Environmental Leader

Normally, Democratic senators can be expected to stand with President Obama and his proposals, but some key lawmakers may become obstacles in the path of cap-and-trade carbon emissions standards.

Citing the burden the standards would put on manufacturing, particularly automobile-related manufacturing, Michigan Democratic senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow are signaling their opposition.

Levin, six other Democrats and 26 Republicans are objecting to a Senate procedural budget reconciliation process that would limit debate and amendments to Obama’s proposed debate cap-and-trade legislation, according to the Detroit News.

As for Stabenow, she thinks it’s unfair for Obama to tie his 10-year, $150 billion effort to boost alternative energy technology, including auto research, to the cap-and-trade plan. Stabenow said the auto industry needs financing for energy research “right now.”

Energy Secretary Steven Chu has pledged to work with Congress on passage of Obama’s cap-and-trade system.

Some funding aspects of Obama’s budget proposal would come from auctions for carbon emissions permits.

Advertisers

Benchmark Your Company's Sustainability Goals

Custom research and advice on corporate sustainability and clean tech >>