A measure to limit greenhouse gases using cap and trade is expected to win approval in the House on Friday. Meanwhile a state lawmaker says such a policy either nationally or regionally would "hammer our economy."
Meterologist and State Representative Jim Ott (R-Mequon) is skeptical of "global warming alarmism." Ott says long term weather predictions, although improving, have shown to be potentially inaccurate so it is problematic to implement "expensive" cap and trade programs.
Cap and Trade involves companies purchasing or trading their carbon emissions to reduce overall output of global warming pollutants.
Critics of the policy warn utility costs for consumers would jump. A recent Congressional Budget Office report claims that once implemented the plan would cost billions.
Governor Doyle supports a regional cap and trade with other governors. President Obama claims under cap and trade, millions of jobs would be created in renewable technology.
Recent polling shows Americans believe in regulating greenhouse gases but have increasing opposition to cap and trade.
Ott says it does makes sense to limit fossil fuels, one way to do so is nuclear power. He says up to 20% of Wisconsin's power is from nuclear but increasing it to 40% would lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gases. Currently the state relies on coal power for about 65% of its power.
