Tag Archives: greenhouse gases

Front row, L to R: Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, Gov. Bob Ferguson, and Virginia Hall, SLA, Office of Sen. Boehnke. Back row, L to R: Dawn Boehnke, Derrek Wilson, Dept. of Ecology, Anthony “Tony” Abbot, Dept. of Ecology, Cameron Long, SRC Policy, WA State Senate, Ken Camp, Dept. of Ecology, Micheal Leone, Session Intern, Office of Sen. Boehnke, and Christina McNair, Session Aide, Office of Sen. Boehnke/Credit: Washington State Senate

Governor signs Boehnke’s bipartisan bill to strengthen Washington’s climate transparency

Front row, L to R: Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, Gov. Bob Ferguson, and Virginia Hall, SLA, Office of Sen. Boehnke. Back row, L to R: Dawn Boehnke, Derrek Wilson, Dept. of Ecology, Anthony “Tony” Abbot, Dept. of Ecology, Cameron Long, SRC Policy, WA State Senate, Ken Camp, Dept. of Ecology, Micheal Leone, Session Intern, Office of Sen. Boehnke, and Christina McNair, Session Aide, Office of Sen. Boehnke/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Friday, the governor signed legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke that strengthens Washington’s climate accountability by transitioning the state to annual reporting of greenhouse-gas emissions.

“This law is about accountability, transparency, and making sure we’re using real data, not guesswork, when making decisions about Washington’s energy and environmental policies,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “Good data equals better decisions.  We can’t fix what we don’t measure. By getting annual updates, the Legislature and the public will have better tools to evaluate whether we’re on track or need to change course.”

The state reports its total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions every two years. The law created by Boehnke’s bill requires the Department of Ecology and the Department of Commerce to publish an annual inventory of statewide emissions, starting in 2031. It also directs the agencies to provide interim updates in 2027 and 2029 to improve visibility as the state moves toward its 2030 climate targets.

““Climate policy should be based on facts and outcomes, not politics or assumptions,” Boehnke added. “Regardless of ideology, we all benefit from better data and a clear-eyed look at whether our policies are delivering results.”

His SB 5036, which was passed by the Legislature unanimously , builds on Washington’s existing climate laws—like the Climate Commitment Act—by ensuring consistent public reporting on the effectiveness of those programs. The new law also ensures that natural-gas utilities continue to report annual emissions data as part of their participation in the state’s cap-and-tax program.

“This is a smart, responsible step forward that reflects the kind of bipartisan, data-driven work we need more of in Olympia,” Boehnke said.

The new law takes effect July 27.

 

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Boehnke bill aimed at timely greenhouse-gas emissions data clears House committee

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke to improve the tracking of greenhouse-gas emissions is one step closer to final approval in the House of Representatives.

Senate Bill 5036 would shift Washington’s biennial reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to annual reporting, ensuring policymakers have timely and accurate data to make informed decisions. The measure received unanimous approval from the House Environment and Energy Committee and now awaits placement on the voting calendar.

“Reliable, timely data is essential for effective policymaking,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “Transitioning to annual emissions reporting enables us to track progress more accurately, respond swiftly to emerging climate trends, and ensure that our policies are producing tangible results. This bill strengthens transparency, accountability, and our ability to take meaningful action in reducing emissions.”

By increasing the frequency of emissions reporting, SB 5036 would improve the state’s ability to respond to environmental changes, refine climate policies, and better align with Washington’s climate initiatives, including the Climate Commitment Act, Clean Fuel Standard, and zero-emission vehicle policies.

“It’s unacceptable that we must rely on outdated emissions data to develop policy. Waiting two years for updated numbers slows our ability to adapt and improve. Annual reporting will provide us with the real-time insights needed to make evidence-based decisions that support both our environment and economy,” he explained.

Rather than adding bureaucracy, SB 5036 focuses on enhancing accountability and efficiency in emissions tracking. Boehnke emphasized that more frequent reporting will keep state agencies transparent, ensure lawmakers have current accurate information, and keep the public informed on Washington’s climate progress.

“If we’re serious about meeting our climate goals, we need precise and up-to-date data to guide us,” He said.

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

 

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