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Published on May 18, 2018

Housing affordability concerns reaching a boiling point

Contact: Carl Schroeder

Across the state, the community conversation and concern over the cost of housing is reaching a boiling point. For example, on a randomly selected three-day stretch from May 7-9 we saw news stories statewide on various aspects of this challenge. Read a sample of those stories:

Central Puget Sound

Seattle Times As home prices hit new highs, cost of living overtakes traffic as worst part of living in Seattle area

MyNorthwest Median home price climbs in King County again

South Puget Sound

The Olympian Brace yourself: Thurston County homes are selling faster than last year

The News Tribune Home prices all over the map, literally and monetarily, in Pierce County

Northwest Washington

The Bellingham Herald Relaxed rules for backyard cottages split the Bellingham council. Here are the new rules.

KING TV Bellingham approves ‘backyard houses’ to fight shortage

The Journal of the San Juan Islands San Juan County staff seek proposals for affordable rentals on Lopez

Eastern Washington

KREM 2 City wants feedback on proposed changes to code on vacant multifamily homes

Southwest Washington

Chinook Observer Housing authority seeking help with strategic priorities

AWC expects that interest around this issue will continue and that a number of proposals will advance next session with the laudable goal of bending down the housing cost curve. In many parts of the country, state legislatures are considering preemptions of local land use authority to respond to this challenge. We have already seen the beginning of those ideas coming to our state, such as the mandatory density bill form last session that failed to pass (SB 6077).

AWC will proactively develop ideas from cities on creative tools and options to respond to this crisis, while respecting local approaches. We will continue to oppose statewide, one-size-fits-all solutions.

We need your input and ideas! Please contact Carl Schroeder with any thoughts you have on how cities can respond to these challenges, particularly if you have thoughts on work that we can do with our partners at the state level to help you be more successful.

  • Land use & planning
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  • Bill expanding victims’ services heard last week

  • Trueblood and a new potential role for local jails

  • Wait, what does this bill do...? Senate proposes restrictions on automated decision systems

  • Bill requiring new voter approval on local cannabis bans and impacting local regulatory authority passes out of committee

  • Cities spoke and legislators listened on vehicular pursuits reasonable suspicion standard

  • WA’s disposable wipes labeling law updated to align with federal requirements

  • Bill to expand the definition of public work not ready for “prime time”

  • Housing priority revenue bill is amended as it passes the first hurdle

  • A prescription for going to the park? Legislature considers funding pilot programs to get people outside

  • DOR begins implementing capital gains tax while awaiting decision by Washington State Supreme Court

  • Property tax cap fix gets holiday hearing in the House and needs city support to advance out of committee by this week’s deadline

  • House hears State Tax Structure Work Group proposal to replace state B&O tax with margin tax

  • Voluntary road usage charge program proposed by House Transportation Chair, up for hearing this week

  • Watch AWC's legislative update on public safety bills

  • Over 200 city leaders representing over 100 cities and towns urge the legislature to take action on police pursuit changes

  • Share your support for the city budget priorities in AWC’s letter to budget leaders

  • Ban on police qualified immunity advances out of committee

  • Union-privilege bill passes out of committee with new lineup of exceptions

  • Separate prevailing wage proposals reappear, combine in a new bill with major impacts for cities

  • Bill to authorize additional sales tax for police hiring steps up to the plate this week

  • Safety squeeze: Making pandemic-era COVID infections a presumptive occupational disease

  • Stakeholder input helps shape Freight Mobility Board’s new path

  • House version of personnel records bill takes a swing this week

  • Implementation of extreme heat utility shutoff proposal clarified and improved

  • Use of traffic safety and toll system cameras for other criminal investigations

  • Bills attempt to crack down on illegal street racing

  • State may study creating pool of law enforcement applicants for police departments

  • One Blake bill to move forward

  • House introduces their version of social equity in cannabis bill

  • House votes on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People cold case investigations unit

  • Authorizing a second deferred prosecution for DUI

  • Legislators show their love for cities by scheduling Valentine’s Day hearing on property tax cap fix

  • Bill on conversion of buildings to housing passes House

  • Small city leaders – House looks to increase contract limits between cities and municipal officers

  • Rulemaking for online case management system for land use appeals

  • PFAS restrictions for land application of biosolids and clean up level guidance

  • What job candidates want: hiring & benefits edition

  • Legislature looking to rework employer information sharing with employees, unions

  • PFML program gets attention early in legislative session

  • Pensions policy roundup: COLAs, credits, and flexible work, oh my!

  • Act now! AWC asking city leaders to sign-on to letter to legislators urging action on vehicular pursuits

  • Priority housing revenue bill up for hearing

  • TSWIFT consumer protection act seeks to protect ticket buyers, but could impact local admissions tax

  • Washington sets rules of the road for fully autonomous vehicles

  • Washington may soon have a state broadband map showing high-speed internet coverage statewide

  • AWC calling on cities to oppose costly prejudgment interest bill this week

  • Learn how legislative cutoff dates work

  • Planning bills not aimed at housing? They still have those? And relief for small cities?

  • Tax amendment bills that support housing

  • Two more lengthy bills focused on permit processing

  • Senate proposal linking cap on property taxes to inflation and population

  • Rural county sales tax extension keeps moving through process

  • Bill raising the age of the juvenile court’s jurisdiction scheduled

  • Blake bills scheduled in Senate Law & Justice Committee

  • Changes to pedestrian crossing laws could reduce jaywalking infractions, increase safety risks

  • Senate hears bill authorizing criminal justice sales tax

  • House attempts to preempt local authority to prohibit cannabis businesses

  • More HR bills with hearings in week five

  • Bill to limit city liability for police dogs gets a hearing

  • Bill to link cap on property taxes to inflation and population introduced

  • Transit density bill joins the fray

  • $200 million request made for Capital Broadband Investment Acceleration Program

  • Three more bills aimed at streamlining housing permits

  • Opening land for housing is a theme in recent proposals

  • Help may be on the way to low-income households making energy efficiency upgrades

  • Apprenticeship utilization requirements see further changes in response to stakeholder input

  • Three local option housing incentive bills emerge

  • Court security task force recommendations seek funding for small rural courts

  • Trueblood bill defers responsibility to local governments without new funding

  • Psilocybin bill scheduled for public hearing

  • State infrastructure bank proposal scheduled for hearing

  • Bill requires new workers compensation standards for self-insured employers

  • Bills to prevent “doxing” scheduled for hearings in the Legislature

  • Childcare and adult dependent care could be allowed as travel expenses under new proposal

  • Bill allowing access to PFML claim info scheduled for hearing

  • House and Senate introduce bipartisan bills that limit frivolous public records request lawsuits

  • Public Works Assistance Account 2.0

  • New procurement standards aim to support local government needs

  • Right turns on red lights prohibited near schools, parks, and other community facilities

  • Woof! Bill clarifies authority to care for abused and neglected animals

  • Bills related to police vehicle pursuits up for hearing this week

  • Senate to consider fixes to Tax Increment Financing program

  • Learn how to sign in and testify

  • Three bills have been introduced addressing Blake

  • More proposals on promoting alternative housing types

  • A fence by any other name…

  • New option proposed for critical area ordinances

  • Housing bills more focused on process than style

  • Margin tax proposed to replace state B&O tax

  • New process for new settlements from opioid litigation

  • Bills revising police vehicular pursuits restrictions introduced

  • Property taxes on the agenda for Senate Ways & Means

  • Rural economic development sales tax credit reintroduced

  • New bill on flexible work hours for police

  • Public works procurement bill to remove barriers for small and minority owned businesses

  • PERS 1 COLAs on the schedule for week three

  • Bill would grant Attorney General greater authority to investigate law enforcement misconduct

  • Firearms are a major topic of discussion at 2023 session

  • Bill to repeal prohibition on ergonomic injury rules returns to the Senate

  • Bills on paying interns, providing info to unions, and employer political speech all up for hearings

  • Bill eliminates qualified immunity for police and increases liability for cities

  • Cities to oppose prejudgment interest bill for increasing city liability costs at hearing this week

  • Waivers for municipal utility connection charges would be allowed under new bill

  • Bill proposes to expand definition of “public work”

  • “Zach’s Law” reappears for consideration this year, aims to deter bridge jumping

  • Early action supports AWC’s Housing Solutions Group proposal elements

  • 11 hot advocacy tips and info for legislative session from the Mayors Exchange

  • Meet your AWC lobbyists

  • Bill proposes a housing benefit district grant pilot program

  • House to consider new ban on fentanyl manufacturing equipment

  • Several pension bills scheduled for hearings in week two

  • Bill creating a new “Union-member” legal privilege scheduled for action in the House

  • Bill on fixing PFML premiums gets a hearing in the Senate

  • Tax structure and transparency discussions in Senate Ways & Means

  • Producer responsibility for packaging—will Washington be next?

  • ADU preemption proposal emerges

  • Housing grab bag bill contains mostly positive provisions for cities

  • Municipal airport commission authority could expand to include operations, management, and enlargement

  • Clean energy siting coordinating council established in new bill – Contact AWC with your feedback

  • A potential new use for transportation impact fees emerges

  • Prevailing wage proposal with impacts for cities picks up its pace

  • Proposal to reshape the Freight Mobility Board to be heard in committee

  • Bill would allow cities to charge impact fees for law enforcement facilities

  • Workforce development a top priority for the Legislature as it eyes requirements to expand apprentice utilization in public works contracting

  • Office of Independent Investigations launches webpage

  • Check it out! JLARC releases 2021 public records data

  • Jury diversity bill amended to add $125 pay for low-income jurors

  • Feds okay additional allowable uses of ARPA Funds

  • State to consider increasing contract limits between cities and community service organizations

  • OPMA bill with new penalties for public comment deadlines

  • Middle housing mandate is back, with changes

  • Proposed state constitutional amendment aims to protect local government public works funding

  • Send us your feedback on public works contracting proposals

  • Proposal to reduce administrative burden of releasing body worn cameras recordings

  • Blake fixes are top of mind for Legislators as session begins

  • Attorney General clarifies law enforcement use of “physical force”

  • Attorney General announces five new opioid agreements with drug companies

  • Bill to amend the Washington Voting Rights Act scheduled for hearing

  • Extreme Weather Response Grant bill reintroduced this session

  • Water and electric utility shutoff during extreme heat prohibited under new bill

  • Finance Committee briefing on State Tax Structure Work Group recommendations

  • Governor’s 2023-25 budget proposals scheduled for hearings

  • Freight Mobility Board heads toward major bends in the road

  • Senate bills on employee records and discrimination in hiring for cannabis use up for hearings in week 1

  • House bills on recording independent medical exams and allowing “voluntary separations” access to unemployment benefits

  • Did your city provide direct financial support using ARPA funds? You may need to send out tax forms.

  • Conversion of buildings to residential uses

  • Critical housing bond proposals will be heard the first week of session

  • Bill would eliminate external design review boards

  • New requirement proposed for tree protection ordinances

  • Governor’s proposed budget for 2023-25 includes funding for several city priorities

  • Act now: Send your comments on FCC proposed rulemaking by Dec. 27

  • Happy holidays—but first, an election recap and final prepping for session

  • L&I hosts webinar series on new rules for job postings

  • Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant applications to open in January

  • HCA and DOH provide recommendations for State's portion of opioid settlement distribution

  • Spokane ordinance on collective bargaining in public held unconstitutional

  • State Tax Structure Work Group recommendations expected soon

  • Positive revenue forecast sets the stage for release of Governor’s proposed budget for 2023-25 this week

  • Update on HB 1220 – Significant new responsibilities around planning for housing

  • AWC Housing Solutions Group releases proposal

  • Land use appeals case management system going online

  • Middle housing grants for Puget Sound cities still available

  • L&I issues new guidance for preventing COVID-19 as emergency ends

  • Resources from across the AWC city-verse

  • L&I adopts new workers’ comp rates for 2023

  • PFML Premiums Task Force recommends proposal to fix program solvency issues

  • Payments for opioid settlement distribution beginning this month

  • Help improve Washington’s broadband access - invite your residents to review broadband speeds

  • Election season comes to a close – What does it mean for the legislative session?

  • Reductions to DOR business license service handling fees for online licensing and renewals proposed

  • Proposed rules would require replacement of city culverts

  • Work session to provide updates on revenue forecast and State Tax Structure Work Group

  • Select Committee on Pension Policy considers proposals on PERS 1 COLA, moving 911 operators to PSERS

  • Ecology resources on new organics management law

  • Two new grant opportunities for affordable housing

  • New state and federal resources aimed at climate action

  • Legislature to take up Blake discussion during Committee Days

  • Opioid settlement funds set to flow in December – Is your region’s OAC in place?

  • December 1 deadline: Submit use of force policy to Attorney General’s Office

  • Solvency surcharge added to PFML premiums starting January 1

  • AWC’s 2023 legislative agenda set & budget priorities shared

  • Liquor and Cannabis Board revises proposed cannabis equity legislation

  • Uncertainty drives drop in state’s revenue forecast

  • Update on AWC’s Housing Solutions Group

  • Supreme Court case offers seasonal reminder for recreational trails

  • Draft land use planning and permitting retention schedule out for comment

  • 2023 city-county assistance estimates released

  • Contact your U.S. Senators on proposed amendment mandating costly federal financial reporting

  • State Tax Structure Work Group set to narrow policy options in November

  • NLC 2022 City Fiscal Conditions report shows impact of federal assistance on pandemic recovery

  • Federal cybersecurity grant funds coming to Washington state

  • Opioid settlement funds set for distribution in December

  • National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration Grant Program now open

  • New rules adopted for domestic animal waste

  • Agency-land roundup: Tracking what agencies are up to

  • City Conditions Survey highlights some of the HR needs of Washington’s cities

  • L&I announces 2023 minimum wage increase

  • L&I proposes workers’ comp rate increases for 2023

  • Final Joint Transportation Committee State/Local split memo now available!

  • Cities invited to participate in state aerial imagery study

  • AWC’s 2023 legislative agenda comes into focus

  • AGO holds second opioid settlement call with city leaders – deadline September 23

  • Washington's COVID-19 state of emergency to end October 31

  • Updated COVID-19 booster shots are now available to protect against omicron

  • How student loan forgiveness may impact city employees

  • Treasury publishes ARPA spending reports – Here's how cities spent their funds

  • $1.9 million in grant funds available for city alternative response programs

  • Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Local Records Grant Program recipients!

  • City Transportation Equity Study under way

  • State Tax Structure Work Group continues evaluation of potential changes to tax structure

  • Condominium conversions or relocations reporting time

  • New Community Wildfire Defense Grants

  • Reporting reminder for Affordable Housing Sales Tax (HB 1406)

  • New law requires compost procurement ordinance

  • Comment on State Broadband Office funding process by Oct. 4

  • The top 10 things we learned at AWC’s 2022 budget workshop

  • No big wave, but still changes ahead for the November election

  • Feedback needed on proposed cannabis legislation

  • Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force issues first report

  • SAO releases report of state spending of federal COVID-19 funds

  • AGO holds opioid settlement call with cities – agreement deadline September 23

  • Treasury expands eligible uses of ARPA funds for affordable housing

  • Is your city owed funds from the state’s unclaimed property program?

  • New statewide plan for electric vehicle infrastructure to expand Washington’s EV grid

  • Growth Management Act reform survey

  • WSBO working hard for the broadband money

  • L&I Director speaks out about this summer’s heat and wildfire smoke rules

  • Local government workers can count more student loan payments towards Public Service Loan Forgiveness until October 31

  • HR Field Notes: A conversation with Amy Heller, President of the Washington Public Employment Labor Relations Association

  • U.S. Supreme Court overrules test for restrictions on religious expression in Washington high school case

  • Learn more about the benefits to cities of “unretiring”

  • 2022 Salary and Benefit Survey results are in

  • Rulemaking roundup: Other agency actions you should know about

  • Pension rates to remain steady for 2023

  • ICMA releases results of study on local government DEI efforts

  • Register now: August 8 Washington opioid settlement meeting with AG's Office

  • Joint Transportation Committee Workgroup wraps up state/local split negotiations

  • Save the date: Aug. 8 meeting with AGO on Washington's opioid settlement

  • Celebrate parks & recreation during the month of July

  • Already looking ahead to 2023 with ideas for city legislative priorities

  • New housing and shelter grant opportunities now open!

  • More information on State’s opioid settlement with distributors and how cities can receive a portion of funds

  • Attorney General releases model use of force policy

  • Revenue forecast up again as state’s economic growth continues

  • No initiatives to the people on the November ballot

  • Curious about work on Blake? Check out the SURSA Committee

  • Lodging tax dashboard available

  • City authority to install traffic safety cameras significantly expanded July 1

  • New CETA rules governing public utilities take effect July 18

  • Seattle Times makes public records request for info related to public employee retirements

  • Take our Federal Infrastructure Funding Survey

  • Help AWC develop solutions for housing affordability and availability

  • OFM shares details on distribution of remaining ARPA funds

  • Strong city advocacy during the campaign season

  • Public records report due to JLARC, due date extended to August 31

  • Where’s our second tranche of ARPA funds?

