HELENA – A Montana legislator is proposing the state embrace global warming as good for the economy.
Republican Rep. Joe Read of Ronan aims to pass a law that says global warming is a natural occurrence that “is beneficial to the welfare and business climate of Montana.”
Reaction by scientists and environmentalists to House Bill 549 has been harsh. University of Montana climate change professor Steve Running calls it an indefensible attempt to repeal the laws of physics. He says the proposal has made the state a laughingstock.
The bill is being heard in the House Natural Resources Committee Friday afternoon.
Another climate change bill by Read is also being heard Friday. House Bill 550 would claim the state has authority over the EPA when it comes to regulating greenhouse gases.