By Bruce Ritchie
News Press Tallahassee Bureau
04/30/08

Editor's note: news-press.com has been following the progress of an energy bill through the Florida Legislature.

1:17 p.m. updated

TALLAHASSEE — The Senate today adopted the House version of an ambitious energy bill.

Earlier, the Senate went along with the House to require legislative approval if the state wishes to adopt California’s vehicle emission standards.

The bill helps implement Gov. Charlie Crist’s orders last year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that scientists say contribute to climate change. Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples and sponsor of the Senate bill, said the governor’s office today indicated it was OK with the requirement for legislative approval.

The bill now goes to the governor for his signature. Crist is expected to discuss the bill later this afternoon.

11:42 a.m. update

TALLAHASSEE — If Florida is going to adopt California vehicle emission standards, the Legislature will have to sign off on it.

The Senate this morning took up its version of a sweeping energy bill after the House approved its version Tuesday. The bill would help implement Gov. Charlie Crist’s orders last year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that scientists say contribute to climate change.

One significant difference between the bills was the House requirement on vehicle emissions. Sen. Burt Saunders, R-Naples and sponsor of SB 1544, said the governor’s office today indicated it was OK with the requirement for legislative approval. The bill was amended and then temporarily passed for a final vote possibly later today.

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