Another strategy is to address the economy and climate directly. A fee and dividend (economic) approach can be a very effective way to address these problems. In this proposal, a fee is placed on all carbon-producing fuels at the point of production, or if imported, at the point of entry. This fee is not a tax because it would not grow the government. Instead, it would be equitably refunded to all households nationally. It is revenue-neutral. The dividend would more than compensate two-thirds of U.S. citizens for the rise in cost of fuels. This would boost the economy and create greater competition in the market for energy sources, stimulating alternative energy growth.

This approach has been studied by the nonpartisan Regional Economic Models, Inc. The study indicates that a revenue-neutral carbon fee would slash emissions and add net jobs to the U.S. economy (see citizensclimatelobby.org/remi-report/). Fee and dividend has been supported by members of both major political parties. Please let Sens. Cory Gardner and Michael Bennet, and Rep. Scott Tipton know you support this plan and urge them to do the same.

Andrew Zeiler

Gem Village