Bills: HB1269, HB2624

Keywords: pawnbroker, fees, interest rates, consumer protection, financial regulation, real estate transactions, nonprofit, land conservancies, unsolicited offers, property rights, 904, all

Summary: The Washington State Senate Business, Trade & Economic Development Committee received a staff briefing on four bills before moving into executive action. Substitute House Bill 1078 on pet insurance would bar insurers from canceling or non-renewing policies based on a pet’s age or certain health conditions and set other insurer requirements; it had passed the House 95-0 and had no Senate companion, but the committee took no action on it. House Bill 1269 on pawnbroker fees and interest rates was also discussed, along with two striking amendments: one from Senator Stanford that would restore a 90-day loan period, set a uniform 5% interest rate per three-day period, adjust fee schedules, and require a statewide electronic database, and another from Senator Coffin with the same changes except for the database; the committee took no action on this bill. The committee then acted on Engrossed House Bill 2294, which prohibits negative use restrictions in real property transactions involving grocery stores and pharmacies. A motion to send the bill to the Rules Committee with a do pass recommendation passed. The committee also considered House Bill 2624, which expands exemptions for public entities, tribes, and conservation organizations acquiring property for public benefit. Senator Kauffman’s striking amendment C clarified that appraisals must be conducted before acquisition, reflecting stakeholder testimony and language agreed to by the Washington Forest and Forestry Association and The Trust for Public Land; the amendment was adopted, and the bill as amended was then approved and sent to the Rules Committee with a do pass recommendation.

Bills: HB1269, HB2624

Keywords: pawnbroker, fees, interest rates, consumer protection, financial regulation, real estate transactions, nonprofit, land conservancies, unsolicited offers, property rights, 904, all

Summary: The Senate Business, Trade & Economic Development Committee met briefly and received staff briefings on two bills before moving into executive session. Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2274 concerns commercial electronic mail; staff noted it would require the sender to know the subject matter is false and would reduce statutory damages from $500 to $100. Substitute House Bill 2334 would allow cash transactions to be rounded to the nearest five-cent increment to eliminate the need for pennies; staff also noted a fiscal impact from the Department of Licensing and described a Chair Kauffman amendment addressing mixed-tender transactions and rounding change due. In executive session, the committee voted to recommend HB 2274 do pass to the Rules Committee. For HB 2334, the committee adopted amendment B1, which clarified rounding of change and corrected a gift card-related provision, then moved the amended bill forward. The chair announced the bill passed subject to signatures, and the committee adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Um, we'll stand on our testimony offering comments.
• </c> we'll stand on our testimony offering we'll stand on our testimony offering comments.<00:20:27.679
• Um, just want to note that we do<00:20:29.120><c> offer</c><00:20:29.360><c> an</c><00:20:29.600><c>
• Uh, we stand in support, offering comments.
• </c> stigma, advertising treatment that offer stigma, advertising treatment that offer no<00:41:02.400

Bills: HB1849, HB2000, HB1753, HB1511, HB276, HB1513, HB2188, HB1876

Keywords: licensing, professional license, individual taxpayer identification number, immigration, state residency, right to repair, wheelchairs, consumer protection, repair providers, device documentation, HB1753, Hawaii Social Media Data Deletion Act, social media, account deletion, data deletion, privacy, consumer privacy, personal information, sensitive personal information, data retention

Summary: The committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce met on February 10, 2026, and heard testimony on several bills. HB 1849 relating to licensing drew comments from DCCA’s Professional and Vocational Licensing Division and the Hawaii Real Estate Commission, both of which stood on written testimony. The Hawaii Coalition for Immigrant Rights testified in strong support, emphasizing that some immigrants, including DACA recipients, are already contributing in Hawaii and that the state should help create pathways for them to remain and advance professionally. No vote or final action was taken on HB 1849 during the portion shown. The committee then heard HB 2000, the wheelchair right-to-repair bill. Encart opposed the measure, arguing that repair delays are largely driven by insurance prior authorization and that wheelchair repairs involve FDA-regulated medical devices where improper repairs could create health risks. Peter Fritz testified in support, saying the bill was modeled on similar laws in other states and that he had personal experience through his sister’s use of a wheelchair. Members questioned whether repairs done outside insurer networks might not be reimbursed, and Fritz said that was a concern but that the need for timely repair outweighed it. The committee also discussed HB 1753 on social media, where DCCA’s Office of Consumer Protection supported the bill but suggested an amendment to the definition of personal information. On HB 1511 relating to consumer protection, DCCA’s Insurance Division supported the bill, while the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association offered comments seeking to preserve legitimate manufacturer and dealer communications about vehicles, warranties, recalls, and related services. The committee also took up HB 276 HD1 and HB 1513 on condominiums. The Hawaii Real Estate Commission offered comments on HB 276 HD1. For HB 1513, the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority supported the bill, but DCCA’s Insurance Division opposed it, warning that diverting HHRF funds could weaken reinsurance arrangements and raise premiums for consumers who rely on the fund. Members questioned whether the proposed condo loan program would need HHRF money and whether the amounts in the bill were necessary, and the division said it opposed using HHRF for that purpose. The committee also heard HB 2188 on housing, where OCP supported the measure and the Hawaii Association of Realtors raised concerns about conflicts with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the use of tenant screening reports, noting that a working group is already addressing landlord-tenant issues. Members asked OCP to research how other states handle similar laws and whether additional language is needed to avoid federal conflict. Finally, on HB 1876 relating to mental health, the Department of Health’s Adult Mental Health Division supported the bill but said it remains opposed to harmful, non-evidence-based treatment modalities; Pride at Work Hawaii also testified in strong support. No final votes or committee decisions were reported in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• 01:14.880><c> Draft</c><00:01:15.560><c> 2</c> This measure prohibits entities from distributing unsolicited
• Service contracts, often referred to as protection plans, are offered on a wide range of products from
• on a wide protection plans, are offered on a wide range<00:02:50.520><c> of</c><00:02:50.600><c> products
• We are here today to offer our strong support for HB 1810, HD2.
• </c><00:28:58.080><c> our</c><00:28:58.240><c> strong</c> Uh we are here today to offer our strong Uh

