OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington voters could repeal the state’s Climate Commitment Act, a state law critics blame for gas price increases.
A group called “Let’s Go Washington” submitted petitions that organizers said had more than enough signatures to qualify for the ballot.
State legislators passed the law in 2021 with the hope of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which requires companies to reduce carbon emissions by creating a carbon-pricing system for polluters.
Since going into effect earlier this year, the law has generated an estimated $1.5 billion for the state. However, critics have blamed the act for causing an increase in gas prices.
Initiative supporter Bryan Heywood said the act is "a big money grab," and just another way for legislators to generate revenue "on the backs of commuters."
Republican Party Chair and state representative, Jim Walsh helped collect signatures for the initiative.
"They really didn't need any coaching on this, they came ready to sign this initiative,” said Walsh, R-Aberdeen.
He said the state would be able to make up for the loss of funds generated by the act by renegotiating the state budget.
Sen. Joe Nguyen, D-White Center, who supported the bill, blames the oil industry for raising prices when the law went into effect.
He said some costs may have been passed to drivers, but the benefits to the state are worthwhile.
"I do think that it has an impact on fuel costs. But so does inaction right? Sitting in traffic right now costs Washingtonians, breathing dirty air and smoke costs Washingtonians,” said Nguyen.
He said funds raised by the Climate Commitment Act will generate one-third of the funding for road construction projects, support electric car charging stations, and enable minors to ride public transportation fare-free, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“The goal of our climate policies is to provide a cleaner, greener future for Washingtonians,” said Nguyen.
Gov. Jay Inslee called the initiative an “atrocious” effort that would take the step backward.
"Washingtonians want less pollution, not more. So their effort is a pro-pollution initiative,” said Inslee.