Idaho Environmental Forum #150
The National Association of Attorneys General Initiative on Energy

SPEAKERS

The Honorable Lawrence G. Wasden, Idaho Attorney General and President of the National Association of Attorneys General

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Attorney General Lawrence Wasden has identified energy policy and climate change as the issues he intends to focus on as the new President of the National Association of At­torneys General. His role as lawyer is not that of an advo­cate on these issues, he says. Rather, attorneys general must be prepared to assist governmental bodies in understanding the range of legal and policy options available to them as they address these groundbreaking issues. He explained, “We’re not policymakers, but we are in a position to help policymakers make important choices that will affect us all.” The Attorney General will also share his thoughts on Idaho’s energy future. His presentation is timely. It comes at a time when proposals for major new energy projects are coming – and going – fast. The Legislature is pondering proposals for energy facility siting legislation. Interest in wind, bio-diesel, and other alternative supplies is increas­ing. INEL is exploring new, cutting edge technologies. Idaho Power is in the midst of relicensing its major projects and litigating its water rights. Much is at stake. We look forward to hearing the Attorney General’s thoughts on where Idaho (and the nation) is headed, and how the State’s legal team can help shape that future.