​A Simple Guide to the Washington State Legislative Process

In Washington State, legislative proposals may originate in either the House of Representatives or Senate. However, for a proposal to be enacted into law, it must receive approval from both the legislative chambers. This process can become complex, particularly when one chamber amends a proposal already passed by the other chamber.

The following outlines the process that occurs when a bill is amended in the second chamber, the subsequent response of the original chamber, and the procedures undertaken to reconcile these differences.

Step 1: Passage of a Bill in One Legislative Chamber 

Consider a scenario where a bill is introduced in the House of Representatives. It undergoes a series of committee hearings and debates culminating in a vote on the floor of the house. Upon successful passage, the bill is forwarded to the senate for further consideration.

Step 2: Modifications by the Second Chamber 

Upon reaching the Senate, the bill undergoes a comparable procedure: it is assigned to a committee for discussion and a potential amendment. Subsequently, it is presented to the full senate for a vote.  If the Senate approves the bill without alterations, it proceeds directly to the governor for ratification. 

Conversely, if the Senate incorporates amendments, the bill must be returned to the House of Representatives, the chamber of its origin, for further consideration.

Step 3: Review of Amendments by the Original Chamber

Following the modification of the bill, the original chamber, in this instance, the House, must determine whether to accept the amendments proposed by the Senate. The House is presented with two options:

• Concur (agree): Should the House concur with all the amendments introduced by the Senate, a vote to "concur" is cast. This concurrence signifies the acceptance of the revised bill, which is then deemed finalized and forwarded to the governor for signing.

• Do not concur (disagree): Conversely, if the House does not concur with the Senate's amendments, a vote to "not concur" is cast. In such a scenario, the bill cannot progress until both chambers reach agreement on the final version.

Step 4: Establishment of a Conference Committee

In instances where the originating chamber rejects amendments, a conference committee is typically required. This committee is a select group comprising members from both the House and the Senate tasked with reconciling the discrepancies between the two versions of the bill.

The conference committee convenes privately to negotiate and reach a compromise. Upon reaching an agreement, they draft a conference report that encapsulates the final version of the bill.

Step 5: Final Approval of the Compromise Bill

Subsequently, the conference report is submitted to both the House and the Senate for a conclusive vote. At this juncture, no further modifications are permissible. Both chambers are required to approve the report in its entirety, as presented. 

If both the House and Senate endorse the conference report, the bill is forwarded to the governor, who may either enact it into law or exercise a veto. Conversely, if either chamber rejects the report, the bill is rendered unsuccessful and does not become a law.
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Significance of the Process

This procedural framework ensures that both legislative chambers play an equitable role in determining the final version of the law. It also facilitates a thorough examination of any amendments and fosters collaboration among lawmakers to achieve consensus.

 Although the process may be protracted, it is structured to promote compromise and comprehensive scrutiny before the enactment of a bill into law.

For those interested in tracking the progression of bills through the Washington State Legislature, the official website can be accessed at: https://leg.wa.gov/learn-and-participate/
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​Join us for a Regional Advocacy Roundtable bringing together business leaders and local law enforcement for an open, solutions-focused conversation on crime prevention, public safety, and the evolving legal landscape impacting our business community.

This session will provide an important forum to discuss new and proposed legislation that may affect local businesses—particularly in areas such as property crime, retail theft, and public safety. Law enforcement representatives will also provide insight into the current legal tools and enforcement strategies being deployed to address crime, as well as recent trends in criminal activity across the region.

Participants will:
• Hear updates on legislation with potential business impacts.
• Review current crime statistics relevant to the Tri-Cities area and surrounding communities.
• Learn about local enforcement efforts and how laws are being applied to combat retail theft and other criminal activity.
• Explore practical tactics, deterrence tools, and community programs available to help businesses safeguard their property, employees, and customers.

This roundtable is designed to foster collaboration, improve communication between sectors, and empower businesses with the information and tools they need to be proactive partners in promoting a safe and vibrant commercial environment. We encourage business owners, managers, and community stakeholders to attend and share their perspectives.

