Will the budget deficit affect the state’s environmental plan?

Earlier this month, the Department of Ecology told the Senate Water, Energy and Telecommunications Committee that improving the environment would dovetail with efforts to improve the economy. But The Associated Press reports today that the Governor may not see things the same way in light of the $5.7 billion projected budget deficit for 2009-2011.

The Climate Change Task Force, which Gov. Chris Gregoire assembled last year, unveiled their plan for climate change legislation on Monday.

Their findings recommend a Cap and Trade system, which would cap Carbon emissions and require certain industries to buy or trade emissions credits.

But:

Concerned about the bad economy and pressure on businesses, Gregoire is leaning toward giving away most of the pollution credits, rather than auctioning them off as environmentalists had hoped.

In addition, the governor’s proposed budget includes around $25 million for climate change, but it leaves out money for some measures that environmental groups had hoped for, like tax breaks for energy efficient buildings.

Of course, the Governor’s proposed budget isn’t the final word. From here, Senate and House budget-writers will wait for the March revenue forecast to write their versions of the budget. In other words, between now and the end of session, the budget will take many different forms (all of which we’ll keep you updated on).

In the meantime, if want more info on the thinking behind Cap and Trade: Here’s a clip on climate change recommendations presented during Assembly Days in Olympia earlier this month:

And here’s the full hearing:

Tags: Cap and Trade, Emissions, Environment, Governor