Published: January 22, 2010

Republican Blocking EPA Climate Rules Premature, Favors Coal over Gas

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Resolution Curtailing EPA Greenhouse Gas Authority Is Premature. Action would favor coal at expense of Alaska natural gas

Republicans for Environmental Protection (REP) today expressed disappointment at Senator Lisa Murkowski's (R-AK) announcement that she plans to introduce a resolution curtailing the Environmental Protection Agency's authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

REP characterized the action as both counterproductive and premature. REP also questioned why Murkowski would pursue an action that favors coal at the expense of natural gas, which Alaska has in abundance.

"While we agree that passing comprehensive climate legislation is the preferable approach for limiting greenhouse gas emissions, it would be far more prudent for Congress to consider EPA's proper role in controlling greenhouse gas emissions within the context of that legislation, not before," REP Vice President for Government and Political Affairs David Jenkins said.

"Limiting EPA authority now is akin to a carpenter tossing away his toolbox en route to a job site."

"Alaska has huge gas reserves that could supply America with abundant, clean-burning energy for years to come. Curtailing EPA's authority to limit greenhouse gas emissions would give coal a break at the expense of gas. Why would Senator Murkowski want to do that?" REP Vice President for Policy and Communications Jim DiPeso said.

"Senator Murkowski putting her thumb on the scale for coal would reduce demand for gas, potentially putting many Alaska jobs and a vital pipeline project in jeopardy," DiPeso said. "Senator Murkowski's action is equally perplexing in that Alaskans are catching the brunt of climate change impacts and are depending on prompt action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," DiPeso added.