There will be a heavy California presence at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris this week. In addition to Gov. Jerry Brown, the state’s legislative leaders are each leading delegations.
Senate President pro Tem Kevin de León (D-Los Angeles) and Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) are among eight California lawmakers making the trip. All are Democrats.
De León says he wants to share California’s accomplishments with other national and regional governments – and bring back more investment capital for the state’s green technology projects.
“Because we believe, if we are successful, by doing so, we’ll attract the creation of more jobs for Californians,” De León told reporters in a conference call Monday previewing the trip.
Lawmakers say they’re also looking for ways to create more charging stations for electric vehicles. And they want to learn how European countries are increasing production of alternative fuels to compete with the oil industry.
A Los Angeles-based non-profit called the Climate Action Reserve has raised money from corporate and philanthropic donors to help pay for the trip. Lawmakers are also using campaign funds.
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