(sample proclamation)

WHEREAS, diesel exhaust is a serious public health risk, listed as a human carcinogen since 1990 and a toxic air contaminant since 1998, which is responsible for 70 percent of the cancer risk in California from toxic air contaminants and a major contributor to asthma and other lung diseases; and

WHEREAS, particulate matter air pollution, especially fine particles, can be inhaled deeply into the lungs and cause serious damage; and

WHEREAS, 4.2 million Californians suffer from lung disease, which is growing faster than most other leading killers; and

WHEREAS, the city of (name of city/county) realizes the need for cleaner methods of transportation that can help communities reduce air pollution, including natural gas, fuel cell, and electric-powered buses, cars and trucks; and

WHEREAS, the month of May is the American Lung Association’s Clean Air Month, designed to raise public awareness about the serious health consequences of diesel exhaust and other air pollutants; and

WHEREAS, (name of city/county) fully supports the need for California’s zero-emission vehicle program; and

WHEREAS, people can make a difference by driving cleaner-fueled vehicles with reduced rental and purchase rates through a partnership with the American Lung Association and EV Rental Cars (www.californialung.org); and

WHEREAS, the California Bike Commute (May 13-17) is cosponsored by the American Lung Association of California and the California Bicycle Coalition, and promotes the use of bicycling as a viable commute alternative; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, I, (name of Mayor/Supervisor), Mayor/Supervisor of the city/county of (name of city/county), do hereby fully proclaim May as the AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION’S CLEAN AIR MONTH and May 13-17 CALIFORNIA BIKE COMMUTE WEEK and encourage all residents to participate in this worthwhile effort.