©2025 League of Conservation Voters
1977 Scorecard Vote
55
36
5
Issues
(S 252) The vote is on the Baker substitute to the Riegle-Griffin amendment. The Riegle-Griffin amendment would have substantially weakened protection against auto emissions by delaying the 1 gram per mile NOx standard for two years (from 1980 to 1982) and the hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide standards for one year (from 1979 to 1980). Baker’s compromise retained the committee’s earlier 1 gram NOx standard but accepted the one year delay for HC and CO. It allowed some 1980 and 1981 cars to emit up to 2 grams of NOx if they had innovative engine and emission systems not using precious metals and if they could meet other emission standards. All cars would have to comply with the standards by 1982. Environmentalists supported Baker’s amendment. Considering the enormous pressure exerted by the auto industry, the vote in favor of Baker was considered a coup for clean air. The Administration supported the committee bill and opposed the Riegle-Griffin amendment. Adopted 56-38. June 9, 1977. Yes is the correct vote.
©2025 League of Conservation Voters