Bills: HB1511, HB1535, HB1642, HB1753, HB1810, HB2282, HB2614

Keywords: consumer protection, unsolicited mail, unsolicited email, junk mail, spam email, deceptive marketing, misleading solicitation, high-pressure sales, vehicle warranty, auto warranty, service contract, home warranty, license renewal, registration renewal, government impersonation, affiliation disclosure, direct mail, email marketing, consumer fraud, refund

Summary: The committee heard several consumer-protection and insurance measures. HB 1511 HD2 would prohibit unsolicited mail or email using high-pressure tactics or falsely implying affiliation with another entity; it drew support from the Office of Consumer Protection, the DCCA Insurance Division, and the Service Contract Industry Council, with some written support and at least one opposition. HB 1535 HD2, concerning automated external defibrillators and a tax-related provision for devices installed in certain public accommodations, received comments from DOTAX and the Tax Foundation, with additional support from the Department of Health and other groups. HB 1642 HD1 would ban ownership or operation of digital financial asset transaction kiosks that accept U.S. currency; it was strongly supported by OCP, the Attorney General, and AARP, while kiosk operators and industry representatives opposed the ban and urged a regulatory approach instead, including licensing, transaction limits, refunds, and other safeguards. Members questioned whether federal action could preempt the bill and whether a licensure regime could be funded through a surcharge, but no action was taken during the discussion. The committee also took up HB 1753 on social media account deletion and permanent erasure of personal information, with OCP standing on its initial comments and TechNet and Will Caron in support. HB 1810 HD2 would impose prompt payment and financial reporting requirements on professional solicitors selling donated tangible property on behalf of charities; Goodwill Hawaii testified in strong support, emphasizing donor trust and transparency, and several nonprofit and business groups submitted supportive testimony. HB 2282 HD1, which would require explanations for premium increases and clarify insurance licensing and cancellation/non-renewal procedures, was supported by the Insurance Division and OCP; a vice chair asked for complaint data related to condo associations, and a member noted that the same agencies had previously opposed similar Senate bills. Finally, HB 2614 HD1 would require cosmetics merchants to accept returns of new or unopened goods within specified time frames and improve signage requirements; OCP said the bill addressed longstanding complaints about high-pressure sales tactics and no-return policies, citing over 180 complaints and survey results showing most complainants did not understand the policy and felt misled.

Transcript Highlights:

• of this legislation, I'm really proud to be able to represent a district that has two stadiums that offer
• I also wanted to rise and offer my support and recommend a yes for this piece of legislation. Mr.
• So I just wanted to offer some insight.
• Ultimately, though, I'd like to offer up that in 2013, the Supreme Court did rule, Mr.
• So this is a little bit of a refinement from an amendment that I offered in committee.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate received messages from the House transmitting several signed bills, then moved through a series of second- and third-reading actions on multiple measures. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2508, clarifying the scope and authority of the Office of Independent Investigations, was advanced to final passage without objection and passed 44-4. Senators supporting it described it as a technical housekeeping bill aligning statute with current practice, while noting it had broad support from law enforcement groups and the ACLU; opponents raised concerns about overlapping investigations and authority. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1408, which dedicates a share of sales tax revenue from the stadium area to the South Downtown/Pioneer Square community preservation and development authority, was amended by a Ways and Means striking amendment declaring an emergency and then passed 47-1. Supporters said it would fund earthquake reinforcement, preservation, and community development in a historic district, with reporting and sunset provisions. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1500, dealing with resale certificates for common interest communities and homeowners associations, was amended to clarify disclosure and litigation provisions and passed 39-9. Substitute House Bill 1570, allowing collective bargaining for certain employees enrolled in academic programs at public institutions, failed an amendment to remove the emergency clause and then passed 29-19; supporters framed it as recognition of student workers’ organizing rights, while opponents warned it blurred student and employee roles. The Senate also passed Substitute House Bill 1390, repealing the Community Protection Program and directing participants into other developmental disability services, after rejecting a series of amendments that sought to preserve sex-offender-related restrictions, add assessments, damages, or prosecutorial review. The bill passed 29-20 amid sharp debate over whether the program was coercive and outdated or necessary to protect vulnerable people and communities. Other bills passed included Substitute House Bill 2114 on defective license plates, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2471 on collective bargaining if the NLRB is unavailable, House Bill 1069 on bargaining over supplemental retirement contributions for Department of Corrections employees, House Bill 2441 expanding medical premium reimbursements for surviving spouses of line-of-duty deaths, and Engrossed Third Substitute House Bill 1710 adding preclearance requirements under the Washington Voting Rights Act; the voting rights bill drew opposition over local control and litigation concerns. The transcript ends during the roll call on final passage of Engrossed Third Substitute House Bill 1710.

