I read with interest and a shake of the head the editorial on Sept. 26 by state Reps. Bongartz and James entitled “Get the Facts on the Affordable Heat Act.” Fundamental questions need to be asked of these two legislators and, indeed, all who voted for this bill: why is state government getting involved with how we weatherize and/or heat our homes? Why don’t you trust Vermonters to make good decisions for themselves? Are you aware that fuel dealers and others in the heating industry will shift to these “clean heat” products if there’s a demand for them? Are you further aware that most Vermonters want less, not more, involvement by state government in their lives?

Here’s the deal: this is all about climate change, not helping the poor get a heat pump. The Global Warming Solutions Act, or as I call it the Global Warming Money Grab, established the framework for this and other legislation to reduce carbon emissions in accordance with the GWMG mandates. How do you reduce carbon emissions from that nasty oil or propane burner? Switch to electric heat of some sort. So what is clean heat? Must be Hydro Quebec….nope! Nuclear power doesn’t pollute with carbon, surely it’s them……nope! Only their pet renewables need apply — solar fields that litter our beautiful countryside or wind power defiling our mountain tops.

Here’s a fact for you: Vermont is 51st in the nation in the production of carbon emissions. Non-state Puerto Rico produces more carbon, and the gulf between 50th and 51st is huge; we are by far the cleanest state; it’s not close. During floor debate on this bill, it was acknowledged several times by proponents that if implemented, this legislation would have no effect on our climate. Clearly, Vermont has no carbon emissions problem and does not need to take any draconian steps to reduce it.

Speaking for myself as one outnumbered legislator, I trust Vermonters to make great decisions about their heating needs. I also trust them to do things that help, not hurt, the wonderful environment in which we live. Government intrusion into our homes and businesses is un-American and contrary to the tenets of our way of life. No matter what its positives are, the Affordable Heat Act needs to be rejected as an unnecessary mandate.

Please, Vermont Legislature, let us heat our homes the way we see fit.

Rep. Art Peterson

West Rutland