Ore. clean energy bill sent to Senate floor 

Source: By Ian K. Kullgren, Portland Oregonian • Posted: Monday, February 9, 2015

A bill extending Oregon’s clean fuel standard has moved to the Senate floor for a full vote after passing the Senate environment committee. If enacted, the bill would extend Oregon’s low-carbon energy standard until 2025, making the state a leader in carbon emissions reductions.

The bill, however, has been controversial. Committee votes split along party lines with three Democratic votes in favor and two opposing Republican votes.

It has also come at a time of political controversy in Oregon. Gov. John Kitzhaber was asked to step down after first lady Cylvia Hayes confirmed receiving $118,000 from an out-of-state clean energy group while simultaneously advising the governor on clean energy.

Republican Sen. Chuck Thomsen, who voted against the low-carbon energy standard, said the scandal triggered mistrust of energy policy in the state. A date has yet to be set for a Senate floor vote on the bill

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