Climate wins for WPSR in the 2024 Legislative Session
As the 2024 legislative session comes to a close, we are thrilled to share the wins for our climate and health program this year. These accomplishments underscore one crucial fact the health professional community stepped up in record numbers this year.
What do we mean? With just hours to go before a hearing on a bill to address greenhouse gas emissions in anesthesia, our community rallied partners and stakeholders to the tune of 400 sign-ons to the bill. Despite formidable opposition, the bill passed out of committee just days later in part to our efforts.
That’s not all. Our community took 300 actions in support of our Climate and Health Agenda. We sent in 19 distinct letters and testimonies demonstrating the impact of sound climate policy on public health. Our Task Force alone sent in over 200 emails to legislators in the final days of session, tirelessly advocating for bills like the 100% Clean School Buses initiative.
How did WPSR’s Climate Priorities fare?
WPSR’s top priorities this legislation session focused on three key areas - equitable Climate Commitment Act investments, health-centered transportation systems, and access to clean air in buildings. Through this work, we’re not just reducing emissions; we're safeguarding the health of our communities, especially those disproportionately affected by air pollution. Here’s a summary of their outcomes:
HB1368, 100% Clean School Buses, passed the legislature. This victory underscores our dedication to promoting clean transportation solutions, with a clear target set for transitioning to zero-emission school buses by 2030.
HB1012, the Extreme Weather Protection Act, passed the legislature and was funded at $1.5 million in the operating budget. This will see the Military Department disburse funds and help local jurisdictions create the infrastructure they need to keep populations safe.
HB1391, the Energy Navigator, did not pass the legislature. $3.5 million was provided in the budget for the program. This investment will help to create access to electrification for Washingtonians, including information on credits for building transitions to renewable energy.
HB2073, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in anesthesia, did not pass the legislature. This new bill did greatly in its first year of introduction! Building support for greenhouse gas reductions in hospitals will be key in our efforts in the future.
HB2070, the CURB Pollution Act, did not pass the legislature. The bill would do a great deal to empower overburdened communities in stopping projects detrimental to community health and the environment. We are excited to work on this legislation next year!
Next Steps: Continuing the Fight for Climate and Health
Whether it was gathering over 400 signatures in just 12 hours for HB2073 or mobilizing to email every senator in Washington to secure the passage of the clean school buses bill, our community demonstrated unwavering commitment and effectiveness in driving positive change.As we celebrate these efforts, our work is far from over. We plan to work with stakeholders to bring stronger support for these pieces of legislation in the future.
A heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our advocates who have helped us this legislative session. WPSR remains committed to building on these successes and driving meaningful change for the well-being of our communities and our planet, and we can because of your support!
