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....Initiative 2066 would prohibit towns, cities, and counties from enacting building codes that encourage electrification of home and building energy. Building electrification improves indoor air quality over fossil-fuel sources. In addition, it would repeal HB 1589 passed in 2024. This law applies only to Puget Sound Energy (PSE) and specifies that PSE plan for an eventual transition to renewable, low-emission energy sources. The law also consolidates and clarifies multiple planning processes required by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission providing more efficiency and transparency.

HB 1589 does not force electrification, it does not require removal of natural gas service in existing buildings and homes, nor does it prohibit natural gas in new buildings. The law was supported by PSE and requires that they consider electrification as part of their integrated system plan. It also requires PSE to end residential customer incentives for natural gas in 2025.

Natural gas is primarily methane, a fossil fuel and potent greenhouse gas. Methane and products of its combustion degrade human health, especially in children, and especially in buildings and homes. Electric energy in buildings and homes is safer, healthier, and more efficient. Therefore, we should encourage the transition with planning and investment...

.... Initiative 2109, Repeal Capital Gains Tax, if passed, would terminate a significant source of income for education and school construction that is generated from the state’s wealthiest individuals. Collections to date have exceeded nearly $1 billion in 2023 from only 3,895 taxpayers. This tax not only supports the state’s mandate to amply fund education but also shifts the balance in the state’s revenue structure toward equity from the most regressive tax structure in the US.

The League of Women Voters’ positions on this issue are that the state has the responsibility for amply funding education and that action to obtain a balanced tax structure that is fair, adequate, flexible, and has a sound economic effect is needed.

• Slide show by Marty Gibbins (Issue Chair for LWV of WA) that gives an overview of I-2117 and the Climate Commitment Act–detailing what the existing legislation funds and how it helps us meet our climate goals: Download Slideshow (pdf)  

.... Initiative 2124, Opting out of Long-Term Services Insurance Program, threatens to jeopardize the state's groundbreaking mandatory long-term care benefit which guarantees access to vital long-term care and home health care services for all employed individuals in Washington. This benefit is sustained by contributions from employees over time, serving as a crucial safety net for the 70% of the population who will inevitably require long-term care at some stage. However, rendering this fund optional would jeopardize coverage for those in need and likely lead to its financial collapse, rendering it ineffective for those who do contribute to the fund.

The League of Women Voters advocates for universal access to essential healthcare, including long-term care, for all residents of the United States. We support comprehensive reform of the healthcare system to ensure that everyone can access a comprehensive, uniform, and affordable range of services. Additionally, we support programs and policies aimed at poverty reduction, promoting self-sufficiency for individuals and families. At present, only people of means can afford long-term care insurance.