Alberta Premier Smith Challenges Ottawa Emissions Cap

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has vocally criticized Ottawa's new greenhouse gas emissions cap, calling it a 'deranged vendetta' and stating it infringes on Alberta's constitutional rights regarding resource development. The cap requires oil and gas producers to reduce emissions by 35% below 2019 levels by 2032, a measure Smith argues will lead to economic decline and reduced revenues for the province. She expressed frustration over the lack of collaboration from the federal government, stating that Alberta has a responsible plan for emissions reduction by 2050. Smith plans to challenge the cap legally, exploring options under the Alberta Sovereignty Act and a constitutional challenge. Federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault defended the regulations as necessary for combating climate change, insisting they target pollution and not production. The Alberta government has also launched an advertising campaign urging the federal government to 'Scrap the Cap.'