New bill aims to reduce pollution, but could raise gas prices in Washington
OLYMPIA, Wash. — A bill in Olympia is trying to reduce pollution, but some opponents say it will also reduce the amount of money in your wallet.
The newly proposed carbon tax could add an extra 50 to 60 cents to each gallon of gas you buy.
The bill’s sponsor argues similar programs in nearby states haven’t done that at all.
The bill directs the Department of Ecology to adopt a clean fuels program similar to ones in California and Oregon.
Producers would need to start reducing carbon emissions from their fuels.
The guideline calls for levels to drop 10% below 2017 levels by 2028, and hit 20% below 2017 levels by 2035.
Republicans are worried that mandating a ‘Greener’ fuel will cost drivers in the end.
The bill now heads to the Senate, where it stalled last season, for consideration.
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