In November, Washington voters overwhelmingly affirmed their support for the Climate Commitment Act. Now, as Republicans in the Legislature attempt to undermine that affirmation, they should heed the will of the voters.
House Bill 1324 would redirect some revenue from the Climate Commitment Act toward road projects. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Olympia, and is co-sponsored by Southwest Washington Republicans John Ley, David Stuebe, Ed Orcutt and Peter Abbarno — along with 18 other representatives.
The bill has little chance of passing; it has been referred to the House Transportation Committee and has not yet been scheduled for a hearing. But its existence and its broad support from Republicans provides some insight to the legislative process.
“Washington’s roads are in dire need of repair,” Barkis said in calling for the bill to receive a hearing. “We rank 47th nationally in road quality, face an increasing number of bridges in poor condition, and have a highway system in the early stages of failure.”
There is no denying the need for infrastructure investment. But in seeking avenues for such funding, lawmakers should not override the clearly stated desire of Washington voters.
The Climate Commitment Act was passed by the Legislature in 2021 and launched in 2023. The cap-and-trade program places limits on carbon emissions from polluting companies and allows them to purchase credits through state-run auctions. In the first year, those auctions raised $2.2 billion designated for climate initiatives, clean air and water, and additional environmental protections.
Last year, Initiative 2117 was placed on the statewide ballot in an effort to repeal the Climate Commitment Act. That effort was rejected by 62 percent of voters.
The messages have been clear: A solid majority of Washington lawmakers and residents strongly support a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment.
That points out the shortcomings of Republicans’ attempt to undermine the legislation. It also points out the annoying tendency of lawmakers of both parties, at both the state and federal levels, to take money designated for one goal and capriciously repurpose it.
As Rep. Jake Fey, D-Tacoma and chair of the Transportation Committee, wrote to the Columbia Basin Herald: “Investing in our transportation system is critical, but those investments must align with our commitment to reducing emissions. That’s why funds from the Climate Commitment Act can only be used for projects that actively cut greenhouse gas emissions and support a cleaner, more sustainable future for Washington.”
At the same time, the Trump administration has placed a hold on billions of dollars for funding electric vehicle charging stations. Washington is in line to receive $71 million of that money, which was designated under the bipartisan infrastructure law signed by President Joe Biden in 2021. Last week, the Federal Highway Administration informed state officials, “The new leadership of the Department of Transportation has decided to review the policies underlying the implementation.”
Taking money that has been legislatively approved for one purpose and directing it elsewhere — or halting payments — erodes public trust in government. It also contributes to the nation’s maddening failure to invest in itself.
Lawmakers in Olympia should recognize that Washington voters support the Climate Commitment Act. In seeking funding for road improvements, they should look elsewhere.
