AEA President Joins National Leaders in Fight Against Carbon Tax

WASHINGTON D.C. — AEA President Thomas Pyle will speak today at a press conference held by Republican Study Committee Chairman Steve Scalise (R-LA) concerning the harmful impacts of a carbon tax. Chairman Scalise will announce a resolution opposing a national carbon tax. Joining Pyle will be representatives from numerous free market organizations and trade groups that oppose a carbon tax. The text of Pyle’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, follow:

Thank you, Chairman Scalise, for your invitation to speak today and your strong, principled leadership of the Republican Study Committee. The American people depend on affordable energy to power our economy and care for our families. Today’s announced resolution shows how a carbon tax on these energy sources would be harmful to American families. Proponents of a carbon tax suggest a ‘tax swap’ deal in order to offset income or payroll taxes. The Institute for Energy Research, AEA’s parent organization, recently published a study that demonstrates how a carbon tax would not only further confuse the tax code, but would be far more damaging to our economy than the existing tax system. The most glaring problem of a carbon tax, of course, is the negative effects it would have on the American people.

By its very nature, a carbon tax would put an unnecessary burden on American families and businesses by raising energy costs. This increase in costs would not only affect energy prices, such as electricity and gasoline, but will also increase the costs of food and manufactured items that we use in our everyday lives. Chairman Scalise recognizes these negative implications. He understands our need for policies that embrace America’s reliable energy sources and promote economic growth.  For all of these reasons, I am proud to stand here today in support of the Chairman Scalise’s carbon tax resolution. The American Energy Alliance will continue our fight on behalf of American families to oppose Washington’s attempts to limit access to our vast natural resources and increase the price of energy for everyone. With strong leaders like Chairman Scalise, this is a fight we can win.

To read IER’s carbon tax study, click here.
To read a coaltion letter to Chairman Scalise, click here.

What: RSC anti carbon tax press conference
When: Wednesday March 13, 2013 at 3:00 PM ET
Where: House Triangle
###