Energy Affordability & Clean Air on the Line in Washington State - CleanTechnica

The Washington State Supreme Court heard oral arguments on January 22, 2026, regarding the legality of Initiative 2066 (I-2066), which narrowly passed in the 2024 election with 51.7% of the vote. The initiative’s ballot title was challenged for being misleading, as it purportedly amended existing climate and clean air laws without clear voter awareness. Critics argue that I-2066 falsely claimed the state was banning natural gas access, despite state laws ensuring energy choice and requiring gas utilities to serve customers who want gas appliances. The initiative was supported by groups like the Building Industry of Washington and Let’s Go WA, with significant funding from out-of-state interests. Opponents, including Seattle City Attorney Erika Evans, environmental organizations such as Washington Conservation Action, the Sierra Club, and Front and Centered, contend that I-2066 undermines energy affordability, clean air protections, and the state’s clean energy transition commitments. They describe the initiative as a deceptive effort