Transcript Highlights:

• The prayer today will be offered by Dr.
• The prayer was offered by Reverend Dr. Last line. Sarah Bannister, Secretary of the Senate.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, the Pledge of Allegiance, prayer, and approval of the previous day’s journal. It received a House message that the House had passed second engrossed substitute Senate Bill 5010, and then took up Senate Resolution 8700 honoring Yolanda Cortinas Trout Manuel for her community service, business leadership, and public service. Senator Fortunato sponsored the resolution and spoke warmly in support, and the Senate adopted it by voice vote and recognized the guest in the gallery. The chamber then confirmed Gubernatorial Appointment No. 9142, Maria Seguyenza to the Western Washington University Board of Trustees, after supportive remarks from Senators Bateman and Wilson-Clair. The Senate also passed Substitute House Bill 2248, described as a technical cleanup bill for Secretary of State corporate filings, and House Bill 2309, which removes postgraduate degree requirements for certain state jobs to broaden applicant pools. House Bill 2348 passed as a Department of Natural Resources efficiency measure allowing smaller land sales to be posted online and clarifying fair-market-value requirements. The Senate deferred Second Substitute House Bill 1128 at first, then later adopted a striking amendment and passed the bill as amended. The bill creates a child care workforce standards board to study workforce conditions and make recommendations; several proposed amendments by Senator King to add child-safety training language, add an expiration date, and narrow the board’s scope were rejected. Supporters said the board would professionalize child care work and improve wages and standards, while opponents argued it would add government and costs without solving affordability. The Senate also passed Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2523 on the Community Reinvestment Program, with supporters emphasizing accountability, periodic review, and an independent study, and passed Substitute House Bill 2428 to prevent unintentional lapses in life insurance policies by allowing third-party notices. Finally, the Senate passed House Bill 2340, expanding the CARES substance use disorder recovery program to nursing assistants, and Engrossed House Bill 2317, which streamlines licensing for Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program sites in certain educational settings. Most bills passed by wide margins, though Second Substitute House Bill 1128 passed with a narrower 28-19 vote. The Senate then recessed for lunch and caucus.

Transcript Highlights:

• of this legislation, I'm really proud to be able to represent a district that has two stadiums that offer
• I also wanted to rise and offer my support and recommend a yes for this piece of legislation. Mr.
• So I just wanted to offer some insight.
• Ultimately, though, I'd like to offer up that in 2013, the Supreme Court did rule, Mr.
• So this is a little bit of a refinement from an amendment that I offered in committee.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate took up a series of House bills, often suspending the rules to move measures directly to final passage after brief debate. Messages from the House reported signed bills being transmitted, and the Senate later signed several measures in open session. The chamber also excused a few members from voting on specific bills. Among the first major actions, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2508, clarifying the scope and authority of the Office of Independent Investigations, passed 44-4 after supporters described it as a technical housekeeping bill and opponents raised concerns about overlapping investigations. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1408, which dedicates 20% of sales tax revenue from the two large stadiums to a community preservation and development authority in South Downtown/Pioneer Square/Chinatown International District, passed 47-1 after supporters emphasized reinvestment in historic buildings and neighborhood safety. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1500, requiring more complete resale certificates for common interest communities and homeowners associations, passed 39-9 after a successful amendment clarifying litigation language. Substitute House Bill 1570, allowing collective bargaining for certain student employees at public institutions, failed an amendment to remove the emergency clause and then passed 29-19 despite objections that it blurs student and employee roles. The chamber then debated Substitute House Bill 1390, which repeals the Community Protection Program and directs DSHS to transition participants into other developmental disability services. Numerous amendments sought to preserve restrictions, add assessments, or create liability protections, but most were rejected; the committee striking amendment updating agency names and dates was adopted. The bill passed 29-20 after a lengthy, emotional debate over whether the program protects public safety or unfairly restricts people with developmental disabilities, with supporters citing civil rights concerns and opponents warning about risks to vulnerable residents and the lack of a detailed transition plan. Other measures passed with broad support, including Substitute House Bill 2114 on defective license plates (48-0), Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2471 on collective bargaining if the NLRB loses authority (31-18), House Bill 1069 on bargaining over supplemental retirement contributions for Department of Corrections employees (31-18), House Bill 2441 expanding medical premium reimbursements for surviving spouses of line-of-duty deaths (49-0), and Engrossed Third Substitute House Bill 1710 adding preclearance requirements under the Washington Voting Rights Act, which drew debate over local control and litigation but had not yet reached a final vote by the end of the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• received emails from wholesalers since the bill dropped and they talk about transparency in their offers
• And so to be able to offer the types of solutions we do is, like, it makes my heart warm.
• And so to be able to offer the types of solutions we do is, like, it may offer the types of solutions
• The chair said he would offer the technical amendments.
• I'll offer up those technical amendments. Are there any objections to those amendments?

