Calif. to Cap Greenhouse Gas Emissions

[jpak]

http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/nat-gen/2006/aug/30/083009377.html

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California would become the first state to impose a limit on all greenhouse gas emissions, including those from industrial plants, under a landmark deal reached Wednesday by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative Democrats.

The agreement marks a clear break with the Bush administration and puts California on a path to reducing its emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by an estimated 25 percent by 2020.

The bill still needs lawmakers' approval, but that appears likely, given that Democrats control the Legislature.

The deal gives Schwarzenegger a key environmental victory as he seeks re-election this fall.

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[hatrack]

1. And how exactly do they propose to cap emissions? Trading? Fines?

Nice idea, but let's see what's in the details. Color me cynical, but "key environmental victory as he seeks re-election this fall" is all I can see at the moment.

On edit: OTOH, it might even work. We'll see. And besides, it's always fun to watch Pukes call for federal action first. :eyes:

2nd edit: from the article's fine print: "The negotiated bill included a provision allowing the governor to push the cap deadline back by one year 'in the event of extraordinary circumstances, catastrophic events or threat of significant economic harm.'"

[phantom power]

2. Exactly. Who's going to enforce this "cap?" And how?

:eyes: