Relying on a single legal opinion is pretty risky business. If the federal plan permits provincial opt outs, likely there will be conditions attached to prevent provinces from abusing this. In any event, Pallister will have have to justify not only the $25 fee but the deliberate non-compliance with the Paris targets.

There is an issue of good faith here. Pallister will have a short time to prove his good faith compliance. To be fair, Pallister has never been a bigmouth blowhard Denier like Brad Wall, so he deserves a chance. On the other hand, There is lots to be suspicious about.