The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has released draft rules for the Climate Protection Program, inviting public feedback. The proposed rules set a legally enforceable cap on greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, aiming to cut emissions by 50% by 2035 and by 90% by 2050.

“This program is crucial for achieving Oregon’s climate targets and for DEQ’s mission to protect air quality,” said Director Leah Feldon. “DEQ has developed a stronger program that maintains its scope and ambition while offering more compliance options.”

In response to a court ruling that invalidated the previous program in late 2023, DEQ is using this rulemaking process to gather input and enhance the program. Key updates in the Climate Protection Program 2024 draft rules include:

• Targeted regulations for emissions-intensive, trade-exposed industries to offer more compliance flexibility.
• Collaboration with the Oregon Public Utilities Commission to regularly review natural gas rates and customer bills to assess the program’s impact.
• Enhanced auditing and oversight of Community Climate Investment projects to ensure they effectively reduce emissions and benefit environmental justice communities.

Governor Tina Kotek emphasized the importance of the program: “Oregon’s Climate Protection Program is vital for advancing our greenhouse gas emission reduction goals. DEQ has conducted a transparent process to develop a program that helps Oregon address the global climate crisis.”

The public comment period is open until August 30, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Detailed information on how to submit comments is available on the Climate Protection Program 2024 rulemaking webpage.