Vermont Yankee Legislative Mumblings

It seems that some Vermont legislative leaders just do not get it. Perhaps they don't want to see that reauthorizing Vermont Yankee, i.e., continuing low prices for baseload energy, is tightly bound with a future healthy Vermont economy. It may be that they are blinded by their desire to see Vermont Yankee close. Those that take this position have a responsibility to suggest replacement sources of power at a comparable prices.

We will watch Rep. Klein's talk and actions closely to see if he's as tightly in VPIRG's pocket as it appears Sen. Shumlin may be on this issue.

Today's Burlington Free Press makes this statement:

"Now, however, key legislators are suggesting that the Vermont Yankee vote might not take place in 2009 after all."

The story goes on to quote Rep. Tony Klein of East Montpelier, Chair of the House Natural resources and Energy Committee:

"When you look at all we are waiting for to make a decision I find it hard to to see how a vote takes place this session."

Fortunately, David O'Brien, Public Service Commissioner, a voice of sanity in this discussion says:

"I don't think that putting that off is in our interests. I think that's a very bad idea."