  • AOC releases Blake reimbursement details

  • Department of Revenue hearings on leasehold excise and working families tax credit rules

  • The state settled with opioid distributors – Will cities get a share of the $518 million?

  • L&I adopts temporary smoke and heat rules

  • Highlights from LRI 2022’s featured speaker, Rev. Dr. Bryant Marks

  • DEI roundtable highlights – City of Renton’s DEI in hiring program

  • Never too early – DRS helping public employees with retirement readiness

  • PERC releases 2021 annual report

  • Is it a legitimate workplace injury?

  • An update on workplace COVID-19 proclamations

  • 2022 interim kicks off with preparation for the 2023 legislative session

  • Five things we learned at the 2022 Labor Relations Institute

  • Significant new planning grants for Central Puget Sound cities

  • Several important land use laws go into effect soon

  • SCOTUS decides sign code case in favor of city, clarifies Reed

  • HR-related rulemaking updates

  • Where do things stand on the opioid settlement(s)?

  • NLC survey on expanded Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit

  • State Tax Structure Work Group begins evaluation of tax options

  • State Auditor annual report deadline May 30 – See who’s filed & find resources

  • CISA provides cybersecurity resources for cities

  • NTIA opens request for input on broadband grant programs application process

  • Submit session proposals for IACC’s annual conference by June 3

  • Utility customer assistance funding program now open

  • AOC hosting informational webinar on upcoming Blake grants

  • OPMA/PRA emergency proclamation to expire June 1

  • Treasury sends reminder – ARPA reports due April 30

  • Local Bridge Program at risk of losing federal funds, local jurisdictions encouraged to apply now

  • Learning about multi-factor authentication

  • Risk management tips for city volunteer programs

  • AWC answers frequently asked questions on PFML and FMLA

  • AWC returns to Yakima for Labor Relations Institute Conference, May 4-6

  • Don’t get scammed by fake SAM.gov emails

  • ARPA Treasury reporting portal now open – Reports due April 30

  • Recapping the 2022 session

  • Legislature continues making significant local broadband infrastructure investments in 2022

  • Good and bad news for city public works priorities this year

  • Historic legislative session for transportation in Washington

  • Pensions arena sees several important bills that impact cities

  • 2022 was light for HR legislation, but important policies still passed

  • Quiet year for economic development proposals

  • A slow session for open government bills, with one exception

  • Legislature clarifies police reform laws, restricts open carry in local government buildings

  • General government bills run the gamut during a short legislative session

  • Washington grapples with equity in cannabis industry; Also increases funds for local governments

  • Supplemental budgets take center stage in a time of record state revenues

  • GMA gets its day in the sun, but the heat is too much for the biggest proposals

  • Although light on policy, it was a big funding year for homelessness response

  • A new front in the fight against climate change dominated the environmental wins this year

  • Housing policy discussions get heated, but session ends with the biggest issue still smoldering

  • Reminder to non-entitlement cities: ARPA reporting due April 30

  • Sunshine Week 2022 highlights the importance of open government

  • Celebrating sine die after an intense session

  • Final supplemental budgets approved as Legislature adjourns

  • EPA State Revolving Fund implementation memo and upcoming webinar

  • Washington State Archives announce 2022-2023 local records grant program

  • Celebrating one year of ARPA Local Recovery Funds

  • Bill to address PFML solvency passes Legislature

  • Two bills targeting methane from solid waste cross the finish line

  • TNC bill passes with city clarification limiting preemption

  • County rural economic development sales tax credit dies

  • ADU preemption bill dies

  • Bill to integrate climate planning into the GMA dies in the final hours

  • Final Move Ahead WA plan sweeps PWAA, makes small investments in local preservation & maintenance

  • Public Works Board to see new, expanded broadband programs

  • Clean Fuels Program rulemaking meeting this Tuesday

  • City authority expanded to make traffic safety improvements on nonarterial highways

  • Solutions to right-of-way encampments garner support in the end

  • Use of force bill passes Legislature, concerning language removed

  • Redistricting bill changes how certain individuals are counted

  • UGA and permit reform bills get mixed results

  • Under the radar SEPA proposal passes Legislature

  • Read our letter to legislative leaders urging them to protect the Public Works Assistance Account

  • Final days of session feel like a rollercoaster

  • Budgets are some of the last pieces of the puzzle remaining

  • Broadband speeds in WA set to increase; digital equity divide may narrow

  • Prejudgment interest is dead

  • Pensions bills nearing the finish line in 2022 session

  • State indoor mask mandate to end March 12, earlier than expected

  • OPMA bill final makes it across the finish line

  • No changes this year to WVRA

  • Concerns remain for PWAA as Move Ahead WA negotiations continue

  • State capital gains tax unconstitutional

  • Reduction in required reporting to State Auditor

  • Remedial action grants bill passes Legislature

  • Second time is the charm for voluntary GMA coordination with tribal nations

  • Bill extending GMA update timeline is headed to the Governor’s desk

  • Act now! Oppose the proposed sweep of the PWAA

  • Transportation leaders announce devastating plan to sweep public works funds

  • SEPA exemption for temporary siting shelter for homeless bill is weakened

  • A pair of land use and permitting bills move along

  • AWC priority bill on TBDs not slowing down

  • Cities see investments for local preservation in House supplemental amendment as both chambers hammer out their transportation proposals

  • TNC bill preempting cities amended to regulatory fees instead of all taxes and fees

  • Lone bill to address law enforcement vehicular pursuits advances with amendments

  • HR bill roundup—opposite house edition

  • Use of force bill receives problematic, last-minute amendment

  • AWC nominated by WEDA for legislative work on TIF

  • Clarification on proposed new revenue source for law enforcement

  • Washington Voting Rights bill amended to address majority of city concerns

  • Oppose prejudgment interest costs for local governments

  • Bill providing stopgap measure for vacancies in single-judge courts still moving

  • Senate committee retools OPMA bill to specifically allow remote meetings

  • Two positive housing related bills still advancing

  • County rural economic development sales tax credit continues to move

  • Another housing preemption bill gains steam

  • Sales tax holiday linked to budget negotiations

  • Bills to reestablish tax exemption for nonprofits hosting farmers markets still moving

  • Public comment period begins for rulemaking on government fleets reporting

  • Broadband bill to increase internet speeds moves closer to finish line

  • Senate and House supplemental budget proposals released

  • Budgets steal the legislative spotlight

  • Surprise $1.45 billion revenue forecast increase sets stage for operating budget release

  • Senate-proposed supplemental capital budget includes housing, broadband, & water infrastructure investments

  • AWC seeks feedback from member cities on preemption of regulating TNCs

  • Broadband bills benefiting cities to be heard this week

  • Status update on public safety bills

  • Sunset on hydropower license fee extended

  • Prejudgment interest, fireworks ban, and extreme weather—Where are they now?

  • Act now to ensure extended TBD authority for cities

  • Senate passes Move Ahead Washington transportation package

  • House takes up bill to require wage and salary info on job postings

  • Bill to repeal 19-year ban on rules preventing ergonomic injuries going to the Senate

  • Governor to lift statewide indoor mask mandate March 21

  • Local option revenue bills did not meet floor action deadlines

  • Bucking cutoffs, tax incentive bill receives a late public hearing

  • Legislature considering a new approach to sharing cannabis revenues with local governments

  • It’s back, Jack: OPMA bill continues its 2021 journey towards passage in 2022

  • Urban Growth Area land swap bill passes Senate

  • Multiple GMA bills continue to move, some receive amendments

  • Ever heard of biochar? Legislation would require cities to use it

  • Energy code bill advances to the Senate

  • Governor’s bill advances to address homeless individuals living in state rights-of-way

  • Landfill emissions bill narrows in scope

  • HR & labor relations cutoff roundup: Your one-stop-bill-shop at the first committee cutoffs

  • WA Paid Family & Medical Leave program running short on cash

  • Pensions bills roundup: Post-committee cutoff edition

  • Focus turns to supplemental budget proposals—City engagement needed now more than ever

  • Project permit reform bill

  • Watch this space: new guidance on indoor masking and COVID-19 testing expected soon

  • Voting Rights Legislation advances, arbitrarily places 64 cities in pre-clearance

  • Lone Senate bill addressing police reform passes with mixed vote

  • Hold the line: Exclude public agencies from prejudgment interest

  • JLARC lodging tax system open for required reporting by cities and counties

  • Bill would help modernize the state’s 911 system

  • Extreme weather grant program makes it through the House

  • Senate proposal would conditionally exempt emergency shelter from SEPA

  • Reduction in state auditor reporting requirements scheduled for hearing

  • Bills to reestablish tax exemption for nonprofits hosting farmers markets advance

  • Sales tax holiday scheduled to pass out of committee

  • Extension of county authority for local rural economic development sales tax credit

  • Digital equity divide bill expands & pushes ahead

  • AWC priority bill on TBDs maintains momentum in Legislature

  • Three ways city HR professionals can use ARPA funds under the Final Rule

  • How ARPA dollars can be used for community equity

  • Transportation funding package released with mixed results for cities

  • Contact your legislators now about mandatory density legislation

  • Mid-session crunch time—Floor action begins

  • HR & labor relations cutoff roundup: Your one-stop-bill-shop at the first committee cutoffs

  • WA Paid Family & Medical Leave program running short on cash

  • Pensions bills roundup: Post-committee cutoff edition

  • Changes to “Zach’s law” clarify question of city liability

  • Police liability fails to advance ahead of cutoff

  • House looks to expand cities’ ability to partner with outside organizations

  • $30 car tab cap returns in new bill, eliminates local authority to impose vehicle license fees

  • Bill amendments largely preempt cities from regulating TNCs

  • Two police bills to further define ‘physical force’

  • Vehicular pursuits by law enforcement officers addressed in new bill

  • Washington’s first road usage charge program impacts city funding source

  • Law enforcement clarification bills head to opposite chamber

  • Bill allowing cities to prohibit open carry gains momentum

  • Grant money for body-worn cameras may be in store for cities

  • Organics mandate bill changes and improves in committee

  • Social equity cannabis licenses move forward with clarifications for cities

  • Local finance bills move out of fiscal committees ahead of Feb. 7 deadline

  • City leaders use their voices as session nears its first cutoff deadlines

  • Missing middle housing mandate amended

  • More cannabis revenues may be headed to cities

  • 2021 bill prohibiting certain traffic stops resurfaces

  • Senate attempts to adjust police pursuit and physical force language

  • Voting rights legislation advances without key amendments

  • Broader city authority for banning fireworks gains traction

  • Legislature looks to increase number of officers in communities

  • Two ADU bills pass out of committee, one with significant changes

  • Three GMA bills on the move

  • Transparency of local taxes on utilities

  • Pension bills round up: Updates ahead of cutoff

  • OSHA withdraws emergency vaccine-or-test rule, work on permanent rule continues

  • WA Cares long-term care program delay signed into law

  • AWC highlights cities’ state budget priorities

  • Local option parks and fire services bills move out of committees

  • September sales tax holiday proposed

  • State tax structure update and proposals impacting state revenues

  • New bill would require drive-up services to allow bikes and pedestrians

  • AWC priority bill on TBDs is on the move

  • Amended broadband infrastructure loan and grant program progresses

  • 10 steps for a successful legislative session

  • City leaders “converge” on Olympia for AWC City Action Days

  • City feedback requested: Bill to create social equity in the cannabis industry expands licensing and siting options

  • Drinking water fluoridation bill

  • Bill goes after unpermitted shoreline development

  • Proposal to extend GMA update timelines returns

  • Changes to impact fee deferral program proposed

  • Smaller cities could assess a tax on cannabis producers and processors

  • Bill to bring body camera footage in line with discovery

  • House looks to streamline process to adopt council-manager form of government

  • Use of traffic safety cameras to expand under proposed legislation

  • House bill attempts to redefine “use of force”

  • Law enforcement clarification bills advance

  • Broadband bill to increase internet speeds

  • Bill to address legal and fiscal fallout of Blake decision

  • Prejudgment interest bill passes off Senate floor with an amendment

  • Senate looks to create new requirements for automated decision systems

  • Support the creation of an extreme weather grant program

  • Workers’ comp bills up for hearings

  • New bill strikes sunset from hydropower license fee

  • Proposal allowing cities to impose fire benefit charges rescheduled for hearing

  • Bill to cut state taxes up for hearing this week

  • Tax exemption for nonprofit farmers markets

  • Grant program for fire protection capital projects in rural counties

  • HR bills roundup: other proposals of interest to cities

  • WA Cares Fund bills pass the House, head to Senate

  • “Essential services” would be exempt from state and local noise standards under new Senate bill

  • Action Alert: Oppose prejudgment interest costs for local governments

  • City leader voices needed in this legislative session

  • Organics mandate bill aims to reduce food and yard waste in landfills

  • Pensions bills round up: Several bills considered in week two

  • A big week for housing related bills

  • Proposal to allow cities to impose fire benefit charges

  • Bill to authorize cities more control over speed limits and automated enforcement

  • Two House bills focused on salmon recovery, one concerning to cities

  • Lane departure program proposed under new bill, total funding amount unclear

  • Bill directs State to adopt energy management and benchmarking requirements for tier 2 buildings

  • AWC priority bill on TBDs to be heard in the Senate

  • SCOTUS reinstates stay on federal vaccine-or-test rule

  • Workers’ comp bills scheduled for hearings this week

  • Legislation introduced to prevent employers from firing employees for cannabis use

  • Bill to require certification for public safety telecommunicators

  • Transparency of local taxes on utilities

  • Local option parks funding bill returns this year

  • Senate looks to make courts subject to the Public Records Act

  • State considers COVID-19 relief grants for convention businesses

  • Municipal airport commissions could see new flexibility and new requirements

  • Proposal seeks to provide cities with an option to prohibit open carry of firearms

  • Legislature considers grant money to fund body worn cameras for law enforcement

  • Feedback needed: Stopgap measure in consideration for vacancies in single-judge courts

  • New bill would limit city elections to even-numbered years

  • Change to energy building codes requested by the Governor

  • Don’t forget to register for our final Friday city action call! Here’s the link for March 4

  • Wishing you a happy new year and a productive virtual 2022 Legislative Session

  • Methane emissions from landfills targeted in new bill

  • Extensive housing policy preemption bill introduced

  • Digital equity divide addressed in newly proposed programs

  • “Microtrenching” bill would preempt local land use authority

  • New bill introduces emergency broadband infrastructure fund program and updates existing loan and grant program

  • WSDOT announces availability of National Highway Freight Program funds for eligible freight projects

  • Bill allows cities to extend water and sewer infrastructure beyond the UGA

  • Proposal to require climate resilience element in water system planning

  • Tribal engagement in local planning and state budgeting

  • New bill to allow recording of independent medical exams

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave benefits may expand for some grieving families

  • Legislature to hear long-term care bills in week one of session

  • Accessory dwelling unit debate continues

  • Bill to remove fee cap on NPDES permits

  • Bill to amend the Washington Voting Rights Act introduced

  • Bill impacting city tax authority on county water and sewer facilities introduced

  • Treasury publishes final rule for ARPA funds; reporting deadline approaches

  • Police liability bill is alive and moving

  • State Tax Structure Work Group releases interim report and extends survey deadline

  • Department of Revenue releases local business licensing partnership plan

  • AWC President supports changes to state hiring and contracting practices that promote diversity

  • Governor’s 2021-23 supplemental budget proposals scheduled for hearings

  • Extreme weather protection grants may be on the way for cities

  • Police reform clarification bills scheduled for hearing

  • House looks to allow cities to ban fireworks during fire season

  • Legislators try a new path to substantially increase tort claims payment costs

  • Governor releases proposed supplemental budgets for 2021-23

  • Federal large employer vaccine and testing mandate is back on for now

  • Long-term care update: WA Cares Fund payroll tax collection paused to give time for legislative fixes

  • Treasury announces ARPA reporting tool for NEUs

  • Recruiting in the “Great Resignation”

  • Washington likely to move ahead with employer vaccine mandate, and other COVID-19 updates

  • Long-term care update: WA Cares Fund may be delayed in 2022

  • State Auditor releases guidance on pensions reporting as more pension plans become fully funded

  • Three suggestions for your final preparations for the 2022 session

  • Statewide Youth Access to Counsel hotline available in January

  • Proposals to increase PERS 1 and LEOFF 2 pension benefits expected for 2022

  • Washington State Archives seeks feedback on proposed update to Law Enforcement Records Retention Schedule

  • IRS issues guidance regarding ARPA assistance to individual taxpayers

  • State Supreme Court accepts electoral maps completed by State Redistricting Commission

  • What’s included in the Build Back Better Act for cities?

