North Carolina House members agree the state should prepare for a proposed federal rule reducing carbon dioxide pollution even though it's being challenged in court and its final form may be altered.
The chamber voted 84-33 Monday to direct the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources on how to plan for regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency to cut carbon emissions by 30 percent by 2030.
Co-sponsor Rep. Chuck McGrady of Hendersonville told colleagues it made common sense to prep for the rule even as 15 states — not including North Carolina — have sued to stop it. Opponents said it was a waste of time and money to prepare for a rule that North Carolina also should fight in court.
The bill now goes to the Senate.
