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Bill

HB 1324

Funding the state transportation system using climate commitment act revenues.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Peter Abbarno and 22 co-sponsors

HB 1324 redirects Washington's carbon pricing revenues to fund state transportation infrastructure instead of other uses, creating climate-dependent transportation budgets.

First reading, referred to Transportation.
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Bill Summary · HB 1324

Legislative bill overview

HB 1324 directs revenues from Washington's Climate Commitment Act (a carbon pricing program) to fund the state's transportation system. The bill creates a new funding mechanism that ties transportation infrastructure investments to carbon market revenues rather than traditional gas taxes or general fund appropriations. This represents a significant shift in how Washington finances roads, bridges, and transit projects.

Why is this important

Transportation accounts for roughly one-third of Washington's greenhouse gas emissions, making this policy theoretically aligned with climate goals. However, this bill directly affects how billions in state transportation funding are allocated and could reshape the state's long-term infrastructure financing model, impacting everything from pothole repairs to major highway projects to public transit expansion.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue volatility: Carbon pricing revenues fluctuate based on market conditions and compliance rates, creating unpredictable funding for projects traditionally planned years in advance with stable budgets
  • Equity concerns: Whether carbon revenues (which affect energy and fuel costs for all consumers) should fund transportation, or whether this disproportionately impacts lower-income Washingtonians who depend on affordable driving
  • Political disagreement on climate spending: Conservatives may oppose dedicating climate act revenues to transportation, while progressives may debate whether this is the best use of climate funds versus direct emissions reduction investments

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

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