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Policy Memo: The Washington Climate Commitment Act

November 4, 2022

Region

Northwest

Related Issues

Climate, Energy, Environmental Justice

NCEL Point of Contact

Ava Gallo
Climate and Energy Program Manager

Contact

Overview

With the passage of S.B.5126, the Climate Commitment Act (CCA), Washington became the second state to create a comprehensive cap-and-invest

Cap-and-Invest
A method of pricing carbon where states set a cap on emissions, and emitters buy allowances to continue to emit underneath that cap. The cap declines over time, reducing emissions. The money from the emissions allowances are then invested into programs that promote social or environmental health.
program. Washington worked to improve upon the California model by limiting the role of offsets, and requiring robust air quality and environmental justice provisions. It also directs the funds generated towards a wide array of climate mitigation and adaptation programs. Like many climate policies, cap-and-invest is complex. This policy memo provides an introduction to the Climate Commitment Act and its key components. It can be used as a starting point for legislators interested in replicating Washington’s model, but is no substitute for the actual law. Download the full policy memo by clicking the link at the top of the page.

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Resources

NCEL Resources

Online Resources

The Story of Washington's Climate Commitment Act (CCA) - NCEL

This StoryMap resource builds on in-depth policy analysis and interview with key stakeholders to tell the story of the CCA to help inform and inspire other states across the country.

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Climate Commitment Act (S.B.5126) Bill Text

View the full legislative text here.

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Climate Commitment Act - WA Department of Ecology

For a top level overview of the Climate Commitment Act, visit this webpage from Washington's Department of Ecology.

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