Climate Commitment Act

History

History

The Climate Commitment Act stands as a remarkable example of effective state-level policy aimed at mitigating climate pollution and fostering a fair and sustainable future.

Back in 2021, Washington State took a pioneering step by passing the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), a groundbreaking cap-and-invest legislation. This forward-looking law places a gradual limit on climate-warming emissions and allocates resources to implement solutions that promote equity, prosperity, and resilience across the state. Working hand-in-hand with other robust state policies, the CCA is projected to achieve an impressive 95% reduction in emissions by 2050. Moreover, it fosters stronger consultations with tribal nations, enhances air quality and environmental justice, bolsters climate-focused initiatives, and bolsters the state’s economy.

The journey toward passing the CCA holds valuable insights that can be adapted by other states seeking to address climate change. Prior to this achievement, numerous attempts to implement carbon pricing had faltered over the course of more than a decade. However, the CCA triumphed with the collective backing of a diverse coalition of stakeholders, representing a broad spectrum of interests within the state. This inclusive collaboration ensured that the law not only met science-based emission reduction targets but also brought about positive co-benefits for Washington’s environment, businesses, and marginalized communities.

Bipartisan Roots & State Leadership

Cap-and-Trade was first deployed by the George H. W. Bush administration to successfully – and efficiently – combat acid rain. 

Charles Tasnadi / AP Images

 Could it work as well on the climate crisis?

California was the first state to put Cap-and-Trade to work on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction. Results there show targets achieved ahead of schedule, with a healthy economy.

Now, just as we in Washington state followed California’s lead but improved upon their program, we anticipate other states will follow our lead. Already, the state of New York is beginning the process of implementing a similar Cap-and-Invest system. California is considering improvements to their system by referencing Washington’s CCA.

Stronger than ever

Stronger than ever

Thank you – for all you did to help defeat I-2117. It was a team effort, and each of you, whether playing offense, defense, or special teams… whether a grizzled veteran of political campaigns or a green rookie, played an indispensable role in this...

How will economists vote?

How will economists vote?

The Cap-and-Invest Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is 82 pages long, with hundreds if not thousands of pages of administrative rules. Carefully crafted by legislators over many years, it is now subject to repeal by voters who are tasked with assessing...

WA is a swing state?!?

WA is a swing state?!?

When it comes to the issue of climate, Washington state actually is a swing state. You may be feeling envious of voters in Pennsylvania and Georgia who are getting all the campaign attention this year, so having ballot power on a significant issue...

What is the state of innovation?

What is the state of innovation?

Washington is the state of innovation. And what’s the state of innovation in Washington state? Thanks in part to the Cap-and-Invest Climate Commitment Act (CCA), our state is a leader in creating the clean energy future. Why “in part”? U.S....

We got a glimpse of the future

We got a glimpse of the future

Last month, delegates on the Made in Washington Study Mission hosted by the Clean & Prosperous Institute got a sneak peek at a major new development: Amazon announced today that they will partner with Energy Northwest to develop four Small...

Tonight, beware of the misdirection play

Tonight, beware of the misdirection play

As the Seahawks face the 49ers tonight at Lumen Field, Seattle’s defense will be ready to recognize fake handoffs, double-reverses, and flea-flickers. At the same time, Climate Commitment Act architect Reuven Carlyle will be ready to defend against...

Visit the County Fare

Visit the County Fare

Blue-ribbon, green economy projects are being showcased in every county of the state, all made possible by Washington’s Cap-and-Invest Climate Commitment Act (CCA). Yet there is a very real risk of losing the progress those investments are bringing...

The risk of repeal is real – and far-reaching

The risk of repeal is real – and far-reaching

If you – like us – value clean air, clear water, and healthy farms, forests and fisheries, then you – like us – value the investments made possible by Washington’s Cap-and-Invest Climate Commitment Act (CCA). And you recognize the very real risk of...

Cap-and-Invest is a Force Multiplier

Cap-and-Invest is a Force Multiplier

Climate instability is widely recognized as a threat multiplier. More wildfires, Deadlier heatwaves. Higher insurance rates. Increased threats to national security. A recent report by the Defense Science Board concludes, “Climate change will likely...

Clean & Prosperous Washington is a project of the Washington Business Alliance.
Contact us at info@cleanprosperouswa.com