News Release
« BackSenate May Vote on Resolution Disapproving EPA Climate Regulations
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) announced she intends to invoke her privilege under the Congressional Review Act to bring up for a vote on June 10 a resolution by Congress disapproving of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) finding allowing the Administration to issue Greenhouse Gas (GHG) rules. Should the resolution pass the Senate, which only requires 51 votes, and the House, and be signed by the President (he will veto), the measure would block the EPA from acting on GHG rules ahead of Congress.
In 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the EPA must regulate GHGs if it determines they pose a risk to public health, a determination the Agency made in April 2009. Congress had sought to preempt the EPA’s regulations but has yet to move on a comprehensive climate bill. Sen. Murkowski claims 41 supporters for her resolution, including Democratic Senators Ben Nelson (NE), Blanche Lincoln (AR) and Mary Landrieu (LA). Two other Democrats, Sens. Jay Rockefeller (WV) and Jim Webb (VA) also indicate support but may offer a resolution blocking EPA action for two years while Congress addresses the issue.
While most observers do not expect the resolution to secure the 51 votes needed for Senate passage, it could prove to be an indicator of support or opposition for a climate change bill being pushed by Sens. John Kerry (D-MA) and Joe Lieberman (I-CT). Last summer, One Voice members sent nearly 400 letters to the House of Representatives within 24 hours on a climate change bill that would disadvantage domestic manufacturers. One Voice will issue more information on the Murkowski Resolution of Disapproval and on how to contact your Senators when Congress returns from its current weeklong recess.
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