Professor Frank Speaks on Federalism and Environmental Law at Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

Professor of Environmental Practice Richard Frank spoke on January 30 at a conference sponsored by the Federalist Society and held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California.  Frank spoke on the topic: "Federalism, Environmental Law & Situational Federalism." 

Frank's presentation emphasized the fact that federalism is a cornerstone of modern American environmental law, with most key federal environmental statutes relying upon a federal-state partnership to implement and enforce those laws.  Frank also observed that progressives and conservatives alike tend to invoke federalism principles only selectively, when it suits their underlying policy and political objectives.  He described several examples of this "situational federalism" in the context of current environmental law and policy settings.

Frank, a 1974 graduate of King Hall, is a leader in the field of environmental law and the founding Director of the California Environmental Law and Policy Center at UC Davis School of Law.