Where Have You Gone, SB 411?

I hate giving props to the Mainstream Media when they "editorialize" (i.e., preach), but the Los Angeles Times impressively smacks Karen Bass and others today over SB 411.

The Times professes to be "mystified" by the lack of urgency demonstrated by the Assembly Speaker when it comes to SB 411, which would legislate California's goal of generating 20% of its energy from renewable sources by 2010.

In its editorial, the Times notes that thebill enjoys the support of the Governor, Don Perata, and most Democrats in Sacramento. Furthermore, it is the key to achieving the state's overall goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. But oppostion from utilities and others is rooted in the legislation's operational requirements and in the fear that it potentially cedes a competitive advantage to certain companies.

The guys at the Times are absoultely right in their not so subtle reminder that Prop 7 hangs over this debate like the Sword of Damocles and that, if detractors dislike SB 411, they are going to love Prop 7. (Sarcasm intended.)

Sacramento stalls on renewable energy [Los Angeles Times]