  • Join us for a full-day training on maintaining compliance while using ARPA funds

  • OFM publishes revised April 1 population estimates

  • November state economic and revenue forecast shows continued growth of almost $900 million

  • New housing infrastructure grant program opens

  • State Auditor releases guidance on pensions reporting as more pension plans receive full funding

  • Preliminary draft of GMA rules released

  • Commerce looking for input on energy retrofits grant

  • Cities receive $3 million to establish therapeutic courts

  • Cities encouraged to prepare for vaccine and testing mandate, despite court challenges

  • Cities report compliance with state and local vaccine mandates, mixed feelings on federal mandate

  • Washington State Redistricting Commission fails to meet deadline for new district maps

  • OSHA releases federal COVID-19 vaccine and testing mandate

  • Historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Passes House

  • How to be a strong city advocate

  • Density bonuses for affordable homeownership

  • Commerce to host discussions on draft GMA rules

  • JLARC releases preliminary 2020 public records data

  • Treasury issues clarification on ARPA spending under Interim Final Rule

  • Congratulations to the 2021-2022 Local Records Grant Program recipients!

  • Don’t miss out – Applications for SEEK summer funding due November 18

  • Are you using data sharing agreements? It’s now a requirement for cities

  • CISA issues advisory to US water and wastewater sector

  • PFML premium rates to rise in 2022

  • Plan for federal employer vaccine mandate nears completion

  • OFM taking comments on revisions to 2021 population estimates

  • Apply by Nov. 18 for SEEK funds for youth summer outdoor recreation

  • Cities prepare for 2022 while waiting on Congress for infrastructure funding

  • Washington State Broadband Office opens funding cycle for Infrastructure Acceleration Grants

  • Guidance released for recently passed HR laws – HELSA and law enforcement arbitrations

  • L&I announces increase in 2022 state minimum wage

  • A third of cites in AWC’s vaccine mandate survey are considering their own mandate

  • Join AWC for the latest installation of our municipal courts webinar series

  • Application period for youth summer outdoor recreation funding set to open Oct. 18

  • L&I publishes clean energy labor standards certification

  • September Economic and Revenue Forecast indicates strong economic recovery

  • Tax Structure Workgroup schedules tax town hall for city elected officials and staff

  • Should Washington use a state bank to fund basic infrastructure projects? AWC wants to hear your opinion

  • New funding opportunity for rapid housing development

  • Treasury extends deadlines for submitting 2021 ARPA reports

  • September Economic and Revenue Forecast indicates strong economic recovery

  • Treasury announces Capital Projects Fund guidance

  • Matching grants available for federal broadband infrastructure financing opportunities

  • President Biden’s vaccine mandate may impact city employees

  • Fall brings into focus three recommended 2022 City Legislative Priorities

  • New state program assessments to impact employer health plans

  • AWC seeks city input on local vaccine policies

  • New Commerce housing grants available

  • Gov. Inslee reaches deal with union on vaccine mandate

  • Shoreline Master Program and flood control grants available

  • State Tax Structure Workgroup to host Tax Town Hall sessions

  • Everything you need to know about the state’s Working Families Tax Credit

  • Reminder: COVID-19 public meeting requirements still in effect

  • Having trouble getting PPE? The State can help

  • Updated guidance released for applying state vaccine mandate to parks and recreation staff

  • Statewide utility late fee and shutoff moratorium ending September 30

  • AOC announces grant funding for therapeutic courts

  • State distributes remaining ARPA funds to NEUs

  • City impacts of Governor’s vaccine and mask mandates

  • Supreme Court ruling impacts parking enforcement of certain vehicles

  • Governor’s vaccine mandate covers some city emergency services employees

  • Blake decision causes cities to reevaluate municipal codes

  • Governor mandates vaccine for state employees and contractors

  • U.S. Senate passes historic $1 trillion infrastructure package

  • It’s time to celebrate and prepare for your fall advocacy efforts

  • Reminder: What cities can do above statewide minimums for cannabis

  • OSPI and AWC award $2 million for local summer youth programs

  • Grant funds available through EDA American Rescue Plan Programs

  • AWC’s next monthly Blake discussion set for August 11 – Register now

  • ARPA reports due August 31 for metropolitan cities, October 31 for smaller cities

  • Pension policy committee considers COLA recommendation for PERS 1

  • First laws on producer responsibility for packaging pass in the U.S.

  • COVID-19 Delta variant prompts return of masks – Cities should expect new public health measures

  • Have you heard? Cities receive $20 million to offset law enforcement and criminal justice costs

  • U.S. Senate poised to pass $1 trillion infrastructure package

  • UTC rail safety improvement grants now available

  • June’s “Heat Dome” leads to new emergency heat exposure rules for outdoor workers

  • L&I issues emergency wildfire smoke rule, continues work on permanent smoke rule

  • Rulemaking begins for oil handling and transfer

  • New resources for climate adaptation and resilience planning

  • Cities interested in opioid settlements invited to join a call with Attorney General

  • AGO affirms cities’ ability to participate in coordinated negotiations with opioid distributors

  • Cities to receive $20 million in assistance funds related to law enforcement and criminal justice legislation

  • Commute Trip Reduction Board seeking city feedback

  • New police use of force laws took effect July 25 – Training materials available from CJTC

  • Connecting your community: state and federal broadband financing programs now available

  • Capitol building reopens along with Washington

  • JLARC extends deadline for submitting public records request reports

  • How things look as the state reopens

  • Office of Public Defense opens Public Defense Improvement Program funding opportunity

  • Administrative Office of the Courts shares Blake disbursement plan informational sheet

  • Webinar: Learn about municipal court technology on July 21

  • Effective July 25, cities to implement data sharing agreements

  • Final behavioral health model ordinance and communications toolkit vow available

  • Department of Health makes PPE available to cities in need

  • Commerce opens grant program application for energy retrofits and solar grants

  • Double trouble? Dueling broadband bills finally resolved

  • Complete Streets grant nominations now open

  • AWC partners with Ogden Murphy Wallace for small cell siting and FCC updates webinar

  • City officials present transportation needs to Joint Transportation Committee

  • Governor issues final extension of utility shutoff and late fees moratorium

  • WSDOT releases quarterly report, transportation demand dashboards

  • Commerce seeking feedback on draft scope of GMA rulemaking

  • Ecology seeking input on new program to address potent greenhouse gas

  • ESD reinstates work search requirements for unemployment eligibility

  • Wildfire smoke emergency rule nearing adoption, permanent rulemaking continues

  • Apply to serve on EFSEC Transmission Corridor Work Group

  • Federal infrastructure plan to invest billions in critical infrastructure

  • Public meeting requirements as of June 30, 2021

  • Federal infrastructure plan receives bipartisan support

  • AWC to host monthly discussion on Blake legislation

  • Cities to receive disbursements of assistance funds by end of July

  • Tending your advocacy garden – What’s going on this interim and next session?

  • Where do things stand with OPMA?

  • Rulemaking and engagement opportunities with Clean Energy Transformation Act

  • State Treasurer’s LOCAL Program application cycle now open

  • Department of Transportation conducting equity baseline assessment

  • Tax Structure Work Group reconvenes after eventful legislative session

  • Fire insurance premium tax cities receive withheld distributions June 11

  • L&I to host stakeholder meeting on emergency wildfire smoke rule June 18

  • AWC launches HR Insights newsletter for coverage of human resources issues

  • Proposed rule change impacts indigent defense contract oversight

  • DRS adopts new pension contribution rates for 2021-23 biennium

  • New laws require review of your zoning ordinances

  • Don’t forget: JLARC public records request reports due July 1

  • State auditor sends Data Sharing Agreement to all Washington cities

  • Two new funding opportunities for affordable and transitional housing

  • State releases information to non-entitlement cities on how to receive ARPA funds

  • Treasury publishes guidance for non-entitlement cities

  • The pandemic created a unique and ambitious 2021 legislative session

  • Local government infrastructure investments spur hope for post-pandemic, climate-friendly economic recovery

  • State grants new broadband authority for local governments

  • Cities receive significant investments in local transportation infrastructure despite historical budget deficits

  • Signs of strong economic recovery bode well for state and local budgets

  • Legislature makes few moves to address city operations and open government

  • Busy year for land use issues, many proposals fall short

  • Washington takes steps to improve social equity in cannabis industry

  • 2021 a major year for police reform in Washington

  • Legislature passes major overhaul to public health system, other human services programs

  • Affordable housing work continues, some big wins and signals of a new approach

  • Big strides for economic development tools

  • Pandemic generates a variety of legislative proposals in HR arena

  • Legislature gets high marks on housing stability priority

  • Environmental issues capture legislative attention

  • Public Works Board now accepting applications for construction and pre-construction loans

  • JLARC opens public records reporting system

  • Treasury releases guidance for American Rescue Plan Act

  • Utility customers seeking financial help should contact their county assistance programs

  • Curtain call for the 2021 virtual session

  • Legislature wraps up session adopting 2021-2023 budgets—How did cities fare?

  • Transportation revenue package fails to cross finish line

  • Correction: Non-entitlement cities do not need to register with SAM database

  • Legislature agrees on approach to address Blake

  • Legislative changes to GMA housing element are optional

  • Governor updates high-risk worker proclamation to allow employer verification

  • “Just cause” eviction reform passes after years-long effort

  • Paid Family and Medical Leave eligibility about to expand under two new laws

  • Cities may soon see increased health emergency labor standards for employees

  • Targeted Urban Area property tax exemption on its way to all cities

  • New use of force standards for law enforcement set to become state law

  • Bill to restrict police tactics poised to become law in Washington

  • New law to ban open carry of firearms at public demonstrations and capitol campus

  • Law enforcement officers to see increased oversight and accountability

  • Police now have legal duty to intervene when fellow officers use excessive force

  • Update: Legislators share their plan for Blake

  • An age-old problem: So much work left for the Legislature, so little time

  • Future of a state transportation revenue package remains uncertain

  • A heavily amended Blake bill advances out of the Senate – More changes expected in the House

  • Bills granting property tax relief advance through opposite chambers

  • Housing bills continue to pass, some big ones still outstanding

  • Two land use bills head to the Governor’s desk

  • Felony bar defense receives update creating new requirement for law enforcement

  • Treasury provides pre-award requirements for cities to receive federal ARP funds

  • State to invest in forest health and wildfire management

  • Incarceration status will not impact Medicaid eligibility

  • Local jails required to conduct investigations into unexpected fatalities

  • State offers free data management webinar on April 29

  • Legislature approves changes to Main Street Tax Credit Program to accommodate COVID-19 challenges

  • Senate fails to act on OPMA updates

  • Deadline to opt-out of long-term care payroll taxes extended

  • Environmental bills that have passed

  • Legislation establishing Office of Independent Investigations awaits Governor’s signature

  • Survey: Have you restarted in-person public meetings?

  • A big question about a grand bargain on a statewide transportation package

  • House and Senate release transportation revenue and spending packages

  • Governor issues executive order regarding archeological and cultural resources

  • Inslee announces updates to Healthy Washington criteria for county phases

  • More than 100 city officials lend their voices to highlight city priorities in state budgets

  • Bill expanding broadband retail authority approaches finish line

  • House passes ADU owner occupancy bill

  • Bill to erase effect of COVID-19 shutdowns on public pensions enacted

  • Police grievance arbitration bill signed into law

  • Law enforcement officers have new legal duty to intervene

  • Law enforcement to see increased oversight and accountability

  • Social equity efforts to expand in cannabis industry

  • New restrictions on police tactics poised to become law in Washington

  • TIF on the brink of becoming law

  • Plenty of legislative action left with three weeks to go

  • Budget negotiations begin – Be sure to add your voice to the conversation

  • We need your help to assist our advocacy efforts and to build momentum for utility assistance funding

  • President Biden unveils $2 trillion infrastructure proposal

  • New use of force standards amended, head to rules committee

  • House transportation spending proposal renews hope for long-term investment package

  • Police oversight and accountability moves forward with striking amendment

  • House shows strong interest in state bank proposal

  • Support law enforcement training: Fully fund the CJTC

  • Quick update on GMA planning funding

  • Ecology seeking comments on water right policy

  • Housing density incentive bill makes a comeback

  • Ways & Means holds public hearing for democratic proposal in response to Blake ruling

  • Potentially costly pensions policies find their way into House budget

  • AWC working to push back opt-out deadline in long-term care program bill

  • Vaccines in the workplace: All adults eligible for COVID-19 vaccine April 15

  • March budget madness – Legislature releases budget proposals

  • Legislature releases biennial budgets in wake of strong economic forecast and federal relief

  • Court denies FCC request to pause franchise fee fight

  • Five things to consider as you plan to use your city’s ARP allocation

  • Shelter preemption bill improves, still concerning to some cities

  • ADU proposal moves ahead with new amendment

  • Growth Management Act bills continue to move

  • Flurry of bills look to amend state law in wake of Blake decision

  • Commerce launches the Office of Firearm Safety and Violence Prevention

  • Secretary of State provides records management advice, asks for feedback on new requirements

  • Health emergency labor standards bill amended, advances out of policy committee

  • House Transportation Committee to hear additive spending bill

  • Vaccines in the workplace: Vaccine eligibility expands again March 31

  • High-risk utility workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine starting March 31

  • Police arbitrations reform bill heads to Governor’s desk

  • Statewide suicide prevention hotline in development

  • Police reform bills roundup

  • AWC supports proposed changes to police tactics bill

  • Bill aimed at plastic recycled content mandates continues to move

  • Governor’s Office publishes Phase 3 guidelines

  • Legislature releases transportation budget proposals: How do these budgets impact cities?

  • We’re two thirds of the way through session – How are cities faring?

  • City budget priorities

  • Governor extends disconnection and late fee moratorium for customer-owned utilities

  • Bleak projections for state transportation revenues

  • State revenue forecast shows strong signs of economic recovery

  • New amendment provides clarity to use of force standards

  • Amendment to police tactics bill jeopardizes AWC support

  • What to expect from the Legislature in the wake of the Blake decision

  • Lodging tax expenditure reporting system now open

  • Local public safety sales and use tax revenue may be expanded to include other services

  • State bank continues to gain interest amongst lawmakers

  • Hope on the horizon: fiscal flexibility bill receives support in Senate committee

  • We tip our cap to you! Cities show strong support for one percent property tax cap revisions

  • Cities may have until 2022 to redistrict

  • Initial unanimous support for community engagement bills

  • Public health system may soon see overhaul

  • Worth the wait – updates to OPMA closer to becoming law

  • Striking amendment limits Main Street tax credit program

  • Let’s get TIF over the finish line – Contact your senator today!

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave bills continue to advance

  • Pace keeps up in state Legislature as congressional action in D.C. shifts spotlight from Olympia

  • Legislators warm up to addressing urban heat islands

  • Broadband accessibility remains priority for Legislature

  • Climate and carbon related transportation bills heating up

  • Rail safety bill chugs along, receives amendments

  • Changes in approach to greenhouse gas emissions in design of public facilities

  • Property tax deferral bill drops provisions for local government, moves to Senate

  • Out with the old, in with the new: Comprehensive Annual Financial Report receives new name

  • State public bank reaches historic milestone as it passes Senate

  • Not dead yet: Bill to revise property tax cap finally scheduled for public hearing

  • No, our city fiscal flexibility bill would not defund the police – Ask your senator to support HB 1069

  • Promising new amendment on climate GMA bill

  • Lawmakers recognize and support benefits of city trees to climate and salmon

  • Racial deed restriction bill removes costly mandate to local governments

  • American Rescue Plan extends emergency paid leave tax credits, no renewal of emergency leave programs

  • Vaccines in the workplace: New vaccine eligibility coming soon

  • Working Families’ Tax Exemption bill scheduled for hearing

  • Senate bill exploring changes to PFML scheduled for hearing

  • Attend a hearing on workers’ comp self-insurance administrator certification rules

  • All cities eligible to use Targeted Urban Area property tax exemption under new bill

  • Felony bar defense sees significant change after adopted floor amendment

  • OPMA bills on track to enactment

  • Sunshine Week 2021 highlights the importance of open government

  • Governor Inslee announces Phase 3 and updated reopening plan - Public meetings allowed increased capacity

  • Senate to consider bill extending critical rural economic development funding source

  • Simple drug possession no longer a felony – What now?

  • Impeachment disclosure clears Senate, heads back to House for reconciliation

  • House OKs proposed changes to Washington’s public health system

  • Traffic ticket payment process to change under bill advancing to House

  • Cities may be given more time to redistrict due to late census data

  • $1.1 billion for Washington cities in American Rescue Plan Act

  • Senate and House pass the American Rescue Plan Act – Maintains $65.1 billion in funding for cities

  • March Madness in the Legislature – Advocacy isn’t a spectator sport

  • Gov. Inslee holds press conference urging Legislature to pass transportation revenue package

  • Senate passes the American Rescue Plan Act – Maintains $65.1 billion in funding for cities

  • New “Community Project Funding” revives federal earmarks

  • Broadband bills to be heard in opposite chambers this week

  • Far-reaching preemption on homeless shelter siting passes House

  • Major growth management bills pass the House

  • HR & labor bills after cutoff: where they stand now

  • Bill harmonizing protection order also creates costly required updates for courts

  • House and Senate move several police reform bills forward

  • Amended affordable housing bills swap chambers

  • Recycling bill aimed at incremental change passes Senate

  • Police grievance arbitration bill scheduled for hearing this week

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave bills clear their respective chambers

  • TIF picks up amendments on its way out of the House

  • Bills updating the Open Public Meetings Act now in the Senate

  • Are you talking to your legislators? Are they listening?

