This November, voters are being asked to approve Initiative 1631, which would impose a fee on fossil fuels sold or used in the state. The fee would be based on the quantity of greenhouse gases released when the fuel is combusted. The initial rate for the fee would be $15 per carbon dioxide equivalent metric ton. The fee would increase annually by $2 per metric ton plus an adjustment for inflation. Proceeds from this fee would be used to fund yet-to-be-identified programs aimed at reducing carbon emissions, improving climate resilience, and mitigating the impact of climate change on disproportionately affected populations.

Read our full brief on I-1631 here.

(For our brief on I-1634, which is also on November’s ballot, see here.)