Washington State Initiative 2066 Seeks to Block Gas Restrictions in Buildings, Gaining Strong Support from Various Groups.

A ballot initiative in Washington state, Initiative 2066, aims to block state and local governments from restricting gas use in buildings. The initiative is supported by homebuilders, conservative activists, hotel and restaurant owners, and would require utilities to offer the fossil fuel to any customer in their service area that might reasonably demand it. It would also unwind a new state law that incentivizes utilities to plan for the electrification of buildings that currently run on gas. Supporters have submitted over 546,000 signatures supporting the initiative, far more than the 325,000 required by law. If approved by voters, the initiative is almost certain to make the November ballot.