​A Brief History of the Gas Tax in Washington State — and Why It Still Matters

The gas tax might seem like just a few extra cents per gallon, but in Washington State, it plays a crucial role in how we build and maintain our roads. The story behind the gas tax—and how Washington uses it—is also tied to one of the most important pieces of state law: the 18th Amendment to our state constitution.

The Origin of the Gas Tax in Washington

Washington was an early adopter of the gas tax. The state enacted its first gas tax in 1921, at 1 cent per gallon. The goal was simple: find a way to pay for road construction and maintenance as automobiles became more common. Over the years, that rate steadily increased to keep up with inflation and the growing need for highway infrastructure.

By 2023, Washington’s gas tax stood at 49.4 cents per gallon, making it one of the highest in the nation—ranking third after California and Pennsylvania. Add the federal gas tax (18.4 cents), and drivers in Washington pay nearly 68 cents per gallon in combined fuel taxes.


Here’s a quick look at how Washington stacks up:
State                                         State Gas Tax (Approx.)
California                                       ~58 cents
Pennsylvania                                 ~57 cents
Washington                                    49.4 cents
Oregon                                         ~38 cents
Idaho                                            ~33 cents
National Avg.                                ~30 cents

Washington consistently ranks in the top five for state gas taxes. The high rate reflects the state’s heavy investment in transportation infrastructure—and a legal requirement that restricts how those dollars can be spent.

The 18th Amendment: Protecting Transportation Funds

In 1944, Washington voters approved the 18th Amendment to the state constitution. It says that money collected from gas taxes and vehicle license fees must be used only for highway-related purposes. That means:

• Building and repairing roads and bridges
• Policing highways
• Paying off bonds for road construction

It cannot be used for:

• Public transit (like buses or light rail)
• Bike or pedestrian projects
• General government expenses

This restriction makes Washington’s transportation funding system fairly rigid. Even as many people call for greener, multimodal transportation options, the 18th Amendment locks gas tax revenues into road-focused uses.
Why It Matters for the Future

As cars become more fuel-efficient and electric vehicles (which don’t use gas at all) become more common, gas tax revenues are declining. But because of the 18th Amendment, replacing that revenue with something like a road usage charge (RUC) or mileage tax would require either a constitutional amendment or new legislation crafted to work within existing rules.

Lawmakers and policy advocates are already debating how to modernize transportation funding. But any major changes will need to reckon with the legal and historical legacy of the gas tax and the 18th Amendment.

Want to know more about upcoming proposals to change how transportation is funded in Washington? Stay tuned—2025 might be a turning point.

In the past week, the Washington State Legislature introduced two major transportation budget proposals—one from the Senate and one from the House—that aimed to tackle the state’s urgent infrastructure and funding needs. Both proposals reflect growing concerns over how to sustainably finance transportation systems as traditional revenue sources, such as the gas tax, become less reliable in the face of evolving technologies and consumer behavior.

Key Components of the Budget Proposals

1. Gas Tax Increase:

Both the Senate and House proposals include raising the state’s gas tax, which is a primary source of transportation revenue. The Senate’s plan proposes a 6-cent per gallon increase beginning July 1, 2025, with a 2% annual adjustment to account for inflation. The House version goes further, proposing a 9-cent increase, also indexed to inflation. These increases are projected to generate $1.5 billion and $1.8 billion respectively over six years.

2. Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Fees:

To address the declining gas tax revenue as more drivers adopt fuel-efficient and electric vehicles, both proposals introduced higher registration fees for these vehicles. The goal is to ensure that all drivers contribute to maintaining the state’s transportation infrastructure regardless of the fuel type.

3. Sales Tax Reallocation:

A key element of the House plan is the reallocation of 0.3% of the state’s sales tax revenue, amounting to approximately $800 million annually, directly into the transportation budget. This aims to create a more stable, long-term funding source that is not solely dependent on user fees such as fuel taxes.