  • Concerning preemption on homeless shelter siting – Action needed!

  • House passes American Rescue Plan Act including billions in aid for cities

  • Reminder: In-person meetings permitted under Phase 2

  • Force majeure public works contracting bill gains traction

  • Legislature considers striking limitation on sales tax funding mechanisms for transportation benefit districts

  • State Supreme Court strikes down criminalization of simple drug possession

  • Update on housing stability, AWC priority

  • How are growth management and planning bills faring?

  • Status of environmental bills impacting cities

  • Housing incentive bills – where are they now?

  • Does your city need fiscal flexibility? Let your senators know now.

  • UTC extends disconnection and late fee moratorium for investor-owned utilities

  • AWC calling on members to engage on Paid Family & Medical Leave bills

  • Updates on COVID-19 vaccines in the workplace

  • Call your legislator now to oppose police liability bill that creates financial burden for cities

  • Substitute bill language restores cities’ share of traffic tickets

  • How is police reform shaping up this session?

  • Legislative floor action underway this week

  • Congress on verge of historic action to support cities – Contact needed!

  • Bill to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decarbonization of residential and commercial buildings

  • House Transportation Committee holds public hearing with local government representatives

  • Housing planning bill advances, shelter mandate remains

  • Climate Commitment Act receives public hearing and work session

  • Qui tam bill update

  • Health emergency labor standards update

  • New proposal would exempt emergency shelter from SEPA

  • Expansions for Paid Family & Medical Leave await Senate vote

  • Cities would lose traffic ticket funds under new bill

  • Public health funding and governance discussions update

  • Discrimination against tenants with pandemic rental arrears prohibited by new bill

  • Police liability bill with negative implications for cities moves through the House

  • Substantial increase to tort claims payment costs seen in new bill

  • New use of force standards for law enforcement move through Legislature

  • Local government liability would expand under new House bill

  • Increased oversight and accountability for law enforcement proposed in Senate bill

  • Ranked choice voting bill makes it through Appropriations Committee

  • Two of three OPMA bills survive first cutoff

  • Tax increment finance bills pass out of respective finance committees

  • Legislature appropriates $2.2 billion in federal funds while session reaches first cutoff deadline

  • Electric vehicle bills to be heard in Senate Transportation Committee

  • Work sessions on small cell infrastructure to continue

  • Proposed changes to governmental accounting standards would increase complexity and costs for local governments

  • Status of housing incentive bills at first legislative cutoff

  • Utility lien bill gains traction in House

  • AWC seeking city feedback on property tax bill

  • Good news on Multifamily Tax Exemption proposal

  • State to prioritize second dose of COVID-19 vaccine the week of February 15

  • Growth Management Act bills continue to evolve as they move

  • Agency administrative rules roundup

  • House looks to establish technical assistance grants for cannabis businesses

  • HR & labor bills: Where are they now?

  • New bill would allow info from police oversight reports into discipline process

  • Three police reform bills pass out of the House

  • McKinsey settles for its role in opioid epidemic – Washington to receive $13.5 million

  • Cutoff deadlines coming soon – Time to make your city voice heard

  • Preliminary language for fish passage rulemaking out

  • Bill preempting city utility lien authority scheduled for hearing

  • Bill to amend fuel tax rate for border area jurisdictions

  • Priority broadband bills receive amendments, work session, and hearing

  • Bill proposes to lift property tax cap, tying rate to inflation and population growth

  • Bill to expand Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council authority scheduled for hearing

  • Capital gains tax and wealth tax bills receive hearings

  • Bill grants attorney general new powers to investigate law enforcement

  • OPMA bills make their way through House and Senate

  • Tax Increment Financing bill heads to Ways & Means with technical amendments in tow

  • Last minute House bill would result in recycling solution setback

  • Bill to address backlog of land use cases due to COVID-19

  • Police reform bills moving through Legislature

  • Bill to provide options for preservation of affordable housing

  • Building permit legislation attempts a “default complete” for applications

  • Paid Family Medical Leave expansion bill trimmed down, voted out of committee

  • Citizen oversight bill picks up several key amendments

  • FEMA to retroactively provide reimbursement for COVID-19 costs

  • Cities spent 98% of State Coronavirus Relief Funds. Click here to see how they used it.

  • Police discipline arbitrator bill amended, passes out of policy committee

  • New bills may impact retirement systems and public employee pensions

  • Another GMA bill addressing housing element up for a hearing

  • Ranked choice voting could be authorized in Washington

  • State auditor suffers data breach, includes local government information

  • Two regions move to Phase 2 – What does this mean for OPMA?

  • Legislature finds its groove in week four of session

  • Cities seek transportation funding

  • Senate Democrats unveil transportation revenue package

  • Bill expanding broadband authority amended to clarify existing city authority

  • FMSIB releases annual report

  • Governor’s unemployment insurance bill advances through the Legislature

  • Bill to expand public works contracts, apprenticeship requirements

  • AWC fiscal flexibility bill moves out of House Finance Committee

  • Bill would change felony bar defense to allow people injured in the commission of a felony to sue

  • Duty to intervene, vascular neck restraints, and truth verification test bills considered

  • Effort to strengthen salmon recovery through critical area planning

  • Traffic ticket bill would divert funds away from cities and into state coffers

  • Pretrial release bill raises numerous concerns for courts

  • Noble yet costly mandate considered to address racial covenants on deeds

  • Juneteenth holiday proposal scheduled for public hearing and vote this week

  • Lawmakers take new approach on accessory dwelling units

  • Proposal introduced to extend comprehensive planning update cycle

  • Proposed recording requirement to be heard in committee

  • Bill to require LEOFF disability boards to provide coverage info to retirees

  • Bill to ban unjustified employee vehicle searches

  • Police oversight bills move through committee with new amendments

  • Proposed law mandates certain cities to provide overnight shelter

  • Police data reporting bill receives amendments, Senate Republicans propose competing bill

  • State task force recommends policies to support affordable child care

  • Legislators look to extend 2020 Main Street tax credits an additional two years

  • Busier than ever, the Legislature moves into week three

  • Bill expanding authority for public entities to provide telecommunication services receives hearing

  • AWC presents city transportation priorities to House and Senate Transportation Committees

  • House Democrats unveil transportation revenue package

  • Bill addressing greenhouse gas emissions in design of public facilities slated for hearing

  • Bill expanding public contracting opportunities for women and minority owned businesses scheduled for hearing

  • Bill granting property tax deferral scheduled for public hearing

  • AWC priority fiscal flexibility bill receives second hearing

  • State public bank bill scheduled for hearing

  • Under a new bill, cities and police will be liable for injuries

  • Legislature looks to integrate 988 and 911 call systems

  • COVID-19 vaccines in the workplace update

  • Building code changes go into effect February 1

  • Homelessness response bills on the move, including AWC priority bill

  • House considers new use of force standards and model policies

  • Establishing the Office of Independent Investigations to be heard by the House

  • Senate looks to establish task force on jail standards

  • Bill on employee PPE use to be heard this week

  • Substitute plastic packaging bill receives a hearing

  • Bill on temporary worker safety scheduled for hearing this week

  • Housing-related bills arriving fast and furious

  • House bill proposes establishing community oversight boards

  • Tax Increment Financing bill receives a hearing in the House

  • Two additional bills look to address virtual public meetings

  • Recognizing Martin Luther King Jr. Day while legislative work continues

  • Legislature enacts concurrent resolution extending emergency orders including OPMA proclamation

  • Health Emergency Labor Standards Act to receive hearing

  • Municipal finance bills scheduled for committee hearings

  • Bill limiting city authority of telecommunications infrastructure scheduled for hearing

  • Workplace whistleblowers’ private right-of-action returns for legislative consideration in 2021

  • Workers’ compensation bills up for hearings this week

  • New bill erases COVID-19 impacts on public employee retirements

  • Alternative public works contracting bill scheduled for hearing

  • OFM and WSDOT temporarily delay new transportation projects

  • Ecology releases draft offer list for water quality funding

  • CERB broadband financing bill slated for hearing

  • L&I updates COVID-19 emergency rules for businesses

  • Police discipline arbitration bill heard in the Senate

  • Lawmakers propose bills addressing growth management

  • Legislators introduce number of carbon related bills

  • More bills encouraging affordable housing introduced

  • Legislature addresses housing stability, an AWC priority

  • House to hold hearings for law enforcement grant program proposals

  • Bills impacting behavioral health and opioid addiction up for public hearing

  • President Biden announces $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan

  • Tax Increment Financing bill receives a hearing in the Senate

  • House considers changes to managing sexual assault cases and juvenile access to attorneys

  • Legislature to hold public hearings on several police reform bills

  • Learn how to sign up to testify remotely

  • Hear the lobbyists give their legislative hot takes

  • Kicking off the 2021 legislative session

  • Congress passes new COVID-19 stimulus bill

  • Police discipline arbitration bills in hearings this week

  • AWC priority bill slated for committee hearing

  • Tax Structure Work Group releases preliminary report

  • Governor releases biennial and supplemental budget proposals

  • State Active Transportation Plan open for comments and review

  • COVID-19 vaccines in the workplace

  • New bill significantly expands paid family and medical leave eligibility

  • Governor’s unemployment insurance bill introduced, scheduled for hearing

  • Federal COVID relief extends emergency paid leave credits, but not emergency paid leave programs

  • Permitting outdoor dining can support restaurants during the pandemic

  • Bill to adjust time period for redistricting

  • Bill proposes to restrict police tactics and equipment

  • Priority police accountability bill to be heard in opening week

  • Bill will codify virtual public meetings during a declared emergency

  • JLARC publishes preliminary 2019 public records performance metrics and data

  • Two bills propose more accountability for law enforcement

  • Growth management reform update and an early bill

  • Update to Wetland Program Plan for review

  • Public comment period extended for affordable housing standard

  • Legislature bursts out of the gate with several housing bills

  • Early action for several climate change bills

  • Bill proposes to expand air quality complaints to public spaces

  • Governor releases 2021-2023 budget proposals

  • Congress passes new COVID-19 stimulus bill

  • The results are in – Washington parks and recreation survey

  • OPMA and PRA emergency proclamation extended until January 19

  • Wrapping up 2020 and looking ahead to a brighter 2021

  • AWC’s 2020 Tax and User Fee Report now available

  • AWC joins coalition advocating for Tax Increment Financing in Washington state

  • Senate Transportation Committee reviews transportation revenue threats, COVID-19 impacts

  • OFM releases November transportation revenue forecast

  • November Revenue Review now available

  • Grade Crossing Protective Fund now accepting applications for funding

  • Department of Commerce releases Electric & Natural Gas Utilities Economic Impact Survey Analysis report

  • Commerce soliciting comments on 2021 State Energy Strategy

  • State launches COVID-19 exposure notification tool

  • 2021 L&I workers compensation rates finalized

  • Proposed bill would change worker safety standards during health emergencies

  • 2021 Legislative session to see ambitious police reform agenda

  • Expect OPMA proclamation extension with further in-person restrictions

  • State announces new funding round for small businesses

  • December 15 deadline for COVID relief reimbursement requests

  • Cities report over 130,000 public record requests in 2019

  • Update to affordable housing building standard out for comment

  • Request for feedback on early GMA reform bills

  • PDC publishes links and trainings for elected officials filing annual F-1 reports

  • Expect a new and improved OPMA proclamation this week

  • New Eviction Resolution Program established by Washington courts

  • Preparing for 2021 with election results pending

  • Meet your AWC Government Relations Team!

  • UW Growth Management Framework draft released

  • State releases quarterly economic review

  • Dept. of Ecology reports to the Legislature on water rights

  • Draft PFAS Chemical Action Plan out for comment

  • Seeing delays of federal permits for maintenance and repair projects?

  • Plastic packaging waste recommendations report released

  • AWC’s Tax and User Fee Survey data now available

  • Transportation revenue outlook improves in wake of I-976 decision, new packages under development

  • SAO FIT tool adds ability to project data into the future

  • Public Works Board approves nearly $18 million for broadband construction

  • Certificate of compliance for new cannabis businesses in rulemaking

  • L&I to develop wildfire smoke worker-safety rules

  • Behavioral health grants fund new beds and services across the state

  • 2019 public records data now available

  • Commerce seeks participants for behavioral health facilities model ordinance discussion

  • Don’t wait to use your city’s CRF allocation

  • Washington State Supreme Court rules I-976 is unconstitutional

  • CDC and BJA seek participants for virtual roundtables on harm reduction

  • Commerce issues updated guidance and direction for CARES CRF usage

  • AWC adopts 2021 City Legislative Priorities

  • Quarterly state transportation revenue forecast now available

  • Washington State Tax Structure Work Group to convene in early October

  • State Legislature hears broadband and digital inclusion issues during committee work session

  • September Economic and Revenue Forecast isn’t as bad as June

  • SAO hourly billing rates remain the same for 2021

  • 2020 Census deadline now October 31

  • OPMA & PRA emergency proclamation extended

  • Treasury retracts conflicting CRF reporting requirements

  • 2021 minimum wage increases to $13.69

  • 2021 L&I rates announced

  • Updated OPMA proclamation allows in-person meetings for areas impacted by wildfires

  • OPMA & PRA emergency proclamation extended to October 1

  • Fall brings focus on cities’ 2021 legislative priorities

  • AWC offers central contact list for Eastern WA city leaders

  • Public comment period for oil transport rulemaking now open

  • Feds impose eviction moratorium

  • Secretary of State issues emergency rule increasing 2020 general election costs

  • Treasury issues conflicting guidance for CARES Act CRF funds

  • ESD rejects AWC's call to repeal new PFML rule requiring employers to cover medical benefits

  • IRS issues guidance on Social Security tax deferral

  • PERC launches the Negotiation Project

  • JLARC extends public records reporting deadline

  • Proposed court rules change presence of a defendant requirements

  • State provides additional CARES Act CRF allocations

  • Quarterly State Economic Review now available

  • Joint Transportation Committee hosts Statewide Transportation Needs Assessment Advisory Panel

  • Take the state’s new broadband speed test

  • IRS issues guidance on Social Security tax deferral

  • Update from your AWC government relations director

  • Primaries, federal action, & 2021 prep – Things aren’t slowing down in August!

  • Action Alert: Contact your members of Congress – Direct federal funding for cities!

  • Updates to Prevailing Wage Program

  • Payroll factor guidance under Stay-at-Home orders

  • Lodging tax expenditure reporting due soon

  • New low impact development guide

  • Joint Transportation Committee releases Statewide Transportation Needs Assessment

  • Housing Trust Fund announces new grant opportunities

  • Governor extends eviction moratorium

  • Access to broadband has become increasingly important during the COVID pandemic

  • Pension Funding Council recommends lower pension rates

  • Public records reporting deadline September 1

  • New public records exemptions for visitor and employee logs

  • Commerce issues additional guidance for CARES CRF reimbursements

  • 2020 Census to end one month early

  • OPMA & PRA emergency proclamation update

  • Senate introduces coronavirus relief proposal

  • Six takeaways from the CARES Act update from Commerce and the Auditor’s Office

  • 5 takeaways from the Governor’s briefing with city and county leaders

  • 10 tips for working with your legislators

  • Economic impact of the COVID-19 emergency hit home for cities and the state

  • OPMA & PRA emergency waivers and suspension extended for one week

  • Food insecurity ongoing challenge for Washington residents

  • Webinar to discuss new FCC order on wireless communication facilities

  • Governor’s Office releases updated proclamation on utility ratepayer assistance and disconnects

  • Governor Inslee extends Transportation Improvement Program annual update deadlines

  • Upcoming Public Work Board workshops

  • OFM releases quarterly transportation revenue forecast

  • Changes in Washington overtime rules effective July 1

  • New guidance and audit advice issued for use of CARES funds

  • Emergency changes to shared work program benefit employers and employees

  • Update on wetland mitigation guidance

  • Yet another report proposing to transform Washington’s waste system

  • New grant program for homeless shelters

  • Housing Action Plan guidance now available

  • Partnership opportunity for affordable housing and early learning facilities

  • Reminder: HB 1406 deadline at the end of the month

  • 2020 Census moves forward despite COVID-19

  • COVID-19 survey finds big financial impact on Washington cities

  • New Statement of Policy to be voted on by AWC membership

  • Cities balance reopening, protecting public health, and conversations about racial equity and policing

  • State Public Works Board announces June broadband infrastructure webinars

  • WSDOT Local Programs Biannual 2020 Report

  • Changes to utility tax disclosures taking effect this month

  • New PFML rule takes effect soon – AWC advocates for repeal

  • New public records exemptions begin soon

  • Additional data breach reporting requirements

  • OPMA & PRA emergency waivers and suspension extended through June 17

  • New law impacts state & federal law enforcement actions at court facilities

  • New sexual assault kit storage requirements

  • Ecology requests reviewers for updated wetland mitigation guidance

  • First reports on statewide plastic packaging study released

  • Grants for affordable multifamily rental housing

  • Rulemaking to standardize climate impacts assessment for projects begins

  • Climate change planning grants available

  • Important HB 1406 deadline approaching

  • Two federal funding bills propose fiscal relief for cities

  • Take action: Support flexible, long-term federal funding for cities for COVID-19 response

  • COVID-19 may result in special session – Talk to your legislators now

  • PERS 1 one-time benefit increase takes effect July 1

  • JLARC extends 2019 public records reporting deadline to September

  • Comments due May 6 for Paid Family & Medical Leave proposed rule changes

  • Recently released recycling reports highlight producers’ role

  • New standards for faith organization hosting of homeless

  • Supreme Court rules that Clean Water Act covers discharges to groundwater

  • Budget and finance bills going into effect soon

  • State CARES funds to be shared with Washington cities

  • Lodging tax expenditure reporting deadline extended

  • State Auditor’s Office financial reporting deadline extension

  • Current status of Basic Law Enforcement Academy training

  • Supreme Court upholds I-976 injunction through appeal

  • Ask legislators to extend OPMA and PRA waivers beyond May 4

  • See who signed on to AWC’s letter to the Governor & read the good outcome

  • Senate approves $484 billion coronavirus funding package

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave proposed rules could drive up city medical benefit costs

  • Two housing bills vetoed, including an AWC priority

  • Governor vetoes $450 million in spending as the state’s budget outlook rapidly changes

  • Cities need direct and flexible funding to respond to the COVID-19 crisis

  • COVID-19 fiscal impact survey from NLC – April 3 deadline!

