I write out of my deep concern for the rapid increase in carbon emissions to our atmosphere. Our leaders must draft and pass legislation now in order to limit the polluting of air by the fossil fuel industry. There is a new bill introduced in the House (H.R. 763) Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Bill.

The bill is the most significant climate change legislation we’ve seen in over a decade. The fee that will be assessed at the source of the carbon extraction will be distributed to the American public. This policy will create over 2 million new jobs, lower health care costs, promote energy innovation, and give people funding.

Why have utility companies only sought further burning of fossil fuels? Where is the critical thinking about the consequences of “We’ve always done it this way”? For 40 years oil industry lobbyists have had the upper hand stifling progress towards implementing renewable energy systems on rooftops, just as Jimmy Carter installed the first solar panels on the White House. Instead of forging ahead to become an example to the rest of the world, our country has taken the back seat.

It’s time to flip the tables. Now is the time to act or we humans will be among the multitudes of species marching towards extinction. The American public enjoys too many privileges without a care. I think there ought to be a tax on unnecessary luxuries. Without curtailment at the source, and stopping the habit of burning fossil fuel, the human race is doomed.

I’m considering trading in my trusty Subaru Outback for an American made Chevy Bolt. If I’m willing to make a change, I feel others ought to. I’m willing to give up an outstanding car mainly because of its carbon emissions.

Annie Sheble

Unity