SACRAMENTO - Assemblymember Hector De La Torre (D- South Gate) was named the 2006 Legislator of the Year by the California League of Conservation Voters.  The award will be presented today during CLCV’s annual Sacramento lobby day.

CLCV cited Assemblymember De La Torre’s leadership on the Assembly floor as the impetus for the award.  Specifically, he played an instrumental role in securing the passage of key environmental legislation last year.  Many important environmental bills were passed in the Legislature, including air emission reductions, groundwater protection, and promotion of alternative fuels.

“When the top priority environmental bills get to the Assembly floor, Assemblymember De La Torre is all business.  He knows what the bills do and who the key votes are, and he goes after them, lobbying fellow legislators skillfully and persistently,” stated Thomas Adams, CLCV Board President.  “Through his hard work he has earned the thanks and respect of the environmental community.”

“California has always been recognized as the leading force for environmental stewardship. Together with my colleagues, we have passed significant legislation that will improve the quality of our lives and our health,” stated De La Torre.  “I am proud to be recognized by the California League of Conservation Voters and look forward to continuing our collaboration throughout my term in the State Assembly.  The protection and preservation of our air, water and natural resources benefits all Californians, particularly our future generations.”

For 34 years, the California League of Conservation Voters has been dedicated to defending and strengthening the laws that safeguard the wellness of our neighborhoods and the beauty of our great state.