In Bipartisan Agreement, Senators Plan To Slash Use Of Greenhouse Gas

"Proposal would cut hydrofluorocarbons, used in air conditioning and refrigerators, by 85 percent by 2035".

"In a rare show of defiance of the Trump administration, key Senate Republicans joined Democrats on Thursday in agreeing to phase out chemicals widely used in air conditioners and refrigeration that are warming the planet.

Despite the Trump administration’s refusal to join a global agreement to reduce hydrofluorocarbons, which are among the world’s most potent drivers of climate change, a push by U.S. firms and environmentalists appears to have swayed lawmakers.

“This agreement protects both American consumers and American businesses,” said Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), who chairs the Environment and Public Works Committee. “We can have clean air without damaging our economy."

The proposed phase-down will be offered as an amendment to a bipartisan energy bill, though it is unclear whether it will clear both chambers and be signed into law by President Trump before Congress adjourns in January."

Juliet Eilperin and Steven Mufson report for the Washington Post September 10, 2020.

Source: Washington Post, 09/11/2020