Green Scissors Coalition Opposes Carbon Capture Tax Credit
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Green Scissors, a coalition of free market, taxpayer, and environmental groups, sent a letter to the Senate today regarding the climate energy subsidy opposition. Yes, they oppose extending and expanding tax credits for carbon capture and sequestration. The letter cites both fiscal and environmental concerns about Senator Heitkamp’s proposed amendment.
First of all, the amendment is on the 45Q tax credit within the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill.
Although the measure faces an uncertain future in the FAA bill, Heitkamp’s amendment most definitely represents a broader effort. Industry groups and some environmentalists continue pushing to expand the 45Q credit. Meanwhile, the House mirrors this push through Representative Conaway’s HR4622. As a result, this debate underscores growing divisions over federal energy subsidies.
Concerns Over Cost and Effectiveness
Catrina Rorke, director of energy policy at the R Street Institute, argues for market-driven solutions. “Private investment in clean coal is the only way to ensure that these technologies will find a place in the future energy market,” she said. She also emphasizes that tax policy shouldn’t pick energy winners, and the same principle should apply here.
Meanwhile, taxpayer advocates highlight the costs. “Taxpayers cannot afford to keep throwing good money after bad on clean coal,” said Autumn Hanna, senior program director at Taxpayers for Common Sense. She notes that subsidies for this failed technology have wasted billions over the decades. Consequently, she urges lawmakers to reject the plan whether it’s attached to the FAA bill, an omnibus package, or any other legislation.
Environmentalists Warn of Fossil Fuel Subsidy
Environmental groups also criticize the proposal. Lukas Ross, a climate and energy campaigner at Friends of the Earth, doesn’t mince words. “We are calling this plan what it is,” he said. “A subsidy for Big Oil masquerading as a climate solution.” He warns that supporting such credits risks prolonging fossil fuel dependence under the guise of climate action.
So Green Scissors calls on Congress to avoid new subsidies that undermine real climate progress. They argue that directing public money toward unproven carbon capture technology diverts resources from truly clean energy. Ultimately, they also urge lawmakers to stand firm against industry lobbying that prioritizes short-term profits over long-term environmental responsibility.
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