Bills: HB387, HB388, HB468, HB548, HB827, HB848, HB921, HB924, HB953

Keywords: engineering, land surveying, construction, state fire marshal, plan review, contracting services, unsolicited contact, homeowners, penalties, regulations, wholesaling, real estate, earnest money, cancellation rights, residential properties, Louisiana Real Estate Commission, certified public accountant, CPA, accounting board, Louisiana State Board of Certified Public Accountants

Transcript Highlights:

• As you heard from the very first amendment that we offered on this bill tonight, we have the desire As
• you heard from the very first amendment that we offered on this bill tonight, we have the desire to
• Number two, it doesn't fully dedicate these funds to one-time purposes, such as we've offered to the
• And it followed right in line with part of our offerings.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, SB5808, SB5949, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675, HB2426, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate considered Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2034, a measure to terminate and restate the LEOFF 1 pension plan and use a portion of its overfunded assets for other state purposes if approved. During debate, senators offered several amendments addressing the funding threshold, member distributions, and transfers to transportation or the budget stabilization account. An amendment to raise the funding floor from 110% to 120% failed, as did proposals to direct funds to retirees, transportation, or the rainy day fund. A technical amendment was adopted, and an amendment removing Climate Commitment Act repayment language was also adopted. Another amendment related to a future distribution after a merger of LEOFF 1 and LEOFF 2 was rejected, and an amendment concerning local government health care obligations for retirees also failed. Supporters argued the bill was actuarially sound, had been reviewed by experts, and would allow use of excess funds for one-time needs; opponents warned it risked pension security, shortchanged cities and counties, and set a bad precedent for raiding pension assets. After adopting the Ways and Means striking amendment as amended, the Senate advanced the bill to final passage. The final vote was 25 yeas and 22 nays, with one absent and one excused, and the bill passed. The Senate then moved to Substitute House Bill 2178, which was also passed on a 39-9 vote after brief remarks and a few excusal motions. The chamber then adjourned until the following Monday morning.

Transcript Highlights:

• The amendment borrows from language thoroughly offered by Senator Warnick in the process.
• The amendment borrows from language thoroughly offered by Senator Warnick in the process.
• My amendments were close to the final amendment that was offered, but My amendments were close to the
• final amendment that was offered, but I'm still concerned whether delivery to our rural areas will be
• And I definitely do appreciate the intent and the considerations that were raised in offering this amendment

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, SB5808, SB5949, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675, HB2426, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate considered and passed several House bills and memorials, often after adopting or rejecting committee striking amendments and a few floor amendments. Engrossed House Bill 2588 on county ferry district authority was amended to broaden ferry funding authority beyond Whatcom County, with supporters saying it would help replace an aging ferry serving an island community and opponents arguing countywide taxes should go to voters; it passed 30-17. Engrossed House Bill 2247 on veterinary telemedicine and client-patient relationships was amended to clarify livestock and prescription-drug provisions, with supporters citing veterinarian shortages and access to care and opponents warning about moving too quickly before a related study; it passed 30-18. Substitute House Bill 2296 on distributed energy resources was narrowed by amendment to focus on agreed-upon energy opportunities, especially benefits for renters and utility flexibility, and passed 45-3. Engrossed House Bill 2211 on medically tailored meals was amended to prioritize Washington-based suppliers and nonprofit/small providers while preserving local sourcing preferences; supporters emphasized nutrition support for Apple Health enrollees and opponents objected to limiting competition, and it passed 46-2. House Bill 2338 on community-scaled weatherization projects passed unanimously, with broad support for neighborhood-scale efficiency upgrades and low-income weatherization. House Bill 1376 on prepayment of capital gains tax passed 48-0 after a Ways and Means striking amendment, with supporters calling it a simple taxpayer option and a way to realize a federal benefit. Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1903 establishing a statewide low-income energy assistance program passed 35-13 after amendments clarifying funding and duration, with supporters saying it would help fill a federal funding gap and critics concerned about added bureaucracy and utility impacts. Substitute House Joint Memorial 4001 honoring Russ Blount passed 43-4, despite one senator objecting to inconsistent naming processes for memorials. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1980 authorizing certain private employer transportation services in transit lanes passed 48-0, with supporters citing commuter buses for major employers and opponents not prevailing. The Senate also set Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2034 as a special order of business later that day. In the second half of the session, the Senate passed Second Substitute House Bill 1909 creating a court unification task force after adopting amendments to add district court representation and reject a virtual-meetings amendment that would have removed reimbursement; supporters framed it as an access-to-justice study, while opponents questioned the process and cost, and it passed 30-18. Engrossed House Bill 2445 on ending probates for profit was reshaped by a striking amendment separating legitimate heir-finder services from predatory third-party probate administrators; supporters said it would protect grieving families and preserve a legitimate industry, and it passed 47-0. Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2251 on Climate Commitment Act revenue allocation was amended to clarify how revenues are split among the operating, capital, and transportation budgets, with supporters emphasizing predictability and emissions-reduction goals and critics concerned about budget impacts; it passed 34-14. Second Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1210 on targeted urban area tax preferences for clean energy projects saw failed amendments over project labor/community workforce agreements, with supporters arguing for local job standards and opponents seeking more private-sector flexibility; it passed 28-20. The Senate then moved to additional second-reading bills, including Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1295 on evidence-based literacy instruction, which was amended to require curriculum considerations such as phonological awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and teacher training costs; supporters said it would improve reading outcomes and it passed 47-1. House Bill 2426 on speeding Pollution Control Hearings Board appeals passed 48-0, with supporters saying it would help projects move faster. House Bill 2264 on unemployment eligibility for workers in employer-initiated layoffs passed 48-0, allowing benefits for workers who participate in planned reductions in force. The transcript ends as the Senate begins consideration of additional bills, including another climate-related measure.

