On its surface, an effort to repeal Washington’s Climate Commitment Act is enticing. But a close examination reveals that Initiative 2117 would be harmful to the state and its residents. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends a “no” vote on I-2117.
As always, this is merely a recommendation, designed to provide information and foster discussion. The Columbian trusts that voters will examine the issue and study the arguments before casting a vote.
With I-2117, those arguments are surrounded by misnomers. The most prominent is that repealing the Climate Commitment Act will reduce the price of gas and other consumer products. “Vote yes, pay less,” supporters urge — ignoring the fact that gas prices are the result of many factors.
Responsible economic analyses have found that the Climate Commitment Act has increased the price of gas in Washington by 25 to 50 cents per gallon. That, indeed, places a burden on consumers. But repealing the act does not guarantee that those prices will be reduced, and it ignores the benefits provided by the legislation.
Passed in 2021, the landmark Climate Commitment Act caps carbon emissions by the state’s largest polluters. Companies may purchase emission allowances, with prices set at quarterly auctions. Since being implemented in 2023, the auctions have raised more than $2 billion, and the two-year state budget that runs through mid-2025 includes $3.2 billion from the legislation.
That revenue is not just a way to penalize Washington industries and residents. It is used for protecting our environment, supporting projects that make Washington more livable and enhancing efforts to mitigate climate change.
Funds have been put toward the purchase of electric school buses, free public transit for youths and electric vehicle charging stations. It has been used to support salmon recovery and clean air and water programs. And it is funding the Washington Families Clean Energy Credit, which provides a $200 energy bill credit to low- and moderate-income customers.
Locally, the Clark County Council has approved nearly $1 million for energy assistance to low-income households and to replace outdated heating and cooling systems. The Climate Commitment Act also dedicates money to 16 areas identified as highly impacted by air pollution — including Vancouver.
A repeal of the act provides no guarantee that polluters will pass savings along to customers. It does, however, guarantee that less money will be available for wind and solar energy; electric-powered transportation; assistance with electric bills; court-mandated culverts for salmon passage; and clean air and water.
Those provide invaluable benefits, making our state more attractive for businesses and workers. A study by Greenline Insights suggests that the legislation will generate more than 45,000 jobs and $9.1 billion in economic activity over the next eight years.
Even if those assessments are overly hopeful, the Climate Commitment Act should be viewed as an investment in our state and its residents. The Columbian’s Editorial Board recommends that voters reject Initiative 2117.
