Calif. Lawmakers Release Environmental Bills In Attempt To Thwart Trump

"Democratic state senators in California on Thursday unveiled a series of bills designed to freeze in place Obama administration-era environmental regulations in the event the Trump administration moves to weaken them.

The bills, collectively known as the "Preserve California" package, aim to make existing federal clean air, water, and endangered species laws enforceable under state law and protect federal lands in the state from being sold to oil companies.

"The goals and objectives of these measures... is to do everything within our power to make sure the federal government doesn't encroach on our far-reaching progressive policies," California Senate Leader Kevin de Leon said during a press conference in Sacramento on Thursday."

Rory Carroll reports for Reuters February 23, 2017.