Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2298

Introduced
1/11/24  

Caption

Establishing a climate resilience and environmental equity campus.

Impact

If enacted, HB2298 would amend existing state laws to prioritize environmental equity and resilience in state planning and infrastructure development. It is anticipated that the establishment of the climate resilience campus would lead to the development of best practices and policies that could significantly influence local and state governance on environmental matters. The bill underscores the importance of community involvement and aims to ensure that all voices, particularly those from marginalized communities, are included in discussions surrounding environmental policy.

Summary

House Bill 2298 focuses on establishing a climate resilience and environmental equity campus, aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental justice in the state. The bill seeks to create a dedicated facility that would serve as a hub for research, education, and community engagement regarding climate issues and environmental health. This initiative is expected to bring together various stakeholders, including local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions, to collaborate on strategies that bolster climate resilience.

Contention

However, discussions around HB2298 are not without contention. Some legislators express concerns about the potential costs and the allocation of state funds towards this initiative, questioning whether climate resilience should take precedence over other pressing state needs. Critics argue that while the goals of the bill are noble, the lack of a clear funding mechanism could impede the successful implementation of the proposed campus. Proponents, meanwhile, argue that investing in climate resilience is essential for the long-term sustainability of communities and the environment.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5094

Adding a climate resilience element to water system plans.

WA HB1170

Improving climate resilience through updates to the state's integrated climate response strategy.

WA SB5093

Improving climate resilience through updates to the state's integrated climate response strategy.

WA SB6274

Establishing a grant program to fund school resource officers on public school campuses.

WA SB5651

Concerning equity and environmental justice in the growth management act.

WA HB1723

Concerning equity and environmental justice in the growth management act.

WA SB5305

Concerning the new environmental accelerator for salmon recovery and ecological resiliency projects.

WA SB5329

Addressing fees at campuses other than the main campus.

WA HB1742

Concerning environmentally sustainable urban design.

WA HB1288

Concerning environmental leadership through outdoor recreation and climate adaptation investments.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.