Bill > HB1856

This bill modifies the Climate Commitment Act to create a special alternative emission reduction pathway for small municipal gas utilities with greenhouse gas emissions below 27,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent prior to 2022. Under this pathway, such utilities can elect to pursue an alternative emissions reduction plan instead of remaining a covered entity in the state's carbon emissions program. To qualify, the utility must submit a written notice and plan by September 1, 2025, demonstrating how it will reduce its emissions below 22,500 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2030. The plan must also commit to spending at least the amount they would have spent on compliance instruments. If the utility fails to meet its emissions reduction targets, it will be required to revert to being a covered entity and submit penalty compliance instruments for any excess emissions. The bill also makes conforming amendments to existing law to accommodate this new alternative pathway, ensuring that the department can adjust the overall allowance budget and that the utility's emissions reductions are tracked and verified. The goal is to provide smaller municipal gas utilities with flexibility in meeting the state's greenhouse gas reduction objectives while maintaining accountability for actual emissions reductions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1856&Year=2025&Initiative=false