Up in the Air

By Bill Polits

Senator Lisa Murkowski's (R-Alaska) resolution to stop the EPA from imposing penalties on large emitters of greenhouse gases was defeated yesterday in the Senate, 47 - 53.

The resolution enjoyed the support of all Republican senators and 6 Democratic senators. One of Murkowski's arguments in favor of the resolution was that if the EPA were regulate carbon emissions it would would lead to an "economic trainwreck."

Analysis is wide-ranging on what this means for the future of climate legislation in the Senate. Since the Democrats had to work hard to keep more votes from slipping away, It is safe to say that difficulties lie ahead for senate energy and environment legislation, which among other things, might impose limits on the use of HFCs in fire suppression.

You may follow this link for further information on the topic.