By George T. Frampton

Not only would a carbon fee drive down the use of fossil fuels, it would generate revenue that could promote other benefits. For example, using some of that money to reduce the corporate income tax (highest among industrialized nations) would make U.S. companies more competitive.

Almost 40 nations and more than 26 sub-national jurisdictions have adopted carbon pricing. British Columbia has had a carbon fee since 2008 and has reduced fossil fuel consumption by 16 percent, while use in the rest of that country has risen by 3 percent. Meanwhile, British Columbia’s gross domestic product growth has outperformed Canada’s.

U.S. Rep. Chris Gibson, R-Kinderhook, who took on tough challenges during 24 years in the U.S. Army, could help lead our country in tackling this daunting challenge. He would continue to serve his country well by persuading his fellow Republicans that a creative tax-reform package that includes a carbon fee deserves their support. He has acknowledged that climate change is a serious problem, so taking this initiative would be a logical step.

George T. Frampton is a co-founder of Partnership for Responsible Growth.

This letter to the editor originally appeared in the Poughkeepsie Journal on September 10, 2015.