Global Warming vs. Unemployment

California Republicans and conservative activists are pushing for a ballot proposition that would suspend the state's landmark global warming legislation until employment levels drop to 5.5 percent for one year, reports The Los Angeles Times. California's unemployment rate has soared since the global economic meltdown, and at 12.4 percent is one of the highest in the nation. Should the measure pass, it would mean a significant delay to curbing emissions from greenhouse gases.
 
The effort to ignite a revolt in the Golden State comes as years of industry-backed campaigns have sown doubts about the scientific consensus behind global warming and as the public has become more concerned about the economy.
 
A survey by the Pew Research Center found that 28% of the public considers global warming a high priority, a drop of 10 points from 2007. The economy and jobs topped the agenda. Federal climate legislation, after passing the House last year, is stalled in the Senate.
 
 A nod to this measure could fuel similar efforts around the country. It's one worth watching.
 
(Photo by Massimo Catarinella; C.C. 3.0)