Debbie Dingell: “as an active participant in the initial floor debate on the Kyoto Protocol funding limitation I want to clarify several…”

“as an active participant in the initial floor debate on the Kyoto Protocol funding limitation I want to clarify several issues. I supported the effort of my good friend, Mr. Obey, to clarify EPA's role. At that time we were concerned that EPA might violate the laws against advocating a treaty that has not been ratified by the United States Senate. We agreed that we should curtail lobbying and other activities, including implementing by regulation or statutory action a treaty which is, A. not in the interest of the United States, and B. which is not ratified and is not going to be ratified. The amendment regarding the Kyoto Protocol funding limitation offered by Mr. Olver to the VA/HUD appropriations bill today also raises the issue of what authority EPA has under current law. At this point, I would like to enter into the Record a letter I sent to Mr. McIntosh, Chairman of the House Subcommittee on National Economic Growth, Natural Resources and Regulatory Affairs, and Mr. Calvert, Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment. As the Chairman of the House Conference on the Clean Air Act amendments of 1990, I understand the boundaries on EPA authority. The boundaries must be maintained and not allowed to grow through mission- creep. I will insist on this point and be watching over EPA.”