Connecticut lawmakers said they’ve dropped plans to pursue a multistate climate initiative in this year’s budget. But advocates said they’re still pushing for action before the legislative session ends Wednesday.
The Transportation Climate Initiative would cap carbon emissions from gasoline, and require gas suppliers to buy carbon credits. It would mean a five cent per gallon increase to gas prices starting in 2023.
Charles Rothenberger is with Save the Sound. He said he doesn’t know why lawmakers backed down.
“It’s really unfortunate that really what is the most significant climate bill of the last decade was made a pawn and a bargaining chip in whatever backroom deals are happening in the budget cloakroom. That’s just unacceptable,” Rothenberger said.
Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Washington, D.C., remain in the initiative. Eight other states — including New York — have signed a statement of support, but aren’t officially part of the initiative.
