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The federal Government wants Florida to cut back on emissions and clean up the air.  As Matt Galka tells us, environmentalists are praising the move.

Florida gets about 20 percent of its energy from coal. Scientists say burning fossil fuel contrbutes to climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency wants the state to cut its emissions by 38 percent.

“The Florida Department of Environmental Protection will review the EPA’s proposal and will work to continue to protect Florida’s environment,” said D.E.P. Press Secretary Tiffany Cowie.

The Governor’s office says Florida emissions are lower than they have ever been, but environmentalists have railed against the Governor’s energy policies.  Governor Rick Scott has also been dodging questions lately about whether or not he believes climate change is man made.

“I’m not a scientist – I can only do whatever I can to help the environment,” said Gov. Scott (R-Florida) earlier in May.

While the state decides how to tackle issue, clean energy advocates hope this leads to alternative sources of power.

Eric Draper with the Audubon of Florida environmental group says the state has to act now.

“Sea level rise is already being experienced and recognized throughout the state as a relatively shallow and coastal state we should really worry about this so we should be the first to move forward with solutions,” said Draper.

And environmental attorneys at Earth Justice say consumers shouldn’t worry about an energy bill spike

“This could actually save people money depending on how it’s implemented,” said Earth Justice Staff Attorney Alisa Coe.

The state could have until 2018 to submit a plan on how to cut power plant emissions. The E.P.A. wants the emissions reduced by 2030.