The Climate Institute supports the pursuit of local, regional, and state policies that advance its mission to promote the flourishing of Inland Northwest waters, lands, and communities in the face of a changing climate.
Policy Achievements
2024 Renters' Right to Install Cooling (City of Spokane)
In the summer of 2024, the Gonzaga Climate Institute partnered with Spokane City Council Members Kitty Klitzke and Paul Dillon to advance a city law (C-36523) that recognizes tenants' right to install cooling devices. This was the first of its kind in Washington State. The Climate Institute helped research and draft the initial ordinance language and advocated for its passage.
2026 Renters' Right to Install Cooling (State of Washington)
In the spring of 2026, the Gonzaga Climate Institute and the Environmental & Climate Law Clinic partnered with a state-wide coalition to help draft and pass ESSB 6200, informally called the Renters' Right to Install Cooling bill. This law was, in part, modeled on the successful 2024 ordinance passed in Spokane.
2026 Renters' Right to Cooling (City of Spokane)
In the summer of 2026, the Climate Institute and the Environmental & Climate Law Clinic collaborated with Council Members Dillon, Dixit, and Klitzke to draft, amend, and pass a new city law that recognizes renters' right to "adequate cooling" in their home. This was the first such law passed in the northwest.
2027 Renters' Right to Cooling (State of Washington)
In preparation for the 2027 legislative session, the Climate Institute is working with a state-wide coalition to draft a law that would recognize renters' right to cooling. This law will be modeled in part on the successful ordinance passed in Spokane in 2026.