The Competitive Enterprise Institute Daily Update

Issues in the News

1. ENDANGERED SPECIES

Congressman Richard Pombo introduces new legislation that would rewrite the Endangered Species Act to better protect the rights of property owners. 

CEI Expert Available for Comment: CEI Director of International Environment Policy Myron Ebell congratulates Pombo for his strong leadership.

2. LEGAL & CONSTITUTIONAL

The Colorado state treasurer says the Master Settlement Agreement between Big Tobacco and 46 state attorneys general violates the Constitution and speaks out in support of CEI’s legal challenge to the agreement. 

CEI Expert Available for Comment: Communications Director Christine Hall calls the MSA a permanent sales tax.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS

Native Alaskan Gwich’in Indians claim oil exploration at the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge threatens their culture. 

CEI Expert Available for Comment: Myron Ebell says opening up ANWR for oil exploration will bring American consumers a wealth of affordable energy.

4. ENERGY

The Energy Department sets up a toll-free hotline for complaints of price gouging at gas pumps.

CEI Expert Available for Comment: CEI Senior Fellow Iain Murray on why gouging doesn’t exist.