The Washington State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) is now considering Resolution 357, which would accept a mitigation plan for the Horse Heaven Hills Wind and Solar Project in Benton County. Below is a summary of Resolution 357. 

This large-scale project — spanning more than 70,000 acres south of the Tri-Cities — has raised serious local concerns about its impact on our views, wildlife, recreation, and community character. Despite years of public input and EFSEC’s own recommendation to reduce the project size, the current proposal moves forward with limited changes and unclear protections for the environment and nearby residents.

Now is the time to speak up.
Public comments on Resolution 357 are open until October 13, 2025, 11:59 p.m.
Submit your comment at: https://comments.efsec.wa.gov
You can also email [email protected]

Your voice matters—help protect the Tri-Cities landscape and ensure local perspectives are heard.
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What is Resolution 357?
Resolution 357 is a draft resolution issued by EFSEC staff to guide the implementation of the “Spec-5” mitigation measure for the Horse Heaven Wind Project. The public comment period for it runs from September 30 to October 13, 2025.
“Spec-5” is a specific mitigation condition embedded in the Site Certification Agreement (and earlier proposals) that relates especially to buffer zones around ferruginous hawk nests, avoidance of sensitive habitat, and restrictions on siting of turbines, solar arrays, and battery systems in areas of high environmental risk.

What does Spec-5 (and thus Resolution 357) address?
Here are the primary elements Spec-5 and Resolution 357 are supposed to control:

1. Buffer zones around hawk nests
   Spec-5 proposes prohibiting turbines within certain buffer distances of both historic and active ferruginous hawk nests. It also restricts placing solar arrays or battery energy storage systems (BESS) too close to known hawk nesting sites.
2. Avoidance of “Class 3 Impact” zones
   The Council recommended excluding sections of the micrositing area designated “Class 3 Impact” (often within 2 miles of nest sites) from development for turbines.
3. More protective habitat limits
   Spec-5 would strengthen prior mitigation by prohibiting solar arrays in certain shrubland or priority habitat areas and avoiding siting in other especially sensitive zones.
4. Flexibility and enforcement
   Resolution 357 is meant to clarify how Spec-5 is applied, how compliance is monitored, and how deviations or exceptions would be handled.

Why it matters & what’s uncertain

• Scale reduction implied: Because of the stricter buffers and exclusions, the project may be reduced by roughly one / third in affected areas to meet Spec-5 mandates.
• Interpretation & enforcement risk: Resolution 357 must define how much discretion the developer or EFSEC has to “bend” the buffers or grant exceptions — that’s a key point of contention.
• Cultural, visual, and ecological impact: Spec-5 is one of the last major mitigation tools left to protect hawk habitat, viewsheds, and sensitive land before construction would begin. If weakly applied, many of the objections raised by opponents may persist regardless of this resolution.

Learn More about the Horse Heaven Hills Project

• EFSEC Resolution 357 – Draft Mitigation Plan:
  Review the official draft and submit public comments by October 13, 2025.
  efsec.wa.gov/hearings-and-meetings/2025/october-2025-horse-heaven-draft-resolution-357-implementation-spec-5-mitigation-measure-comment
• Public Comment Portal:
  Share your thoughts directly with EFSEC before the deadline.
  💬 comments.efsec.wa.gov
• Background Reporting:
  Cascade PBS – “Horse Heaven wind farm faces one-third cut over hawk protections”
  Read Article ›

 

​Wildfires are a growing concern in Eastern Washington. Hot summers, dry vegetation, and strong winds can turn a small spark into a dangerous fire in a matter of minutes. To lower this risk, utilities have adopted a tool called Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). This is when power companies intentionally turn off electricity in certain areas during extreme weather conditions. Although inconvenient, these shutoffs are designed to protect communities from devastating wildfires.
 
When Is a PSPS Necessary?
Utilities do not decide to shut off power lightly. PSPS is used only as a last resort when the fire danger is extreme. Several conditions must be met before a utility considers it.

