Washington House Democrats

House takes step to curb greenhouse gas emissions

OLYMPIA – The state House tonight voted to approve new greenhouse emissions standards for electric power plants. Goals to dramatically reduce future greenhouse emissions for the entire state were also approved.

“Everyone has a role to play in preventing climate change,” said the proposal’s sponsor state. Rep. Jeff Morris (D-Mount Vernon). “Our state recognizes this and we are ready to take steps to own up to our responsibilities.”

Morris’ striking amendment to Senate Bill 6001 requires electric-power plants in Washington state to cap greenhouse gas emissions for new contracts at 1,100 tons per megawatt hour of production. This cap effectively freezes future emission at today’s levels.

“Tonight we took a step to do our part in fighting climate change,” Morris said. “There is still a lot of work to be done, and I look forward to find more ways for our state to lead in this effort.”

In addition to the new emissions standards for electric-power plants, Morris’ proposal also sets up a deliberate and accountable process for the state to cut overall emission to 1990 levels by 2020, to 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2035, and to 70 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.

The bill was approved with strong bipartisan support, and now must be approved by the Senate.

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Bill information: Senate Bill 6001

Staff Contact: Jeff Muhm (360) 786-7237