Supporters are making their case for sweeping climate change legislation on the Senate floor. California Sen. Dianne Feinstein says the bill would transform the U.S. into a green economy. Todd Zwillich has more.
Senate debate on global warming so far has been little more than speeches. Votes on amendments to the broad bill could begin Wednesday.
Feinstein is a strong backer of the bill. She highlighted one of its aspects: beginning in 2012 the bill increases some costs on polluting industries like utilities, and shifts the money to businesses developing renewable energy.
Feinstein : It does so in a way that encourages innovation and makes the investment in cleaner energy and green practices across the entire economy.
The bill sets up a carbon permit trading system. Feinstein hopes to prevent speculation on the value of the permits -- the kind that hurt California in the 2000 energy crisis.
Despite the debate, the bill faces dim prospects in the Senate. Most lawmakers believe it is unlikely to gain the 60 votes needed to pass. And President Bush has promised a veto of the bill as it’s written.
From Capitol News Connection in Washington, I’m Todd Zwillich for KPBS News.
