The future of Washington state's carbon auction may come down to gas prices

Soundside - A podcast by KUOW News and Information

Washington state Republicans hope you'll think about high gas prices when you vote this fall. A GOP-backed initiative to repeal the Climate Commitment Act -- which charges companies for emitting carbon into the atmosphere -- is likely headed to your ballot. Republicans argue it’s a misguided policy that’s been too painful for average Washingtonians filling their tanks. Democrats in Olympia are now racing to smooth out rough edges on Governor Inslee's signature environmental law – like those pesky high carbon auction prices. They’re making a case to save the law … which they argue is a necessary tool to help combat climate change.