Rep. Mary Dye sues two state agencies on carbon statistics

Rep. Mary Dye, along with Sen. Nikki Torres and researcher Todd Myers, has filed a lawsuit against the Washington Departments of Ecology and Commerce over delayed climate data publication. The lawsuit arises from concerns that more than $3. 5 billion collected through higher gas and utility rates under the Climate Commitment Act has not resulted in tangible environmental benefits.

Dye argues that the agencies are failing to fulfill their legal obligations, which hampers informed policy-making and undermines public trust. The Department of Ecology claims that complexities in data collection have delayed emissions reporting, but Dye insists this is unacceptable. The lawsuit seeks to compel the agencies to release the required greenhouse gas data, aiming to restore accountability and transparency. The case is currently moving through Thurston County Superior Court. With climate change being labeled an existential threat, the stakes are high for Washington families, farmers, and businesses who bear the costs of climate policies.

The outcome could significantly impact future environmental policy and governance in the state.