Lawsuits Filed Against Washington's Initiative 2066

King County and the city of Seattle have filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Initiative 2066, which prohibits state and local governments from restricting the use of natural gas. The initiative, which passed with 51.7% of the vote, aims to reverse efforts to transition to electric heating, but opponents argue it violates Washington's constitutional requirement for initiatives to address a single subject. The lawsuit claims that the measure misled voters and could negatively impact air quality and public health regulations. In response, supporters of the initiative argue that it reflects voters' desires and call the lawsuit an undermining of democracy. The outcome of these legal battles will significantly affect Washington's energy policies and regulations on energy efficiency and emissions reduction. Seattle's mayor emphasized the initiative's potential harm to public health and safety regulations.