LETTER: Voices of Faith Vote No on WA 2117

We, the Lutheran bishops of Washington State, urge voters to vote “No” on Initiative 2117, which would repeal our state’s Climate Commitment Act. 

The Bible calls us to love our neighbor and protect God’s creation. As the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s policy message “Earth’s Climate Crisis” states, this is a critical time when “God is leading us into decisive action” to protect the Earth and its climate. 

Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act sets a national example for action to respond to dangerous global warming pollution. In its first year, throughout the state, the law has raised significant funds directed toward transportation, clean air, renewable energy, conservation and more. It also sets aside money to help the poorest and most vulnerable. As Christians, we must ensure that the poor and marginalized are not disproportionately affected. 

For these reasons, we ask voters of faith and all who support a cleaner environment to vote “No” on Initiative 2117. Repealing this landmark act would be a mistake. Going backwards on protecting the planet has steep, even deadly, costs for everyone — plants, animals and people. 

Signed

Reverend Richard Jaech, Bishop, Southwestern Washington Synod
Reverend Meggan Manlove, Bishop, Northwest Intermountain Synod
Reverend Shelley Bryan Wee, Bishop, Northwest Washington Synod