WA voters strongly rejecting repeal of landmark climate law

On November 5, 2024, Washington voters decisively rejected Initiative 2117, a proposal to repeal the Climate Commitment Act, with 61. 7% opposing the repeal. Enacted in 2021, the Climate Commitment Act aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly, targeting a 45% reduction below 1990 levels by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 95% by 2050. The act employs a cap-and-invest program requiring major polluters to purchase emissions allowances, generating approximately $2. 3 billion for state projects, including electric school buses and clean transportation infrastructure.

While critics claim the act increases consumer costs without a substantial impact on climate change, the strong voter turnout against the repeal reflects robust public support for environmental legislation. This outcome suggests that voters prioritize long-term sustainability over immediate economic concerns.