The Global Warming Debate

Though I applaud NEWSWEEK’s most recent effort to raise awareness about the problem of global warming, an item in your cover story, “The Truth About Denial,” deserves clarification. Sharon Begley reports that I “adamantly oppose greenhouse curbs that might hurt the auto and other industries,” a conclusion I doubt anyone closely observing my work on this issue would draw. Since January, the Committee on Energy and Commerce has held 18 hearings focused on addressing the problem of climate change with fair, effective policy solutions. I recently helped to pass an energy bill that will reduce carbon emissions by 10.4 billion tons, an amount equal to the annual emissions of every car on the road today. I’m also a cosponsor of the Hill-Terry bill, legislation aimed at increasing the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks up to 40 percent over current standards. And I’ve continually expressed my intention to reduce CO2 emissions by 60 to 80 percent by 2050—a goal I plan to accomplish with “greenhouse curbs” that do not place unfair burdens on one single group, industry or community. When it comes to addressing the problem of global warming, I’m not standing in the way. I’m trying to lead the way.

Rep. John d. Dingell, Chairman

U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce

Washington, D.C.

Sick of the Mommy Wars

Thank you to Kathleen Deveny for her article “Yummy vs. Slummy” (Aug. 13). I, too, am tired of all the debates, arguments and labels surrounding today’s mothers. I have two children and truly believe being a mother is the toughest job in the world. We mothers should embrace and support one another, instead of degrading and labeling one another. We should live and let live and know that most mothers are raising their children to the best of their abilities.