Signed into law in 2021, the Climate Commitment Act sets a binding, declining cap on carbon pollution from the state’s largest emitters and reinvests revenue into clean transportation, community resilience, and energy innovation.
From the first policy conversations, Clean & Prosperous put forward the framework of cap-and-invest, and developed a vision for an effective, market-based pollution reduction policy modeled on similar programs in California and the European Union. We worked with lawmakers, labor unions, Tribes, environmental organizations, business leaders, and community advocates to build the broad coalition that made passage possible. Bringing deep policy expertise and rigorous economic analysis, our progress reflects our commitment to advancing market-based climate solutions that benefit Washington’s environment, economy, businesses, and marginalized communities.
What sets the Climate Commitment Act apart
Clean & Prosperous championed the framework that made the Climate Commitment Act both ambitious and workable:
Science-based emissions limits: Legally binding targets that follow the reduction pathway scientists say is needed to avoid the worst impacts of climate change: 45% below 1990 levels by 2030, 70% by 2040, and 95% (net-zero) by 2050.
Ambition paired with flexibility: A market that is fully authorized through 2050, ensuring Washington state has one of the most ambitious cap programs in the world. Legislative clarity and authority gives our emissions cap integrity, while built-in flexibility retains economic durability and facilitates innovation.
A rapidly growing approach: More than 25% of global GHG emissions are covered by cap programs. Washington is part of a growing coalition of jurisdictions, including California, the European Union, and China, embracing what has proven to be the most effective policy at reducing emissions while advancing economic competitiveness.
Economic opportunity: Investments that create good-paying jobs across the state, require high labor standards, and protect emissions-intensive, trade-exposed industries while driving deep decarbonization.
This collaborative, market-based approach created common ground among diverse stakeholders, resulting in durable support for the policy.
Defending a landmark climate law at the ballot box
In 2024, the Climate Commitment Act came under threat from ballot Initiative 2117, which sought to repeal it. Clean & Prosperous was an early supporter of the successful “No on 2117” campaign, working with a coalition of more than 600 businesses, Tribal nations, labor unions, doctors and nurses, and community organizations to defend clean air, clean water, and accessible, safe transportation.
Clean & Prosperous fundraised more than $3 million to oppose I-2117. This fundraising was critical to generate early, high-quality polling and message guidance, as well as deploy widespread paid media to reach audiences in every corner of the state.
Voters from across the state and political spectrum made their voices heard, with 23 of 39 counties rejecting the initiative to repeal. From Whitman and Walla Walla Counties in the Palouse, to Pacific County (and all 14 “saltwater” counties), 62% of voters affirmed their commitment to Washington’s clean energy future and protecting one of the most effective climate policies in the world.
Turning policy into lasting progress
Clean & Prosperous remains committed to ensuring the Climate Commitment Act delivers on its promise, for the benefit of communities, the economy, and the environment.
Today, we focus on:
Monitoring progress to ensure the policy meets its goals for emissions reductions, public health, and economic growth.
Supporting strategic, well-researched adjustments that keep the program effective and workable over the long term.
Advancing complementary policies that build on the Climate Commitment Act’s foundation and accelerate Washington’s transition to a clean energy economy.
Sharing lessons learned with subnational and international jurisdictions so Washington can continue to serve as a model for other states and countries pursuing ambitious, effective climate action.
The Climate Commitment Act is proof that climate leadership can work hand-in-hand with economic growth. We are committed to helping it succeed, not just for Washington, but for all who look to our state as proof that the clean energy transition is possible.
