Editor, Gazette-Journal:

In 1896, Swedish scientist Svante Arrhenius calculated the warming power of atmospheric C02. On Nov. 27, 2018, bipartisan Bill H.R.7173 was launched in Congress, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividends Act, with a good chance of passage in the 116th Congress.

The bill uses a market-based mechanism to reflect the true price of burning fossil fuels by gradually factoring in costs of global warming (extreme weather events, sea-level rise, etc.). Citizens Climate Lobby has lobbied for this mechanism to facilitate a smooth transition to cleaner, sustainable energy for individuals, businesses and society. It is revenue-neutral: fees, collected when coal, oil and gas are extracted or imported, are returned as equal dividends to adults with a ½ share per child for up to two children per household.

The bill encourages prudent choices and energy efficiency/frugality. The monthly dividend is paid upfront to everyone so folks on tight budgets are not stressed ...