Energy

Senate panel votes out oil-train safety bill
January 27, 2015
OLYMPIA… An oil-train measure that aims to boost safety without jumping the rails was approved Jan. 27 by the Senate Energy, Environment and Telecommunications Committee. Senate Bill 5057, sponsored by state Sen. Doug Ericksen, R-Ferndale leverages funding, training and equipment for first responders. Changes adopted by the committee expand state authority to... Read More...
Dr. Easterbrook’s presentation on climate change
March 26, 2013
Today in the Senate Energy, Environment & Telecommunications Committee, we’ll hear testimony from Dr. Don Easterbrook, geology professor emeritus at Western Washington University. Dr. Easterbrook will be providing the committee with his viewpoint on climate change. Below are two examples of slides that he’ll be presenting. If you’re interested in viewing the full... Read More...
An evidence-based approach to improving the environment
March 14, 2013
I welcome the new, evidence-based approach to environmental improvement contained in Senate Bill 5802, which was approved by the Senate with bipartisan support yesterday. The bill would create a work group to analyze the state’s environment profile and energy consumption. The group would utilize cost-benefit analysis in suggesting a future course... Read More...
My bill to encourage energy conservation, low-cost power clears Senate
March 04, 2013
A measure I proposed to encourage energy conservation by utilities is headed to the House of Representatives after passing the Senate with strong bipartisan support today. State law allows utilities to meet a portion of their requirements for renewable energy through conservation. The conservation must be achieved in two-year target periods.... Read More...