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SB 65

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 7 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO TERMINATING THE REGIONAL GREENHOUSE GAS INITIATIVE AND CO2 EMISSION TRADING PROGRAM.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Rich Collins and 16 co-sponsors

Delaware bill to withdraw from multi-state carbon emission trading program (RGGI), eliminating state revenue while ending participation in interstate climate initiative.

Introduced and Assigned to Environment, Energy & Transportation Committee in Senate
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Bill Summary · SB 65

Legislative bill overview

SB 65 proposes to terminate Delaware's participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a multi-state cap-and-trade program that limits carbon dioxide emissions from power plants. The bill would effectively end Delaware's involvement in this interstate environmental and economic program, which has been in operation since 2009.

Why is this important

RGGI generates significant state revenue through CO2 allowance auctions—Delaware has collected hundreds of millions of dollars directed toward energy efficiency, renewable energy, and other climate programs. Terminating participation would eliminate this revenue stream and represent a substantial shift in Delaware's climate policy approach, potentially affecting both environmental commitments and funded initiatives that depend on RGGI proceeds.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue loss: The state would lose ongoing auction revenue currently allocated to clean energy programs, energy bill assistance for low-income residents, and other initiatives; legislators would need to identify alternative funding sources
  • Interstate coordination complications: Delaware's exit could affect the program's overall functioning since RGGI operates as a coordinated multi-state system, and other states might view unilateral withdrawal as destabilizing
  • Climate policy reversal: The termination contradicts Delaware's existing climate commitments and renewable energy goals, potentially conflicting with state law and raising questions about policy consistency and long-term environmental strategy

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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