Hurricane Ida and wildfires in the western United States have again caused debates over how much of a role humans and their carbon emissions play in causing climate change and natural disasters. Some advocates argue that large changes in American society in order are needed to prevent further global warming. One such change that has become widely discussed recently is banning gasoline cars.  

Those who support state governments phasing out gasoline cars argue that climate change is caused by man-made carbon emissions, a large portion of which comes from gas-powered engines. They contend that the government has an obligation to remove gasoline vehicles from the roads in order to protect the lives of citizens from further natural disasters—events which they argue result from climate change.  

 Those who oppose state governments phasing out gasoline cars argue that doing so would be ineffective as they tend to be skeptical of the impact humans have on the environment. Additionally, they may argue that electric cars would cause an equal carbon footprint to gas cars given the supply chains necessary to make electric car batteries. Finally, they may argue that manufacturers should voluntarily transition to electric cars. 

So, what do you think? Should State Governments Phase Out Gasoline Cars? Students can answer Yes, they should; No, they should not; or a nuanced answer in-between!  

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following: 

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner 
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers 
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors 
• They address counter-arguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner 
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly 

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 9/6/21 to 9/13/21, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

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