Senator Oemig casts vote in support of clean new renewable energy

Olympia, WA – On Tuesday night, the state Senate voted in favor of ESSB 5840, a bill that significantly weakens the standards set by I-937, the 2006 statewide ballot measure that is spurring investment in clean renewable energy.  Thankfully, state Senator Eric Oemig (D-45) cast his vote against this measure despite intense lobbying for his support.

“Senator Oemig did right by the environment.  He deserves praise and applause for taking a stand to protect I-937,” said Kurt Fritts, executive director of Washington Conservation Voters.  “Protecting this initiative not only respects the people’s will, but it’s also necessary in order to spur investments in clean energy that will deliver energy independence for our country and a strong economic future for our region.”

In the most recent Washington Conservation Voters Legislative Scorecard, Senator Oemig scored a 100% on environmental issues. Oemig represents the 45th Legislative District that includes Redmond, Kirkland, Woodinville, and Duvall. 

ESSB 5840 now goes to the state House where members will hopefully resist efforts to significantly undermine the standards of I-937. If passed in its current form, Washington would be the first state in the nation to roll back renewable energy standards.

“Senator Oemig took a stand in Olympia that shows that he is working to protect the environment and fighting hard for the constituents that he is elected to represent,” continued Fritts.

I-937 is the Renewable Energy Initiative passed by Washington voters in 2006. I-937 promoted investments in renewable energy such as wind and solar power.

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