While some aim to fight for eternity over greenhouse gases and the existence of climate change, legislators whose states or regions rely on coal are working now to fend off new carbon dioxide and methane regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency.
U.S. Rep. Rick Boucher, D-9th, introduced a bill earlier this month to suspend for two years any action by the EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. He was joined by Nick Rahall and Allan Mollahan, both Democrats from West Virginia. A companion bill is being carried in the Senate by Jay Rockefeller, another powerful West Virginia Democrat.
The bills are an effort to buy some time, certainly, but it’s an effort we support because Congress has so far failed to adequately address this issue.
We believe our Congress, and its duly elected members, should make the laws that determine energy policy for our nation. That includes decisions that are tedious, complex or have benefits that might not be realized immediately.
Boucher’s bill focuses on stationary sources, such as power plants, and would allow regulations on mobile sources (vehicles) to move forward. We agree with Boucher, who called this strategy a “responsible middle ground” approach.
Climate change deniers don’t want to have this conversation. Many industry officials acknowledge change is necessary, but fear the associated costs could be so high as to cripple their businesses. Citizens fear electricity bills could explode. But the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that greenhouse gases are pollutants. That means that the EPA is legally compelled to regulate those gases under the Clean Air Act. The ruling does not allow the EPA to consider economic impacts for any industry, as Congress can. We are not suggesting that Congress attempt to hold the EPA off forever, but a two-year hiatus to give Congress time to act is reasonable.
We believe it is Congress’ job to make laws for our nation. We should not be ruled by EPA regulations because Congress cannot agree and fails to act.
Boucher’s support of the American Clean Energy and Security Act in 2009 has been loudly criticized, but we supported his efforts and strategy then and we don’t waver in that support now. He worked for years to include key provisions in the bill, including $10 billion for clean coal technology, and other provisions that focus on using coal while reducing greenhouse emissions.
These are provisions that are crucial to coal-producing regions – really the entire Southeastern United States, which depends on coal for its electricity. But so far, the measure, which passed the House, has not found traction in the Senate.
Normally, we oppose stalling, but this calls for a balanced approach – and the time to reach it. We urge Congress to step up and act to develop a plan that reduces greenhouse gases without harming American business and our energy independence. And approve the delaying measure so there is time to do it right. But those who think the EPA can be put off forever or that this issue can be argued away are being irresponsible.
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