By a 219-212 vote, the United States House of Representatives has narrowly passed landmark climate control/energy reform legislation. Rep. Mike Castle was one of only 8 Republicans to vote yes.
The legislation would require the U.S. to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent from 2005 levels by 2020 and by about 80 percent by mid-century. That was slightly more aggressive than Obama originally wanted, 14 percent by 2020 and the same 80 percent by mid-century.
U.S. carbon dioxide emissions from the burning of fossil fuels are rising at about 1 percent a year and are predicted to continue increasing without mandatory limits.
Under the bill, the government would limit heat-trapping pollution from factories, refineries and power plants and issue allowances for polluters. Most of the allowances would be given away, but about 15 percent would be auctioned by bid and the proceeds used to defray higher energy costs for lower-income individuals and families.
Allow El Somnambulo to praise Rep Castle for a courageous vote, one that was essential for the passage of this bill. He stood up to his own party in helping to pass this very important bill. That took guts, and the Beast Who Slumbers thanks him for it. Time to turn attention to Tom Carper…