SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown filed an appeal to the Washington State Supreme Court following a King County Superior Court’s ruling on Initiative 2066.
The initiative was recently deemed by Judge Sandra Widlan for violating multiple constitutional requirements.
In a statement, Brown emphasized his role in enforcing state laws, stating, “While I personally disagreed with I-2066, it was passed by Washington voters and is the law of the state. My job as Attorney General is to enforce and defend the laws of Washington and I will continue to vigorously do so in this case.”
Judge Widlan ruled that Initiative 2066 violated the single subject requirement, the subject and title requirement and the section-amended-shall-be-set-forth-at-full-length requirement.
I-2066, a measure focused on natural gas policies, was approved by voters on November 5, 2024, with 51.71% voting in favor.
This initiative prohibits state and local governments from restricting access to natural gas and prevents discouragement or penalties for using natural gas in buildings. It also requires gas and utility companies to provide natural gas service, even if other energy options are available.
Supporters of the initiative argued that maintaining access to natural gas infrastructure is essential for energy security, independence and resilience in Washington.
Opponents countered by saying the initiative removes community choice and could increase energy costs.
