For Immediate UseContact: Garrison Frost
June 3, 2008(323) 951-9620

Sacramento, CA – Representatives of Audubon California today declared the voters’ rejection of Proposition 98 as a tremendous victory for environmental protection in California. Audubon California had rallied Audubon members and allies to vote agains the measure, and made a significant financial and organizational contribution to the opposition.

“If this proposition had passed, it would have been devastating to California communities and the environment,” said Dan Taylor, director of public policy for Audubon California. “This measure had a hidden and dangerous agenda to destroy important laws and regulations that protect California’s critical birds, wildlife and habitat, and we’re glad that voters saw through it.”

Proposition 98 would have prohibited laws and regulations that “transfer an economic benefit to one or more private persons at the expense of the private owner,” negating virtually all environmental regulations and land-use oversight. In short, the measure would have gutted environmental protections that Californians have come to depend upon to protect their natural treasures.

“This is a big win for anyone who cares deeply about the natural resources that are so vital to California’s identity,” added Taylor.

About Audubon California

Audubon California is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. With more than 50,000 members in California and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of Audubon. This relationship links Audubon California to a national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engaging millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation.

More information is available at www.ca.audubon.org.