The proposed bill aims to enhance accountability and transparency in Washington state's climate policy by making the implementation of various greenhouse gas emissions reduction programs contingent upon the timely publication of a comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions inventory by the Department of Ecology. The bill mandates that this inventory be updated quarterly starting January 1, 2027, and specifies that if the Department fails to meet this requirement, several existing climate programs—including zero emission vehicle requirements, refrigerant management programs, and clean fuels programs—will cease to be enforced. This is intended to ensure that the public and policymakers have access to reliable data to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the state's climate policies.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to require the Department of Ecology and the Department of Commerce to report total greenhouse gas emissions for the preceding two years on a quarterly basis, rather than annually. The updates must include emissions from various sectors and be made publicly available to restore public trust and ensure that the costs imposed by climate policies are justified by measurable emissions reductions. The legislation emphasizes the need for data-driven, transparent, and accountable climate policy in Washington state.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70A.45.020