Senate lawmakers over the weekend unanimously approved legislation to prevent the European Union from charging U.S. airlines for their carbon emissions when they fly to Europe.

"The Senate's action today will help ensure that U.S. air carriers and passengers will not be paying down European debt through this illegal tax and can instead be investing in creating jobs and stimulating our own economy," said Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), a sponsor of the bill, in a statement.

Since January, the bloc of nations has been enforcing a law requiring all airlines to participate in its Emissions Trading System.

The House has passed similar legislation. The lower chamber could opt to negotiate the differences between the two bills in conference, or it could pass the Senate legislation after it returns in November. The Obama administration is still reviewing the bill (Valerie Volcovici, Reuters, Sept. 22). -- WW