Local legislators said they are being flooded with calls from people with varying opinions about a controversial piece of environmental legislation.

The Cap and Trade Bill, supported by President Barack Obama, has the goal of shifting from usage of fossil fuels to other cleaner alternative energy sources.

Opponents of the bill said it will drastically increase gas and home heating prices, forcing many businesses to cut jobs.

Supported of the bill said it will cost about $100 to $175 more per family per year. They said the price of doing nothing could be even greater, and claim the earth's temperature is rising which could have a negative effect on agriculture and tourist activities like skiing.

"If we do nothing, our climate here in Johnstown and State College will feel like Alabama," said Brad Clemenson, of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. "That is what (will) happen if we do nothing."

The U.S. House of Representatives already passed the bill. Rep. John Murtha voted for it, and Rep. Bill Shuster voted against it.

The bill is now being reviewed by the Senate. Stay with WJACTV.com and WJAC-TV News for continuing coverage.

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