What: Activists from Rainforest Action Network (RAN), Global Exchange and Plug In America rally today outside Santa Monica Toyota to pressure the company to stop opposing a California law that would reduce greenhouse gas pollution from vehicles.

Despite its "green" reputation, Toyota is currently fighting the state's efforts to implement AB 1493, legislation that would reduce vehicle global warming emissions and slow climate change. By focusing its energies on mass producing fuel efficient plug-in hybrid electric vehicles rather than fighting California's Clean Cars Law, Toyota could easily meet the emissions standards mandated by the new law and become an international leader in fuel economy.

WHEN: Monday, October 22 at 12 p.m.

WHERE: Toyota Santa Monica; 801 Santa Monica Blvd. in Santa Monica.

WHO: Activists from RAN, Global Exchange, Plug In America, and other concerned citizens.

VISUALS: Giant balloon banner reading: "Toyota: Be a Leader, Not a Follower," and several ultra-fuel-efficient plug-in electric hybrid vehicles. WHY: California is one of several states trying to curb global warming through strict regulation of tailpipe pollution. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (AAM), which lobbies on behalf of major auto companies including Toyota, Ford and GM, is fighting such efforts by suing states that attempt to pass pollution regulations. The AAM is currently lobbying against California's request for a federal waiver under the Clean Air Act so that would allow the state to enact stricter tailpipe emissions standards.

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