MASSACHUSETTS PRESSES FEDS ON CO2

Following yesterday's post on the need for governments to take action, here is a progressive state taking legal action to force the federal government into making progress.

Massachusetts challenges federal energy rules
May 7, 2007 (Reuters)
US Circuit Court Districts (click to enlarge)
WHO
State of Massachusetts (Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley), US government’s Department of Energy (DOE), the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

WHAT
Massachusetts field suit against the federal government for failing to set standards and protect against global warming.

WHEN
The suit was filed May 7, challenging a march 7 decision by the
click to enlarge
WHERE
The 1st US Circuit is based in Boston. The DOE standards would be national. Global warming is, well, global.

WHY
- DOE claims it lacks authority to set more rigid standards limiting green house gas emissions. Massachusetts believes it has the authority, according to the 2005 Energy Policy Act, and is culpable for consequences of climate change not prevented by doing so. Massachusetts believes DOE should set rigid standards for energy consuming products in US offices, schools and hotels. Federal studies suggest rigid standards just for air conditioners could eliminate the need for building several power plants by saving some 2.913 quadrillion BTUs over 27 years.
- The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Earthjustice are bringing a similar action in the 2nd U.S Circuit Court of Appeals (NYC).

QUOTES
Coakley: "We intend to continue to press the federal government to live up to its statutory responsibilities to address excess emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants…"