An Act To Require Rules Designed To Reduce Climate Change To Include Estimates Of The Reduction In Adverse Climate Effects And Of The Cost To Consumers

LD 495 requires Maine's Department of Environmental Protection to include two specific estimates when adopting rules designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The first estimate must quantify the level of adverse climate effects (such as extreme weather or sea-level rise) that will be prevented by the emission reductions. The second estimate must detail the costs to consumers, including impacts on prices for gasoline, diesel, electricity, heating oil, and propane. This bill aims to provide transparency about the trade-offs between climate benefits and economic impacts for public review.