• Strong, sustained winds that could knock down power lines.
• Very low humidity that dries out vegetation.
• Extended hot and dry weather that creates wildfire fuel.
• Dead or dry brush and trees that can ignite easily.
• Ongoing drought conditions that leave landscapes vulnerable.

These conditions often appear during late summer or early fall in Eastern Washington. Utilities such as City of Richland, Puget Sound Energy (PSE), and Pacific Power monitor weather forecasts, fire danger levels, and real-time field conditions. If the risk of power lines sparking a wildfire is too high, a PSPS may be implemented.
 
Who Decides to Call a PSPS?
The responsibility lies with the utilities serving the region. Their decision-making process includes the following:

• Monitoring conditions: Utilities use weather stations, fire risk models, and satellite data to track high-risk conditions.
• Coordination with emergency officials: Local governments, county emergency managers, and tribes are informed before a PSPS is implemented.
• Regulatory guidance: The Washington State Department of Commerce and Department of Natural Resources provide statewide frameworks for managing PSPS.

A Red Flag Warning from the National Weather Service may be one signal, but it does not automatically trigger a PSPS. Utilities consider several factors before taking action.
 
How Does a PSPS Work?
This process is deliberate and includes several steps.

1. Advance Warnings: Utilities try to notify customers 24–48 hours before a PSPS. Warnings may include a Watch, a Probable Outage, and then a Scheduled Outage.
2. Power Shutoff: If conditions worsen, electricity in specific high-risk areas is turned off. This can be performed remotely from control centers or by workers on-site.
3. Safety Inspections: Once the weather improves, crews inspect the lines and equipment on foot, by truck, or using drones. They check for fallen trees, damages, or other hazards.
4. Restoration of Power: Power is restored only when it is safe to do so. Depending on the conditions, outages can last several hours or even days.

During this process, utilities also send regular updates so that customers know what to expect.
 
Why Is PSPS Used?
The goal is simple: to prevent wildfires that could destroy lives, properties, and natural resources. Even a single spark from a damaged power line can ignite a fire under dry conditions.
PSPS was developed after tragedies such as California’s 2018 Camp Fire, which was linked to utility equipment. This disaster highlighted the importance of preventive shutoffs. With hotter and drier conditions linked to climate change, Washington utilities have added PSPS as a safety measure.
 
Balancing Risks and Impacts
Before calling a PSPS, utilities weigh the benefits of preventing wildfires against the challenges of shutting off the power. Power outages affect households, businesses, and vulnerable residents who rely on electricity for medical care. Utilities carefully consider these impacts and use PSPS only when the wildfire risk is greater than the harm caused by temporary outages.
 
What You Can Do to Prepare
As PSPS events may become more common, residents can take steps to prepare them for.

• Sign up for utility alerts and keep your contact information up to date.
• Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, flashlights, and backup batteries.
• Have a plan for medical needs if you rely on powered medical devices.
• Stay connected by following local news, social media or community alerts.

Public Safety Power Shutoffs are not random blackouts. They are carefully planned safety measures used only when the wildfire risk is extreme. In Eastern Washington, utilities use PSPS to protect communities from devastating fires. While losing power can be frustrating, understanding why PSPS events occur and how to prepare for them helps residents stay safe during fire seasons.

​Strong communities are built on strong businesses. Therefore, the Tri-City Regional Chamber follows a simple guiding principle: government policies and regulations should promote responsible business operations and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. When a rule blocks those goals or harms local employers, we push for it to be revised or repealed. This principle keeps our focus on practical outcomes for the people who live and work in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, and West Richland.

For local employers, clear and fair rules imply stability and confidence. When permits are predictable, fees are right-sized, and timelines are reasonable, small shops, farms, and startups can plan, hire, and invest in their businesses. Innovation is also important. Incentives that support new products, technologies, and business models help our region create new jobs and diversify the economy. This is how the Tri-Cities remains competitive and creates opportunities for students, veterans, and entrepreneurs.

Responsible operation is part of this balance. Good policy protects workers, customers, and the environment while allowing businesses to thrive. In practice, this looks like streamlined licensing, simple reporting, and modern tools that make compliance easier. It also includes smart incentives, such as support for apprenticeships, research partnerships, or pilot projects that allow companies to test new ideas without jumping through endless hoops.

