Release: Global Warming Legislation Will Chill Maryland’s Economy

MD GOP news release:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 29, 2008

Global Warming Legislation Will Chill Maryland’s Economy

ANNAPOLIS—Democrats in the General Assembly have now held hearings on Senate Bill 309 and House Bill 712, bills that would require the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 90% by 2050. Recent newspaper articles have focused on the impact these bills would have on Maryland’s economy and the likelihood that factories would shut down and people would lose jobs. The fiscal note for these bills indicates that there will be significant cost implications for small business, but that no study has been conducted.

Dr. Jim Pelura, Chairman of the Maryland Republican Party, released the following statement:

“Marylanders are blessed to live among such beautiful natural resources, and we have a duty to be good stewards of what we enjoy today and pass on to future generations. There are ways for us to accomplish our mutual goals of a healthy economy and healthy environment, but it cannot be found in more government regulation.

“The legislation being contemplated is radical in requiring a minimum 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the board and fails to even look at the impact that it will have on Maryland’s economy. Like any ‘pie-in-the-sky’ legislation, this one is short on details and will be figured out later by unaccountable bureaucrats.

“A better solution would be to equip entrepreneurs with the tools to solve Maryland’s energy and environmental problems. Give tax credits to companies that cut carbon emissions as an incentive to cut pollution. Give tax credits to homeowners and builders who incorporate alternative energy systems in their homes. Invest in solutions, not more taxes and more regulations that will chill Maryland’s economy.”

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www.mdgop.org