate, write a letter expressing your opinion and encourage others to do the same.
- Take advantage of the opportunities that will arise to forge relationships with decision makers.
For resources on conducting plant tours and communicating with elected officials, go to the Impact Chemistry Advocacy ToolKit. Make your voice heard!
Issue Accent: Energy
Chemistry materials go into energy-saving products such as building insulation, lightweight vehicle parts, "low rolling resistance" tires, solar panels, wind power blades, compact fluorescent light bulbs, automotive and industrial lubricants, and many others. Our industry relies heavily on natural gas for chemistry that goes into these products and thousands of products consumers use every day---from medicines, packaging and medical equipment to auto parts, computers, telephones and health and personal care products. So in addition to support for policies that will improve energy efficiency and conservation and promote fuel diversity (including renewable and alternatives), the American Chemistry Council believes that access to a reliable, affordable supply of energy---especially natural gas---is vital to chemical makers, the future of the American manufacturing base and the health of the U.S. economy as a whole.
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American Chemistry Council
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing.
The business of chemistry is a $664 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.
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