​I am writing to express our strong support for House Bill 1819, which aims to increase transmission capacity within our state's electrical grid. By focusing on reconductoring existing power lines with advanced conductors, this bill presents a cost-effective solution to enhance our current infrastructure without the extensive expenses associated with constructing new transmission lines. Studies have shown that reconductoring can significantly boost grid capacity while reducing overall costs.

Reconductoring offers a practical approach to modernizing our electrical grid by utilizing existing rights-of-way, thereby avoiding the complexities and delays often encountered with new land acquisitions and permitting processes. This method not only accelerates the expansion of grid capacity but also minimizes environmental and community impacts. Implementing advanced conductors can effectively double the capacity of existing lines, ensuring that our energy infrastructure keeps pace with growing demand and supports the integration of renewable energy sources.

​Furthermore, by streamlining the grid expansion process, HB 1819 will facilitate a more efficient and reliable energy distribution system. This improvement is crucial for businesses that depend on consistent and affordable electricity to operate effectively. Enhanced transmission capacity will not only meet current energy needs but also position Washington State as a leader in adopting innovative solutions for sustainable energy infrastructure. We urge the Legislature to pass HB 1819 to realize these benefits for our economy and communities.

I am writing to express my strong support for House Bill 1210, which provides tax incentives to businesses that invest in economically struggling urban areas across Washington State. I believe this bill is a critical step toward revitalizing communities that need economic development and job opportunities. Encouraging businesses to expand into these regions will help stimulate local economies and improve the quality of life for many Washingtonians.

HB 1210 is not just about business growth—it is about creating opportunities for people. When companies invest in underdeveloped areas, they bring jobs, infrastructure improvements, and increased economic activity. This means more employment for local residents, stronger small businesses, and a healthier economy overall. As someone who has seen the impact of economic disparity firsthand, I believe this bill offers a practical solution to help struggling communities thrive.

​Additionally, HB 1210 promotes balanced economic development across our state. Instead of allowing prosperity to be concentrated in a few regions, this bill ensures that all communities have the chance to grow and succeed. By supporting this legislation, we are taking a step toward reducing regional disparities and building a more equitable future for Washington State. I urge you to support HB 1210 and help bring meaningful economic change to communities that need it most.

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce is deeply concerned about Senate Bill 5041, which proposes extending unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to workers on strike and urge your opposition. This bill could significantly increase the financial burden on small businesses, as they would be required to fund UI benefits for striking workers, even though they are not unemployed due to economic downturns or layoffs.

The additional costs associated with this bill could lead to higher unemployment insurance premiums for all employers, regardless of their involvement in labor disputes. For small businesses operating on tight margins, these increased expenses may force them to make difficult decisions such as reducing the workforce or delaying growth plans. In turn, this could hinder job creation and negatively impact the local economy.

Furthermore, providing unemployment benefits to striking workers may prolong labor disputes as the financial pressure to reach a resolution is lessened. Extended strikes can disrupt local communities and economies, affecting not only businesses directly involved but also other small enterprises that rely on the patronage of these workers. This bill could inadvertently create an uneven playing field, placing small businesses at a disadvantage compared with larger corporations with more resources to absorb these additional costs.

​Please help small businesses in Washington State and oppose Senate Bill 5041

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce is opposed to House Bill 1217, which aims to cap annual rent increases at 7%, could have unintended negative consequences on affordable housing and the rental market in Washington State. By limiting the potential return on investment for property owners, this bill may discourage developers from building new rental units, thereby exacerbating the existing housing shortage.

Additionally, small landlords, who often provide more affordable housing options, might struggle to cover the maintenance and operational costs under these restrictions. This financial strain could force them to sell their properties or convert them to other uses, further reducing the availability of affordable rentals. The rent cap may also result in landlords automatically increasing rent by 7% every year, whether it is needed.

Moreover, capping rent increases could lead to a decrease in the quality of rental housing. With their limited ability to adjust rents in response to rising expenses, landlords may be less inclined to invest in property upkeep and improvements, resulting in deteriorating living conditions for tenants.Please oppose House Bill 1217.

We are opposed to Senate Bill 5496. While the bill's intent is to promote homeownership by reducing properties purchased by investors, it could inadvertently hinder housing development by restricting developers from acquiring and owning multiple properties. Developers often purchase multiple properties to economies of scale, reduce costs, and offer more affordable housing options. Limiting their ability to do so may lead to decreased housing and increased prices, exacerbating the housing affordability crisis.

​Furthermore, by imposing constraints on developers, the bill could discourage investment in housing projects within the state. This may result in slower development timelines and reduced innovation in housing solutions. To effectively address housing affordability and availability, it is crucial to consider policies that encourage development and investment, rather than implementing measures that may unintentionally impede progress in expanding the state's housing stock.

