California Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative Democrats have reached what he calls a "historic agreement" that would make the state the first to impose a limit on greenhouse gas emissions.
Governor Schwarzenegger and the lawmakers Wednesday agreed to the deal that would require major energy companies to reduce their carbon emissions within 14 years to 1990 levels. California is aiming to reduce gas emissions by 25 percent.
The bill still needs the approval of the state's lawmakers. It is expected to pass as Democrats currently hold the majority in the state legislature.
Carbon gases trap heat in the atmosphere and scientists believe the gases contribute to global warming. California is the 12th largest producer of greenhouse gas emissions.
Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters