The following is an excerpt taken from Senator Mike Johann's weekly column:

While I am eager to get back to the office, I have stayed busy working on a number of issues important to Nebraska. Last week, I wrote a letter to the Senate Budget Committee regarding a very concerning development on global warming legislation, known as "cap-and-trade," that could significantly affect businesses, farms, and families across the state. The legislation would end up costing up to $3,000 per family in the form of an energy tax. There is talk that it could get passed by means of the budget reconciliatory process instead of traditional Senate procedures. This would prevent most members of Congress, including myself, from fully debating it.

It is critical that this legislation be given thorough consideration so that all members of Congress and the American people fully understand its far-reaching implications. My letter received signatures of support from 32 other Senators, including 8 Democrats. This strong statement from one-third of the Senate reinforces the importance that this process is dictated by fair and robust debate, not parliamentary gimmicks. The American people expect and deserve this transparent and comprehensive debate.

We are very encouraged by Senator Johann's concern about this issue, and his desire to have the opportunity to engage in a debate on the issue.

As a constituent of Senator Johanns, as well as Senator Ben Nelson, and Congressman Adrian Smith, you have the opportunity to express your concerns on issues pertaining to your electric rates. You've heard from Senator Johanns that the cap and trade program will affect families and farmers in Nebraska, and result in an energy tax. If this is a concern to you, speak up! Log on to www.southernpd.com/oeof and start a conversation with our Washington representatives.