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CS/HB 1217 — Prohibited Governmental Policies Regulating Greenhouse Gas Emissions
by Commerce Committee and Reps. Snyder, Jacques, and others (CS/SB 7046 by Appropriations Committee and Finance and Tax Committee)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Finance and Tax Committee (FT)
The bill prohibits governmental entities from enacting or enforcing a resolution, ordinance, rule, code, or policy to support a net zero policy. The bill defines “net zero policy” as any policy, program, or initiative designed to achieve a balance between total amount of greenhouse gas emitted into the atmosphere with an equal amount removed from the atmosphere.
The bill prohibits governmental entities from using public funds to support, implement, or advance a net zero policy by providing certain procurement or purchasing preferences or by paying dues, membership fees, subscriptions, or contributions to private organizations that adopt, require support for, or advocate for a net zero policy.
The bill further prohibits governmental entities from imposing any charge, including a tax, fee, penalty, offset, or assessment, to advance a net zero policy. The bill requires governmental entities to annually submit an affidavit to the Department of Revenue attesting to compliance with this provision.
The bill also prohibits governmental entities from implementing, administering, or enforcing any program or joining any organization that has a policy of establishing limits on greenhouse gas emissions or requiring or incentivizing participation in an emissions trading program.
The bill does not prevent:
- Municipalities or governmental entities that own or operate and directly control an electric or natural gas utility from passing rules, regulations, or policies governing the utility.
- The Public Service Commission from exercising its powers and duties to regulate public utilities.
- Governmental entities from otherwise exercising their authority as provided by law.
For purposes of these provisions, a “governmental entity” includes a state, regional, county, municipal, special district, or other political subdivision whether executive, judicial, or legislative. It includes public schools, state colleges, and state universities.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor's signature, these provisions take effect on July 1, 2026.
Vote: Senate 24-12; House 80-29