4. Project Commitments and Maintenance:

Both proposals prioritize the completion of existing projects, preserve the current infrastructure, and improve road safety. The Senate’s six-year budget plan commits approximately $9.2 billion to these efforts and also addresses a projected $1 billion shortfall in the 2025–27 transportation budget, securing funding commitments through 2031.

Challenges in Crafting a Sustainable Budget

While both chambers agree on the urgency of addressing transportation funding, several challenges complicate the path to a final budget agreement:

1. Balancing Revenue and Public Burden:

Raising gas taxes and vehicle fees, while necessary for funding, could place a heavier burden on Washington residents, especially those with lower incomes or living in rural areas where driving is essential. Lawmakers must balance the need for revenue with fairness and affordability.

2. Gaining Public Support:

Public resistance to tax hikes and new fees remains a persistent obstacle. Legislators must clearly communicate the long-term benefits of the proposed changes, such as safer roads, less congestion, and job creation, to build public understanding and support.

3. Political Consensus:

Reaching bipartisan agreement is critical but can be difficult, as lawmakers may prioritize different funding methods or infrastructure investments. The budget must reconcile these differences to gain enough votes for passage.

4. Adaptation to Changing Transportation Trends:

As electric vehicles become more common and fuel efficiency improves, traditional revenue sources such as gas tax will continue to decline. Washington must begin transitioning to a more resilient funding model that reflects this reality, possibly through mileage-based fees or the broader use of general tax revenues.

Potential Solutions and the Path Forward

To address these challenges, legislators have been exploring a combination of traditional and innovative funding strategies. These include:

• The implementation of equitable fee structures ensures that all vehicle types contribute fairly.

• Reallocating existing tax revenues such as state sales tax to reduce reliance on user fees.

• Engaging the public with transparent messaging about how funds will be used and why investments are needed.

• Planning for future shifts by studying long-term trends and developing alternative funding models that align with changing vehicle usage patterns.

The 2025 transportation budget discussions represent a pivotal moment for Washington State. With thoughtful negotiations and forward-thinking solutions, the legislature has the opportunity to create a more equitable, sustainable, and effective transportation system that meets both current demands and future challenges.

​The Association of Washington Business (AWB) released several issue briefs for the 2025 legislative session, addressing key topics impacting businesses in Washington State. These briefs provide insights into legislative priorities and proposed policies.

• Budget: AWB emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced state budget without increasing taxes, advocating for fiscal responsibility to support economic growth.

• Updating Washington's Pay Transparency Law: This brief discusses proposed amendments to enhance pay transparency, aiming to promote fairness and equity in the workplace.

• Rent Control: AWB argues against the implementation of statewide rent control, suggesting that increasing housing supply is a more effective solution to address affordability issues.

• Employer Costs in Washington: This brief examines the various factors contributing to employer costs in the state, highlighting the need for policies that alleviate financial burdens on businesses.

• Unemployment Insurance for Striking Workers: The AWB opposes extending unemployment insurance benefits to workers on strike, maintaining that current laws appropriately disqualify striking workers from receiving such benefits since they have jobs to return to post-strike.
 
• Housing: This brief outlines AWB's perspectives on housing policies aimed at increasing affordability and availability to support the state's growing population.

These issue briefs serve as valuable resources for understanding AWB's positions and the potential implications of proposed legislative actions on the business community in Washington State. You can find other issue briefs here. 

​Washington State House Bill 1722 (2025) is a proposal designed to strengthen Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in public schools. These programs provide students with real-world job skills while still in middle or high school. The CTE includes training in areas such as construction, healthcare, information technology, and other high-demand industries. HB 1722 focuses on preparing students not only for college but also for the workforce. It encourages schools to work closely with local businesses, so students can get hands-on experiences that connect directly to their future careers.

If passed, this bill would bring more support and funding to the CTE programs across the state. It would modernize classrooms and equipment, expand career-connected learning opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships, and make it easier for students to earn credentials and certifications before they graduate. The goal is to help students explore careers early, build practical skills, and become more prepared to enter the workforce.

