FACTBOX-Reaction To Obama Moves On Environment

`I am fearful that today`s action will begin the process of setting the American auto industry back even further,` Sen. George Voinovich.

In a reversal of Bush administration policies, U.S. President Barack Obama said states had the right to toughen rules on vehicle emissions standards. He also ordered the Department of Transportation to set stricter fuel economy standards for the 2011 model year.

Here is some reaction:

DEMOCRATIC SEN. BARBARA BOXER OF CALIFORNIA, CHAIRWOMAN OF ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

"An immediate EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) review of the waiver decision shows respect for California and the 18 other states -- representing more than half the U.S. population -- who are waiting for the green light to address global warming pollution from motor vehicles."

"When the waiver is signed, it will be a signal to Detroit that a huge market awaits them if they do the right thing and produce the cleanest, most efficient vehicles possible."

REPUBLICAN GOV. ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER OF CALIFORNIA

"Allowing California and other states to aggressively reduce their own harmful vehicle tailpipe emissions would be a historic win for clean air and for millions of Americans who want more fuel-efficient, environmentally-friendly cars."

HOUSE SPEAKER NANCY PELOSI, DEMOCRAT FROM CALIFORNIA

"This morning, President Obama signaled that our country can no longer afford to wait to combat the climate crisis and our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. He is setting our country on a path led by science and innovation. "

REPUBLICAN SEN. GEORGE VOINOVICH OF OHIO, MEMBER OF ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE

"I am fearful that today's action will begin the process of setting the American auto industry back even further.

"The federal government should not be piling on an industry already hurting in a time like this."

GENERAL MOTORS CORP

"GM is working aggressively on the products and the advance technologies that match the nation's and consumer's priorities to save energy and reduce emissions."

"We're ready to engage the Obama administration and Congress on policies that support meaningful and workable solutions and targets"

"We look forward to contributing to a comprehensive policy discussion that takes into account the development pace of new technologies, alternative fuels and market and economic factors."

UNITED AUTO WORKERS UNION LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR ALAN REUTHER

"It will certainly be challenged in court and take a long time to resolve."

NATURAL RESOURCES DEFENSE COUNCIL PRESIDENT FRANCES BEINECKE

"By raising fuel efficiency standards, our cars will burn less gas, Americans will save at the pump, and our country will be less dependent on oil."

ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND DIRECTOR DAVID YARNOLD

"The President is being very smart about this, looking at the economy and environment in a comprehensive way."

"He's rejecting the approach that brought us failing car companies and more pollution, and moving to create jobs, cut our oil addiction, and protect the environment."