Washington Voters Approve Initiative to Protect Natural Gas

Washington state voters have narrowly passed Initiative 2066 with approximately 52% approval, which blocks local and state governments from banning natural gas and requires utilities to supply gas to customers who request it. This measure effectively rolls back recent laws aimed at transitioning away from natural gas, including House Bill 1589 that facilitated the shift towards electric appliances. Proponents argue that natural gas is essential for safety and energy choice, while opponents express concerns that the initiative could lead to higher energy costs and hinder progress on pollution reduction. Despite the victory, legal challenges are anticipated from those who believe the measure will complicate the state's energy goals. The initiative will take effect once election results are certified on December 5. The support for Initiative 2066 reflects a significant pushback against regulatory efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in Washington.