Response from Senator Smith

In late January, about two weeks apart, I received two identical form letters from Senator Smith. Although it was nice to get a written response, I was disappointed that it did not respond to my specific request that the senator co-sponsor or support a strong global warming bill this session. I have re-typed his response below:

January 19, 2007

Dear Friend:

Thank you for contacting me about global climate change. I appreciate the time you took to share your views with me, and I welcome this opportunity to respond.

As a by-product of industrial manufacturing, energy production, and vehicle use, carbon dioxide emissions are projected to rise. This is particularly true as emerging nations such as India and China - nations not subject to carbon reductions under the Kyoto Treaty - continue to industrialize. That is why I supported an amendment to the Energy Policy Act that called on the United States to reinitiate international climate change negotiations and to establish mitigation commitments from all countries that are major emitters of greenhouse gases.

I am a strong supporter of higher fuel efficiency standards that would reduce both gasoline consumption and c arbon dioxide emissions. Several colleagues and I introduced the Fuel Economy Reform Act to encourage the production of alternative-fuel powered cars and SUVs. it would also increase fuel economy standards by four percentage points a year, or at least one mile-per-gallon. I will continue to pursue these goals in the 110th Congress.

i also recognize the great potential of innovative renewable energy projects and their important role in our nation's energy strategy. In the Senate, I actively promote more wind and solar power, wave energy, and ethanol and other biofuel production.

Rest assured, i will keep your comments and the best interests of all Oregonians firmly in mind as matters pertaining to global climate change come before the Senate for consideration. Again, thank you for sharing your views with me.

Warm regards,
Gordon H. Smith
United States Senate