Yakima’s Senator King Doesn’t Support Governor State Gas Ban

Senator Curtis King of Yakima says he doesn't support Governor Jay Inslee's plan to ban the sale of all gas-powered vehicles by 2035. The Central Washington Republican on the Republican on the Senate Transportation Committee has issued a statement saying the plan will hurt "Washingtonians, especially those who can least afford it. Electric vehicles are more expensive - and that will not change by 2035."

King says he supports incentivizing hybrid vehicles

In the statement King says;

"I do not support bans like this one - we do not know if the benefits will be greater than the expense. There is still much to learn about the long-term environmental impacts of many aspects of electric vehicles. We must look at EV manufacturing, required infrastructure, road impacts and battery disposal options before forcing every Washingtonian to drive an electric vehicle. I do support incentivizing hybrid vehicles, along with funding research of emerging technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cell energy.

King says the state first needs to strengthen the state's power grid

“Our highest priority should be to ensure the stability of our state’s electrical grid. If all cars were all electric and we do all the other things our governor suggests, like breaching our dams and abolishing natural gas, we will not have enough electrical power.
“Washington state is fortunate to be able to reduce our carbon footprint with immense working forests and clean hydropower. This is an exciting time to utilize our natural resources, make reasonable decisions, and plan responsibly for the future. Our citizens deserve thoughtful solutions that are Washington-based and utilize the unique features of our great state. We don’t need harsh and unreasonable mandates.”