May 3--A requirement to reduce greenhouse gases in Florida was stripped from a wide-ranging energy bill debated Tuesday in the state House of Representatives.

Lawmakers also grilled the bill's sponsors about its promotion of nuclear power.

"In this bill we're encouraging the building of nuclear plants. What do we do about nuclear waste in this energy bill?" asked Rep. Eleanor Sobel, D-Hollywood, holding up a study on childhood cancers in South Florida.

"We have excellent requirements right now," replied Rep. Frank Attkisson, R-Kissimmee, said, adding that it's been 35 years since a nuclear plant has been built in Florida. Florida Power & Light Co., which operates two nuclear plants in Florida, told federal regulators last month it will apply for a license in 2009 to construct another plant somewhere else in the state.

"This is entirely a safe system," Attkisson said.

The Senate passed a similar bill (SB888) Monday, but punted all energy policy-making decisions to a 13-member Florida Energy Commission.

Rep. Adam Hasner, R-Delray Beach, sponsor of the House bill (HB1473), said Tuesday the commission is still a sticking point between the two bills. Hasner's bill creates an energy council that would advise the governor's office.

"We're going to explore all options before deciding what language to use," Hasner said after House members finished for the day Tuesday.

The House will likely vote on the bill today and then will have to send it back to the Senate for final approval.