Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5771

Introduced
4/21/23  

Caption

Providing consumer relief for the climate commitment act.

Impact

The bill is expected to facilitate a smoother implementation of state laws regarding climate commitments by offering necessary fiscal measures to offset the costs associated with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. It seeks to balance environmental goals with the economic realities faced by residents, especially those in vulnerable situations. The provision of consumer relief is intended to lessen public resistance by ensuring that the financial ramifications of climate policies do not disproportionately affect lower-income households.

Summary

Senate Bill 5771, known as the consumer relief for the climate commitment act, aims to provide financial relief to consumers affected by the economic implications of the climate commitment policy. This bill addresses the potential rise in costs associated with the transitions required to meet climate goals, particularly focusing on assisting low-income families and individuals who may face disproportionate burdens due to increased costs of living. The intent is to mitigate adverse effects while supporting a transition to a more sustainable environment.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around SB5771 appears to lean toward support among legislators who understand the importance of coupling climate policy with economic considerations. Supporters advocate that such measures are crucial for ensuring broad public support for climate initiatives, which could otherwise lead to pushback from those concerned about affordability. However, skeptics express concerns regarding the sufficient effectiveness of the relief measures and whether they adequately address the diverse needs of all affected consumers.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB5771 include debates over the effectiveness and sufficiency of the proposed consumer relief measures. Critics argue that while the bill is well-intentioned, it may not go far enough in addressing the long-term economic impacts of climate policies on specific demographic groups. Furthermore, discussions have emerged about the potential administrative challenges in implementing relief programs and ensuring that they reach the individuals most in need. The balance of environmental goals versus economic realities continues to be a focal point in legislative discussions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1904

Using climate commitment act revenues to pay for hybrid electric ferries.

WA SB5877

Providing information about the costs of the climate commitment act to electricity and natural gas customers.

WA HB1912

Concerning the exemption for fuels used for agricultural purposes in the climate commitment act.

WA HB1324

Funding the state transportation system using climate commitment act revenues.

WA SB5550

Funding the state transportation system using climate commitment act revenues.

WA SB5728

Developing a process to implement exemptions for certain fuels under the climate commitment act.

WA SB5783

Mitigating the consumer impacts of the climate commitment act by creating greater administrability of emissions exemptions and improving the transparency and business practices under the act.

WA HB1887

Mitigating the consumer impacts of the climate commitment act by creating greater administrability of emissions exemptions and improving the transparency and business practices under the act.

WA HB1780

Addressing unintended consequences of the climate commitment act.

WA SB5769

Concerning the price ceiling under chapter 70A.65 RCW, the climate commitment act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.