The Washington State Supreme Court has scheduled oral arguments for Jan. 22 in a case challenging the constitutionality of Initiative 2066, a voter-approved measure that protects natural gas as an energy option in the state. 

I-2066 was approved by nearly 2 million voters, or 52%, in November 2024 amid ongoing policy debates over fuel choice. The initiative sought to preserve access to natural gas for current and future homeowners, a priority for homebuilders and utility stakeholders concerned about housing affordability and grid reliability. 

The court accepted direct review of the case on Sept. 3, agreeing to consider the challenge de novo, a legal standard that allows the justices to evaluate the case on its merits without deferring to a prior King County Superior Court ruling. 

Industry groups backing the initiative say the measure is critical to maintaining consumer choice and managing costs.  

“Political efforts to ban natural gas in Washington limit homeowners’ choices, stress our energy grid and drive up the cost of utilities and housing for consumers,” said Greg Lane, executive vice president of the Building Industry Association of Washington, in a statement. 

A decision from the court is expected later in 2026.