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The California High-Speed Rail Authority has named Lance Simmens deputy director of communications and public policy.

He most recently was special assistant for intergovernmental affairs for former Pennsylvania Gov. Edward Rendell. Simmens also served as the chairman of Rendell’s panels on the development of wind and solar energy.

In 2006, Simmens was chosen by former Vice President Al Gore to deliver presentations on the impact of climate change. He previously served as a senior advisor for intergovernmental affairs for four federal agencies, including the U.S. Small Business Administration.