I-2066 and Washington’s Energy Code Status

What is I-2066?

Initiative 2066 (I-2066) is a Washington State ballot initiative related to natural gas policy. It was approved by voters in November 2024 and addresses restrictions on natural gas hookups and incentives. The initiative has implications for how the energy code treats gas-fired heating equipment and fuel normalization credits under the WSEC-R.

Current Status

The Washington State Supreme Court heard oral arguments on I-2066 on January 22, 2026. A ruling is pending. Until the court issues its decision, the legal status of certain provisions remains uncertain. The State Building Code Council (SBCC) has not issued interim guidance that changes the enforceable code.

What Could Change

Depending on the ruling, credit values for certain heating systems may be affected —particularly the R406.2 fuel normalization credits for gas furnaces and gas heat pumps. If the court upholds the initiative, the SBCC may need to revise how fuel-type credits are calculated, potentially making gas-fired systems more favorable in the credit math. If the court strikes it down, the current code structure would remain intact.

What Has NOT Changed

The 2021 WSEC-R is currently enforceable as written. Regardless of the pending ruling, the code that your local building department is applying today is the 2021 WSEC-R per WAC 51-11R. All compliance paths, credit tables, insulation requirements, and fenestration values remain in effect. No jurisdiction has been directed to stop enforcing the current code.

Practical Advice

• Proceed with the current code. The 2021 WSEC-R is the law today. Design and permit your project to meet the current requirements.
• Verify with your local AHJ. Your Authority Having Jurisdiction (city or county building department) is the final word on what they require. Call them if you have questions about how I-2066 affects your specific project.
• Consider a heat pump for flexibility. Heat pumps earn favorable credits under the current code and are unlikely to lose credit value under any ruling. If you’re on the fence about heating system type, a heat pump gives you the most flexibility regardless of outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I wait to pull my permit?

Generally, no. The current code is enforceable and your permit will be reviewed against the 2021 WSEC-R. Waiting for a ruling adds cost and delays your project with no guarantee that the outcome will change anything relevant to your design. If you’re concerned about a specific heating system choice, talk to your local building department.

Will wsec.ai update when a ruling comes out?

Yes. wsec.ai will be updated within days of a ruling that affects credit calculations or compliance requirements. We monitor the SBCC and court proceedings closely. Any changes to fuel normalization credits or compliance paths will be reflected in the wizard as soon as updated guidance is published.