The Port of Seattle is closely tracking the potential impacts of today’s passage of the federal reconciliation package (H.R. 1 – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act) on Port operations.

Specifically, the bill eliminates clean energy credits for commercial clean vehicles, clean vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles, EV charging infrastructure, renewable and alternative fuels, and energy-efficient commercial buildings. These are important tools in the Port’s work to improve air quality and reach zero emissions from its operations both through its fleet vehicles and building operations, and removing them will hamper national progress to address air quality and greenhouse gas reduction.

“The passage of this bill makes the local fight against climate change harder, not easier,” said Port of Seattle Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa. “The Port of Seattle has made bold commitments to advance our mission of promoting a thriving economy, healthy environment, and equitable communities. We aim to deliver on our triple bottom line by becoming the greenest port in North America — and the clean energy credits targeted for elimination have been essential to that goal. These credits help us decarbonize our fleet and accelerate green infrastructure investments. While this setback is deeply disappointing, we remain steadfast in our commitments. Our work continues — because our communities, workers, and future generations depend on it.”

Additionally, the bill rescinds significant Environmental Protection Agency funding that was created or expanded in the Inflation Reduction Act. For the Port, this includes essential funds to transition heavy-duty vehicles — including diesel trucks — to cleaner fuels or electrification, further progressing Port operations decarbonization.

“In addition to the devastating impacts it will have on working families, by removing incentives for electrification and clean fuels for trucks, ships, and planes, the big bill is beyond bad for the Port’s and the nation’s ability to combat climate change and create jobs of the future,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman.

Though concerned about these cuts and their impact on operations and decarbonization work, the Port recognizes other elements beneficial to its operations. The legislation includes needed investments in air traffic control and security infrastructure to support efficient operations at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) critical to our travelers. The bill also provides that sustainable aviation fuels continue to be eligible under clean fuels production credits. Finally, the Port acknowledges the $24 billion investments made in Coast Guard readiness, including support for polar security cutters and other cutters that will support the Pacific Coast Guard Fleet and Base Seattle.

The Port will continue to work with partners in the Washington congressional delegation to support policies that support the sustainable operation of our gateways.
Source: Port of Seattle