Lt. Governor Phil Scott Issues Statement on Carbon Tax Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 30, 2015
CONTACT: Rachel Feldman: 802-828-2226 (o) 802-272-2256 (c)

In response to a press event today held by the Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG) showing support for a carbon tax, Lt. Governor Phil Scott issued the following statement:

“Vermont is already setting a national example for green building practices, energy conservation, renewable energy and environmental stewardship. I believe we need to balance our environmental leadership with the economic priorities we have for Vermont. Since the carbon tax has been proposed, I’ve heard from many Vermonters who strongly oppose higher cost gasoline and home heating fuels, and understand how this proposal would increase the cost of living across the board. It is clear to me that the vast majority of Vermonters want the Legislature to spend its time looking for ways to grow the economy and save working Vermonters money. Discussion of a new tax that could add as much as 88-cents to a gallon of gasoline is not a way to grow the economy or save money – therefore I oppose this tax. To make Vermont more affordable for families and businesses we must focus on the fundamentals and get the state’s fiscal house in order without new taxes.”

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