This post is by Sheryl Canter, an online writer and editorial manager at Environmental Defense Fund.
As the Senate edges towards debate on the Climate Security Act, supporters and detractors of the bill are actively pushing for their position.
Some examples from the pro side:
- A coalition of 19 companies, think tanks, and environmental groups sent a letter of endorsement to the Senate [PDF]. The signers include Environmental Defense Fund, Alcoa, and General Electric, among others.
- The AFL-CIO sent a letter of endorsement [PDF] to Barbara Boxer (D-California).
- The United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices sent a letter of endorsement [PDF] to Sen. Boxer.
- A letter to the Senate signed by 30 national hunting and fishing groups endorses the bill, and in particular its fish and wildlife provisions.
- A letter from the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change [PDF] urges people to contact their Senators to support the bill and its provisions for assisting the poor.
The opposition is active as well. For example, the group Americans for Balanced Energy Choices – a front for the coal industry (see this Grist post) – is urging people to oppose the bill.
And meanwhile, the stalling tactics in the Senate continue.