How Washington State’s carbon legislation has progressed over the years

Washington state spent over a decade trying to impose a price on carbon pollution, initially with failed bills in the legislature beginning in 2009. After an unsuccessful run with initiatives on the ballot in 2016 and 2018, the state legislature astonished many by passing a cap-and-trade program in 2021. The program mandates almost a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 based on 1990 levels. Interestingly, the landmark law, known as the Climate Commitment Act, received support from companies like BP, despite oil money working against it in the past.

The future of the Climate Commitment Act, however, is on unstable grounds. Brian Heywood, a hedge fund manager, is leading a repeal effort against the law. It is backed by contributions from the state Republican Party, the Washington Bankers Association, and even from a private investment firm in Houston focusing on oil. The repeal could also have dramatic implications within the state, affecting everything from transportation budgets to emissions levels.

Despite the Western States Petroleum Association describing the current law as malfunctioning due to high auction prices for pollution permits, it is not backing the repeal. Instead, there is a push to collaborate with legislators to mend the program. Unfortunately, the initiative to repeal the Climate Commitment Act, if successful, could jeopardize its future and the state’s progress towards carbon-cutting targets.