A Green Jobs and Climate Action laws package was introduced by the governor and leaders of Washington to push for $455 million of investments that will build the foundation for new energy technologies, green buildings, and energy efficient transportation projects.
Allocations for the $455 million are as follows:
- $419 million will be devoted to fund transportation projects that will include express lane automation, biodiesel ferries, vanpool vehicles, HOV lanes, safety infrastructure programs for bikes and pedestrians, and commute reduction initiatives.
- The activities of the Community Economic Revitalization Board will be supported with $20 million of funding.
- $10 million will aid the development of projects focusing on renewable energy technology for housing projects and public facilities.
- Biofuel processing facilities and other biomass energy initiatives will be perked up by $6 million.
Legislations will serve as the foundation of these initiatives and investments to control damage to the environment and explore other options for energy production.
Proposals to pass laws on limiting the emission of green house gases are being pushed. Market incentives are also being put in place to encourage moves from all sectors. Some laws have been enacted in seven states of the US and four provinces of Canada in support of these moves.
Tax exemptions are also being lobbied to entice the public to buy hybrid passenger cars, trucks, and duty vehicles. Tax exemptions for the state of Washington will be stretched from 2009 to 2014.
Standards are also being set to drive the improvement of technology towards better energy efficiency.