The CT Publishing Editorial Board strongly endorses Initiative 2066, a critical measure on this year’s ballot that will protect natural gas as a viable, affordable energy option for Washingtonians. As our state faces increasing pressure to move toward electrification, I-2066 offers a balanced approach that preserves energy choice for residents and businesses alike, while pushing back against government overreach and costly retrofits. Voting yes on I-2066 is a vote to maintain affordability, reliability and energy freedom in Washington.
Earlier this year, the passage of House Bill 1589 marked an aggressive push toward full electrification, allowing Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to phase out natural gas in homes and businesses. The legislation requires PSE to develop a plan to achieve “cost-effective electrification” by 2027. However, this mandate effectively eliminates natural gas as an option for nearly a million homes and businesses across the state, imposing steep retrofit costs on homeowners — ranging from $35,000 to $75,000 — with no financial assistance from the state.
I-2066 provides a much-needed safeguard against such policies. It ensures that Washingtonians are not forced to abandon natural gas, a vital energy source that is more affordable than electricity and, in many rural areas, more reliable during extreme weather events. Natural gas is 33% cheaper than electricity and plays a crucial role in providing backup energy during winter storms and summer heat waves when the electric grid is prone to blackouts.
Gov. Jay Inslee’s climate agenda, while well-intentioned, has resulted in some of the strictest energy policies in the nation. This has already led to a 40% increase in energy bills for many residents. I-2066 stands as a response to this imbalance, protecting residents from the financial burdens that come with forced electrification.
This initiative has a profound impact on local businesses and manufacturers. From restaurants and breweries to laundromats and appliance stores, natural gas is a key energy source for countless industries. Forcing these businesses to convert to electric power would result in devastating costs, putting many at risk of closure.
The grassroots movement behind I-2066, which gathered over half a million signatures, demonstrates widespread public concern about the future of energy in our state. Voting “yes” on I-2066 protects energy freedom, affordability, and security for both residential and commercial users.
Join us in voting “yes” on I-2066 and preserve the right to choose the energy that works best for you, your home and your business.