  • Injunction on I-976 remains in place for now until Supreme Court can rule on stay pending appeal

  • 2020 session begins on an optimistic note and ends on a downbeat

  • Legislature funds study to expand MAT services in jails

  • The shadow of Ruckelshaus study on land use policy continues

  • The year of “net ecological gain”

  • Homelessness was a budget focus this year

  • Session started with strong economic forecast, but overshadowed by COVID-19 impacts

  • Social equity program moves forward, other cannabis bills fail to pass

  • Progress made on comprehensive culvert approach

  • Few major infrastructure policies pass while Public Works Trust Fund remains funded

  • State transportation leaders reckon with cuts due to car tab initiative

  • Busy and successful session for our housing priority

  • Bills mostly favorable for supporting general city operations

  • Exemptions for public employees pass, other PRA bills fail

  • Short session sees a variety of employee-focused bills

  • Cities bring attention to tax increment financing, but more work is needed

  • Public safety summary – Compromise is key

  • Congress enacts Family First Coronavirus Response Act

  • Rapid COVID-19 Housing Grant information

  • COVID-19: OPMA guidance from Attorney General & other resources

  • Legislature wraps up its work amid COVID-19 emergency

  • Legislature adopts final supplemental budgets

  • City officials in D.C. – COVID-19 and more

  • Trial court affirms I-976 decision and lifts injunction

  • Transportation budget contains numerous important studies and workgroups

  • Comprehensive plan timelines bill rescued from the grave

  • Net ecological gain proviso adopted

  • Watershed culvert approach gets a major boost

  • PERS 1 COLA heads to the Governor’s desk for signature

  • Several bills bring changes to criminal sentencing and protections

  • Legislature passes bill providing relief and resources for sexually exploited children

  • Affordable housing bills finalized

  • Bills impacting human resources make it through the Legislature

  • Several bills impact general government operations for cities

  • New training & certification requirements established for corrections officers

  • Bills increase access to substance use treatments

  • Administrative Office of the Courts to conduct study and pilot project for vacating convictions

  • Marijuana Social Equity Program heads for the Governor’s desk

  • “Block the box” bill passes both Senate and House

  • Autonomous vehicle testing bill heads to Governor’s desk

  • Legislature passes bill to help cities dependent on Streamlined Sales Tax mitigation funds

  • Bill that remits Boeing’s B&O tax preferences passes both chambers

  • Proposal that increases tourism fee awaits Governor’s signature

  • Final days of the 2020 session – Sine Die is March 12

  • Consumer data bill amended to retain preemption and report on city data

  • House passes amended facial recognition bill with private right of action added

  • Councilmanic authority to pass sales tax for affordable housing one step closer to law

  • Bill that would expand tribal property tax exemption passes House and Senate

  • Two density bills pass the Legislature

  • C-PACER bill advances through House and Senate

  • Compost use mandate passes Legislature

  • Voice your support for the “HB 1406 fix” bill

  • Proposal authorizing King County to adopt payroll taxes for housing and homelessness is dead

  • Annexation by interlocal agreement coming soon!

  • ADU preemption bill approaches floor vote

  • Legislature advances proposal for dig law updates

  • LOCAL Program funding cycle now open

  • Legislation requiring labeling of disposable wipe products passes House & Senate

  • Faith organization homeless hosting bill passes

  • Public records employee information exemption makes it through both chambers

  • Senate adopts amendments adjusting sexual assault kit storage requirements

  • Adopted amendment brings reasonable change for workers compensation self-insured employers

  • Bill limiting law enforcement actions at court facilities passes both chambers

  • Bill allowing for mobile gas operators passes both chambers

  • Governor ensures workers’ compensation coverage for quarantined health workers and first responders

  • Second Circuit Court rules that federal government can withhold grant funding

  • Action Alert: Ask your senators to pass HB 2804 to give cities more economic development tools

  • Action Alert: Contact your legislators now to pass HB 1590

  • We are in the homestretch for the 2020 session

  • Supplemental budget updates with some twists and turns

  • Short-term solutions used in both Senate and House transportation budget proposals

  • Bill allocating state resources for sexually exploited children advances

  • Urban density options bill adds more options!

  • Bill requires greater transparency for subcontractors on public works projects

  • Ask your senators to pass HB 1590 to give cities tools to address the housing crisis

  • Changes to facial recognition legislation require suspension of existing programs

  • The bill to amend HB 1406 continues to move

  • Amended bill adjusts rollout of program to vacate criminal convictions

  • Local Revitalization Financing remains alive in the House – Talking points for city officials

  • Senate amends PFML bill

  • State to help pay for elections, potential new costs for cities

  • Amended workers’ comp bills target employers with additional penalties and requirements

  • Unrelated home occupants bill is amended and moving

  • Bill modifies storage requirements allowing police to prioritize sexual assault kits

  • Bills creating employee personal information exemptions still moving

  • House and Senate include PERS Plan 1 COLA in budgets

  • Bill to address chemicals in drinking water

  • ADU preemption bill changes in committee

  • Changes to SEPA exemption bill for homeless sheltering

  • House & Senate release 2020 supplemental budget proposals

  • Budgets are here!

  • ADU bills video

  • Bill establishes pilot program for vacating 8.4 million criminal convictions

  • Transportation budgets to be released early this week

  • Revenue forecast predicts additional $606 million this biennium

  • Bill authorizes King County to adopt payroll taxes for housing and homelessness

  • Net ecological gain standard is back as a budget proviso

  • Two bills take different approaches for utility tax disclosure requirements

  • Bills to ban foam packaging and plastic bags advance

  • Police performance evaluation preemption bill moves to the House

  • Senate bill impacting independent medical examinations undergoes significant changes

  • Exemptions for records requests for employee data move forward

  • COLA for PERS Plan 1 participants sails through House and Senate

  • Senate passes bills on closed captioning, form of government elections, & data breach notices

  • Bill adjusts conflict of interest rules for small cities

  • Additional changes to onerous facial recognition bill adopted

  • Cities have a seat at the table to discuss opioid penalties expenditures

  • Several bills impacting the criminal justice system voted to move to the Senate

  • Program promoting social equity among cannabis retailers moves forward

  • Bill providing resources and relief for sexually exploited children moves forward

  • Bill adds minor changes to resiliency analysis of CETA

  • New annexation method for code cities moves forward

  • Bill prohibiting limits of unrelated home occupants passes Senate

  • GMA climate goal advances

  • Good housing bills advance, preemption bills lose momentum, but MFTE bill appears dead

  • Economic development legislation continues to advance

  • Action Alert! Contact your legislators now to pass Multifamily Tax Exemption

  • Kicking off the second half of the legislative session

  • Trial court upholds constitutionality of I-976 on all but two legal challenges

  • Bill authorizing King County payroll taxes for housing and homelessness in negotiations

  • Cities encouraged to complete survey on vehicle fleets

  • DRS and some cities receive large records requests for employee information

  • Key takeaways from economic and revenue forecast presentation at Mayors Exchange

  • Bike signal bill passes House

  • AWC priority bill on local transportation revenue options to be heard

  • Bill proposes to revise the 1% property tax cap

  • A bill to amend HB 1406 is advancing

  • Annexation alternative bill passes House

  • See why a comprehensive culvert approach makes sense

  • Wide range of bills impacting public safety and criminal justice advance

  • Public Works Board announces new workshop and grant opportunities

  • Electrification of Transportation Systems grants now open for application

  • Bill returns to regulate how cities allow homeless encampments hosted by religious organizations

  • New rules proposed for Paid Family Medical Leave program

  • Ecology’s drought response bill returns

  • Several human resources related bills advance

  • SEPA exemption bill for homeless sheltering

  • Plastic bag ban is back

  • Legislative session reaches midpoint—action now moves to floor votes

  • NLC “fly-in” and a voice for cities in D.C.

  • Your legislators need to hear from you to oppose state mandates of local land use decisions

  • Thank you for your support for Tax Increment Financing

  • Update on priority legislation to expand the Multifamily Tax Exemption program

  • Public records bill amended with adjusted employee information protections

  • LRF bill moves forward with amendments

  • Several bills impacting human relations move out of committee

  • Three problematic workers’ comp bills advance out committee

  • AWC priority bill on local transportation revenue options heard this week

  • Legislators amend program promoting social equity among cannabis retailers

  • Governor’s sheltering bill gets a complete rewrite in committee

  • Privacy bills move forward with changes

  • Amended legislation creates real-time verification system for courts

  • Census Bill of Rights progresses in the House

  • Changes to facial recognition fails to bring relief for local government

  • New process proposed for handling sexual assault kits

  • New amendments to seizure and forfeiture bill

  • Amended bill reinstitutes polygraph requirement for police

  • Legislation allowing for immediate fireworks bans is on the move

  • Sales tax reinvestment program for workforce housing bill

  • Proposed new SEPA exemptions for infill development

  • Proposal prohibits rail crews from blocking emergency vehicles

  • “Net ecological gain” bill improves significantly in committee

  • NLC released electric scooter and micromobility report with recommendations

  • Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board releases annual report

  • Bill to align GMA and SMA planning gets amended in committee

  • GMA climate goal bill passes out of committee

  • Week 4 of session with cutoff deadlines looming

  • Proposal to require cities to disclose utility taxes on billing statements

  • House bill and joint resolution pave the way for TIF in Washington

  • Bills modify public records requirements

  • Bills propose changes to several employee-related programs

  • New transportation revenue proposal to be heard

  • Sign up for the introduction to CETA webinar

  • Increases proposed for business license applications

  • Legislature considers limiting steel used for public works

  • Landscape maintenance rulemaking updates

  • Another bill proposes to change permit application timelines

  • 2020 city B&O tax rates update

  • Updates to motorcycle parking requirements

  • Bill adds permanent affordable housing as eligible project for LRF programs

  • House bill provides greater funding for LRF projects

  • Streamlined process for changing form of government under consideration

  • Proposal would increase tourism fee but threaten tourism promotion funding

  • Compost use mandate amendment needs feedback

  • Bill requires additional protection of archaeological and cultural sites

  • JLARC’s lodging tax reporting system open for 2019 reporting

  • Senate to hear three bills reimposing Initiative 976

  • Proposal expands exemption to competitive bidding for community service organizations

  • Several bills propose changes to the criminal justice system

  • New process for handling sexual assaults kits

  • Growth Management Hearings Board reform bills diverge

  • Bill addresses police procedures relating to missing person cases

  • Legislators consider program promoting social equity among cannabis retailers

  • New requirements proposed for police seizing contraband from minors

  • Legislators look to tie county jail funding to MAT requirements

  • Mobile on-demand gas providers seek state standardization for permitting

  • New regulations seek to limit cannabis and vapor advertising

  • Bill seeks to address donation of utility property for affordable housing

  • Priority bill to expand the Multifamily Tax Exemption program

  • Shared housing bill up for hearing

  • Strong city voices filled City Action Days this week

  • Hoping to make an anonymous land use violation tip? Not so fast

  • Multiple gun regulation bills considered in the House

  • Bill allows city-owned utilities to donate low-value surplus property

  • Bill threatens to preempt cities’ utility lien authority

  • JLARC’s lodging tax reporting system is officially open for 2019 reporting

  • New bill modifies marijuana testing protocols during hiring process

  • Bill restricts ability to consider traffic citation information in officer performance evaluations

  • Several bills adjust workers’ compensation in Washington

  • Bill allows for waiving or modifying safety violation penalties incurred during an emergency

  • New bills clarify municipal authority to set minimum labor standards at airports

  • Greater access to opioid medication the focus of bills

  • Senate looks to alleviate burden on indigent defense

  • House and Senate consider differing facial recognition bills

  • Bill authorizes electric utilities and PUDs to encourage customer electrification

  • Bills authorize use of bicycle traffic control signals

  • Bill requires additional protection of archaeological and cultural sites

  • Bill authorizes cities to provide passenger-only ferry service

  • Senate bill proposes to institute per-mile charges on electric and hybrid vehicles

  • Bill expands use for city traffic safety cameras

  • LOCAL Program webinar recording and slides now available

  • Clean air, green streets, carbon sinks…oh my!

  • House bill outlines new protections and procedures at Washington court facilities

  • Changes proposed to make it easier for nonprofits providing affordable housing

  • Bill on local ballot measure committee membership scheduled for a vote

  • New requirements for fire and smoke control systems testing

  • Bill encourages pet adoptions over retail pet sales

  • Converting state environmental policies from “no net loss” to “net ecological gain”

  • Bill delays implementation of state energy code for two years

  • Comprehensive climate companion bill will be heard

  • Mandatory ADU bill back for round two

  • Three bills look address sexual assault and sexual exploitation among children and youth

  • Bill expands access to jail records for medical purposes

  • Governor’s homeless sheltering proposal has first hearing

  • Multiple bills impacting law enforcement will be heard on the Hill

  • Proposed state pilot program provides intervention and treatment funding to counties

  • Bill sets forth new reporting requirements for elected city attorneys

  • New approach to protecting consumer data

  • Bill to limit elections in odd-numbered years receives a hearing

  • Several cannabis bills receive hearings

  • Bill increases seizure and forfeiture reporting requirements

  • Proposal to create a home-sharing grant program

  • Bill to reduce unnecessary SEPA reviews

  • Three bills affect how impact fees are set

  • Phasing out single-use plastic food service products

  • First week of session kicks off with lots of action

  • Bill establishing facial recognition regulations receives a hearing

  • I-940 trainings available to law enforcement agencies

  • Bill proposes major changes to impaired driving statutes

  • Proposed changes to critical areas for salmon recovery

  • GMA bill reduces environmental review for density projects

  • Bill proposes modifications to permit application timelines

  • Legislators propose new methods to fund needed academy classes

  • House bill establishes centralized background check system

  • A new bill aims to modify city election dates

  • Bill proposes impact fee to fund opioid impact program

  • Legislators propose changes to police officer hiring process

  • Senate bill proposes sweeping changes to privacy regulations in Washington

  • Bill creates additional funding opportunities for local parks

  • Changes to securing vehicle loads law proposed

  • Bill codifies how large vehicles use roundabouts

  • Legislators propose protections for residents during 2020 Census

  • WSP Crime Lab develops new process for public records requests

  • Broadband ReConnect Program workshop in Seattle area

  • Bill proposes C-PACER financing option

  • Landscape maintenance rulemaking updates

  • Minor change proposed to resiliency analysis of CETA

  • New legislation requires labeling disposable wipe products

  • HB 2145 proposes to remove property tax cap

  • Bill threatens to preempt cities’ utility lien authority

  • Department of Revenue releases Local Business Licensing Partnership plan & report

  • JLARC’s lodging tax reporting system is officially open for 2019 reporting

  • Hearing on I-976’s constitutionality scheduled for early February

  • Proposal to align planning updates of GMA and SMA

  • Bill proposes to limit membership on ballot measure statement committees

  • Bill proposes to integrate salmon recovery efforts with growth management

  • Bill proposes increased data breach reporting requirements

  • Bills propose changes to the state transportation systems policy goals

  • Proposal to waive utility connection charges for shelters

  • Bills propose to address climate change through the Growth Management Act

  • Appointed municipal court judges may be eligible for PERS retirement benefits

  • State-funded reports highlight benefits of trails

  • Bill prohibits limits on unrelated occupants living together

  • Bill requires cities to address illicit discharges from RVs

  • Accessory dwelling unit bill proponents reaching out to city officials

  • The 2020 session is finally here!

