Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington, constituting 45% of the state’s emissions in 2018. Transportation is also the largest contributor to national carbon emissions, accounting for 29 percent of the U.S. carbon footprint. Nationally, gasoline alone made up 22 percent of the U.S. carbon emissions.
According to the National Household Travel Survey, more than 45 percent of car trips in the United States are three miles or less, and more than 20 percent are one mile or less.
Washington Transportation Advocacy
Clean Fuel Standard
The Clean Fuel Standard is perhaps most impactful carbon reducing policy the Washington Legislature is considering this year. This act would reduce approximately 6 million tons of climate pollution per year by 2035. Washington is the state on the West Coast without such a program—British Columbia, Oregon, and California all have one.
This bill proposes providing a retail sales and use tax exemption for the purchase of electric bicycles and related cycling equipment. This will help make e-bikes more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.
This bill would allow a regional transit authority (RTA) to establish an alternative fare enforcement system, which allows for the issuance of a notice of violation. This is a step towards decriminalization of transit fare enforcement.
Also, check out the Washington Bikes website for more advocacy opportunities!
