Dear Allan:
Thank you for contacting me regarding the international global climate treaty. I appreciate hearing your concerns on this issue.
As you may know, Senator Robert Byrd introduced Senate Resolution 98, which expressed the sense of the Senate regarding the conditions for the United States becoming a signatory to any international agreement on greenhouse gas emissions under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. I was a cosponsor of this resolution, and it passed the Senate by a vote of 95-0.
I share your concerns about the potential economic and social impact of this proposed treaty. While the President has not announced specific targets for reducing U.S. emissions, the State Department has indicated a willingness to drastically cut U.S. emissions, while exempting "developing" countries such as Mexico and China. I am very concerned that if approved, this treaty would result in the loss of thousands of American jobs and discourage companies from opening or expanding businesses in the U.S.
I will continue to monitor the Clinton Administration's efforts to gain approval of this teaty. It is important to note that all treaties signed by the United States must be ratified by a two-thirds vote of the Senate. I look forward to the opportunity to work towards a goal that benefits not only the environment, but also the economic well-being of the United States.
Again, thanks for sharing your views with me. I look forward to hearing your views again, should you have further questions or concerns.
RMD/wc
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