  • New density bill will be heard in committee

  • PERS Plan 1 cost-of-living increase proposed

  • Proposed bill would restrict city authority to impose business taxes

  • New bill would expand tribal property tax exemption

  • Governor’s proposed transportation budget to be heard this week

  • AWC creates Clean Energy Transformation Act municipal working group

  • LOCAL Program webinar on financing options for local governments

  • Two bills propose changes and exemptions to Public Records Act

  • JLARC publishes 2018 public records request data

  • Is your city facing litigation related to public records?

  • WASPC announces RFP for Arrest and Jail Alternatives Grant Program

  • Restrictions on breed-specific ordinances take effect

  • 2020 Census funds still available for cities

  • Governor proposes significant new homelessness investments

  • Rulemaking begins for oil transport

  • Commerce awards $91.6 million for affordable housing projects

  • Supreme Court declines to consider Martin v. Boise case

  • Commerce extends deadline for housing planning grant opportunity

  • Commerce seeks comments on draft rule for affordable and supportive housing

  • Do you have a new Complete Streets policy?

  • Washington still leads as #1 “bike friendly state”

  • Governor proposes multipronged climate change package

  • Governor releases supplemental budget proposals

  • 2019 is a wrap – Looking ahead to 2020

  • OFM offers limited Census 2020 funds for cities

  • New minimum wage & overtime rules for 2020

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave benefits available Jan. 1

  • DRS receives large records request for employee information

  • National League of Cities announces 2020 advocacy agenda

  • New guidance in on accounting & reporting for leases

  • CERB approves over $5 million for community & economic development

  • NLC releases guide on opportunity zones

  • Public Works Board approves broadband study grants – See which jurisdictions received funds

  • Clean Energy Transformation Act rulemaking continues

  • New safe passing distance law for bicycles & others starts Jan. 1

  • Recycling Development Center launches

  • Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge

  • State’s Road Usage Charge recommendations move forward

  • Washington Supreme Court overturns years of takings law precedent

  • Commerce awards $1.7 million to help homeless students and families

  • Grant program to address local culverts accepting proposals

  • State revenue quarterly forecast updated

  • Court stays implementation of I-976

  • AWC responds to I-976 and resources for cities

  • Last chance to register for Wednesday’s PFML webinar

  • 2019 election results will have far-reaching impacts

  • Year-end deadline for 46 B&O tax cities to make mandatory tax ordinance updates

  • CERB funding available

  • New guidance in accounting for and reporting leases

  • Sunshine Committee releases 2019 annual report

  • State affirmative action measure R-88 narrowly defeated

  • Where does cannabis revenue go?

  • Clean Energy Transformation Act proposed rules

  • Final report of Dig Law workgroup released

  • Public Works Board November meeting review

  • Order your city materials for the 2020 Census

  • Make it count! 2020 Census webinar on December 13

  • Public Works Board schedules public workshops on new broadband service access law

  • Grant funding offered for fish passage projects

  • New changes to recently updated Homelessness & Housing Toolkit

  • WSDOT City Safety Program call for projects

  • Housing Trust Fund accepting applications for multifamily housing preservation

  • Grants under HB 1923 awarded to 52 cities

  • AWC 2020 Legislative Priorities – Now is the time for your city to adopt its legislative agenda

  • New recommendations for Orca recovery

  • DOR Releases WA Sales Tax Rate Lookup mobile app

  • Public Works Board accepting grant applications for broadband project studies

  • Key takeaways from rural broadband workshop

  • CERB funding available

  • AWC webinar on 2019 B&O tax model ordinance

  • Coming soon: Paid Family Medical Leave benefits begin January 1

  • Department of Retirement Systems adopts new employer responsibility rules

  • 2020 Census kicks off in less than six months

  • New NLC report: What cities should know about cybersecurity

  • Decision deadlines approaching for cities not partnered with FileLocal or state’s Business Licensing Service

  • Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) update

  • Washington Highway User Federation opens registration for annual transportation briefing

  • Autonomous Vehicle Work Group meets for final time this year

  • Check out AWC’s resources on the transportation-related Initiative 976

  • Funding available for new modular, homeless housing projects

  • Salmon Recovery Act rule changes being considered

  • Federal transit-oriented planning grants now available

  • Funding now available for new Defense Community Compatibility grants

  • Newly revised water system resources for review

  • Updated guidance on ‘piggybacking’

  • Preview the 2020 City Legislative Priorities

  • FCC cable order effective date set

  • Applications open for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund

  • Clean Energy Transition Act webinar

  • State Auditor’s Office hosting free local training

  • City B&O tax model ordinance update almost finalized

  • JLARC extends law enforcement mapping survey

  • AWC launches 2020 Census resource page

  • $2 million in mental health field response grants awarded to local law enforcement

  • L&I extends public comment period on new overtime rules

  • AWC needs your input on draft cannabis legislation

  • Auditor rolls out tips to help local governments #BeCyberSmart

  • Personal delivery devices can now be licensed

  • Grants for HB 1923 close soon

  • New online resource for affordable housing planning

  • Update on statewide Drug Take-back Program implementation

  • Rulemaking proposed for Oil Spill Contingency Rule – New hearing scheduled

  • Seeking feedback on cannabis related draft bills

  • Congratulations to the new Speaker of the House

  • Register for two free webinars covering FCC Order on cable franchising

  • Initiative 976 headed to voters with potential impacts to state and local transportation funding

  • Public Works Board approves $85 million in infrastructure loans

  • Space available at free rural broadband workshops

  • State Auditor announces hourly billing rate adjustment

  • Incentivizing the development of commercial office space

  • New state law incentivizes increased residential building capacity and density

  • Draft city B&O tax model ordinance sent out for review

  • L&I seeking feedback on proposed sick leave FAQ

  • JLARC reporting system reopened until August 28

  • Measure to repeal affirmative action initiative makes November ballot

  • The 2020 Census is hiring!

  • Law enforcement mapping system survey is now open

  • States & cities clash over potential opioid settlements

  • Public hearings coming up for proposed building code changes

  • Drinking Water Consolidation Study grants open

  • Reminder: Housing Trust Fund soliciting applications for affordable housing projects

  • Fish Consumption Rule in flux

  • JLARC recommends modification of the Multifamily Housing Tax Exemption program

  • Grant application period opens for freight rail capital projects

  • Guidebook on civilian-military land use now available to community planners

  • Rulemaking proposed for Oil Spill Contingency Rule

  • Learn how to advocate for your city during the legislative interim

  • Updates to City B&O tax model ordinance underway

  • Setting the stage for 2020

  • Public defense improvement grant applications open now

  • Washington Nonprofits and OFM releases 2020 Census resources

  • Law enforcement grant program due July 19!

  • PFML premium remittance & reporting due by July 31

  • Proposed overtime rules scheduled for a series of public hearings

  • Agency rulemaking begins on prevailing wage for landscape maintenance

  • NLC Housing Task Force releases report

  • Ecology releases 2020 water quality project funding list

  • Joint Transportation Committee hears report on city transportation funding needs

  • Feds seeking comments on changes to reporting blocked railroad crossings

  • Housing Trust Fund soliciting applications for affordable housing projects

  • Ruckelshaus Center releases report of new GMA vision & planning framework

  • Update on Ecology’s water resource policies

  • AWC files amicus in support of city rights-of-way in FCC legal challenge

  • Celebrating our 2019 City Champions and kicking off 2020

  • National League of Cities releases Micromobility Guide

  • Statewide initiatives and referenda update

  • “Keep Washington Working” bill signed into law; amends policy for when law enforcement can provide information to federal immigration authorities

  • Law enforcement training rulemaking adopted

  • Governor’s Smart Communities Award winners announced

  • L&I proposes new overtime rule

  • JLARC public records reporting now open

  • HB 1087 establishes new, long-term care insurance program funded by employee premiums

  • I-1000 to take effect July 28 – no mandates for local government

  • DRS announces new employer pension contribution rates

  • PFML premium remittance and reporting begins July 1

  • B&O tax surcharge on services

  • Nonresident sales tax changes take effect July 1, 2019

  • City B&O tax model ordinance update

  • Attorney General adopts new tribal consent and consultation policy

  • Ecology launches statewide recycling education campaign – Recycle Right

  • Rulemaking announced for railroad oil spill planning

  • New resource to identify project grant and loan funding

  • Newly passed affordable housing bills require city action on tight timelines

  • 2019 was a solid session for cities – now we look ahead to 2020

  • Infrastructure funding takes a hit again, but some good news for public works contracting

  • A busy year for Washington transportation policy

  • Addressing the behavioral health system: improvements made, more work to be done

  • Tough budget decisions amid new revenue

  • Non-housing land use and planning bills

  • Many open government bills introduced, few become law

  • Economic development wins and losses

  • General government grab bag

  • Plastics, recycling, and orcas drive environmental policy changes for cities

  • A few major energy policy bills enacted this year

  • Key public safety and cannabis issues addressed this session

  • 2019 Legislature passes an array of personnel bills

  • Progress made towards a systems approach to correct fish-blocking culverts

  • Late breaking proposal stabilizes and strengthens toxic cleanup and prevention systems

  • Affordable housing takes center stage; slower year on homelessness

  • Initiative 976 headed to voters; potential impacts to state and local transportation funding

  • 2019 session adjourns on time – a solid session for cities

  • Legislature reaches deal on final state budget in last days of session

  • Graduated REET and state service B&O tax bills pass as part of state operating budget revenue package

  • Late-breaking MTCA bill a big win for cities, but it is not without risk

  • AWC priority housing bill passes during budget negotiations

  • Final status of recycling-related bills

  • Affirmative action initiative passed by Legislature, will become law

  • New law requires a searchable database of land use decisions

  • Legislature passed bills heard by Finance Committee on Friday

  • AWC’s public records reporting fix bill passes Legislature

  • May 15 is the deadline for submitting 2018 lodging tax reports

  • Legislature passes Governor’s broadband bill

  • Sunshine Committee recommendation bill passes Legislature

  • State passes transportation budget over weekend, heads to Governor

  • Amended public works bid limit bill passes Legislature

  • SR-167, I-405 tolling and bonding bill passes Legislature

  • First-responder occupational disease compromise bill signed by Governor

  • AWC requests veto on $300 million LEOFF 2 transfer bill

  • Bill proposing new requirements for state-paid stormwater fees passes Legislature

  • Firefighters’ pension levy bill passes with modifications

  • Paint stewardship bill returns from the dead, passes Legislature

  • Last minute fix made in key density bill

  • Opioid treatment bill advances to Governor for signature

  • Trueblood settlement bill unanimously passes Legislature

  • Hate crimes bill passes Legislature

  • Legislature passes bill related to informant and eyewitness evidence

  • Animal fighting bill delivered to Governor

  • Final week of session is here!

  • Data tool explores Transportation Benefit District revenues threatened by I-976

  • Trueblood bill passes House

  • Tax bills related to operating budget move out of committees

  • Senate refuses to concur on changes to firefighters’ pension levy bill

  • $300 million LEOFF 2 transfer bill advances to the Senate

  • City pavement data reporting reform bill signed into law

  • Firefighter safety best practices bill signed into law

  • Bill concerning the electrification of transportation signed into law

  • Union dues bill passes Legislature

  • Robot delivery device bill passes Legislature

  • Motorized foot scooter bill passes Legislature

  • Affirmative action initiative gets joint hearing in the Legislature

  • House amends and passes public works bid limit bill

  • Bill establishing new law enforcement grant program passes Senate

  • Behavioral health community facilities bill passes House

  • New legal framework for short-term rentals passes the Legislature

  • Self-help housing bill passes House without REET exemption

  • Pollinator habitat protection bill passes Legislature

  • Parks deannexation bill passes Legislature

  • House passes Governor’s broadband bill

  • City support needed to keep AWC’s public records bill alive

  • Opioid treatment bill passes House

  • Voluntary site cleanup for housing bill passes Legislature

  • Drug Take-Back Program rules released for comment

  • Chemical Action Plan bill passes Legislature

  • Amended version of 911 local tax option bill passes House

  • Smoke alarm bill passes House

  • Domestic violence reform bill passes Legislature

  • Firearm removal and protection orders bill passes Legislature

  • House amends and passes bill dealing with property in impounded vehicles

  • Legislature passes marijuana convictions vacations bill

  • Wrongful death bill passes Legislature

  • Final cutoff looms while budget negotiations are ongoing

  • Help needed to pass public works bid limit bill

  • Opportunity to join coalition letter of support for AWC priority housing bill

  • Key density bill passes Senate and retains local authority

  • Action needed to support MTCA reforms

  • Bill changing firefighters’ pension levy spending options passes House

  • Affordable housing development by religious organizations bill amended

  • Trueblood bill advances in House

  • Bill sets new state goal for food waste reduction

  • Broadband access gains momentum in both Washingtons

  • House committee moves public records availability bill

  • Opioid treatment bill advances in House

  • Bill establishing new law enforcement grant program advances

  • Delivery robot bill passes Senate

  • Senate amends and passes union dues bill

  • First-responder occupational disease compromise bill passes Senate

  • Tiny house communities bill passes Legislature

  • Priority REET bill passes Legislature

  • Self-help housing companion bills diverge

  • Department of Revenue Partnership meetings

  • Bill addressing impaired driving amended in Senate

  • 2018 lodging tax report deadline approaching

  • On-site sewage systems bill passes Legislature

  • B&O tax annual filer and apportionment bills pass

  • House B&O surcharge proposal potential impacts on city utilities

  • Bill addressing sexual assault kits passes the Legislature

  • Three budget messages to deliver to legislators

  • The home stretch – three weeks left to make an impact

  • Public works bid limit bill amendments impact small works roster

  • Bill to increase local option tax to fund 911 services

  • Status of recycling and plastics reduction bills

  • Wrongful death bill advances

  • House PERS 1 COLA bill moves out of fiscal committee

  • First-responder occupational disease bill passes committee

  • State Treasurer introduces new online directory of state grant and loan programs

  • Save the date: Public Records Act University

  • Broadband bills divert PWTF dollars

  • Transportation budgets pass both chambers, head to negotiations

  • Marijuana convictions vacations bill amended in the House

  • Tiny house communities bill amended to allow student builders

  • Ecology requests timely changes to drought response

  • Lone condo liability reform bill retains key elements after passing House

  • Transparency of local utility taxes bill in House Rules Committee

  • B&O apportionment bill in Rules Committee

  • Annual B&O tax filing deadline bill awaiting further action in Senate Rules Committee

  • Hearing on new tax bills for Senate operating budget

  • Budgets, budgets, budgets

  • Senate proposed budgets released & House-proposed budget floor action

  • Senate budget proposal includes restructuring MTCA

  • House and Senate transportation budget proposals released last week

  • House and Senate use PWTF dollars to support broadband efforts

  • AWC’s economic priority bill scheduled for Ways & Means hearing

  • House delivery robot bill scheduled for Senate hearing

  • $300 million LEOFF 2 transfer bills scheduled for executive action

  • House Transportation Committee to hear bill on state aviation coordination commission

  • Bill updates multidisciplinary approach to child abuse investigations

  • Housing issues come into focus in the home stretch

  • Bill makes changes to hate crimes and creates a workgroup

  • Bill aims to standardize firearm removal associated with protection orders

  • Bill defines and establishes requirements for school resource officers

  • Bill addresses personal belongings in impounded vehicles

  • Hearing scheduled for bills implementing new House budget taxes & extending tax structure study

  • House–proposed budgets released

  • House releases proposed budgets this week

  • Mobile home park home siting bill improves out of the House

  • Public works bid limit bill moves to House for public hearing

  • Public contracting “piggybacking” bill moves to house for hearing

  • Design-build bidding bill scheduled for Senate committee hearing

  • Facial recognition and data privacy bill heard in House

  • Public disclosure exemption bill heard in Senate last week

  • Cities’ economic development bill needs your help

  • Property tax cap bill introduced but not yet heard

  • Annual B&O tax filing deadline bill advances

  • B&O apportionment bill scheduled to move out of committee

  • Industrial insurance claim confidentiality bill moves to Senate for public hearing

  • Bill prohibiting employers from seeking salary history scheduled for Senate hearing

  • Emergency work zone bill scheduled in Senate Transportation Committee

  • First-responder occupational disease bill scheduled for hearing

  • Plastic bag ban and stewardship bills on the move in the House

  • Bill to count inmates and custodial patients for redistricting purposes

  • Bill addressing cyber crimes will be heard in Senate

  • Grandfathering ADU bill will be heard in the House

  • Bill allows tribal documents to be automatically admissible in court

  • Bill to address law enforcement coordinated response to missing Native American women