The Chamber uses this principle as a filter when reviewing proposals from city halls, Olympia, and state agencies. We ask: Does this policy make it easier for responsible businesses to operate? Does it lower needless barriers for startups? Does it protect people while keeping costs low? We also champion policies that open doors, such as faster permitting, broadband expansion for commerce, and programs that help entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses.
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Our goal is simple: a healthy and innovative business climate that lifts the entire region. By standing up for smart rules and pushing back on harmful ones, the Chamber helps keep the Tri-Cities a great place to start and grow businesses. If a policy affects your ability to operate, hire, or innovate, please tell us. Your feedback guides our advocacy and makes this principle a reality.

​Washington State has been at the bottom of the national rankings for police staffing for 15 years. This implies that fewer officers are available to respond to emergencies, protect neighborhoods, and support local businesses. Although small gains have been made in hiring, the state continues to face significant challenges. These shortages affect not only public safety but also the health of Washington’s business climate, raising costs and complicating operations for employers of all sizes in the state.

The numbers paint a sobering picture. In 2024, Washington had 1.36 officers per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of approximately 2.3 officers per 1,000. This places Washington firmly at the bottom of all 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC). Although the state added nearly 300 officers in 2024, the gap remains significant. In cities such as Seattle, recent recruitment efforts have shown progress, but much more is needed to close the staffing deficit statewide.
These shortages strain police departments, slow response times, and contribute to stressful conditions that make it harder to retain officers. Consequently, communities face uneven protection, and businesses are left more vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and other crime-related risks.
 

For Washington businesses, low police staffing is more than just a public safety concern; it is an economic one.

• A slower emergency response means that businesses experiencing theft or property damage often wait longer for help, increasing their risk of loss.
• Rising costs are prevalent. Research shows that retailers facing persistent crime often pass along costs to customers through higher prices. This effectively creates a “hidden tax” that reduces competitiveness.
• Safety perceptions influence customer behavior. If shoppers feel unsafe in certain areas, businesses may experience reduced foot traffic and declining sales.
• The added expenses for private security, surveillance, and insurance are becoming unavoidable for many businesses. These costs cut into already thin margins, particularly for small or independent enterprises.

 
Efforts are underway to address this crisis. In 2025, the state launched a $100 million grant program to help jurisdictions hire more officers and expand community safety initiatives, including behavioral health responders and crisis intervention training. Seattle has begun to rebound from years of staffing losses, doubling police applications in early 2025 and offering competitive bonuses to attract candidates.
While these steps are encouraging, the reality is stark: closing the gap with the national average would cost more than $1 billion annually. Such investment requires long-term commitment, political will, and a balance between traditional law enforcement and community-based safety programs.

Washington’s chronic shortage of police officers impacts everyone, but the effects are especially pronounced for businesses. Slower response times, higher costs, and diminished consumer confidence create headwinds for local economies. Addressing the crisis will not only improve public safety but also strengthen Washington’s business environment. For employers, staying engaged in the conversation, advocating for balanced investments, and working with policymakers is essential to building safe, thriving communities where businesses and families can prosper.
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Washington State’s Clean Fuel Standard was introduced in 2023 with the goal of making transportation fuels cleaner and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation is the largest source of pollution in the state; therefore, the idea behind this law is to slowly reduce the amount of carbon in fuels such as gasoline and diesel. The program sets limits on how much carbon is allowed and pushes companies to meet those limits by selling cleaner fuels or buying credits from companies that do so. While this plan sounds promising, there are serious questions about whether it will actually work as intended or simply create more costs and confusion for the people and businesses of Washington.

The Clean Fuel Standard relies on a system of credits and deficits. Fuel suppliers that sell fuels with a high carbon content receive deficits, which they need to balance by either selling cleaner fuels themselves or purchasing credits from companies that do. It is hoped that this market system will encourage new, cleaner technologies, such as biofuels and electric vehicles. However, critics have pointed out that such systems are complicated and can be unpredictable. The price of credits can rise quickly, and these costs almost always end up being passed on to drivers and businesses that depend on fuel.

