Evergreen Reporter

The Legislature resumed its committee hearings this week, with the House and Senate committees reviewing bills passed by the other chamber. Public hearings will continue next week as executive sessions are scheduled to amend or approve bills before the policy committee cut-off on April 2.

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) testified against House Bill 1788, which proposes an increase in workers' compensation benefits. The NFIB argued that the bill does not address issues with wage-replacement calculations currently in place. They suggested that stakeholders should be convened by the Department of Labor & Industries during the interim to examine these issues further. The bill was approved by the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee on March 21 and sent to the Senate Ways & Means Committee for further review due to its estimated $36 million cost over five years.

NFIB also opposed Senate Bill 5041, which provides unemployment benefits to striking workers, during a hearing before the House Labor & Workplace Standards Committee. They expressed concerns that small employers could bear costs if an employer being struck closes or relocates. The House Labor Committee approved this bill on March 21.

A lengthy hearing took place regarding HB 1382, which aims to modernize the All-Payer Claims Database in compliance with federal rules initiated under former President Trump and finalized under President Biden. NFIB supports improved cost transparency but noted resistance from health insurance carriers who fear revealing payment rates could lead providers to demand higher payments.

Looking ahead, NFIB seeks member support for several priority bills scheduled for hearings next week:

- On March 24 at 10:30 a.m., two bills will be heard by the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee: HB 1308 concerning personnel records and HB 1213 regarding Paid Family & Medical Leave.

- On March 25 at 10:30 a.m., two bills will be addressed by the House Labor & Workplace Standards Committee: SB 5408 about corrections to wage disclosures and SB 5225 concerning layoff notifications.

- On March 26 at 8 a.m., HB 1483 related to Right to Repair digital devices will be reviewed by the Senate Energy, Environment & Technology Committee.

- On March 28 at 8 a.m., HB 1533 concerning specialty electricians is scheduled for discussion in front of the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee.

NFIB continues its efforts advocating for business interests as legislative sessions progress.