Senate to Mother Earth: Sorry, Mom

Word from Independent U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders' office that the subcommittee Ol' Bernardo sits on on the Environment and Public Works Committee that handles global warming approved on a 4-3 vote today "a global warming bill that Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) opposed because it would not reduce emissions of greenhouse gases as much as scientists say is necessary to stop catastrophic changes in Earth’s climate.

“This bill is a step in the right direction, but it simply does not go far enough to do what scientists tell us must be done to stop global warming,” Sanders said. “If we are not extremely bold and aggressive, this planet faces a catastrophe in the years to come.”

"Catastrophe?"

Yep. That is what many reasonable, intelligent people are saying.

Still, it could have been worse. A lot worse. Were the Republicans still the majority party, there wouldn't have even been a global warming bill!

Look at the bright side!

As Paul Burns over at the Vermont Public Interest Research Group pointed out to yours truly, "Bernie actually proposed nine different amendments to strengthen the bill, one of which was accepted.  Most of the others were defeated 5-2 or on a voice vote.  It's really true that no one in the Senate (perhaps the US gov't) is doing more than Bernie Sanders to fight global warming."

The Senator's release notes that, "Added to the bill was a Sanders provision that would encourage automobile manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency. To be eligible for a pool of new funds to produce more fuel efficient cars, auto makers first would have to manufacture vehicles that get at least 35 miles per gallon."

See.

A tree did grow in Brooklyn, after all!

Comments

[Pat]

That is interesting to see about the Senator's notes. There is actually an Energy Bill in congress right now that calls for a fuel economy standard of 35 mpg by the year 2020. Unfortunately, lobbyists want this provision removed. There is a lot in the energy bill that could help reduce greenhouse gases. I'm working with a group to try and make sure the strongest bill goes through. There is a petition here http://energybill2007.us, it would be great if you could sign it or spread the world. Thanks!