Pennsylvania Sen. Bob Casey and his colleagues on the Finance Committee are wrestling with the enormous challenges of strengthening our nation’s infrastructure and taking meaningful climate action. And they must do both in a fiscally responsible manner.
These challenges give Casey a golden opportunity to champion a single, simple measure that effectively addresses all three issues — putting a price on carbon. A carbon price will motivate Americans to reduce their carbon footprints. It will also incentivize businesses to develop sustainable technology solutions that create jobs.
Furthermore, the proceeds can be used both to help pay for needed infrastructure investments and to assist workers and families impacted by the transition to a sustainable economy. A border adjustment on carbon-intensive imports will protect American businesses from unfair foreign competition.
Multiple media sources report that the Finance Committee is seriously considering carbon pricing as part of its reconciliation legislation. As a member of Citizens’ Climate Lobby for seven years, I have advocated carbon pricing as the most effective measure to address climate change. I urge Casey to support this sensible and balanced approach to climate action, infrastructure enhancement and fiscal responsibility.
Robert R. Mitchell
Murrysville