U.S. Senate support for efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions face an early test when they return from the holiday break. Senators will consider a measure that would restrict the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's power to regulate emissions from power plants and other stationary sources.
Last week, as part of the vote to expand the national debt ceiling, an amendment was included that would block EPA from working on emissions rules. The Senate takes up the debt measure on Jan. 20. The amendment would require EPA to take a one-year break from crafting restrictions based on its endangerment finding on greenhouse gases.
The agreement on the amendment, pushed by Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, is just one action. Murkowski is also seeking a resolution of disapproval that would allow Congress to block EPA's endangerment finding that greenhouse gases threaten human health.
As for that amendment? There was unanimous consent agreement on Dec. 22 on the debt measure. That means the amendment - stopping EPA for a year - would need 60 votes in the Senate to pass.
Powered by iNet Solutions Group ©2011 All Rights Reserved.