Oregon cap-and-trade bill moves forward amid controversy

SALEM, Ore. (KATU) - Oregon's cap-and-trade bill faces another hurdle on Monday when a senate committee is scheduled to hold a vote on the legislation.

Senate Bill 1530 would put a cap on statewide carbon emissions, and lower that number over time. It would require fossil fuels, electrical, and industrial sectors to purchase allowances for their emissions or offset them.

Those who are against the bill said parts of it -- like fuel taxes -- could run some rural Oregonians out of business. They anticipate a walkout before it can move forward.

“What I hope happens into the future is that we start finding solutions where we can work together-- both parties at the table to actually make some progress towards a solution to climate change," Sandy's Mayor Stan Pulliam said.

Winery owner and SB 1530 supporter Pat Dudley said her business of growing pinot noir may not be possible in the years ahead.

"Within a decade it may be too warm here. But that’s not the concern. We’re going to have drought, we’re going to have way too much heat to grow anything here," Dudley said.

Both sides tell KATU they don't know if a compromise can happen at this point.

Pulliam said there is the possibility that this topic could end up on the ballot later this year.