Washington, DC — Sept 27, 2007 — As part of his continued efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60 to 80 percent by 2050 and limit the damaging effects of global warming, Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) has developed a legislative proposal that would create a fee on carbon emissions.  Before introducing a formal bill, the Congressman is inviting constituents and other interested parties to review his current proposal and provide feedback.  A summary of the draft legislation has been posted on Dingell’s Congressional website along with a form that allows reviewers to offer opinions and suggestions on the carbon tax proposal.

“In order to reduce greenhouse gases and make the planet safe and healthy for future generations it will take a significant investment from all of us,” Dingell said.  “A fee on carbon emissions requires a tithe from all citizens and industries, but no one entity will be unfairly leveled with a devastating burden.  More importantly, it provides an incentive for change in our economy and our way of life.  I welcome public input on how this policy proposal can best balance our environmental and economic concerns and I look forward to receiving feedback.”
 
This proposal is just one component of the Congressman’s efforts to address the issue of global climate change.  Earlier this year, he spearheaded the development of an energy independence bill that was approved by the full House of Representatives this past summer.  This legislation includes efficiency provisions that will reduce energy costs to consumers and remove more than 10.8 billion tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by 2030, an amount equal to five times the annual emissions of all of the cars and trucks on the road in America today.  In addition, the Congressman is working to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions by developing an economy-wide cap-and-trade program.  He is also a co-sponsor the Hill-Terry fuel economy bill, which would mandate an increase in fuel economy standards by nearly 40 percent by 2022.
To access the Congressman’s policy proposal and submit feedback, go to: http://www.house.gov/dingell/carbonTaxSummary.shtml