Jan 29 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Heath Druzin The Idaho Statesman, Boise

A Senate committee Monday delayed a hearing on a bill that would task a Legislative study group with researching how Idaho can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

Senate Resources and Environment Committee Chairman Gary Schroeder, R-Moscow, said he supports the bill but that it needs more discussion before getting an initial hearing. "I think it's just that some people should have been included in the loop who weren't," he said.

The bill commissions the Energy, Environment and Technology Interim Committee to undertake a "study of climate change to establish strategies for reducing greenhouse emissions in Idaho." Idaho has experienced drought and worsening wildfire seasons over the past several years, which some scientists attribute to global warming. Bill sponsor Kate Kelly, D-Boise, said she and other bill supporters need to talk more with members of that interim committee and rework some of the legislation's language before moving forward with the bill.

"We have to do a little more outreach," she said.

One aim of the bill is to help Idaho cash in on the increasing focus on alternative energy. Kelly said Idaho has the potential to make money off energy sources such as wind, geothermal, and biofuels.

"There's a lot of economic opportunity in this," she said.

Schroeder said no new date has been set for a hearing.

Heath Druzin: 373-6617