State leaders have set an ambitious target of cutting the carbon intensity of transportation fuels by 45 percent by 2038, with the possibility of even more reductions if future technology allows. However, there are doubts about whether such deep cuts are realistic. It depends on a large increase in biofuel production, new fueling infrastructure, and companies’ willingness to invest heavily in new technology. These are all things that may or may not occur on schedule. There is also a risk that companies will meet these goals on paper by buying credits rather than making any real changes to their fuels.

For businesses, the effects of this law could be challenging. Companies that import or sell fuel must now register with the state, file regular reports, pay annual fees, and manage their compliance through the credit system. For companies already struggling with rising costs, this adds another layer of expense. Even companies that are not directly regulated, such as delivery services and trucking fleets, will feel the effects because the cost of fuel is likely to increase. These higher costs can lead to higher prices for goods and services across the state.

While there may be opportunities for companies that produce clean fuels or operate electric charging stations to earn extra income by selling credits, these benefits are uncertain. Building the facilities needed for new clean fuels will take years, and there is no guarantee that customers will be ready to switch to alternative fuels as quickly as the law assumes.

Washington’s Clean Fuel Standard represents a bold attempt to tackle climate change, but it also comes with serious risks. The program may reduce emissions, but it could also drive up costs, add complexity, and fall short of its goals if new technologies are not developed as quickly as hoped. For many businesses, this law could mean more financial pressure without much control over the outcome. Whether this policy leads to a cleaner future or simply a more expensive one remains to be seen, and the next decade will show whether Washington’s gamble pays off or not.

​Pros

• Encourages cleaner fuels and new technologies.
• Aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.
• May create new jobs and industries in clean energy.
• Can improve air quality and public health over time.

Cons

• Likely to increase fuel costs for drivers and businesses.
• A complex credit-trading system may favor large companies.
• Success depends on future technology and infrastructure that may not be available soon.
• There is a risk that companies will buy credits instead of making real changes.

CNBC’s 2025 America’s Top States for Business rankings are out, and the headline is clear: North Carolina sits at No. 1, while Washington fell to No. 14, dropping out of the top ten for the first time in several years. For employers and civic leaders, the story is not doom, but a reshuffle of strengths and weaknesses that directly affect investment, hiring, and long-term competitiveness.

The study scored all 50 states across ten weighted categories for a maximum of 2,500 points. The CNBC states that its approach is data-driven and compares states on 100+ indicators. In 2025, North Carolina totaled 1,614 points, a reminder that small gains across many areas could change standings at the top. The methodology draws on 135 metrics, according to state and regional briefings that summarize CNBC’s criteria.

Washington’s results have been mixed. The state remains a national leader in Technology and Innovation, ranking 4th. Washington’s economic category improved sharply to 6th. But costs held us back. Quality of Life slipped to 14th, Cost of Living ranked 39th, and Cost of Doing Business ranked 48th. Those cost pressures include higher wages and commercial space costs, which weigh on operating decisions for employers.

The trend line adds context. Washington was No. 1 in 2017, No. 2 in 2022, and 10th last year. The move to 14th place in 2025 reflects tougher competition from other states and rising local cost challenges, not a loss of core assets such as talent or innovation capacity.

North Carolina edged Texas and Florida to the top of the table. Texas finished second with 1,601 points, but earned low Quality of Life marks, a category that now captures factors such as crime rates, healthcare access, childcare, worker protections, and anti-discrimination laws. These details show how CNBC’s framework balances pure business costs with conditions that help employers attract and keep workers.

Takeaways are practical in Washington’s business community. Our strengths in innovation and skilled workforce continue to make the state attractive to tech, advanced manufacturing, and export-oriented firms. The pain points were affordability and operating cost. This suggests near-term focus areas for policymakers and local partners: housing supply and cost, commercial space availability, and predictable permitting that reduces the time and expense for expansions and infill projects. The goal is to maintain the innovation edge while easing the day-to-day cost burdens that drive location decisions.