Transcript Highlights:

• Today's prayer will be offered by Rabbi Seth Goldstein at Temple Beth Hatfielo here in Olympia.
• creates more opportunities for passenger ferries to help strengthen, expand the ferry system that we do offer
• here in Washington State. ...the ferry system that we do offer here in Washington State.
• I think this offers a balance with this amendment, urging a yes vote.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, SB5808, SB5949, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675, HB2426, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate convened with all members present, approved the previous day’s journal, received House messages on several bills, and referred Substitute House Bill 2688 to Ways and Means. The chamber then confirmed three gubernatorial appointments: Kristen L. Frazier to the Board of Tax Appeals, Sharmila Swenson to the Highline College Board of Trustees, and Robert A. Battles to the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals. Each confirmation passed by roll call, with one or two dissenting votes on the latter two appointments. Senators also excused several absent members during the proceedings. The Senate then took up a series of bills, often suspending the rules to move measures directly to final passage. House Bill 1983, concerning the real estate excise tax treatment of timberland transferred to government entities, passed despite opposition from senators who argued it could reduce timber harvests and affect land management. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2229, updating the Professional Engineers Registration Act, passed after debate over changes to board qualifications, including removal of a citizenship requirement. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2192, expanding the Washington Traffic Safety Commission’s ability to use sensitive medical information in fatality reviews with privacy safeguards, also passed. Other measures approved included Substitute House Bill 2410 creating a commercial truck safety and education council funded by a self-assessed fee; House Bill 2610 protecting nonprofit housing providers’ property tax exemption when property is temporarily used for other nonprofit purposes; Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2274 revising the Commercial Electronic Mail Act and consumer protections for misleading email subject lines; House Bill 2495 extending vehicle-removal authority to streetcars; Substitute House Bill 2323 establishing a Blue Envelope Program for traffic stops involving people with communication challenges; and House Bill 2604 allowing electronic transfer of totaled vehicles to insurers. The Senate also passed Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2225 on AI companion chatbots after adopting one amendment and rejecting another, with supporters emphasizing child safety and opponents warning about scope and industry impacts. The chamber also passed Second Substitute House Bill 1923, creating a framework for local passenger-only ferries, after adopting amendments related to whale protections and revenue clarifications; and Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2215, addressing Climate Commitment Act compliance obligations and closing loopholes, after rejecting an amendment concerning propane distributors. Several bills drew brief floor debate over fiscal impacts, consumer protections, environmental concerns, and transportation policy, but most ultimately advanced with bipartisan support. The Senate later recessed for caucuses and lunch.

Transcript Highlights:

• An act relating to clarifying consumer protections regarding unsolicited real estate transactions for

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate considered and passed several House bills. HB 2624, relating to consumer protections for unsolicited real estate transactions for public purposes, was amended with a striking amendment from the Business, Trade, and Economic Development Committee and then passed 30-18, with Senator Dozier voting no and saying the bill still needed work. HB 2104, which makes permanent aviation assurance funding for wildfire response by removing a sunset clause, passed 47-0 with two excused after Senator Short urged support based on its wildfire-fighting value. The Senate also adopted an amendment to Substitute HB 2334, which addresses cash transactions and rounding to eliminate the need for pennies, adding language that customers with exact change must be able to pay exact change. The bill passed 45-2, with Senator Frame describing it as permissive guidance for businesses and Senator Dozier supporting it humorously; Senator Gainer voted no. HB 2436, concerning requirements for oil tankers operating in restricted waters and clarifying tugboat horsepower standards to match current practice, passed 46-1 after support from Senator Lovelett and Senator King. Finally, Engrossed HB 2575, reducing certain reporting obligations under environmental or energy laws, passed 47-0 with two excused. Senator Schumaker said it would save administrative costs for the Department of Commerce and utilities and free up money for low-income energy assistance. The Senate then adjourned until the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• We're not sure if it's in stone, but again, offering some flexibility.
• </c> as potential uh entities that can offer as potential uh entities that can offer these<00:25:04.480
• We did offer um some amendments that I think might work towards this.
• We did offer um some amendments that I think might work towards this.
• We did offer um to answer any questions.

