Dems End-Run Boycotting GOP, Vote 11-1 for Climate Bill

By DARREN SAMUELSOHN of the NY Times

Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Democrats quashed a three-day-long Republican boycott and passed global warming legislation today using a procedural move that could undermine support from moderate senators if the bill reaches the floor.

Chairwoman Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and 10 Democrats signed off on the climate bill — without considering amendments — after trying without success to wait out Republicans.

Montana’s Max Baucus was the lone Democrat to vote against the legislation, saying he was unable to get his concerns addressed in amendments. He favors easing the measure’s 2020 emission limits. Baucus explained that he still wanted to help the bill win 60 votes on the floor, and he expected to play a large role going forward as chairman of the Finance Committee and as a senior member of the Agriculture panel.

“This is a first step,” Baucus told reporters. “There will be many other steps.”

The story continues here: EPW Dems End-Run Boycotting GOP, Vote 11-1 for Climate Bill – NYTimes.com