Senate Climate Bill Faltering
A Senate bill to cut greenhouse gases and address climate change is heading toward almost certain defeat after nearly a week of stalemate and partisan bickering. Both sides are charging the other with blocking action.
The Associated Press has learned that senators close to the issue privately say there is virtually no chance to get the 60 votes they need to break a Republican filibuster. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has set a vote for noon on Friday. If the vote falls short, he will pull the measure off the floor.
The legislation would require power plants, refineries and factories to reduce their carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by 71 percent by mid-century. Republicans complain the reductions would produce higher energy costs and harm the economy. The bill’s supporters say energy costs can be controlled and something must be done urgently to address global warming.
