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March 4, 2015
Are U.S. Oil Refineries Prepared for Climate Change?
It's been a bad year for oil refineries. The nationwide strike against unsafe working conditions and other unfair labor practices is in its fifth week, with more than 7,000 workers participating. Two weeks ago, an explosion at a Los Angeles refinery demonstrated the validity of the United Steelworkers’ health and safety concerns, injuring four workers and raining ash on surrounding neighborhoods. Now a new report from the Union of Concerned Scientists suggests that refineries and the communities near them face yet another unaddressed risk: climate change. Read more.
President Vetoes Keystone XL Pipeline Bill
President Obama followed through on his pledge and vetoed the Keystone XL bill last week, within hours of the bill arriving at his desk. Obama explained that he vetoed the bill because it “conflicts with established executive branch procedures and cuts short thorough consideration of issues that could bear on our national interest -- including our security, safety, and environment . . . .” Learn more.
A 300-Foot High Fireball from an Exploding Bakken Oil Train: When Will New Rail Safety Standards Be Approved?
On Presidents' Day, a train carrying volatile crude oil derailed in Fayette County, West Virginia, igniting several railcars and creating a fireball 300 feet high. While no one was seriously injured, the incident is a stark reminder of the need for stronger safeguards to protect communities near the tracks that transport crude oil. See how rail accidents have increased.
Dollar Stores Found Selling Toys, Earrings, and More Containing Lead and Other Toxins
Target and Walmart made headlines in 2013 when both companies pledged to phase-out certain hazardous chemicals from their supply chains, good news for the millions of Americans who rely on these stores for household and personal care products. But discount retailers known as "dollar stores" have yet to follow suit, putting the communities they serve at risk of toxic chemical exposures. Get more info.
Sign-on Letter Urges Pfizer to Leave ALEC
The Center for Effective Government, along with 83 other organizations, signed on to a letter urging pharmaceutical company Pfizer to leave the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Over the last few months, numerous companies have ended their ALEC membership due to concerns about the harmful role ALEC has played in our democratic process. Pfizer should do the same. Read more.
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