DENVER – This holiday season, coal is burning with new symbolism.
A group of environmentally minded mothers on Wednesday delivered the dreaded stocking-stuffer to Republican Attorney General Cynthia Coffman, suggesting that Coffman has been a “bad girl” for seeking to block federal carbon dioxide pollution standards.
“Attorney General Cynthia Coffman is definitely on the naughty list this year for not protecting our children’s health,” said Emma Pinter with Colorado Moms Know Best, who stood alongside other moms, a man dressed as Santa Claus and his reindeer, Cupid.
The dual symbolism was clear, given that burning coal contributes to carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
A new Environmental Protection Agency rule calls for a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 28 percent in Colorado and 32 percent nationally by 2030. The state is charged with developing a specific plan for Colorado.
Coffman opposes the rule and has entered Colorado into a multi-state lawsuit seeking to block implementation. The lawsuit hinges on whether the federal government has authority to “usurp” state control over power grids and emission standards.
Coffman’s office did not immediately respond to The Durango Herald’s request for comment on Wednesday following the coal delivery.
Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat, supports the EPA’s rule, which comes as part of President Barack Obama’s quest to slow climate change.
Hickenlooper in October asked the Colorado Supreme Court to decide whether Coffman was within her authority to enter into the lawsuit. The court, however, earlier this month denied the governor’s request, pointing out that there are lower court avenues to explore. A spokeswoman for Hickenlooper on Wednesday said the lower court route “is definitely an option,” but that Hickenlooper was still considering his next steps.
For the moms who attended the event, the issue is about a future for their children.
“We’re here to encourage Cynthia Coffman to do the right thing,” Pinter said. “We’ve been working on renewable energy standards for years, and Colorado is known to be a leader. Continuing with that spirit is the right way to go.”
pmarcus@durangoherald.com