For businesses, HB 1722 offers a chance to help shape their future workforces. Companies can partner with local schools to provide job shadowing, internships, or even direct training. This means that businesses could find skilled workers more easily, especially in trade and technical jobs that are currently facing shortages. Employers also benefit from having a voice in what students are learning, so graduates come out of school with the exact skills they need.

Communities across Washington would also feel the impact. When students have access to career training in high school, they are more likely to remain motivated, graduate, and contribute to the local economy. Young people are better prepared to enter local industries, which helps towns and cities grow stronger. 

There are many potential benefits to the bill. This would help students obtain real job experiences before they graduate. It would also allow them to earn certifications that would make them more competitive in the job market. Families could save money, since students might not need expensive college degrees to start a good career. In addition, employers would have a reliable pipeline of skilled workers trained in their communities.

In the end, House Bill 1722 is about giving students more choices and better opportunities. This helps connect classroom learning to real careers and supports the idea that success after high school does not always require a four-year college degree. With careful planning and strong community support, this bill could help prepare the next generation of Washington workers for success in the modern economy.

In 2025, Washington State lawmakers are working to address several aspects of education. From Childcare to K12, post-secondary education. Legislators are working hard to improve this system. 

In 2025, several laws were introduced to improve Career and Technical Education (CTE). CTE helps students learn skills for specific jobs such as healthcare, technology, or construction. These new laws aim to better prepare students for the workforce and address challenges they might face when starting their careers.

1. House Bill 1722: This bill aims to find out what rules might be stopping students from joining CTE programs or other job-related pathways. By understanding these barriers, the goal is to make changes that will allow more students to get the training they need for various careers.  

2. House Bill 1273: This proposal plans to continue and expand a program that helps students earn both high school and college credits simultaneously through CTE courses. This means students can get a head start on their college education while still in high school, saving time and money. 

3. House Bill 1414: This bill aims to make it easier for 16- and 17-year-old students who are in or have completed CTE programs to find jobs. It looks at changing certain laws and practices that might make it difficult for these students to obtain work experience or jobs in their chosen fields. 

4. Senate Bill 5358: This bill suggests that sixth grade students should be allowed to take exploratory CTE courses. The idea is to introduce younger students to different career options early on, helping them discover what interests them, and plan their future education paths accordingly. 

These proposed laws can help students by:
• Providing Early Exposure: Starting career education in middle school allows students to explore different fields and make informed decisions about their futures.
• Expanding Opportunities: Focusing on specific industries, like maritime careers, opens up new job possibilities for students. 
• Removing Barriers: Changing rules that limit participation in CTE programs can make it easier for students to get the training they need.

However, high school students often face challenges when entering the workforce, such as:
• Lack of Experience: Many employers prefer workers with experience, which students might not have yet.
• Limited Access to Training: Not all schools offer a wide range of CTE programs, limiting students' options.
• Balancing Responsibilities: Managing schoolwork, part-time jobs, and personal life can be challenging for students.

By addressing these challenges through supportive laws and programs, Washington State aims to help students successfully transition from school to the workplace.

Running for a locally elected office in Washington State is a significant undertaking that requires careful preparation and adherence to specific procedures. The Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) provides comprehensive guidance on this process, detailing the necessary steps and considerations for prospective candidates. 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for local office, candidates must meet certain criteria:
• Citizenship and Age: Must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years old. 
• Voter Registration: Must be a registered voter in the jurisdiction of the intended office. 
• Residency: Some positions may have specific residency requirements.
It's essential to verify any additional qualifications for the desired position

Filing for Candidacy

The filing process involves several key steps: 
• Filing Period: Candidates must file their declarations during the official filing period, typically held annually. 
• Declaration of Candidacy: This form must be submitted to the appropriate elections office, either in person, electronically, or by mail. 
• Filing Fees: Some positions require a filing fee, which varies depending on the office sought.

Timely submission of all required documents is crucial to ensure candidacy.