Bills: SB2064, SB2662, SB2862, SB2343, SB2075, SB2781, SB2927, SB3068, SB3015, SB2929, SB2938, SB3230, SB3249, SB3332, SB3216

Keywords: state architect, construction projects, design approvals, building codes, state agency oversight, government accountability, external consultants, procurement reform, cost efficiency, in-house expertise, gubernatorial appointments, senate confirmation, executive branch, accountability, civil service, SB2343, Hawaii Legislature, regular session, lengthened session, continuous legislature

Summary: The committee met on February 12, 2026, to take decision-making on measures previously heard earlier in the month. Several bills were deferred indefinitely or set for later discussion, including SB 2064 on the Office of the State Architect, SB 3068 on procurement, and SB 3216 after its contents were moved into another measure. SB 2862 on gubernatorial appointments, SB 2781, and SB 315 were all deferred to Tuesday, February 17 at 3 p.m. in Room 225 for further work. The committee also noted that if technical problems interrupted the meeting, it would reconvene later for outstanding decision-making. The committee passed SB 2343 on the Legislature with amendments incorporating language from SB 3216, technical changes, and a defective date of 2525. SB 2075 was advanced as a Senate draft 1 after amendments responding to constitutional concerns raised by the attorney general and SPO. SB 2927 on procurement was also passed with amendments clarifying debriefing requirements and adding technical changes, and SB 2938 on search and rescue was amended to place the position in Hima rather than the Governor’s office before being adopted. SB 3249 on procurement protests was amended to remove the term "frivolous," reduce the forfeiture to half the bond amount, and note unresolved issues, then adopted. The committee also took up SB 3332 on state-funded travel, amending it to remove certain lines, report travel by position number to protect confidentiality, remove subsection G, and add a defective date of 2525; it was adopted. SB 2929 on public notice was amended into a pilot project for counties with populations between 100,000 and 175,000, with a year-end report to the Legislature, and was adopted. Later, the committee returned to SB 2094 on environmental action levels, heard testimony from the Department of Health in support of its current scientific process and from an environmental caucus witness in strong support of the bill’s transparency and petition provisions, and then deferred decision-making to February 17 at 3 p.m. in Room 225. In the joint hearing portion, SB 3233 on agricultural workforce housing drew generally supportive testimony from ADC, the Farm Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce, the Hawaii Farmers Union, and the State Procurement Office, with concerns focused on clarity, flexibility for smaller farms, and avoiding concentration of benefits in one large operation. The committee ultimately recommended passing SB 3233 with the State Procurement Office’s clarifying amendments and the Hawaii Farmers Union’s amendment to ensure workforce housing incentives benefit multiple farmers, and the measure was adopted.

Transcript Highlights:

• So uh I would offer the substitute copy of it. >> It is not in this package, but it was emailed out.
• So</c><00:17:46.320><c> uh</c><00:17:46.559><c> I</c><00:17:46.880><c> would</c><00:17:47.039><c> offer
• So uh I would offer bill that was filed.
• So uh I would offer the<00:17:47.520><c> substitute</c><00:17:48.720><c> um</c> copy<00:18:02.000><c>

Bills: HB42, SB246, SB38, SB194, SB183, SB253, SB160

Keywords: unclaimed vehicles, towing, Department of Revenue, notification requirements, abandoned vehicles, real estate, residential property, single-family home, homeowner protection, property solicitation, unsolicited offer, wholesaling, real estate wholesaling, assignment contract, equitable interest, investment property, house flipping, predatory real estate practices, title cloud, deceptive trade practices

Transcript Highlights:

• It's just when that offer is unsolicited.
• This is about unsolicited offers when those offers are not welcome and you have not put up your home
• You would suggest both those unsolicited offers should be banned?
• You would suggest both those unsolicited offers should be banned?
• But I was going to say that if they receive an unsolicited offer...

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• It's just when that offer is unsolicited.
• This is about unsolicited offers when those offers are not welcome and you have not put up your home
• suggest both those unsolicited offers should be banned?
• But I was going to say that if they receive an unsolicited offer...
• But I was going to say that if they receive an unsolicited offer...

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee heard several bills focused on health care planning, mental health court participation, homeowners association governance, groundwater enforcement, pet-policy disclosure in rentals, and post-disaster property speculation. SB 1088 would update California’s POLST and DNR laws by renaming POLST to Portable Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment, allowing electronic signatures, clarifying who may sign on a patient’s behalf, and making clear that these forms are voluntary; it drew support from the Coalition for Compassionate Care and no opposition. SB 1242 would let original family petitioners participate in CARE Court for care coordination and information-sharing, while preserving judicial discretion to exclude them if harmful; supporters said it would improve treatment coordination, while Disability Rights California opposed it as coercive and a removal of patient consent. The committee advanced SB 1242 on a 7-0 vote, with the bill placed on call. The committee also considered SB 1007, which would require more HOA budget transparency, disclosure of evidence for violations, and a lower cap on regular assessment increases without a homeowner vote. Supporters argued it would improve accountability and protect homeowners from steep fee hikes, while HOA industry groups warned it could undermine funding for insurance, maintenance, and other operating costs. Members raised concerns about the cap and the need for flexibility for large expenses; the bill passed 6-1 and was placed on call. SB 1364, as amended, would prevent a person convicted of sexual assault from obtaining custody or visitation of a child conceived from that assault, while preserving the possibility of voluntary co-parenting and aiming to qualify California for federal grant funding; it passed 8-0 and was placed on call. Later, SB 997 would give the North Fork Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency lien authority to enforce fees and its groundwater sustainability plan, addressing an enforcement gap for a GSA created by special legislation rather than a joint powers agreement. It drew support from agricultural and county groups and passed 9-0, placed on call. SB 1296 would require landlords to disclose pet policies up front on applications, websites, and ads, and allow refund of an application fee if disclosure was not provided before payment; supporters said it would reduce wasted application costs and pet relinquishment, while rental housing groups said the ad disclosure requirements were impractical. The bill passed 8-0 and was placed on call. The final bill, SB 1090, was introduced to prohibit large property owners from making unsolicited purchase offers for five years in wildfire-disaster areas, responding to investor activity after the Eaton and Palisades fires; the author and a SAGE witness described it as a protection against disaster capitalism and predatory low offers to displaced residents.