  • Record number of bills introduced and budget release expected next week

  • Bump stock buy-back program bill passes and goes into effect immediately

  • Bill proposes changes to firefighters’ pension levy

  • Changes to State Auditor reporting requirements

  • Motorized scooter bill passes House and gets scheduled for Senate public hearing

  • AWC-supported pavement data reporting bill set for Senate hearing

  • New LEOFF 2 pension bills introduced

  • Bill proposing new requirement on state paid stormwater fees scheduled for House hearing

  • First-responder occupational disease compromise bill set for Senate hearing

  • First quarter PFML payment and reporting changed to July 31

  • Sunshine Committee bill scheduled for Senate public hearing

  • AWC’s public records reporting improvement bill scheduled for Senate hearing

  • Bill that would eliminate advisory votes on tax increases set for committee vote

  • Public records exemption bill scheduled for Senate public hearing

  • Hearing scheduled for B&O apportionment bill

  • Status of affordable housing bills at cutoff

  • Change to B&O tax deadline for annual filers passes House

  • ADU bills continue to improve for cities

  • Bill requiring smoke detection devices advances to the House

  • Round up of land use bills after cutoff

  • Opioid treatment bill moves to the House

  • Summary of environmental bills at cutoff

  • Transparency of local utility taxing districts bill amended

  • Bill to encourage pollinator habitat passes Senate

  • Density bill improves for cities

  • Enhanced State Treasurer services moving forward with a change

  • Vacating cannabis misdemeanor convictions bill advances

  • Watch legislator profile videos on TVW

  • Bills addressing protection orders advance

  • Bill to provide immunity from prostitution charges in limited circumstances advances

  • Bill that requires actions by officers in response to domestic violence continues to move

  • Bill that helps fire departments recover cleanup costs passes House

  • Bill concerning criminal penalties for licensed marijuana retailers moves to Senate

  • Bill addressing impaired driving statutes moves to the Senate

  • New prevailing wage rates for landscape maintenance

  • 2019 Session passes the halfway mark

  • Wayfair implementation increases city sales tax collections

  • Bill to expand alternatives to arrest, creates grant program, advances to Senate

  • Ecology’s recycling market response bill passes the House

  • Plastic product stewardship bill passes Senate in very different form

  • Narrowed version of SEPA exemption bill for homeless housing passes Senate

  • Public works contracting modernization bill passes out of Senate

  • PFML technical fix moves to Senate

  • Community forest bill passes out of Senate as a pilot program

  • Trueblood settlement bill advances

  • New transportation package, Forward Washington, moves out of committee

  • Senate passes privacy bill limiting use of facial recognition technology

  • Public records exemption bill passes House

  • Progress made on AWC’s public records reporting bill

  • Update on our BLEA priority

  • Bill clarifies role of municipal courts to enter temporary protection orders

  • Open public meeting expansion bill waiting for vote

  • House passes expansion of volunteer firefighter pension benefits

  • House passes rural development and opportunity zone bill

  • Bill to provide for a continuum of care for behavioral health patients advances

  • Wrongful death bill passes Senate

  • Proposal to allow tiny house communities passes Senate

  • Animal fighting bill advances

  • Public works bills passed House and heading to Senate

  • Plastic bag and straw bills pass Senate

  • On-site sewage systems bill passes Senate

  • Two condo liability reform bills switch to other chamber

  • Found property bill passes House

  • House heard proposed changes to Voting Rights Act

  • Focus is on floor action, while budget challenges continue to loom

  • Proposed changes to Voting Rights Act pass Senate

  • Density bill gets worse for cities coming out of the Appropriations Committee

  • Status of bills on homelessness at cutoff

  • Status of affordable housing bills at cutoff

  • Summary of environmental bills after first cutoff deadlines

  • Status of public safety and criminal justice bills

  • Union dues bills progress in Legislature

  • Delivery robot bills move out of House and Senate transportation committees

  • Motorized foot scooter regulation bills move forward

  • Wrongful death bills advance

  • Cannabis bills that have died

  • L&I responds to AWC petition for emergency prevailing wage rulemaking

  • Some cannabis bills advance

  • SEPA exemption bill for temporary shelters and encampments continues to move

  • Round up of land use bills after cutoff

  • Governor’s broadband bills on the move

  • Local government records reporting bill advances

  • Wayfair implementation increases city sales tax collections

  • Bill reauthorizes tax structure work group and adds city voice

  • First cutoff passes – Now it’s time to start talking about the budget

  • AWC testifies in opposition to pension bill

  • State bank proposal introduced, but fails to advance

  • Legislature to hold hearings on I-976, limiting state and local taxes, fees, and TBDs

  • New 10-year transportation funding package proposed in the Senate

  • U.S. Supreme Court decides excessive fines forfeiture case against state

  • Pavement condition data reporting bill set for public hearing

  • Senate transportation network company bill set for hearing has preemptive provisions

  • Modernization of government procurement update

  • Call to action on AWC’s economic development bill

  • Legislative records bill dies in committee, but several others move forward

  • Clarifying “piggybacking” requirements

  • ADU bills diverge in the House and the Senate

  • House substitute version of density bill passes first hurdle

  • Fiscal committees begin hearing housing priority bills

  • Bill aims to codify Boise case on rights of homeless to survive

  • Bill addressing impaired driving continues to move

  • Bill that proposes to modernize business crimes passes House

  • Bill to help survivors of trafficking and prostitution passes out of House

  • Legislature approaches first cutoff deadline as Olympia thaws out

  • New “livability” density bill introduced, will be heard this week

  • AWC priority housing investment bills continue to move and need your support!

  • Another graduated REET for housing bill

  • Another set of ADU bills

  • Bill incentivizes cities to establish housing affordability zones

  • Bill would create community forest grant program

  • After a snow delay, Multifamily Tax Exemption bills will be heard

  • Substitute version of HPA and bulkheads bill moves forward

  • Senate version of plastic packaging stewardship bill on the move

  • Updates on public disclosure exemption bills

  • House committee to hear bill on local government ranked choice voting

  • Public hearing held on legislative records bill

  • Opioid treatment bills advance, adds requirements for jails

  • Bill to address placement of sexually violent predators scheduled for hearing

  • PERS 1 COLA bill gets public hearing rescheduled

  • Bills to address hate crimes and add criteria for protection orders

  • Legislation to protect minors from sexual exploitation

  • Bills to protect animals scheduled for public hearings

  • Bill makes changes to driving with a suspended license laws

  • Motorized foot scooter companion bill

  • Utility lien bill gets new title and bill number

  • Hauler recycling bill up for a hearing in the Senate

  • State considers opportunities to reinvest in critical infrastructure challenges

  • Bill to allow municipal cannabis retail gets a hearing

  • Snow closes the Capitol

  • Motorized foot scooter bill to be heard this week

  • Watch testimony on one of AWC’s priorities – culvert funding

  • Bill to regulate religious homeless encampments returns

  • Bill would create a new legal framework for short-term rentals

  • Bill restricts annexation covenants for utility services

  • Companion short plat bill will be heard

  • B&O tax filer deadline to align with federal tax day

  • Bill expanding uses for city traffic safety cameras set for hearing

  • Bill to require public fleets to become electric by late 2020s

  • Bill would turn Public Works Trust Fund into State Infrastructure Bank

  • Public records inspection availability bill set for hearing

  • House to hear bill on restricting weapons in libraries and parks

  • AWC’s economic development bill amended and voted out of committee

  • Hearing set for legislative public records bill

  • Bill makes changes to Growth Management Hearings Board

  • Local tax flexibility

  • Proposed changes to public works bidding process

  • Public works contracting bill updates

  • Companion Park Benefit District bill gets a hearing

  • Bills to restore Public Works Trust Fund for infrastructure receive hearings

  • Small city Multifamily Tax Exemption bill to be heard in Ways & Means

  • Basic Law Enforcement Academy wait times reduction bill moves

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave technical fix bill gets second hearing

  • First-responder occupational disease bills get hearings

  • Committee to hear bill on PERS 1 COLA

  • House’s version of a housing and density bill is introduced

  • Bill would help fire departments recover cleanup costs

  • Firearm seizure and restricted access related to domestic violence and protection orders

  • Preemption of cities ability to impose employee-based taxes

  • Bill proposing community service for litterers advances

  • AGO request bill would consolidate traffic LFOs

  • New bills would restore PWTF resources

  • Recycling market response bills offer a mix of solutions

  • Open meetings bill scheduled for public hearing

  • Bill proposes new requirement on state paid stormwater fees

  • Municipal electric utilities planning efforts for transportation electrification

  • Proposal to increase fines for violators of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes

  • Bills to secure funding for the Transportation Improvement Board

  • Proposed changes to city pavement conditions reports

  • Cities banned from attaching some utility liens

  • Bills related to union dues collection and union security scheduled for hearings

  • Bill prohibiting employers from seeking salary history scheduled for hearing

  • Survey for elected officials on experiences with Target Zero

  • Proposal to change GMA urban services definition

  • GMA housing element expansion bill

  • Tiny homes bill receives a hearing

  • AWC-supported public records bill scheduled for hearing

  • New local housing revenue ideas emerge

  • Bills affecting public works contracting thresholds

  • A new minimum density bill, with implications for Sound Transit

  • Bill to authorize financing for local government infrastructure

  • Two Sunshine Committee bills scheduled for Friday hearing

  • Legislature to hear bills restricting government use of new technologies

  • Law enforcement behavioral health grant bill gets public hearing

  • Bill creating efficiencies in adoption of council-manager government scheduled for hearing

  • Cities testify in support of AWC’s economic development priority bill

  • Nonprofit homeownership development companion bill will be heard

  • Senate version of wrongful death bill advances

  • Bill regulates use of automated license plate recognition systems

  • Bill authorizes creation of a municipal police district

  • Bill allows local governments to receive a cannabis retail license

  • Call before you dig bill

  • 2018 Lodging tax expenditure data reporting site now open

  • I-940 “fix” bill passes Legislature

  • Simplification of B&O tax apportionment

  • More than 1,400 bills have been introduced so far in 2019

  • Three bills address barriers to building condos

  • Governor’s request energy efficiency bill up for a hearing

  • Smoke alarm bill may create unfunded mandate

  • Orca task force recommendation bill on HPA and bulkheads

  • Self-help housing bill has House companion

  • REET bill introduced in the House

  • The House adds more bills expanding property tax exemption for affordable housing

  • Bills addressing affordable housing development by religious organizations

  • AWC priority bill encouraging investments in affordable & supportive housing

  • Bill streamlines annexations of unincorporated islands

  • “Best available science” for critical area planning bill is heard

  • Bill proposes changes to mobile home park home siting

  • Cannabis home grow and delivery bills to be heard

  • Food truck bill gets a hearing

  • I-940 “fix” bill passes the House

  • Bill authorizes regulation of the open carrying of firearms in public meetings

  • Senate version of wrongful death bill advances

  • Two pension bills scheduled for public hearings

  • Legislators introduce Governor’s behavioral health bills

  • Rural development and opportunity zone act scheduled for hearing

  • Committee will hold hearing on broadband expansion bill

  • AWC economic development priority bill set for public hearing

  • AWC seeking city feedback on facial recognition privacy bill

  • Treasurer’s proposal to provide enhanced investment services

  • Bills address voluntary cleanup of contaminated properties

  • Prohibition on local governments’ toll authority

  • Military surplus vehicle bill to be heard

  • Creation of parks benefit districts provides new revenue options

  • Hearings on sidewalk delivery devices

  • Bill allows certain cities to directly impose lodging tax

  • Work underway to address “unintended consequences” of prevailing wage changes

  • 2019 Legislative Session starts off with a fast pace

  • Bill creates a private right of action for motorcycle profiling

  • Chemical Action Plans bill scheduled for Thursday

  • Foreclosure protection efforts continue this session

  • Several bills address the proliferation of plastics

  • Proposed changes to the Voting Rights Act

  • Several bills expand property tax exemption for affordable housing

  • Self-help housing sales tax and REET exemption bill up for a hearing

  • Bill proposes to extend city authority to use REET for housing and homelessness

  • Wrongful death bills are back this year

  • Bill proposes to raise the burden of proof in forfeiture hearings

  • Bill proposing community service for litterers gets a hearing

  • Senate version of public defense funding bill will be heard

  • A flurry of Growth Management Act bills in the Senate

  • Bill to reduce wait time for basic law enforcement training gets a hearing

  • Public works small works roster bill to be heard

  • FMSIB annual report

  • Transportation cameras bill allows use in prosecution of crimes

  • Senate Remote Testimony Pilot Program expanded to public

  • Bill restricting cannabis business siting is scheduled for a committee vote

  • Cannabis home grows bill gets a hearing

  • I-940 “fix” bills are on the fast track

  • Senate work session on draft transportation package

  • Washington infrastructure receives a “C” grade

  • Adult family home bill gets a public hearing

  • New legislation requires prepaid postage for all elections

  • NLC comments on Opportunity Zones tax breaks

  • Hearing held on Sunshine Committee recommendations bill

  • Injured worker benefit payment bill set for hearing

  • Firefighter safety bill scheduled for hearing

  • Bill would allow state to invest pension assets of first-class cities

  • Secretary of State certifies I-976, car tab initiative, to Legislature

  • Bill creates a pilot for cities to hire homeless

  • Sign on to support funding for homelessness prevention

  • 2019 Legislative Session is here!

  • Settlement approved in Trueblood case

  • Study bill to create a disaster planning work group

  • Hearing scheduled for public defense services funding bill

  • Governor announces initiative to pardon marijuana misdemeanors

  • Initiative 940 "fix" bills scheduled for a hearing

  • Bill restricting cannabis business siting gets a hearing

  • Transparency of local taxing districts

  • DRS releases annual financial report on state pension systems

  • DRS announces 2019 retirement planning seminars for public employees

  • JLARC releases public records data brief

  • AWC will file amicus supporting city rights-of-way

  • I-976 aims to reduce motor vehicle fees & limit Transportations Benefit Districts

  • Local governments are eligible for Automated Driving System demonstration grants

  • Premiums have begun – Cities have unanswered PFML implementation questions

  • A mixed review of the Governor’s proposed budget

  • Governor releases 2019 budget proposals

  • Orca Task Force’s recommendations highlighted in Governor’s budget

  • State Auditor’s Office updates

  • Governor announces proposal on clean energy and reducing greenhouse gases

  • Sixteen rural cities receive 2018 CDBG awards

  • Labor & Industries proposing updated rules that could double overtime exemption threshold

  • Prefiled bill proposes additional restrictions to cannabis business siting

  • New year, new leave law: PFML premium collection begins in 2019!

  • Governor announces plan to significantly increase community-based behavioral health treatment system

  • WFOA announces 2019 class schedule

  • Prevailing Wage Agency system updates

  • City transportation needs discussed at recent Joint Transportation Committee

  • Commerce releases new buildable lands report guidelines

  • Round two of Behavioral Health Facilities grant program opens

  • The mid-term elections and Washington cities

  • WSDOT survey for users of Interstate 5 in Thurston County

  • AWC response to FCC franchise rule making

  • Eyman submits initiative to reduce car tabs

  • Archives offers free public records trainings

  • Public Records Task Force hears from local government leaders

  • Opportunity Zones provide investment incentive for low-income areas

  • ESD releases PFML toolkit to assist employers

  • New law may require your agency to send child support payments electronically

  • Select Committee on Pension Policy votes in support of Plan 1 COLA

  • Online tool shows local student homelessness data

  • Provide feedback to Ecology on update to Critical Aquifer Recharge Area Guidance

  • Initiative 940 – What happens next?

  • Commerce hosts final workshops on civilian-military compatibility planning

  • Deadline approaches for cities to adopt the model license threshold

  • House Finance Committee briefing on B&O tax apportionment workgroup report

  • New FCC rules preempt cities on small cell deployment

  • FCC proposes new rules on cable franchise fees

  • Senate Republicans propose behavioral health package

  • AWC fights for local decision-making in new amicus brief

  • Streamflow restoration grant application closes October 31

  • Bothell and AWC advocate for new economic development tools

  • EAP overtime exemption rulemaking underway

  • Select Committee on Pension Policy discusses potential Plan 1 COLA

  • Public records task force holds second meeting

  • Feeling overwhelmed by cybersecurity? Check these resources

  • Do you have ash trees in your parks or streetscapes? Read this

  • Statewide inventory of untested sexual assault kits complete

  • Spots available at SAO BARS Roundtable events

  • Commerce hosting civilian-military compatibility planning workshops

  • B&O tax apportionment workgroup report completed

  • AWC collecting information on city adoption of the model license threshold

  • Final weeks to comment on Western WA stormwater manual

  • Reminder: Draft stormwater permits workshops & webinars

  • Innovations and Partnerships in Transportation Conference

  • AWC finalizes 2019 Legislative Priorities

  • Budget and campaign season are in full swing

  • New prevailing wage rates creating sticker shock for cities

  • Public records task force holds first meeting

  • The Puget Sound Action Agenda is open for public comment

  • B&O tax apportionment workgroup nearing final recommendations

  • Planning for small cell wireless infrastructure

  • CERB rural broadband program accepting loan grant applications

  • Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation information session

  • Deadline approaching for BLS partner cities to adopt model license provisions

  • Drug take-back program in rulemaking

  • Ninth Circuit decision on criminalizing homelessness

  • ESD is seeking city feedback on PFML Phase 3 rules

  • I-940 will go to the ballot

  • Municipal stormwater permits out for comment

  • Limited grant opportunity – Quality indigent defense assessments

  • Tips for using the legislature’s website for bill information

  • Welcome to View from the Hill!