Washington still competes from a position of talent and technology strength, but the 2025 rankings are a nudge to act on affordability. For the full rankings, category breakdowns, and CNBC’s complete write-up, see the original article here.

At our most recent Regional Advocacy Roundtable, local education leaders and state legislators came together to discuss key issues shaping the future of education and workforce development in Washington.

Representative April Connors opened the discussion with an overview of House Bills 1414 and 1722, both aimed at expanding career and technical education (CTE) opportunities for high school students. These bills focus on removing barriers for students in skill centers, particularly in fields like healthcare and firefighting, by adjusting labor laws to allow earlier testing and employment. Rep Connors highlighted these legislative wins as key outcomes of the session, noting the collaborative efforts required to overcome policy hurdles.
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Paul Randall, Director of Tri-Tech Skills Center in Kennewick, shared updates on the facility’s expansion beyond its original 66,000 square feet and the addition of new training programs aligned with local workforce needs. His remarks underscored Tri-Tech’s vital role in connecting education with industry in the Tri-Cities. The discussion also highlights the broader role of skill centers in Washington State, emphasizing career pathways for high school juniors and seniors, ongoing modernization efforts to upgrade facilities and equipment, and partnerships with institutions such as WSU Tri-Cities for programs such as nursing. 

​Representative Sklyer Rude closed the discussion by sharing insights from his work as Ranking Member of the House Education Committee and a member of the Post-Secondary Education and Workforce Committee. He described the careful evaluation process that his caucus uses when reviewing education bills, especially those with financial implications. Rep. Rude also touched on a proposed bill to limit cell phone use in classrooms, and his financial literacy bill which failed this session but is expected to return. He voiced support for the State Board of Education’s direction on key policies but expressed strong concerns about the recently passed Parents’ Bill of Rights, criticizing it for constitutional issues and the inclusion of unrelated language around gender ideology and discrimination.
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The Regional Advocacy Roundtable on education offered a comprehensive look at how state policy, local leadership, and education institutions are working together to strengthen career pathways and improve student outcomes across the Tri-Cities. From expanding access to career and technical education through legislative wins like House Bills 1414, 1722, and 1273, to investing in facilities like Tri-Tech and protecting higher education funding at WSU Tri-Cities, the discussion highlighted a shared commitment to preparing students for real-world opportunities. Lawmakers and educators alike acknowledged both progress and ongoing challenges, particularly funding stability, policy implementation, and ensuring that legislation supports all students equally. The session underscored the importance of continued collaboration between schools, state leaders, and the business community in creating a future-ready workforce and a responsive education system in our region.

The September Regional Advocacy Roundtable is scheduled for September 2nd at 8 am at the Tri-City Business and Visitor Center and will be about the 2025 Washington State Budget. You can sign up here.

On May 15, Governor Bob Ferguson visited the Tri-Cities for a special bill signing ceremony, recognizing the work of local legislators during the 2025 Washington State legislative session. Held in the heart of the Tri-Cities region, the event celebrated the successful passage of bills championed by Eastern Washington lawmakers. At the ceremony, Governor Ferguson signed 11 bills into law, highlighting the impact of regional leadership on statewide policies.

The bills signed in the Tri-Cities covered a range of topics, from agriculture and infrastructure to workforce development and education. While most legislation is typically signed in Olympia, this visit underscores the importance of bringing government closer to the communities it serves. It also offered local residents a chance to witness firsthand how their elected officials are shaping laws that directly affect their region.

In total, Tri-City legislators successfully passed 18 bills into law during the 2025 session. This legislative achievement reflects the growing influence of Eastern Washington voices in Olympia and the commitment of local lawmakers to address regional needs. The remaining bills were signed earlier this year at ceremonies held at the state capitol, continuing the longstanding tradition of recognizing the legislative process at the seat of government.

This event not only highlighted the accomplishments of local lawmakers, but also emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration in achieving meaningful results. The governor’s decision to hold a bill signing ceremony in the Tri-Cities sends a clear message: the voices of Eastern Washington are being heard, and their ideas are making a difference across the state.
Tri-Cities can take pride in the active role their delegation plays in shaping state policy. These successes established a strong foundation for future advocacy efforts and legislative progress in the region.

