Former economist Scott Smith from the Washington State Department of Transportation recently revealed the challenges he faced after disclosing his calculations showing that Washington's cap-and-trade program would increase gas prices significantly.

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Smith expressed how undeniable the facts were when he estimated that the program would add 45 to 50 cents per gallon. Despite facing various forms of hostility and retaliation, Smith stood by his initial assessments and refused to manipulate the figures to align with the preferences of his superiors.

Unveiling the Requests for Silence

Smith disclosed that, during a meeting in January 2023, his manager requested that he exclude cap-and-trade surcharges from his quarterly fuel forecast. Despite numerous attempts to change his calculations, Smith refused to comply with the demands.

As a consequence, he not only faced work-related punishments but also had his job eliminated through House Bill 1838, which was passed last year by the Legislature. The disregard for transparency and public information, as instructed by higher-ups, sheds light on the pressures faced by Smith and his colleagues.

Escalation to Legal Action

Prompted by the refusal of the state to address Smith's claims, his attorney, Jackson Maynard, signed the lawsuit against WSDOT and other relevant bodies.

The lawsuit highlights the discrepancies between the impact of the cap-and-trade program on gas prices and the misleading information provided by Governor Jay Inslee.

Smith's unwavering commitment to honesty and accuracy in his assessments reflects the broader issue of politicizing professional duties within state institutions.

Seeking Justice and Reconciliation

Despite supporting cap-and-trade initiatives, Smith's experience underscores the importance of upholding integrity and resisting political pressures in the workplace.

The legal proceedings serve as a means to rectify the injustices faced by Smith and to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in governmental operations.

Smith's ordeal serves as a testament to the challenges faced by state employees who prioritize ethical conduct in their roles.

What Are Your Thoughts?

• What is your opinion on the actions taken against Scott Smith for his refusal to alter his calculations?
• Do you believe that transparency and accountability are compromised in governmental decision-making processes?
• How can individuals like Scott Smith be supported in ensuring ethical practices within state institutions?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!