Letter: Rising CO2 levels imperil the medically frail

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • July 2, 2021

As atmospheric CO2 concentrations continue to rise steadily, as do atmospheric temperatures. Think of the impact of chronically rising temperatures on the elderly, on those without air conditioning, and those with respiratory conditions. Rising CO2 level-associated warming will likely tip many the medically frail person into “hot water,” in my opinion as a retired physician. The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (HR 2307) imposes a carbon fee at the point of production. This fee will not grow the government, but will be returned to every citizen as a dividend, to cover the rising costs of personal use. ~ David L. Smith, M.D., Portland