CLEAN CARS 2030 – VETO RESPONSE

Statement from Matthew Metz, founder and co-executive director of Coltura, in response to Governor Inslee’s veto of the Clean Cars 2030 Amendment

Seattle, Washington — May 13, 2021 — Washington State was the first in the nation to pass a 2030 vehicle electrification goal through both legislative chambers this year. Unfortunately, while Governor Inslee signed the underlying legislation into law this morning, he vetoed the section on clean cars.  According to a statement from the governor’s office, the veto arose from concerns about an amendment to the bill advanced by Sen. Steve Hobbs tying the 100% zero emissions vehicles goal to a road usage charge. While we respect and share that concern, we still believe strongly — as do a majority of legislators and the people of Washington — that we cannot lose sight of this critical goal.

To meet the goals set forth in President Biden’s climate proposal, we must, as a nation, cut gasoline consumption in half by 2030. The passage of Clean Cars 2030 would have significantly reduced carbon emissions and created a safer, healthier future for all.

Coltura will continue to work with the governor’s office to advance vehicle electrification policy in the state. After the dust settles from this legislative session, we hope the governor will consider setting a goal by executive order for all new vehicles to be electric by 2030.

About Coltura

Coltura spearheaded a diverse coalition of more than 25 organizations advocating for the passage of Clean Cars 2030, including leading environmental, social justice, and faith groups across the state. The date certain established in the bill for the transition away from gasoline vehicles also attracted the support of the automotive and business community, including an endorsement from the Washington State Auto Dealers Association.

Coltura is working to improve climate, health, and equity by accelerating the transition from gasoline and diesel to cleaner alternatives. It focuses on changing gasoline supply, gasoline demand, and gasoline culture through innovative legal and policy pathways, media, and art. Learn more at www.coltura.org. 

MEDIA CONTACTS

• Matthew Metz, co-founder of Coltura, mnm@coltura.org, 206-799-2795
• Samara Villasenor, communications for Coltura, samara@greatworkcommunications.com, 206-478-5643