​Washington State’s 2025 legislative session brought major changes to housing law, with a focus on affordability, tenant protection, and housing development. These new laws are intended to address the state’s growing housing crisis, but also bring about significant adjustments for property owners. Whether you rent out a single unit or manage a portfolio of properties, understanding these laws is key to adapting your operations and staying compliant. 

House Bill 1217: Rent Control Statewide

House Bill 1217 is one of the most talked about measures in this session. It establishes statewide rent stabilization rules, limiting how much landlords can raise rent each year. Specifically, annual rent increases are capped at 7% plus inflation or at 10%, whichever is lower. This law marks the first time Washington has implemented a broad rent control policy, signaling a shift in how the state balances market forces and tenant protection. 

For renters, this implies more predictable housing costs and a lower risk of sudden displacement. However, for landlords, the cap may impact long-term financial planning, particularly in regions where costs such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance are rising faster than the allowable rent increases. Owners need to assess how these limits affect revenue models and consider strategies for controlling expenses.

House Bill 1491: Increasing Density Near Transit

Another major policy change came through House Bill 1491, which requires cities to allow higher-density housing near transit corridors. The law mandates upzoning around areas served by frequent public transit, such as light-rail stations and major bus lines. The goal is to create walkable, transit-connected communities while increasing housing supply in areas with strong infrastructure. 

Renters may benefit from more housing options near their jobs, schools, and public services. Property owners located in these areas could see new development opportunities with the ability to build more units than previously allowed. However, participating in such development will likely require familiarity with new permitting processes and compliance with the updated local planning codes.
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House Bill 1096: Easier Lot Splitting for Small-Scale Housing

House Bill 1096 focuses on increasing the housing supply by making it easier for property owners to split large residential lots into smaller parcels. This legislation opens the door for more “missing middle” housing, such as duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units, especially in traditional single-family neighborhoods. 

This could be a win for renters who are seeking more affordable or flexible living options. For property owners, the law creates opportunities to build and generate income from additional units on existing lots. That said, owners will need to navigate zoning, permitting, and infrastructure requirements, which could vary by jurisdiction and require upfront investment.

House Bill 1177: Housing Support for At-Risk Families

Finally, House Bill 1177 expanded the housing support for families involved in the child welfare system. This enhances funding and eligibility for housing assistance programs aimed at preventing family separation due to homelessness or unsafe housing conditions. The bill ensures that families at risk of entering the child welfare system receive rental assistance and case management support. 

This law provides a vital safety net for renters, particularly vulnerable families. Landlords may see more tenants using state-supported housing programs that can provide more reliable rent payments through vouchers. However, they must also comply with program requirements, including lease terms and property condition standards.

In summary, Washington’s 2025 housing laws reshape the relationship between renters and property owners. The new rules emphasize stability and access for tenants while encouraging denser housing development in the targeted areas. Property owners who remain informed and proactive—whether by adjusting rental strategies, exploring new development potential, or engaging with housing programs—will be best positioned to navigate these changes. As the market continues to evolve, successful landlords will adapt to new expectations while maintaining the long-term value of their properties.

The Association of Washington Business (AWB) has released a comprehensive report titled "Trade in Washington," highlighting the critical role of international trade in the state's economy. The report underscores how Washington's strategic location, robust infrastructure, and diverse industries contribute to its status as a leading trade hub. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining and expanding trade relationships to ensure continued economic growth and competitiveness. 

Washington's economy is deeply intertwined with global markets, with key sectors such as aerospace, agriculture, and technology relying heavily on exports. The report details how trade supports thousands of jobs across the state and contributes significantly to the state's GDP. It also discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by evolving trade policies and global economic shifts.
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In conclusion, the AWB's "Trade in Washington" report serves as a vital resource for understanding the state's economic landscape. It calls for proactive measures to strengthen trade infrastructure, advocate for favorable trade policies, and support businesses in navigating international markets. By doing so, Washington can continue to thrive as a dynamic participant in the global economy. 

​You can read the full report here.