State Bills: Washington

Statewide Low-Income Energy Assistance Program

Washington State enacted HB 1903 establishing a statewide low-income energy assistance program. The bill (E2SHB 1903, C 252 L 26) passed during the 2025-26 biennium and was chaptered into law in 2026. The program will provide energy cost assistance to eligible low-income households in Washington State, with administration by a designated state agency.

Immigrant Worker Protections

The Washington State House passed HB 2105, creating new worker protections for immigrant employees. The bill addresses employment practices, workplace rights, and protections against discrimination or retaliation based on immigration status. Companion bill SB 5852 exists in the Senate.

Climate Commitment Act fuel compliance requirements

Washington State House Bill 2215, signed into law as Chapter 251 (2026), establishes new Climate Commitment Act compliance obligations for fuels supplied or sold into Washington State. The bill targets fuel suppliers and distributors, imposing reporting and emission reduction requirements consistent with the state's climate goals.

SB 5820 mandates freight rail use overlay for counties

SB 5820 mandates freight rail use overlay for counties

Department of Revenue Tax Changes

Washington State enacted SB 6113 (Chapter 250, Laws of 2026), a comprehensive tax bill concerning taxes administered by the Department of Revenue. Sponsored by Senators Frame, Robinson, and Saldaña at the request of the Department of Revenue, the bill passed the Senate 45-3 and subsequently the House. Businesses operating in Washington State subject to DOR-administered taxes should review their obligations under this new legislation.

Emissions-Intensive, Trade-Exposed Facilities Under the Climate Commitment Act

The Washington State Senate passed SB 6246, amending the Climate Commitment Act to address emissions-intensive, trade-exposed (EITE) facilities. The bill establishes new requirements for covered facilities regarding carbon emissions reporting and compliance obligations. The legislation passed the Senate 27-22 and was chaptered into law as C 253 L 26.

Washington Millionaire Tax

The Washington State Legislature enacted SB 6346, establishing a new tax on high-net-worth individuals (millionaires). The bill was signed into law as Chapter 238, Laws of 2026, with sponsors including Senators Pedersen, Chapman, Frame, and 24 other co-sponsors. This represents the state's first dedicated millionaire tax, creating new filing and payment obligations for affected Washington residents.

Electric Transmission System Regulation

The Washington State Senate passed SB 6355, legislation concerning the electric transmission system, on March 3, 2026 with a 30-19 vote. The bill was referred to the House Appropriations Committee after passage. Sponsored by a coalition of legislators including Hunt, Kauffman, and Chapman, the legislation establishes new regulatory requirements for electric transmission infrastructure in Washington State.