Carbon tax initiative goes to November ballot in Washington
Wed., March 30, 2016
OLYMPIA – An initiative that would create a carbon tax in Washington state is now headed to the November ballot.
Lawmakers adjourned the special legislative session late Tuesday without taking action on Initiative 732, thus sending the statewide ballot measure to voters.
I-732 would impose a carbon tax of $25 per metric ton of emissions from fossil fuels such as gasoline, coal and natural gas. Meanwhile, it would lower the state sales tax by one point, virtually eliminate business taxes for manufacturers and provide rebates for working families.
Initiative sponsor Carbon Washington says the tax encourages people and businesses to switch to cleaner energy by making fossil fuels more expensive.
Some including the Washington State Labor Council have lined up in opposition.
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