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Johanns, Thune concerned with EPA proposed rule

SenatorsMike Johanns of Nebraska and John Thune of South Dakota are expressing concern over the EPA’s proposed rule to regulate greenhouse gas emissions as air pollutants.

Thune says it’s the first step in a process that could result in sweeping new regulations on carbon dioxide andmethane gases. He says that includes a possible tax on naturally occurring emissions from livestock—the so-called “cow-tax”. Johanns has the same fears, saying a cow tax could cost farmers and ranchers tens of thousands of dollars each year.

Thune says the EPA’sannouncement reinforces the need for Congress to act. In March, Thune and New York Senator Charles Schumer introduced a bill that would prevent the government from imposing a cow tax. Johanns has signed on as a co-sponsor of that bill.