Transcript Highlights:

• The calls became persistent, and she has received over a dozen unsolicited offers.
• It's just when that offer is unsolicited.
• This is about unsolicited offers when those offers are not welcome and you have not put up your home
• suggest both those unsolicited offers should be banned.
• But I was going to say that if they receive an unsolicited offer...

Summary: The Senate Judiciary Committee heard several bills focused on health care planning, mental health, housing, homeowners associations, groundwater enforcement, pet-friendly rental disclosures, and post-disaster property protections. SB 1088 would modernize POLST and DNR forms by renaming POLST to “portable orders for life-sustaining treatment,” allowing nurse practitioners and physician assistants to sign, clarifying that the forms are voluntary, recognizing out-of-state forms, and permitting electronic signatures. It drew support from the Coalition for Compassionate Care and related groups and no opposition was presented. SB 1242 would allow family members who originally petitioned in CARE Court to continue participating for care coordination and information-sharing, subject to judicial discretion; supporters said it would improve treatment coordination, while Disability Rights California opposed it as coercive and a threat to confidentiality. The committee voted 7-0 to pass SB 1242, and it was placed on call. The committee also considered SB 1007, which would require more HOA transparency, including clearer budget comparisons and disclosure of evidence for violations, and would lower the threshold for regular assessment increases without a homeowner vote. Supporters argued it would curb steep fee hikes and improve accountability, while HOA industry groups warned it could undermine funding for insurance, maintenance, and other operating costs. Members raised concerns about the cap on assessments, but the bill advanced on a 6-1 vote and was placed on call. SB 1364, as amended, would bar custody or visitation rights for a person who impregnated a survivor through sexual assault, using a clear-and-convincing evidence standard rather than requiring a criminal conviction; supporters said it protects survivors and may increase federal funding, while opponents argued it could deny children a relationship with a parent. The bill passed 8-0 and was placed on call. Additional measures included SB 997, which would give the North Fork Kings Groundwater Sustainability Agency lien authority to enforce fees and sustainability rules; it had support from local water, farm, and county representatives and passed 9-0. SB 1296 would require landlords to disclose pet policies up front in applications, ads, and websites and allow application-fee refunds if disclosure was not made before payment; supporters said it would reduce wasted fees and pet relinquishment, while rental housing groups raised concerns about signage, ADA language, and vaccination disclosures. The bill passed 8-0 and was placed on call. Finally, SB 1090 would prohibit large property owners from making unsolicited purchase offers for five years in wildfire disaster areas, aiming to curb post-disaster speculation; supporters described aggressive investor pressure after the Eaton and Palisades fires, while real estate and title groups raised implementation and enforcement concerns. The committee was still discussing the bill when the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• An act relating to clarifying consumer protections regarding unsolicited real estate transactions for

