That’s not much of a change from last month, according to Sen. Bob Bennett and Rep. Rob Bishop.
Both men are receiving thousands of correspondence from constituents worried the cap and trade legislation would add tax to utility bills — and most Utahns oppose the legislation.
The bill, H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009, has passed the house and is awaiting action in the senate.
The bill is supposed to limit carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel use. However, Bennett doesn’t think it will will accomplish the desired effect.
“The fact of the matter is it’s not going to have that much of an effect on carbon emissions, but it is going to have a serious effect on your pocketbook,” Bennett said. “Cap and trade is a bad idea and we must do everything we can in the Senate to see to it that the House bill does not pass.”
Bennett said “the bill would put an additional tax on everyone’s utility bills in the name of trying to hold down carbon emissions.
“It would result in a massive energy tax that would affect every sector of our economy, and provides few, if any, corresponding environmental benefits.”
Bennett fears the legislation will particularly affect those families living on the margin who can least afford higher energy bills, something Bishop agrees with. He has said the bill will drastically increase energy prices at a time Americans can least afford it.
Bennett added that some analysis have shown that cap-and-trade would almost immediately raise the energy expenses of an average family of four by $1,870 per year. That cost could rise to $6,800 per year by 2035, he said.
“It would also result in a migration of high-paying American jobs to countries overseas where there is less regulation and energy is more affordable.”
Bennett has also receive many calls and letters regarding Sotomayor’s nomination to the Supreme Court, and has indicated he will vote against the judge.
“It is the constitutional duty of a senator to examine whether a nominee will uphold and defend the principles contained in the Constitution, respect the rule of law, render well-reasoned and precedent-respecting decisions, and refrain from judicial activism,” Bennett said.
“Although Judge Sotomayor has strong credentials, extensive experience and an impressive background, I have come to the conclusion that her record while serving on the Second Circuit argues against promoting her to the highest court in the land.”
Bennett said, “Judge Sotomayor has stated that she believes American judges should consider foreign law when interpreting the Constitution.” But Bennett disagrees, saying, “The Constitution is an inspired document and I strongly believe the Supreme Court should strictly interpret American law based on the Constitution rather than the laws of other countries.”
Bennett said that while he supports the president’s constitutional prerogative to nominate justices, “and am reluctant to substitute my judgement for his, I have decided that I must vote no.”
Bishop is still hearing from constituents regarding health care, with most believing the solution should remain market-based, emphasizing choice.
Bishop himself opposes a government takeover of health care.
mwilliams@davisclipper.com
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