As we approach the November ballot, I want to share how Tilth Alliance is thinking about Initiative 2117, which proposes to rescind Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA).

Despite the legislature’s intention to include an agricultural exemption, we recognize the CCA has unintentionally created financial burdens for many small and mid-sized farmers. This is a serious concern that needs to be addressed. However, we believe rescinding the CCA is not the solution.

In addition to funding a wide variety of climate change mitigation activities, the CCA has the potential to contribute significant resources to Washington’s agricultural community, especially for adopting climate-smart practices. Rescinding the act would be a step backward in our climate action efforts.

That is why we recommend voting NO on Initiative 2117.

We are committed to advocating for farmers, looking to the legislature to address the CCA’s unintended financial impacts while preserving its environmental benefits.

For a deeper dive on this issue, I encourage you to read this excellent editorial by Melissa Campbell (Washington Farmland Trust) and Addie Candib (American Farmland Trust) in the Everett Herald. Their perspective accurately reflects ours regarding the implementation of the CCA and the impact it has had on our farmer community.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement in these critical issues.