States Dip Into Climate Funds To Shore Up Budgets

by Brian Mann, NPR

Two years ago, 10 northeast states set up a regional cap and trade program to reduce carbon emissions and promote conservation. The money raised was supposed to be used for green energy and environmental initiatives, but in an era of tight budgets, it has proved a tempting target for some state officials. Three of those states -- New York, New Hampshire and New Jersey -- have used some of the revenue from the initiative to shore up state budgets.

Broadcast Dates

• All Things Considered, December 22, 2010