Evergreen Reporter

As the Washington state legislative session progresses, significant developments are impacting small businesses. The session, scheduled to adjourn on April 27, has seen two crucial legislative deadlines pass. On April 2, policy committees needed to approve bills originating in the opposite chamber, while by April 8, fiscal committees were to approve budget-related bills.

State Director Patrick Connor reported heavy legislative activity with approximately 30 bills of interest to small business owners still being deliberated. The Senate, led by Sen. Jamie Pedersen, was engaged in closed caucus meetings on April 11, following a debated rent control discourse. The Senate may need extended hours to meet the April 16 cut-off.

Meanwhile, the House passed SB 5041, allowing unemployment benefits for striking workers, a move opposed by the NFIB. The bill risks spreading costs to uninvolved small businesses, with lingering pandemic-era surcharges still affecting Washington employers.

Budget discussions are ongoing, with Gov. Bob Ferguson reiterating his disapproval of a wealth tax proposed by Democrats, labeling it as untested legally. The state's dependency on $43 billion from federal funds adds pressure, especially with potential cuts to sanctuary law-abiding states.

Several bills impacting small businesses are advancing:

- **HB 1213**: Proposed changes to Paid Family & Medical Leave extend responsibilities to smaller businesses, despite costly projections. NFIB remains opposed.

- **HB 1308**: This personnel records bill faces contention regarding potential litigation risks. It awaits a House decision on Senate amendments.

- **HB 1382**: A push for healthcare cost transparency, supported by NFIB, is currently pending Senate consideration.

- **HB 1409**: Accelerated carbon standards are opposed by NFIB due to anticipated cost increases; the bill is awaiting decision in Senate Rules.

- **HB 1483**: This 'Right to Repair' bill, crucial for NFIB, advances with exemptions for specific devices. The House's concurrence with Senate amendments is expected.

- **HB 1533**: NFIB supports changes to specialty electrician rules, facilitating smoother training processes for apprentices.

- **HB 1788**: Proposed workers' compensation increases face NFIB opposition, echoing concerns over premium hikes.

On other fronts, SB 5408 involves salary transparency for job postings with NFIB favoring its original proposition over a contentious amendment.

Gov. Ferguson's administration continues monitoring federal actions affecting state budgets. As discussions unfold, NFIB remains vigilant against proposed tax increases impacting small business owners in Washington.