Environmental groups avoid comments on specifics of climate bill

A broad coalition of environmental groups have steered clear of commenting on the specifics of the climate plan being rolled out on Wednesday.

The joint comment from almost two dozen groups comes on the day that Sens. John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn) are unveiling a bill that caps greenhouse gases while supporting increased development of alternative and traditional energy sources.

The general nature of the comment reflects unease among some activists with concessions in the climate bill to industry groups, such as restrictions on state climate programs and EPA's ability to regulate greenhouse gases under its current powers.

"Today’s action by Senators John Kerry (Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (Conn.) jumpstarts the Senate debate over America’s energy future. Their unwavering leadership has been critical to the progress made thus far. It is time for America’s leaders to get serious about a comprehensive clean energy and climate policy that will reduce our oil dependence, enhance our security, revitalize our economy and protect our environment," states a collection of groups including the Sierra Club, the Natural Resources Defense Council, the National Wildlife Federation, Audubon, Environment America and many others.

"President Obama and leaders of both parties in Congress must provide the leadership necessary to develop a clean energy and climate solution that becomes law this year," they add.