Its been a busy summer here at 91做厙our lawsuit defending the Migratory Bird Treaty Act has become only more important, were protecting the Greater Sage-Grouse and the places they need in the West from efforts to undermine habitat conservation plans, and were fending off attempts to weaken the Endangered Species Act.
But perhaps the most unexpected development was when Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) announced in July that he is sponsoring a bill that would enact a federal carbon tax. Known as the Market Choice Act, the bill would generate a projected $110 billion in its first year. While the bulk of the revenues would go to the because the act would replace the federal gas taxfive percent, or $5.5 billion, would help strengthen coastal resilience and communities that face chronic coastal flooding. It also directs funds toward low-income households to help pay for rises in energy costs.
There are challenging aspects to this bill. It includes a conditional moratorium on EPA regulation. It sets a price on carbon that starts at $24 per ton. It makes choices about where to invest revenue. There are open questions, from limiting EPA authority to the price per ton to how funds are allocated. But every solution has to have a starting point, and we cant let the perfect be the enemy of the good. After all, were talking about the existential environmental challenge of our time.
This is whats known as a marker billsomething to spark debate and innovative thinking. Co-sponsored by Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Representative Francis Rooney (R-FL), could help achieve the goals set by the Paris Accord or the Clean Power Plan. That is hugely significant, and an idea of that scale demands serious attention. But the devil is always in the details. We hope that, with his release of this proposal, Curbelo ignites a reinvigorated public discussion with decision makers of both political parties.
Ive had the opportunity to meet or speak with more than 50 House members over the past year. Many of them want to have this conversation and want to act. But they need to know this matters to you, too. To tell your U.S. Representative that you support action to address climate change and urge them to come to the table to work on solutions, .
With of a changing climate, were all seeing the impact on the birds we love; its our opportunity to act to ensure that our children, and our childrens children, can grow up enjoying Americas birds.
This story originally ran in the Fall 2018 issue as Climate Change: It's a Bird Issue. To receive our print magazine, become a member by .
