Juneau -- The Alaska House of Representatives Monday , by a 29-7 vote, passed House Joint Resolution 33, which urges the U.S. Senate to oppose the ratification of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the so-called "Kyoto Treaty." The measure also asks Congress to act to prevent President Clinton from issuing an executive order or regulation that attempts to implement any provision of the treaty.

"Despite a lack of sound scientific evidence supporting many of its conclusions, the Kyoto treaty sets very tough carbon emissions standards for industrialized countries, including the United States, but exempts 129 developing nations," said Representative Gail Phillips (R-Homer), sponsor of HJR 33. With the total level of such emissions from these developing countries expected to surpass the total from the U.S. and the other covered nations as early as 2015, the burden for addressing the global warming problem would fall disproportionately on our shoulders.

"This treaty was supposed to address this global problem of carbon emissions on a global basis," Phillips said. "It does not do this. Instead, its adoption would result in more government regulations, permits, rationing, and taxes, sharply increased production costs, and the loss of many job from the U.S. and the other industrialized nations."

HJR 33 now moves to the Senate.

Broadcasters note: Audio comments are available on the Majority Actuality line, 1-800-478-6540
= Gail Phillips, 72 K = Gail Phillips, 46 K

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