U.S. Rep. Carlos Curbelo (R-FL) recently joined the Columbia University Center for Global Energy Policy at the National Press Club to discuss carbon emissions and infrastructure.
Earlier this month, Curbelo proposed legislation establishing a carbon tax. The bill would repeal federal gasoline and diesel fuels excise taxes and replace them with a carbon dioxide emission tax that starts at $24 per ton in 2020.
The proposal would reduce emissions between 27 percent to 32 percent by 2025 and between 30 percent to 40 percent by 2030, according to an analysis by Columbia University.
“The bill raises much-needed revenue to modernize our national infrastructure – a bipartisan priority that remains elusive without a new influx of revenue,” Curbelo said. “Under the gasoline tax, the Highway Trust Fund is projected to receive $407 billion over the next ten years. Our bill would provide an additional $285 billion along with an additional $18 billion for the Airways Trust Fund. This robust investment in American infrastructure will result in reduced travel times, improved logistical efficiency, and economic growth.”
A border tax adjustment also would be implemented on imports.
Curbelo is co-chair and co-founder of the House Climate Solutions Caucus. His district includes the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary, Everglades National Park, and Biscayne National Park.