Campaign Conduct and Regulations

Candidates must adhere to specific regulations during their campaigns:
• Use of Public Facilities: State law prohibits the use of public facilities to support or oppose any candidate or ballot measure. 
• Financial Disclosures: Candidates are required to file financial disclosures with the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC), detailing contributions and expenditures. 
• Political Advertising: All political advertisements must comply with state regulations, including proper sponsorship identification.
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Understanding and following these rules is essential for a lawful and ethical campaign.

Additional Resources
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Prospective candidates are encouraged to consult the MRSC's comprehensive guide on running for a locally elected office for detailed information on each aspect of the process. This resource provides in-depth coverage of eligibility requirements, filing procedures, campaign regulations, and more. 

For complete details and further guidance, please refer to the full article on the MRSC website.
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The Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) is a nonprofit organization that assists local governments throughout Washington State by offering legal and policy guidance on various topics.

Filing week in Washington State begins on May 5, 2025 and runs until May 7th.



​Photo by Nkululeko Mabena on Unsplash

​Washington State House Bill 1210 (HB 1210), Sponsored by Representative Barnard (R), Pasco proposes changes to the existing Targeted Urban Area (TUA) tax exemption program to better support clean energy transformation businesses. The TUA program currently offers a 10-year local property tax exemption for new industrial or manufacturing facilities in designated urban areas, provided they meet specific criteria, such as creating at least 25 family-wage jobs within one year of occupancy.  
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Key Provisions of HB 1210:
• Extension of Construction Timeline: The bill seeks to extend the allowable construction period beyond the current three-year limit for complex and heavily regulated projects, such as those in the nuclear and hydrogen energy sectors. This extension aims to accommodate the longer development timelines these projects often require.  

Implications for Businesses and Local Communities:
• For Businesses: The proposed extension would provide clean energy companies with more flexibility and time to complete their projects without losing tax incentives. This could encourage more investments in the clean energy sector within Washington State. 

• For Local Communities: By attracting clean energy projects, communities could benefit from job creation, economic growth, and advancements in sustainable energy infrastructure.

Potential Positive Effects:
• Economic Growth: Increased investments in clean energy projects can stimulate local economies through job creation and related business opportunities. 

• Environmental Benefits: Supporting clean energy initiatives aligns with Washington's sustainability goals, potentially reducing the state's carbon footprint and promoting environmental health.

Overall, HB 1210 aims to enhance the state's support for clean energy projects by making the TUA tax exemption program more accommodating to the unique needs of this sector. While this could lead to significant economic and environmental benefits, careful consideration of the potential fiscal and regulatory impacts is essential to ensure balanced outcomes for both businesses and local communities. 

Photo by Crystal Kwok on Unsplash

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as "mother-in-law apartments" or "backyard cottages," are smaller homes built on the same property as the main house. In Washington State's 2025-2026 legislative session, lawmakers are considering several bills to use ADUs to help address housing issues. Here are four key proposals:

House Bill 1010 aims to allow for ADUs in rural areas. This bill proposes permitting detached ADUs outside urban growth areas, which are regions designated for development. If passed, it would enable property owners in rural communities to add ADUs to their land, potentially increasing housing options in less populated areas. 

House Bill 1345 seeks to establish limitations on detached ADUs outside urban growth areas. This bill aims to regulate the development of ADUs in rural regions to ensure that they align with local planning and zoning regulations. The goal is to balance the need for additional housing with the preservation of rural community characteristics. 

Senate Bill 5413 is a companion to HB 1345, introduced in the Senate. It also focuses on setting limitations for detached ADUs outside urban growth areas, aiming to provide more housing flexibility in rural parts of the state while maintaining appropriate land-use planning. 

House Bill 1353 proposes establishing a self-certification program for ADU project permit applications. This means that qualified professionals, such as licensed architects, could certify that ADU plans meet local requirements, potentially speeding up the approval process and reducing costs for homeowners interested in building ADUs.  

If these bills pass, they could lead to more ADUs being built across Washington State. This increase in housing options might help address housing shortages by providing more affordable and flexible living spaces.