Washington House Democrats

Climate-change legislation kept alive in House Energy Committee

March 30, 2007

Statement from state Rep. Jeff Morris (D-Mount Vernon) on House Technology, Energy and Communications Committee action to approve Senate Bill 6001

“Climate change is one of the most important issues any legislature will address this and in coming years. It is unfortunate that we have such a limited time to address such a crucial matter. Despite many short comings in the policy goals addressed in the Senate bill, we voted today to keep this policy discussion moving.

“People often forget that Washington was the first state in the nation to enact carbon emission standards in 2004 before climate change became politically popular. My committee put a lot of late hours and effort into that legislation in a very short time. As we looked at this current proposal, it was clear we were peeling an onion. Much more policy work is needed.

“I look forward to having the chance to work with my colleagues during the next few weeks to get the policy details perfected so that rest of then nation can again look to Washington state as a example of how to do things correctly.

“The committee’s vote reflected a desire to continue the discussion. No one disagreed with the larger policy goals. Comments on the outcomes or intent of the policy changes reflect political not policy goals.”

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Bill information: Senate Bill 6001 – Relating to mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Staff contact: Jeff Muhm 360-786-7237