Gov. Should Sign
Energy Bill

By signaling his intention to veto the legislature’s ground-breaking climate change legislation, Gov. Douglas is proving—again—that when it comes to doing the right thing for the environment, he is more talk and little action.

Vermont Yankee is paying less in property taxes now than it did in 2002. The climate change legislation brings Vermont Yankee’s tax structure up to date with current circumstances and ensures that no company receives preferential treatment, at the expense of Vermont taxpayers and businesses.

It's also very important to note that Vermont Yankee is a nice-sounding name for Entergy Corporation of Louisiana. Not exactly a local concern. I have no problem with their doing business in Vermont, but they should pay a reasonable going rate like everybody else.

The governor wants to wait for someone else to find a solution. But the future of our environment requires decisive action. Our legislators have taken this opportunity to support a huge step in the right direction. Now, the Governor has the opportunity to show some real political courage and real leadership. Will he?

Joel Miller

Randolph Center