Yesterday, the Oregon Legislature released a draft of the Clean Energy Jobs bill (LC 894), which caps climate pollution from the largest emitters and reinvests the proceeds into our communities.
Climate Solutions is focused on passing a strong policy that:
- Reduces emissions quickly to meet ambitious climate goals
- Holds the largest polluters in all sectors accountable
- Invests in job-creating clean energy projects in communities across the state
- Ensures a majority of investments benefit those most impacted by climate change, including communities of color, Tribes, rural communities, and low-income families.
“Oregonians want and deserve bold climate action and a rapid transition to clean energy. Other states are looking to Oregon for climate leadership. This is our moment - we need to respond with strong legislation that is up to the occasion,” said Zach Baker, Oregon Policy Manager, Climate Solutions.
Strong and declining cap
The legislation maintains a strong cap on emissions from previous bills, with 2035 and 2050 emissions reduction targets. “We’re excited to see this element retained. The 2035 target is especially important to achieve the near-term reductions science demands to avoid the worst climate impacts,” said Zach Baker, Oregon Policy Manager, Climate Solutions.
Opportunities to strengthen bill
“The legislature should work to strengthen the bill to ensure significant investment in clean energy solutions,” said Zach Baker, Oregon Policy Manager for Climate Solutions. For example, a number of entities receive generous free allowances. In addition, investments should be better directed to ensure a majority of the investments will benefit communities most impacted by climate change.
