HB1170 requires the Washington Department of Ecology to update its Climate Change Response Strategy by September 30, 2024, with a focus on preparing for, addressing, and adapting to climate change impacts. It mandates reporting, collaboration with other state agencies and stakeholders, and guidance on climate resilience actions. The updated strategy will be implemented by various state agencies, with no new regulatory authority, and will involve coordination for federal funding opportunities.
The Washington State Senate passed HB1170 on April 8, 2023 by a vote of 34 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because investing taxpayer dollars in creating a climate change response strategy is a complete waste of money. States should not be buying into the climate-change agenda.