The New Hampshire House of Representatives Committee on State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs convened on February 7, 2025, to discuss pressing issues related to climate change and the role of media in shaping public perception. A significant focus of the meeting was the implementation of a carbon pricing strategy as a means to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

During the session, experts highlighted the En ROADS climate and policy modeling tool developed by MIT, which allows users to simulate the impact of various climate policies on global energy sources and emissions. The consensus among economists is that a carbon price, where revenues are rebated back to households, is the most effective and equitable method to reduce climate pollution. This approach incentivizes investors, producers, and consumers to lower their carbon footprints while fostering innovation in clean technologies.

The discussion also touched on international practices, noting that Canada employs a carbon fee and dividend system, while the European Union utilizes a cap-and-trade model. As the U.S. faces a growing carbon price gap, the EU is expected to implement a carbon import tariff, which could financially impact American businesses.

Representative Manion raised concerns about public anxiety regarding climate change, questioning the credibility of media reports that predict dire outcomes based on scientific studies. In response, experts emphasized the importance of understanding scientific reports directly rather than relying on media interpretations. They clarified that while the IPCC reports indicate critical thresholds for global warming, the narrative often oversimplifies complex scientific findings.

The meeting concluded with a call for bipartisan efforts to address climate change, emphasizing the need for a market-based, revenue-neutral approach to pollution reduction. The committee acknowledged the urgency of the climate crisis and the importance of clear communication to combat misinformation and foster informed public discourse.

Overall, the discussions underscored the critical intersection of science, policy, and public perception in the ongoing battle against climate change, highlighting the need for effective strategies and collaborative efforts to secure a sustainable future.