The complete text of the Waxman/Markey climate change measure, including the deal announced late yesterday between Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman and Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson, is expected to be released to Representatives later today, in preparation for floor debate beginning Friday. Lagging behind the House proceedings, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid won't meet with Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer, Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Jeff Bingaman, Foreign Relations Chairman John Kerry and Agriculture Chairman Tom Harkin to discuss the Senate version until after the Independence Day recess.
Waxman agreed with Peterson to give USDA, rather than USEPA, oversight of agricultural activities coming under the cap and trade program, and to suspend for at least five years the EPA proposal to factor in Brazilian rain forest land use changes into calculation of the carbon footprint of American corn based ethanol. The deal gives USDA veto power over a National Academy of Sciences study on the land use issue during the interim five year period. Look for House passage of the climate change bill before the Independence Day recess, and for Boxer and other Senate leaders to fall substantially in line soon after Congress reconvenes.
Waxman agreed with Peterson to give USDA, rather than USEPA, oversight of agricultural activities coming under the cap and trade program, and to suspend for at least five years the EPA proposal to factor in Brazilian rain forest land use changes into calculation of the carbon footprint of American corn based ethanol. The deal gives USDA veto power over a National Academy of Sciences study on the land use issue during the interim five year period. Look for House passage of the climate change bill before the Independence Day recess, and for Boxer and other Senate leaders to fall substantially in line soon after Congress reconvenes.
