Speak Out on the Whatcom County Natural Gas Ban!

Do you use natural gas? Do you support energy choice? Could you afford the $40,000 to $50,000 to retrofit your entire home or business to a more expensive energy source? If this subject is important to you, we need your help.

As we have written previously, Governor Inslee signed the Legislature’s bill, HB 1589, effectively allowing Puget Sound Energy to end its natural gas services by combining it with electric – at the ratepayer’s expense. The bill faced legal complications and bipartisan opposition – including from local Whatcom State Reps Alicia Rule (D-Blaine) and Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham).

Housing prices, rent and inflation continue to soar, and this law adds insult to injury by drastically increasing housing costs. Regardless of your views on natural gas versus electric, the vast majority of WA residents believe consumers should have the ability to choose what kind of energy they use.

On June 4th, Whatcom County Councilmember Mark Stremler is proposing a resolution affirming energy choice and opposing HB 1589’s natural gas ban. Click here to read the resolution.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

• In Person:

  • 🗓️ Date: June 4th

  • ⏰ Time: 6PM

  • 📍 Location: County Council Chambers, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA.

• Online via Zoom:

  • Register at the link here.

• Submit written testimony via email:

  • 📧 Email the entire Council your thoughts on this subject at council@co.whatcom.wa.us

This is an extremely important issue, and it’s critical for the Council to take a strong stance favoring affordability for families. Whatcom has the opportunity to send a message to Olympia, creating pressure for them to reform or abolish the legislation. We need your input!

Let the Council know you oppose HB 1589 and support energy choice for WA families!