Final 2022 Legislative Update
Futurewise Final Legislative Update: HB 1099 Dies With Minutes to Go
It is with profound disappointment that I write you with the news that HB 1099, our landmark bill to add climate change to the GMA, died yesterday with minutes to go before the legislative session ended.
I want you to know that you and I, along with thousands of like-minded supporters, did everything we possibly could to get this bill across the finish line. HB 1099 died, but it wasn’t for lack of trying.
We knew that in a short session we had to get organized to give this bill momentum and we did. At every obstacle we strategized and pivoted to keep it moving.
When an amendment was introduced to remove any mention of climate change or requirements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we rallied over 70 organizations to demand legislators put it back in. We ended up with a stronger bill coming out of conference than we started with.
Just in the last week over 1,000 of you fired off emails to your legislators in favor of the bill, joining thousands more over the entire session.
Ultimately, the bill died because our opposition did everything they could to run down the clock and ultimately time did run out.
What happens now?
You and I know that we can’t wait to plan for climate change. Central Puget Sound counties are in the midst of their next comprehensive plan updates, and it’s crucial that we ensure those plans include greenhouse gas emissions reductions. Futurewise staff are looking at all our options right now to ensure that we make that happen. Stay tuned for how to plug in.
In the meantime, I know that our most powerful tool in our fight for climate justice is our community. We have a few upcoming opportunities to gather with our Futurewise crew — I hope you’ll join me.
Housing Power Hour with Jerusalem Demsas and Heidi Groover
Debrief the legislative session with Futurewise and learn about what’s ahead for housing policy in Washington.
When: April 5th, 5-6 PM
Where: Virtual event — join us no matter where you are in Washington!
Tickets: $20 (Free to Futurewise members)
Futurewise Livable Communities Spring Celebration
Join Futurewise for our first in-person spring celebration in two years!
When: Saturday, May 21st 5-7 PM
Where: 21 Acres Farm
13701 NE 171st St, Woodinville, WA 98072
Tickets: Sliding Scale $25 – $150
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. It has been a joy to organize with you and I know that we’re not done yet.
