Recent fires, floods show need for carbon price in federal budget
In July, western fires hazed eastern states’ skies, painting the full moon a mysterious Mars-like orange. Then, in early August, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change issued a red alert that human activity is unequivocally causing climate change! Then the headline, “Dozens killed in Northeast by storm’s remnants” (News, Sept. 3). Subways flood. “Experts said it was slightly exacerbated by climate change — warmer air holds more rain.” For years, climate scientists have been saying that human-caused climate change is a threat multiplier strengthening hurricanes and increasing rainfall.
July’s carbon dioxide levels in our skies were 416 parts per million, while back in the 1830′s they were around 284. That excess results from human activity especially burning fossil fuels.
It’s time we act responsibly. Adding a carbon price to the budget reconciliation package makes sense. Like getting a COVID vaccine, it reduces future threats.
BOB JAMES, ATLANTA
Texas abortion law encourages vigilantism
By following the blueprint set out by the Texas anti-abortion law, states can now circumvent the sticky constitutional problems with banning ownership of guns with the Supreme Court’s blessing. Simply by putting enforcement of the ban into the hands of its citizens.
Anyone even thought to own a gun could be sued by anyone else. Substantial fines, court costs, and perhaps even confiscation of the offending weapon are possible.
True, this would result in chaos in our legal system. It would also encourage vigilantism. But these consequences are already upon us in Texas. Women are not safe from random strangers who disapprove of their choices. Anyone with deep pockets and a dislike of guns or abortion can target anyone. The legal concept of “standing” to bring a lawsuit need no longer applies.
While I believe gun control is important, this would be an appalling way to go about it, just as it is an appalling way to restrict abortion.
KATHRYN BARINGHAUS, JOHNS CREEK
