OLYMPIA, WA – Some changes could be in the works to add clarity to the state’s cap-and-invest program.

The state Department of Ecology announced new rules they’re proposing that would limit the number of emissions allowances a company can buy.

Under the current Climate Commitment Act, companies buy allowances at auctions that control the amount of greenhouse gases they can emit.

Ecology’s proposed rule would prohibit companies from selling or trading the allowances they buy for profit.

Companies are allowed to trade their allowances under the current rules.

The department says they’re proposing the change so allowances can continue to be bought at reasonable prices and not marked up on a secondary market.

Ecology is accepting public comment on the rule proposal through November 1.

A public hearing on the changes will be held on October 24.