5 ballot proposals that could drive or derail clean energy
Five state and local ballot measures this Election Day could reshape clean energy policy, from streamlining reviews in California to taxing corporations in Oregon and banning gas bans in Colorado.
Proposition 45 in California seeks to amend the California Environmental Quality Act by imposing a 365-business-day cap on most state environmental reviews for clean energy and other infrastructure projects, excluding fossil fuel construction. Supporters argue this will accelerate clean energy development, while opponents warn it could sideline tribal input and weaken environmental protections across the state’s lands, waters, and air.
Eugene, Oregon voters will decide on a ballot measure to impose a fee on major corporations like Amazon and Walmart, targeting those with $1 billion or more in national gross profits and at least $500 in gross profits within Eugene. Revenue from the fee would fund electrification of restaurants, clean energy job training, and climate initiatives prioritizing low-income and historically marginalized residents.
Colorado’s Amendment 82 proposes a constitutional right to natural gas for household cooking and heating, framed by conservative group Advance Colorado as a defense against state climate goals and local gas bans. Environmental and public health advocates oppose the measure, citing risks of higher utility bills and safety hazards linked to continued fossil fuel reliance.
Michigan voters face Proposition 2, which would prohibit utilities and their executives from funding political campaigns through PACs or personal donations, a move utilities oppose with at least $215,000 in opposition spending. Ann Arbor residents also consider establishing a municipal utility board to potentially take over DTE Energy’s grid, with opponents warning of a $1 billion cost and supporters arguing for cleaner, more affordable power.