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate took up and passed several House bills after adopting committee striking amendments and, in one case, a floor amendment. On HB 2624, relating to consumer protections for unsolicited real estate transactions for public purposes, the Senate adopted a Business, Trade, and Economic Development Committee striking amendment and then passed the bill 30-18, with supporters saying it would ease appraisal timing for public entities, tribes, and nonprofits, while Senator Dozier opposed it as still needing work. HB 2104, which makes aviation assurance funding for wildland fire response permanent by removing a sunset clause, passed 47-0 with two excused, with Senator Short citing the value of aircraft resources in wildfire suppression. The Senate also passed Substitute HB 2334, which addresses cash transactions and the elimination of pennies. The chamber adopted a committee striking amendment and then a floor amendment by Senator McEwen clarifying that customers with exact change may still pay exact change. Supporters said the bill would give businesses flexibility to round cash transactions when exact change is unavailable, and it passed 45-2 with two excused. HB 2436, concerning requirements for oil tankers operating in restricted waters, passed 46-1 with two excused after Senator Lovick explained it was a technical clarification to align statute with current tugboat and pilot practices. Finally, Engrossed HB 2575, reducing certain reporting obligations under environmental or energy laws, passed 47-0 with two excused. Senator Schumake described it as a government efficiency measure that would save administrative costs for the Department of Commerce and utilities, with savings potentially redirected to low-income energy assistance. After the final vote, the Senate adjourned until the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so this bill has been very well worked, and I believe that we're going to be able to offer school
• But I'm very pleased for the opportunity to offer this amendment.
• Further amendments, Amendment No. 907 being offered in the correct order.
• And rising in offering a no on this amendment.
• It should be one of the very first things you do once employment has been offered and accepted.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate took up several House bills and advanced or passed them after suspending the rules on third reading. Substitute House Bill 2475, which would require the Office of Equity to develop uniform guidelines for language-accessible state programs and reporting by agencies, passed 30-17. Substitute House Bill 2452, updating how rent increase notices are served for manufactured/mobile home tenants, passed 48-0. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1795, dealing with restraint and isolation of students in public schools, was amended on the floor, including rejection of an amendment to remove the prohibition on isolation rooms and adoption of a clarifying amendment, then passed 28-20. House Bill 1796, expanding school district financing options for construction through non-voted debt with a Ways and Means striker, passed 30-18. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2238, creating a statewide food security coordination strategy led by the Department of Agriculture, passed 45-3. House Bill 2091, requiring public employers to provide employee information to bargaining representatives, passed 44-4. House Bill 2510, concerning supervision of certain individuals sentenced to community custody, was amended to focus on stalking cases involving risk to reoffend against the same victim and then passed 46-2. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2442, giving local governments additional tax flexibility and new revenue tools, passed 26-22. House Bill 2431, increasing the annual fundraising days for nonprofit public assembly halls, passed 48-0. The chamber also debated Second Substitute House Bill 2105, which would require employers to notify workers after federal I-9 inspections and create enforcement mechanisms. Multiple amendments were offered and rejected, including proposals to narrow the private right of action, limit who could sue, address conflicts involving nonprofit legal aid, and make the bill contingent on funding. Supporters said the bill protects vulnerable immigrant workers and provides needed notice and remedies; opponents argued it would burden employers, create litigation risk, and add costs. The Ways and Means striking amendment was adopted, and the bill was then advanced to final passage, with floor debate continuing in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• Today's prayer will be offered by the Reverend Carla Specker-Rotelli, hospice chaplain at St.
• The prayer was offered by Dr. The prayer was offered by Dr.
• I am very pleased to offer this resolution today to celebrate Habitat for Humanity.
• And I just want to offer my very sincere apologies for those comments. Thank you, Mr. President.
• I thought I was going to offer this one. Sorry. Mr.

Bills: SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2340, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2254, HB2353, HB2431, HB2441, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB1069, HB2104, HB2624, SB6061, SB6234, SB6176, SB6335, SB6047, HB2235, HB2464, HB2619, HB1376, HB1796, HB2091, HB2249, HB2353, HB2431, SB5808, SB5949, HB2124, HB2104, HB2624, HB2510, HB1347, HB1759, HB1983, HB2120, HB2264, HB2338, HB2385, HB2436, HB2495, HB2521, HB2604, HB2610, HB2675

Keywords: tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development, sewage, grinder pumps, residential buildings, regulation, construction, vehicle registration, enforcement, renewal, transportation, state law, state commission, infrastructure, traffic safety, responsibilities, state capital projects

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, a color guard, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a prayer, then approved the previous day’s journal and received committee, gubernatorial, and House messages. The chamber adopted Senate Resolution 8697 honoring the 40th anniversary of Habitat for Humanity in Seattle, King, and Kittitas Counties, with several senators speaking in support of its work on affordable homeownership, volunteer service, and community stability. The Senate also confirmed three gubernatorial appointments: Rosendo Alvarado to the Big Bend Community College Board of Trustees, Donna Ponopinto to the Tacoma Community College Board of Trustees, and Bryce W. McKibben to the Pierce College Board of Trustees. During the day, Senator Braun also rose for a personal point of privilege to apologize for offensive remarks made during debate on House Bill 1390. The Senate then considered Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1155, which prohibits noncompetition agreements and clarifies non-solicitation agreements. Several proposed amendments were rejected, including changes affecting ownership thresholds, senior executives, damages, and enforcement language; the committee striking amendment was adopted, and the bill passed 30-19. The chamber next passed Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2451 on local tax increment financing, which was described as adding dispute-resolution procedures and guardrails for local development financing. Substitute House Bill 2405 also passed unanimously, creating a pilot program for PTSD treatment and research in workers’ compensation. Additional bills passed included Substitute House Bill 2411 expanding shared leave to cover victims of hate crimes and immigration enforcement-related absences, despite concerns about verification and scope; Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2548 on health care market standards and review of mergers and affiliations, after debate over filing fees and the Attorney General’s role; and Substitute House Bill 2339 making clarifications to nursing regulation. The Senate also passed Substitute House Bill 2354 on HOA/common interest community rules for EV chargers and heat pumps, Substitute House Bill 2505 exempting certain former foster care providers from adult family home licensure, Substitute House Bill 2420 raising small works roster contract limits, Substitute House Bill 2525 establishing a heritage orchard program at Washington State University, and House Bill 2664 changing service requirements for unlawful detainer and related notices. The session ended with the Senate standing at ease for lunch and caucus.