SALEM, Ore. (AP) — The Oregon House voted Wednesday to send Gov. Kate Brown a climate-change bill that’s likely to increase gas prices, handing the Democrat a thorny decision as she settles into office.
Brown has spoken favorably of extending Oregon’s low-carbon fuel standard, but she hasn’t specifically said whether she’ll sign the bill. The initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation fuels and spur investments in clean energy. But critics worry about higher gas prices.
Democrats approved the measure by the narrowest of margins, 31-29, after five hours of debate.
“For the health and prosperity of the next generation, we have a responsibility to act,” said Rep. Peter Buckley, D-Ashland. “The destructive impacts of climate change are not just in some far-off future.”
Four Democrats joined all 25 Republicans in opposition.
