The House Environment & Energy Committee convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at improving the timeliness and accuracy of greenhouse gas emissions data in Washington State. The meeting focused on Senate Bill 5036, which proposes shifting the reporting of greenhouse gas emissions from a biennial to an annual basis.

Senator Behnke opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of timely data for informed decision-making regarding climate policies. He noted that current emissions data is often published four to five years late, hindering effective policy responses. The senator advocated for the bill as a means to enhance data accuracy and support various state projects, including those related to housing and transportation.

Representative Dye raised concerns about the shifting nature of climate goals and the need for reliable data to demonstrate progress. Behnke responded that good data would showcase Washington's commitment to its climate policies and help maintain bipartisan support for environmental initiatives.

The committee heard testimony from several stakeholders. Dakota Manley, representing the Washington State Young Republicans, expressed strong support for the bill, highlighting that annual reporting would provide timely data essential for businesses and policymakers. He argued that reducing the reporting gap would lead to more informed decisions and better alignment with climate goals.

Todd Myers from the Washington Policy Center pointed out that Washington's current CO2 emissions are above the necessary levels to meet the 2030 targets. He criticized the Department of Ecology for its delayed data releases, which he claimed undermine effective climate policy development. Myers stressed the need for accurate data to evaluate the feasibility of existing climate goals.

Kira Domer, a high school senior, echoed the call for annual reporting, stating that timely data is crucial for addressing climate change effectively. She argued that improved transparency would enhance accountability in climate initiatives.

Joel Creswell from the Washington Department of Ecology provided technical insights, confirming that the agency is prepared to implement annual reporting. He noted that while the bill mandates more frequent updates, it does not address existing data backlogs. Creswell assured the committee that the agency has the resources to meet the new reporting requirements.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of timely emissions data for effective climate policy. The committee plans to continue discussions on the bill, with a focus on ensuring that Washington's environmental policies are based on accurate and current information.