Opposing view: California can lead the way

By Carl Pope

Measure would promote alternative energy, help loosen Big Oil’s grip.

Voters want change and leadership that will take America in a dramatically different direction. One way many candidates across the country are demonstrating their commitment to change is by calling for the development of renewable energy sources. And this Election Day, Californians can help put the USA on the path to a saner, cheaper, smarter, more secure energy future by voting "yes" on Proposition 87.

To most Americans, investing in smart energy solutions such as renewable solar and wind and other alternate fuel sources is a no-brainer. It's obvious to them that our nation's dependence on oil ties our fate to the most unstable parts of the world, makes consumers vulnerable to high gas prices, and increases the threat of global warming.

A monumental investment in new energy technologies ought to be a top political priority. Instead, federal spending for energy research and development is half what it was 25 years ago. Congress has handed over billions in new subsidies to oil companies, despite the fact that oil industry profits have tripled in the past three years.

California citizens can help the entire nation free itself from the grip of Big Oil by approving Proposition 87. This initiative would fund a $4 billion effort to reduce dependence on gasoline by 25% over 10 years. It would provide incentives to make alternative-fuel vehicles and renewable fuels more widely available and affordable to consumers. And it would fund research to bring clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies to the marketplace more quickly.

Prop 87 is not a tax on residents. It would impose a minor assessment on the excess profits of California oil producers, something other oil producing states such as Alaska, New Mexico, Texas and Louisiana already have in place.

California has long been a leader in technological innovation, and our national economy and way of life are better for it. By supporting Prop 87 on Tuesday, California citizens can be leaders once again and make an important investment that will pay dividends for current and future generations.

Carl Pope is executive director of the Sierra Club, a backer of Proposition 87.