Perspective
From Portland: A Tax to Fund Equity in Tackling Climate Change
The Portland, Oregon, Clean Energy Community Benefits Initiative on the ballot Tuesday is a model for other cities to address inequity and climate change.
The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Initiative, also known as Portland Ballot Measure 26-201, will be put to voters on Tuesday. It’s a measure that is long overdue and politically astute. As a former mayor of Portland, I hope it not only passes but also serves as a model for cities to address inequity and climate change.
Communities of color are leading this campaign in Portland, Oregon, to make big businesses help pay for a just transition to clean energy, something that should be a top priority for our climate action efforts. In leading this campaign, these Portland community activists are helping lead the nation too.