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce opposes House Bill 1862.

We Oppose Washington House Bill 1862, which seeks to regulate train lengths, is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and
environmental benefits of freight rail transport in our state. Longer trains have been shown to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, the Association of American Railroads notes that railroads have safely increased train length while improving their overall safety record, enhancing fuel efficiency, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By transporting more cargo per trip, longer trains decrease the number of trips required, thereby lowering fuel consumption and emissions. Imposing restrictions on train length would necessitate more frequent trips to move the same volume of goods, leading to increased fuel usage and a higher carbon footprint.

Moreover, trains are among the most efficient modes of commercial transportation, offering a sustainable alternative to road
freight. Limiting train lengths could result in a modal shift from rail to truck transport, which is less fuel-efficient and produces higher emissions. This shift would not only undermine environmental goals but also increase transit times and costs for essential goods, adversely affecting businesses and consumers across Washington State. Preserving the operational flexibility of our freight rail system is essential to maintaining its economic and environmental advantages.

Thank you for your consideration in opposing HB 1862

On behalf of Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce, I would like express support for Senate Bill 5091.

Senate Bill 5091 addresses the critical challenges faced by Washington's transportation sector in meeting current emission standards. The existing mandates necessitate a transition to zero-emission vehicles; however, the availability of suitable electric vehicles (EVs), especially for commercial use, remains limited.

Moreover, the infrastructure required to support a widespread EV fleet is still under development. The Washington State Department of Transportation has outlined plans for EV infrastructure deployment, but as of now, the charging network is not sufficiently robust to support large-scale commercial operations. This combination of limited vehicle availability and inadequate charging infrastructure makes it exceedingly difficult for businesses to comply with current emission requirements. Therefore, SB 5091 proposes a necessary reevaluation of these standards, allowing time for the market and infrastructure to evolve to meet the state's environmental goals effectively.

Supporting SB 5091 assists in the continued viability of commercial transportation in Washington State.

. My name is Matt Murphy, the Government and regional affairs Director, for the Tri-City Regional Chamber of commerce. We have nearly 1000 members and we support HB 1414.

Washington State House Bill 1414 aims to help 16- and 17-year-old students get better jobs by improving access to career opportunities. Many high school students take part in career and technical education programs to gain hands-on experience in various industries. However, some state rules prevent these students from starting training, obtaining licenses or certifications, or working in certain professions because of their age. These restrictions can stop students from beginning their careers, even after they've completed the necessary education and training.

o address this, HB 1414 proposes creating a work group led by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. This group will review current laws and policies to find and remove barriers that limit young students' access to career opportunities. By making these changes, the bill will help students start their careers earlier, giving them valuable experience and a head start in the workforce.

​Supporting HB 1414 means supporting young people's futures by allowing them to use their skills and education without unnecessary delays. This will lead to a more skilled workforce and better opportunities for our youth.I urge you to support HB 1414.

My name is Matt Murphy, and I serve as the Government and Regional Affairs Director of the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce. We represent nearly 1,000 businesses and strongly oppose HB 1213.

House Bill 1213 proposes significant expansions to Washington State's Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, including reducing the minimum claim period from eight to four consecutive hours and extending employment protection to all employees who have been with their employer for at least 90 days, regardless of the employer's size.

​While these changes aim to enhance worker protection, they can also impose substantial financial and operational challenges on small businesses. Mandating job protection and continued health insurance coverage during PFML leave, even for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, may lead to increased costs and administrative burden. Small businesses often operate with limited staff and resources, and accommodating extended absences could necessitate hiring temporary replacements or redistributing workloads, both of which can be costly and disruptive. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has expressed concerns that such requirements could disproportionately impact small employers, potentially hindering their ability to sustain operations and retain employees.

It is crucial to consider the delicate balance between enhancing employee benefits and maintaining the viability of small businesses integral to Washington's economy.

We oppose Washington State Senate Bill 5222 for the following reasons:

​•Reduced Housing Supply: Capping annual rent increases will discourage property owners and developers from investing in rental properties, worsening the housing shortage. It will also force many investors to divest their rental holdings, again, worsening the housing shortage.

•Decline in Property Maintenance: Landlords will struggle to afford necessary upkeep, leading to poorer quality housing for tenants.

•Impact on Small Landlords: The administrative burden and financial constraints of compliance could drive small landlords out of the market, limiting rental options further.

•Rental Ownership Costs: Often tax and insurance burdens increase more than the cap would cover forcing investors into negative cash flow situation. Thank you for your consideration.