climate commitment act
Newsletter
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Washington governor defends climate law against repeal effort
Gov. Jay Inslee is intensifying efforts to protect Washington’s Climate Commitment Act from a repeal campaign led by conservatives.
In short:
- Gov. Inslee highlighted the Climate Commitment Act's funding for projects like wireless bus charging stations, attributing over $1 million to the law.
- The repeal effort, driven by Let’s Go Washington, claims the Act has raised gas prices significantly, hurting residents financially.
- The law, which aims to cut emissions and has raised $2 billion for various programs, could lose momentum if repealed, affecting state and national climate initiatives.
Key quote:
“If this initiative passes here, it would definitely create a freeze and slow down states, maybe even the country’s action on addressing the climate crisis.”
— David Mendoza, director of policy and government relations, The Nature Conservancy in Washington
Why this matters:
The potential repeal of the Climate Commitment Act threatens to undermine crucial environmental progress and could impede broader efforts to combat climate change on both state and national levels.
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Newsletter
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Washington's climate law faces repeal challenge despite oil industry's support
Washington state's cap-and-trade program, backed by major oil companies, is now threatened by a repeal initiative led by a hedge-fund manager.
In short:
- Washington's Climate Commitment Act, a cap-and-trade program, is under threat of repeal despite previous support from oil companies like BP.
- The program, which generated more than $2 billion for climate projects, faces opposition from Brian Heywood, who argues it contributes to high gas prices.
- Oil companies, while critical of certain aspects of the program, prefer to work with legislators for improvements rather than support its repeal.
Key quote:
"We have never been against the Climate Commitment Act."
— Kevin Slagle, vice president of communications, Western States Petroleum Association
Why this matters:
The potential repeal of Washington's climate law highlights the complex relationship between environmental legislation, the oil industry, and public perception. While oil companies show unexpected support for the cap-and-trade system, public opposition fueled by concerns over gas prices poses a significant challenge. This situation underscores the delicate balance needed in crafting effective climate policies that align industry interests with environmental goals.
Related: As Pennsylvania moves to join a regional greenhouse gas initiative, experts say it will also reduce toxics, foster healthier kids, and save the state billions. But GOP policymakers and industry groups remain opposed.
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