The U.S. Senate should pass legislation to combat global warming by imposing mandatory reductions in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. I doubt that many of our readers will be surprised to learn that a few powerful Republicans in the Senate oppose the bill and will make its passage very difficult. A request by Democrats to begin considering substantive changes in the bill was initially blocked by the GOP senators. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada has promised a thorough debate. It should be undisputed that “global warming is real.” I believe Congress has a moral responsibility to take all action necessary to attack the global warming issue. Thus far, the powerful oil companies – with the backing of the Bush Administration – have successfully stalled all real efforts to combat this most serious problem. Supporters of the most recent bill have acknowledged passage will be difficult — perhaps impossible — and that the GOP filibuster threat against the legislation, as long as Bush is in control, will put off action on global warming until the next Congress with a new next president.

The Senate measure, which has wide Democratic and limited Republican support, would cap U.S. emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, cutting them by 18% by 2020 and by two-thirds by mid-century. It would specifically target refineries, power plants, factories and transportation for 70% reductions and make emissions allowances available to be traded in an open market. I find it hard to find any justifiable reason for opposing this legislation. Nevertheless, it appears the GOP Senators will be able to delay passage of the bill. As a result, the bill will go over to the next Congress. Hopefully, it will then pass.

Source: Associated Press

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