Top Chapter Priorities
Protecting Funding for Climate and Natural Investments
With an expected $10 to $12 billion budget shortfall lawmakers will be looking for ways to fill the gaps. We’ll remind them that Washingtonians are committed to climate investments and expect progressive revenue options to close the deficit.. The Chapter is focused on keeping Climate Commitment Act funding where it belongs - protecting our natural environment and investing in clean energy.
Clean Transportation for All
Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in WA - and we’re committed to reducing fossil fuel emissions using clean transportation alternatives to keep communities connected and thriving. We’re working to protect the Advanced Clean Trucks rule from rollbacks pushed by truck manufacturers that would delay requirements to sell more clean, zero-emissions vehicles and reduce emissions and impacts on communities. To reduce car-dependency and associated emissions, we’re also supporting eliminating parking minimums for new buildings, and directing WA’s Dept. of Transportation to have a more ambitious plan for better Amtrak service along I-5.
Investing in Forests
Mature, legacy forests store carbon and provide ecosystem services that make us more resilient to climate impacts. We’re seeking more funding for climate-smart forestry that supports conservation targets and rural needs alike, along with reforms to the forest land excise tax to help grow our public forest base. We’re also advocating for full funding for recommended Trust Land Transfer projectss, including five proposals submitted by Tribal nations. These priorities are complemented by opportunities to conserve important habitat, improve forest management practices, and defend the DNR’s abilities to manage our forests.
Sign up below and stay up to date with the 2025 Legislative Session
We'll provide the best ways to effectively participate, links to the the tools you'll use to take action, and keep you updated as our priorities work their way through Olympia during the 2024 legislative session and beyond!
Other issues and legislation we're tracking and supporting this legislative session:
The following issues and legislation are critical and we plan to support these issues with grassroots support from our legislative advocates, social media amplification, possible written testimony, and/or sign-on letters:
Recycling Reform Act*
State Match for Federal Funds to Expand Rail Investments
East / West Passenger Rail Service Through Central WA
Clean Aviation Fuels
No DNR Disadvantage in Purchasing Private Forest Land
DNR Funding for Recreation and Forest Infrastructure
Fossil Fuel Free Finance
Progressive Revenue
We will work closely in solidarity with our partners to ensure the following items have positive outcomes, possibly supporting them via signing onto letters and/or signing-in when apart of a public committee hearing:
Sewage Spill Right to Know*
Broad Climate Defense (Energy Codes in slight of I-2066)*
No Coal Act
Concerning sampling or testing of biosolids for PFAS chemicals
*Environmental Priority Coalition agenda item
Have an item that you think the Sierra Club Washington State Chapter should support / oppose? Fill out this form.