Democratic senator: Methane fee could be 'in jeopardy'

Sen. Chris MurphyChristopher (Chris) Scott MurphyDemocrats ready to put a wrap on dragged-out talks Democrats look for plan B on filibuster The Memo: Cuts to big bill vex Democrats MORE (D-Conn.) told reporters on Tuesday that Democrats’ proposed fee on methane from oil and gas production could be “in jeopardy” of being cut from the party’s multi-trillion spending bill.

“We talked about it in a leadership meeting this morning. There’s a bunch of us that are very concerned about it,” Murphy said. 

Asked to specify, the senator said they were worried that “it may be in jeopardy.”

Democrats, as part of their human infrastructure and climate change package, have floated a fee of methane pollution on oil and gas producers above a certain threshold. The fee would seek to hold companies responsible for leaks and excess pollution. 

Methane is more potent than carbon dioxide when it comes to warming the planet, but it spends less time in the atmosphere. 

Murphy’s comments come as others appeared more optimistic about whether the fee would be included in Democrats social and climate spending package. 

“Those negotiations continue likely as we speak,” Sen. Tom CarperThomas (Tom) Richard CarperOvernight Energy & Environment — Presented by American Clean Power — Methane fee faces negotiations Senators weigh future of methane fee in spending bill Democrats say they’re committed to reducing emissions in Biden plan MORE (D-Del.) told reporters, calling the fee “very much on the table.”

The fee is a big part of Democrats’ climate plan, with an analysis from Majority Leader Chuck SchumerChuck SchumerSenators weigh future of methane fee in spending bill Biden hopes for deal on economic agenda before Europe trip The Senate is setting a dangerous precedent with Iron Dome funding MORE’s (D-N.Y.) office released earlier this year saying it could be responsible for more than 9 percent of the overall emissions reductions from both the spending package and the bipartisan infrastructure bill. 

On Monday, Democrats had acknowledged that the fee’s future is being evaluated. 

If the provision is cut, it would be the second major climate change measure to be excised from the plan.

Another major program — aimed at shifting the country towards clean energy sources for its electricity — is expected to be removed from the package amid opposition from Sen. Joe ManchinJoe ManchinOn The Money — Democrats craft billionaire tax with deal in reach Democrats face critical 72 hours Overnight Health Care — Presented by Altria — Manchin nixes Medicare expansion MORE (D-W.Va.).

To get their package across the finish line, Democrats can’t afford to lose a single vote in the Senate, giving swing votes such as Manchin significant power in shaping the legislation. 

Sylvan Lane contributed to this report.