The media blitz of false and misleading information regarding I-1631 is another example of large corporations spending millions to defeat an initiative in our state. The degree to which they are threatened by I-1631 is revealed on the back of the slick mailer recently released in this state and in the television spots: “Paid for by No on 1631 (Sponsored by Western States Petroleum Association),Top 5 contributors; Phillips 66, BP America, Andeavor, American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers, U,.S. Oil and Refining Company.”
Their motives for fear tactics and false statements are because of the dedication of a major portion of the revenue derived from the carbon fee towards the growth and development of alternative clean energy which is in opposition to the best interest of the oil corporations. Another major portion is dedicated to forest rehabilitation and management because funding for this was cut from the federal budget.
A more significant reason the fossil fuel industry is threatened by this initiative is because it is the first in the nation and its passage would inspire other states to initiate similar carbon fees. Washington’s use and management of the required revenue would be seen as a way to counter the current administration’s anti-conservation ant anti-alternative energy policies. We in Washington realize that we cannot count on the federal government to act in our best interest to mitigate climate change, protect our environment and wildlife, and to develop a future with clean air and water.
Suzanne Hunsley
Edmonds
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