Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon’s carbon footprint would shrink under a bill narrowly approved Friday by the Oregon House.  The measure would affect everything from the fuel you buy to the tires you drive on.  Salem correspondent Chris Lehman reports.

The measure would order new rules on how long big rigs can idle in truck stops or ships can idle in port.  But the centerpiece of the legislation is a section that requires a 10 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicle fuel.

Supporters like Democratic Representative Ben Cannon say that would encourage more use of locally-produced renewable fuels.

Rep. Ben Cannon:  “A low carbon fuel standard along with the other provisions of this bill will take important next steps in the direction of energy independence, green jobs, and prosperity in a carbon-constrained future.”

Opponents ridiculed the bill as a bureaucratic boondoggle that will end up costing businesses and consumers more in the long run.  

The action came on the same day that Oregon lawmakers eased up on another bio-fuel mandate.

The House voted to make ethanol optional for premium-grade gasoline.  Both bills now head to the Senate.

Online:

Oregon House Bill 2186