I-1631's carbon fee would make green future possible

We are blessed to live in the Northwest, but many places on our planet are suffering from the extreme effects of climate change. The time for action for those of us who care about life on earth is NOW.

We have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the widely supported Initiative 1631, known as the Clean Air, Clean Energy Initiative. It aims to: "reduce pollution by investing in clean air, clean energy, clean water, healthy forests, and healthy communities by imposing a fee on large emitters based on their pollution." The measure would charge large polluters a fee for every ton of greenhouse gases they emit and invest the revenue in clean air, clean energy, clean water and healthy forests in Washington. I-1631 will create thousands of rural and urban jobs in Washington, and move us toward a greener future.

A coalition of businesses, labor, tribes, environmentalists, social justice, health and faith groups, including our local group, Snohomish Rising are strong supporters.

No doubt the big polluters especially those in the oil industry will try to stop this as they have previous attempts. But we know the time is ripe for this thoughtful, balanced and highly beneficial I-1631. Vote yes. I am.

Karen Guzak

Snohomish