Washington State Supreme Court Blocks I-2066, Strikes Blow to Energy Choice

The Washington state Supreme Court ruled Ballot Initiative 2066 (I-2066) as unconstitutional on Sept. 17. The ballot measure, which prevented all local governments and some utilities from discouraging or prohibiting natural gas and propane gas, passed by a majority 52% of voters in November 2024.

I-2066 additionally inhibited the authority of local air quality regulators, removed several zero-emission goals from state law, rolled back certain decarbonization efforts and prevented the state building council from promoting a transition away from these fuels.

The initiative was quickly challenged in court by an environmental group called Climate Solutions, as well as several organizations and government entities. The argument hinged on I-2066 being too broad. As the Supreme Court opinion states, “The King County Superior Court invalidated the initiative in its entirety, holding that it impermissibly encompasses more than one subject, fails to include its subjects in the title, and fails to set forth the law it amends.”

The court went on, “We affirm on narrower grounds. We hold that I-2066 violates the single-subject requirement contained in [the state’s constitution]. Because the provisions that introduce distinct subjects are not severable, I-2066 is unconstitutional in its entirety.”

NPGA on the I-2066 Ruling

In a news update, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) shared the following statement:

“NPGA and the Pacific Propane Gas Association strongly support the passage of I-2066 and the freedom of energy consumers in the Evergreen State to choose whatever fuel source best meets their unique heating and energy needs.”

NPGA went on to share a statement from PPGA Executive Director Matt Solak: “While we are disappointed in the ruling and rejection of the clearly expressed will of Washington voters, the fact remains that Washingtonians want energy choice. The PPGA will continue to advocate for consumer choice and policies that support affordability, reliability and energy security.”

NPGA has recently advocated Sen. Mike Lee’s (R-UT) introduction of the Energy Efficiency Reform Act of 2026, and is a key player in an ongoing battle against gas bans in the state of New York.