Alaska Governor Sarah Palin Goes "Maverick" on Climate Bill

Palin Opposes Waxman-Markey Energy Bill

June 29, 2009, Anchorage, Alaska – Alaska Governor Sarah Palin announced today she does not support a controversial piece of federal climate change legislation that is making its way through Congress. The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 is authored by U.S. Representatives Henry Waxman and Ed Markey.

Article continues below...

Governor Palin is concerned about the economic and environmental impacts the legislation could have on Alaska. “This bill does not offer enough flexibility to states to meet national standards and goals,” Governor Palin said. “Flexibility is particularly important for Alaska. Our cold climate and rural populations make it difficult for Alaskans to implement technologies that work elsewhere. Again, this is a case of one size doesn’t fit all.”

Multiple state agencies are continuing to review the version of the legislation that passed the U.S. House. Previous versions of the bill presented problems in nearly every facet of industry, commerce, and everyday life for Alaskans. State agencies found inadequacies in the areas of mitigation, allocations, infrastructure, and adaptation.

The governor also noted some of the broad policy statements in the bill will likely lead to stricter regulations that don't necessarily solve any problems.

Governor Palin intends to work with Alaska's congressional delegation to address the state's concerns.

Source: Alaska Governor