State Bills: Washington

SB 5520 Wrongly convicted persons act passed

SB 5520 Wrongly convicted persons act passed

Adds judges in Skagit and Yakima counties

Washington State Senate Bill 5868 adds one additional superior court judge position each in Skagit county and Yakima county. The bill was sponsored by Senators Wagoner, King, Dhingra, Lovelett, and Pedersen at the request of the Administrative Office of the Courts. The legislation passed the Senate 48-1 and was subsequently enacted as Chapter 226, Laws of 2026.

Voter Registration Database Protection

Washington State passed SB 5892, adding security protections to the statewide voter registration database. The bill, requested by the Secretary of State and sponsored by 10 senators, passed the Senate 29-19 and cleared the House. The legislation establishes access controls and cybersecurity requirements for voter registration data systems.

340B Drug Pricing Program Protections

Washington State enacted SB 5981 to protect the 340B drug pricing program, which enables safety net healthcare providers to purchase outpatient drugs at discounted prices. The law prohibits pharmaceutical manufacturers from imposing restrictions on covered entities' participation in the program, including limitations on contract pharmacy arrangements and inventory management practices. This applies to hospitals, federally qualified health centers, and other covered entities serving vulnerable populations in Washington.

Voting access for military overseas Native American disabled voters

Washington State enacted SB 6035 (Chapter 214, Laws of 2026) to expand voting access for military personnel overseas, Native American voters, and voters with disabilities. The bill requires the Secretary of State and county elections officials to implement enhanced accessibility measures and alternative voting service options for protected voter classes.

Abortion savings program

The Washington State Senate passed SB 6182 establishing an abortion savings program to provide financial assistance for abortion services. The bill cleared the legislature with companion legislation HB 2657 in the House. The program creates a state-administered mechanism to help individuals cover costs associated with abortion care.

Detached ADU Limitations Outside Urban Growth Areas

The Washington State Legislature passed HB 1345, establishing new limitations on detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) located outside urban growth areas. The bill was sponsored by Representatives Low, Peterson, Tharinger, Nance, and Gregerson and passed the House 86-5 before receiving Senate committee approval. Local governments and property developers should review existing development standards to ensure compliance with the new ADU restrictions.

HB2266 housing programs, effective 11th Jun

HB2266 housing programs, effective 11th Jun

Washington Permit Review Process Changes

Washington State enacted HB 2418 (Chapter 235 L 26), making changes to permit review processes for construction and development projects. The bill takes effect June 11, 2026. Regulated parties including construction firms, developers, and local governments should review current permit procedures to identify necessary updates.

Transparency and Consumer Protection in Water System Rates

The Washington State Legislature enacted HB 1906 (Chapter 237 Laws of 2026) to increase transparency and consumer protection in water system rates. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Tharinger, Shavers, Parshley, and Hill, passed both chambers and was signed into law during the 2025-26 session. Water systems in Washington State must now comply with new requirements regarding rate transparency, consumer notifications, and billing practices.