Baltimore, MD (April 18, 2008) – Governor Martin O’Malley, today, joined 18 Governors in signing the Governor’s Declaration on Climate Change.

O’Malley joined Governors from across the country, representing both political parties in signing this pledge to recommit to the effort to stop global warming and called on Congressional leaders and the Presidential candidates to work with states - in partnership - to establish a comprehensive national climate policy. The Declaration laid out three principles: the need for a partnership between state and federal government, the role of current state policies with demonstrated effectiveness as a framework for national policy, and the need to establish meaningful rewards for success at both the state and federal level.

"Governor O’Malley signed this declaration to highlight the leadership states have continued to take for our country on climate change. Whether it is blocking the implementation of clean cars or moving forward with critical energy reduction and other climate change programs, the federal government has not stepped up,” said MDE Secretary Shari T. Wilson. “An estimated 800 people cheered as the governors on hand affixed their signature to the declaration already signed by 14 other governors today including Governor O’Malley."

A signing ceremony was held during the Conference of Governors at Yale University. The first Conference of Governors was convened 100 years ago, President Roosevelt to establish a conservation partnership between the states and the federal government. Always the pragmatist, Roosevelt said, “My concern is not the academic discussion of either the principles of State rights or the principle of National sovereignty, but it’s what will best conserve the needs of the people as a whole.” What was true in 1908 remains true in 2008.

The 2008 conference was convened because of recognition that States are facing a new threat to our natural resources and our way of life, and Governors are prepared to act with similar courage and determination to meet the needs of our citizens

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