Minn. House Votes To Allow Imported Coal Power

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- The Minnesota House has approved legislation that would allow imported coal power from other states while keeping current restrictions on coal power in the state.

The 76-54 vote came Wednesday after a long debate pitting GOP skeptics of global warming against Democrats focused on humans' role in climate change.

Democratic Rep. Andrew Falk of Murdock passed out a letter from former Vice President Al Gore.

Republican Rep. Michael Beard of Shakopee says he amended his bill to try to win Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton's support.

Beard's proposal originally would have lifted limits on carbon dioxide emissions from coal production. Instead it would allow up to 2,500 megawatts of coal-powered electricity to flow into the state.

A version lifting the coal restrictions within Minnesota passed the Senate last month.

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