By admin 
California and Washington are moving to link its carbon markets so the two states, along with Quebec, will eventually be able to trade, buy and sell credits to offset greenhouse gas emissions.
Read more Fact Check: Where Folsom 1st District Council candidates stand on ALPRs, Flock
Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday he had given his begin with the regulatory process to link California’s cap-and-invest program with Washington state.
“California has long shown that climate action means a stronger economy, cleaner air, and billions of dollars of investment back into communities across our state,” Newsom said in a statement. “By joining forces with our partner in Washington state, we will build a stronger, more durable carbon market that will drive investment, cut pollution and power the clean economy of the future.”
California first launched its emissions market in 2013 and signed an agreement with Quebec the following year to link its market with a similar program in the Canadian province. It allows companies in both areas to sell carbon credits to each other. President Donald Trump tried to sever the alliance in his first term, calling it “rogue foreign policy.” Washington launched its carbon market in 2023.
Read more What is the state’s ‘rainy day’ fund? Your guide to California’s Proposition 2
In June, officials from California, Washington and Quebec signed an agreement to kickstart linking their carbon markets. The Wednesday action officially starts the rulemaking process for California regulators, which is expected to be finalized sometime next year.
Newsom teased the Washington agreement on Tuesday during a panel at New York City’s Climate Week with European Union Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra. On Wednesday, he spoke at a fireside chat at the North America Climate Summit with Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson.
“Linkage isn’t just good climate policy — it’s smart economics,” Ferguson said in a statement. “Linking will unlock greater emissions reductions, lower the cost of clean technologies, and create good‑paying jobs in high‑growth industries. We’re excited to be moving forward.”
Read more Newsom appoints former Rep. Katie Porter to California Community Colleges board