News

Coleman Reportedly Readies Plan to Block Action on Global Warming

Plan Would Prevent States and EPA from Limiting Carbon Pollution; New Poll Shows Minnesotans Favor Limits on Emissions

For Immediate Release
Contact: Kelly Scanlan, Minnesota Natural Legacy Campaign
651-247-1047

October 19, 2006

St. Paul (October 19, 2006) - As Senator Norm Coleman reportedly prepares to unveil a proposal to block states and the EPA from limiting the pollution that causes global warming, a new poll shows 62% of Minnesotans favor restricting these emissions.

The poll released today by the Minnesota Natural Legacy Campaign (MNLC) finds that 81% of Minnesotans believe a cap on carbon emissions will encourage the use of ethanol and biodiesel and will reduce our dependence on foreign oil

"This poll clearly shows that Minnesotans understand that if we get serious about fighting global warming we can open up new economic opportunities and reduce our dependence on foreign oil," said Kelly Scanlan, Director of the MNLC.

"It is clear from the poll that combating global warming is an issue that crosses party lines. If the reports about Coleman’s proposal are true, he seems to be out of step with most Minnesotans on global warming pollution, Scanlan added.

The poll also found that:

• 77% of Minnesotans support using tax dollars to fund research on developing biofuels
• 74% of Minnesotans believe limiting carbon emissions will create new skilled jobs in making environmentally cleaner products;
• 59% of Minnesotans are more likely to vote for a candidate who favors mandatory caps on greenhouse gas emissions, over a candidate who favors either no cap or a voluntary limit.

The poll was conducted by Decision Resources, Ltd. who surveyed 625 registered voters in Minnesota from August 24 - September 10, 2006. The poll has a 4% margin of error.

Minnesota Natural Legacy Campaign is a group of concerned citizens who recognize that human activities are changing the Earth’s climate in a way that threatens the state’s natural heritage, economy, and quality of life. To find out more about coalition or the issue please visit www.mnlegacy.com.