In a recent column on carbon taxes published in this newspaper, the author correctly describes French President Emmanuel Macron’s nightmare with violent opposition to his tax on gasoline (“Commentary: A setback for carbon taxes,” Dec. 15). But unfortunately, it did not describe the innovative bill introduced in Congress — the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, sponsored by the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus in the House.

It would raise prices of all fossil fuels while at the same time returning all revenue equally to every resident. A similar plan has been introduced by the Canadian government.

Economic modeling studies of the plans demonstrate that they will be effective, reducing carbon emissions by 40 percent in 12 years. That will reduce air pollution. The plan will also put money directly into people’s pockets every month to spend as they see fit. That will help low- and middle-income Americans with their household budgets.

Not coincidentally the policy will create 2.1 million additional jobs over the next 10 years, thanks to growth in the clean energy economy. Rising prices on fossil fuels will incentivize manufacturers to move toward greater use of renewable fuels (now already cheaper for electricity production) to stay competitive in a free market, one that will eventually be free of all those billions of dollars of tax subsidies now given to coal, oil and gas companies.

Climate change is a problem for everyone, some more than others, and is getting more expensive to adapt to as time goes on. For instance, if you live near the coast, your local municipal council is doubtless discussing budgets of millions of dollars to raise road levels because of rising sea levels.

Peter Garrett

coordinator, Citizens Climate Lobby in Maine

Winslow