  • Paid family and medical leave is coming to Washington – is your city ready?

  • AWC participates in Autonomous Vehicle Work Group subcommittees

  • Settlement reached in Trueblood case

  • Bellevue resolution honors Chinese-American veterans

  • Reports submitted to the Legislature on domestic violence reforms

  • USDA public works funding for rural communities

  • Public Works Board accepting loan applications

  • New rulemaking and guidance under the Streamflow Restoration Act

  • Business license cities must adopt a mandatory model threshold by Jan. 1

  • B&O tax apportionment workgroup needs feedback from B&O cities

  • Additional city corrections employees now eligible for PSERS

  • Employee retirement contribution rates to increase

  • Cities successfully report public record data under new mandate

  • Grid modernization bidders’ conference

  • Net metering update

  • Public Works Board loan approvals

  • Summer brings opportunity to dive into legislative issues

  • Lodging tax update

  • Visualizing housing costs in Washington

  • City B&O tax apportionment workgroup

  • Supreme Court ruling in Janus v. AFSCME will impact city labor relations

  • JLARC records reporting reopened until July 27

  • Phase two Paid Family and Medical Leave rulemaking is underway

  • Take the survey to help strengthen rural businesses in our state

  • Ecology releases water resources guidance

  • New AGO resources for human trafficking survivors

  • City transportation task forces begin their work

  • Updated Critical Areas Handbook now available

  • Commerce kicks off civilian-military compatibility planning project

  • WSDOT’s Consolidated Grant Program accepting applications

  • Review & comment on Ecology draft stormwater manuals

  • National workshop explores automated vehicles

  • Select Committee on Pension Policy recommends rate change

  • Final city business license model threshold

  • Federal legislation preempting the rights of cities

  • I-1639: Gun violence prevention

  • I-1631: Clean air clean energy

  • I-1634: Taxation of groceries

  • U.S. Supreme Court issues long-awaited opinion on collecting remote sales tax

  • Special message from the AWC CEO

  • AWC’s legislative priorities process underway

  • Join state officials in discussion on Trueblood proposed agreement

  • Learn more about the Pacific Northwest Regional Economics Conference

  • Equal Pay Opportunity Act takes effect

  • Drinking Water State Revolving Fund intended use plan

  • U.S. Attorneys highlight black market cannabis in OR & WA

  • Workgroup considers expanding Don’t Drip and Drive program statewide

  • Supreme Court will hear I-940 case

  • Nutrient forum update

  • New draft guidance for riparian ecosystems may present concerns

  • U.S. Supreme Court deadlock on culverts case: Ninth Circuit decision remains the law

  • July 1 deadline for new JLARC public records reporting

  • I-940: Law enforcement training and community safety

  • Statewide initiatives and referenda

  • Saying thanks & getting ready for the long 2019 legislative session

  • Puget Sound Nutrient Forum begins their work

  • See the results of most comprehensive municipal stormwater survey ever

  • Business license threshold input from business community

  • Next phase of work on water issues begin

  • Governor’s staff convenes broadband discussion

  • The Attorney General’s Office updates public disclosure model rules

  • Local Records Grant Program applications open soon

  • Local government public records consultation

  • JLARC public records reporting system open

  • Minimum wage exemption rulemaking in progress

  • ESD updates on Paid Family and Medical Leave rulemaking

  • AWC participates in state behavioral health reform discussions

  • House Rural Democratic Caucus meets with local rural stakeholders

  • FCC presentation on challenging mobile data availability

  • Housing affordability concerns reaching a boiling point

  • Alternative fuels for fleet vehicles mandate begins in June

  • Deadline for reporting lodging tax fast approaching

  • AWC highlights city infrastructure needs during Infrastructure Week

  • Register now! BUILD Transportation Grants webinars

  • Solid waste handling rule delayed

  • Improving recycling in response to China’s ban

  • Department of Revenue Partnership Meetings

  • Five things you can expect from AWC

  • Voting Rights Act resources now available

  • Culverts case heard in U.S. Supreme Court

  • Court of Appeals upholds county’s cannabis ban

  • Legislature’s action on police initiative ruled unconstitutional

  • Favorable court decision on recreational immunity

  • City B&O tax service apportionment workgroup

  • Business license threshold feedback from cities & business community

  • USDOT replaces TIGER grant program

  • Road-rail study work continues

  • Streamlined Sales Tax (SST) Advisory Committee

  • CERB introduces new rural broadband program

  • L&I taking input on new minimum wage exemption rules

  • JLARC updates public records data reporting

  • AG releases two new workplace rights guides

  • Archives offering free records management trainings

  • Poulsbo hosts Co-Responder Summit

  • Infrastructure week is May 14-21

  • 2017 Lodging tax expenditure data due soon

  • Local government partnership meetings

  • Governor approves Opportunity Zones

  • Register for AWC’s Voting Rights Act webinar

  • Recreation and Conservation Funding Board (RCFB) grant application deadline

  • Soliciting Legislative Priorities Committee members

  • Cities come out strong in 2018

  • About the 2018 Session Recap

  • Federal Legislative Priorities update

  • Two dozen energy & utility bills fail to advance

  • City priorities found key support in budget, yet some issues remain

  • A surprise ending to small cell technology discussions

  • Mixed bag on land use & environmental issues

  • Housing, homelessness, & human services successes & frustrations

  • Session outcomes for Voting Rights Act & wrongful death statutes

  • PERS 1 COLA passes, but few other pension changes

  • Transportation legislative summary

  • Economic development gains legislative attention

  • Public works benefit from capital budget passage

  • Body camera bill passes, but no others

  • No significant change for state cannabis laws

  • After years of stymied progress, many HR & labor bills pass

  • Some key public safety issues tackled this session

  • Marijuana excise tax distribution increasing

  • Applications for tax incentive Opportunity Zones now available

  • Cities come out strong 2018 session

  • 2018 Capital budget supplemental highlights

  • Last-minute activity on energy bills unsuccessful

  • Legislature passes operating budget

  • AWC letter to the Legislature regarding task force on legislative public record disclosure reform

  • Broadband bill fails to pass the Legislature

  • Behavioral health investments from the 2018 regular legislative session

  • Wrongful death bill that would have expanded city tort liability died

  • Joint legislative task force on sexual assault exams extended one more year

  • Attorney General’s Office updates Public Records Act Model Rules

  • First-responder occupational disease bill fails to make it through the Legislature

  • Initiative 940, concerning the use of deadly force by law enforcement, and a bill amending it pass the Legislature

  • Bill buys time for dealing with yard waste in apple maggot areas

  • Impact fees waived for homeless shelters

  • LIFT bill passes Legislature

  • Tourism bill gets big appropriation boost

  • Sound Transit “fix” will have to wait

  • Transportation budget passes Legislature

  • PERS 1 COLA headed to Governor’s desk

  • Session ends on March 8 – How are city priorities doing?

  • Legislature agrees to convene a task force for recommendations on legislative public record disclosure reform in 2019

  • A surprising turn of events for small cell bill

  • PERS 1 cost of living increase takes another step forward

  • Apportionment workgroup

  • "Ban the Box" bill passes the Legislature but must be included in the budget to become law

  • Lodging tax 2017 expenditure data collection begins

  • AWC-supported body worn cameras bill passes the Legislature

  • First responder PTSD bill passes the Legislature

  • Bill expanding search warrant jurisdiction of specific municipal courts passes Legislature

  • LFO bill passes the Senate

  • Bill establishes prevailing wage rate based on collective bargaining contracts

  • Unit priced bill passes Legislature

  • State routes bill headed to Governor's desk

  • Aviation loan bill needs your help

  • Drug take-back collection program going statewide

  • Homeless housing bill moves out of Senate

  • Washington Voting Rights Act passes Legislature

  • Submit your project for a planning award by March 16

  • Washington Voting Rights Act is a step closer to becoming law

  • Senate and House pass supplemental budgets off the floor

  • Bills & budget items in focus as adjournment nears March 8.

  • Second draft of rules for Paid Family & Medical Leave now available for comment

  • Small cell bill deemed necessary to implement the budget

  • Voting Rights Act awaits floor vote in the House.

  • ICC proposed building code changes to expand the use of mass timber for tall wood buildings

  • Human services data story

  • Key homelessness bills move

  • Senate and House both release supplemental capital budgets

  • City option to extend state property tax exemption to local levy lid lift

  • Wrongful death bill that expands city tort liability passes House committee

  • Proposed budget summary of criminal justice training funding

  • Initiative 940, concerning the use of deadly force by law enforcement, receives hearing

  • House and Senate introduce transportation budgets

  • Costly first responder occupational disease bills pass out of House committee.

  • Tourism bill still moving, gets big appropriation boost

  • Get involved in Ecology’s toxic cleanup rule update

  • Supplemental budget proposals released

  • A week that really matters

  • Sales and use tax flexibility bill continues to roll through the Legislature

  • Shared revenue interactive tool

  • Voting Rights Act on its way to enactment - Critical city improvements not included

  • Carryover bill that affects a convicted defendant's legal financial obligations continues to move this session

  • Broadband and Small Cell Networks

  • Changes to aquatic lease terms

  • AWC-supported body worn cameras bill passes out of Senate

  • Business license threshold workgroup

  • Request a Public Record Consultation from the Attorney General's Office

  • Bill limiting city authority to ban marijuana businesses is dead for now

  • Updates regarding JLARC's public record performance metrics now available

  • Wrongful death bill that expands city tort liability is still alive and moving

  • Costly first responder occupational disease bills continue to move

  • Local taxing districts transparency bill moves forward

  • COLA increase for PERS 1 and TRS 1 moves out of the Senate

  • Ride share bill fails to advance after crucial cutoff

  • Bill addressing state route population threshold requirements on the move

  • Checking in on electric utility bills

  • New building code requirements for areas prone to wildfire

  • Bill to expand multifamily property tax exemptions moves to House

  • Pilot program to help cities control the spread of apple maggots

  • New funding source for small airport infrastructure

  • Bill seeks to reduce environmental impacts of firefighting foam

  • 2018 Supplemental budgets and revenue

  • Housing, homelessness, and human services update after cutoff

  • Opioid use disorder prevention and treatment

  • AWC & partners’ infrastructure report gains traction

  • The time is right to remind legislators that new policy initiatives have local costs

  • Bills to simplify annexation of “islands” move forward, with some changes

  • City priority House Bill 1570 passes major milestone

  • Bill requiring cities to itemize taxes on utility bills moves to rules

  • Three bills supporting individuals suffering from mental health pass out of the House

  • State approved for $112.7 million in VW lawsuit

  • Building business ecosystems bill likely dead

  • Unit price contracting bill passes Senate, onto the House

  • House and Senate pass bills addressing Sound Transit 3 costs

  • Only one rideshare bill survives cutoff

  • Numerous labor relations bills continue to move

  • Bill limiting city authority to ban marijuana businesses survived committee cutoff dates

  • First responder occupational disease bills awaiting floor action

  • State Actuary projects pension contribution rates to be lower in 2021-23

  • Bill clarifying use of evidence of law enforcement officer misconduct survives committee cutoff

  • Voting Rights Act bill rescheduled for committee action on Thursday

  • City priorities and issues of concern at the halfway point

  • Voting Rights Act bill scheduled for committee action on Wednesday

  • Bill changes how law enforcement may seize property in civil asset forfeiture cases

  • Bill that encourages disclosure of sexual harassment in the workplace passes out of committee

  • Bill giving cities greater flexibility with sales tax and levy lid lifts in House Rules Committee

  • Bill to create study on state and local property taxes heard

  • Bill would set disclosure requirements for utility bills

  • First responder occupational disease bills pass out of committee

  • AWC-supported body worn cameras bill passes out of committee

  • Local Records Grant Program accepting applications until February 28

  • Public defense funding bill has passed first hurdle

  • Bill limiting city authority to ban marijuana businesses passes out of committee

  • Mandatory minimum density bill appears to die

  • Prescription drug take-back bill poised for action in the House

  • Bills to provide funding for mental health first responders pass out of committee

  • Military land use compatibility bill hits snag in House, moves in Senate

  • Senate local option levy lid lift exemption bill moves

  • Housing, homelessness and behavioral health bill status updates

  • Both wrongful death bills expanding city tort liability pass out of committee

  • Bill would increase population threshold for enhanced state route maintenance responsibilities

  • Bill seeking to incentivize commercial office space development on the move

  • Bill seeks to address disposal costs of abandoned recreational vehicles on public property

  • What city officials heard in Olympia

  • Senate’s Voting Rights Act bill being considered in House committee

  • House proposes state B&O tax reform for small businesses

  • Bill clarifying use of evidence of law enforcement officer misconduct has hearing in the Senate

  • Bills address definition of veteran when determining eligibility for plan membership

  • Bill would allow for sewer extensions in rural areas for economic development

  • Hearings scheduled for bills to provide funding for mental health and law enforcement co-response programs

  • AWC-supported body cameras bill has a hearing this week

  • Records management training calendar now posted

  • AWC supports bills that would “codify” revenues for important transportation funding programs

  • Bill would establish Lend Washington program to facilitate local infrastructure investment

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave public meeting on draft rules

  • Resolution on capital budget and water issues finally happens

  • City officials express their support for local infrastructure financing bill

  • Dueling Lyft and Uber bills make first public appearance in 2018

  • Housing and homelessness bill updates

  • Ways & Means to hear local housing option to exempt property tax

  • Legislators need to hear from you!

  • Both chambers have heard and are considering expansion of wrongful death liability proposals

  • Legislature takes action on capital budget, funds Public Works Trust Fund

  • Senate passes substitute version of Voting Rights Act bill; House considering its own substitute

  • Affordable housing and homelessness bills on the move

  • Bill would authorize fees to cover long-range planning

  • Annexation bill of concern to get hearing in House committee

  • Bill on body worn cameras introduced last week

  • Companion bills that would simplify island annexations up for hearing this week

  • Two marijuana bills that impact cities have hearing

  • Bill would require cities to develop ADA on-street parking plans

  • Hearing scheduled for public defense funding bill

  • Cities support bill that would allow greater certainty in selling off-street parking

  • Bill would align LIFT program with LRF

  • Cities support revived tourism bill

  • Local Records Grant Program now accepting applications

  • Senate Ways & Means to hear three bills on PERS 1 COLA increases

  • City priority: Homelessness, housing, & human services

  • Short Session - Little time to solve big issues

  • AWC supports bill aimed at improving participation by minority and women-owned businesses in public works contracts

  • Two bills related to small cells to get hearings this week

  • Voting Rights Act bills heard – Senate committee passes a substitute bill

  • Bills to address the opioid crisis set for hearing

  • Document recording fee bill gets public hearing

  • Impact fee deferrals for low-income housing

  • A trio of marijuana bills that impact cities will be heard in the House

  • Elimination of the statutory limit for net metering

  • Bill would provide multifamily tax exemption for unincorporated UGAs

  • Senate version of wrongful death bill will be heard on Thursday

  • New affordable housing proposals get hearings

  • First responder presumptive disease bills to be heard in the House and Senate

  • Religious property zoning bill comes back

  • Extending and amending transit-oriented SEPA tool

  • Bill to allow cities to utilize unit-priced contracts up for public hearing

  • Bill requires railroads to give notice to communities when planning actions

  • Bill would increase, but limit access to Main Street Program

  • Cities oppose bill that would add new reporting requirements on public works projects

  • Paid Family & Medical Leave draft rules available for comment

  • 2018 session likely to be brief and concise – Cities hope for help to prosper and care for those less fortunate

  • Hearings on Governor’s proposed state budget

  • Bill limiting city authority to ban marijuana businesses has early hearing

  • U.S. Attorney General withdraws federal government’s non-enforcement stance against states with legalized marijuana

  • Governor’s proposed water bill scheduled for Senate hearing

  • Sunshine Committee recommendations bill on Public Records Act is set for an early hearing

  • New wrongful death bill to be heard in House this week

  • Bill to prohibit employers from asking about arrests or convictions will be heard in the House

  • Bill to address gender pay equity scheduled for hearing

  • Military land use compatibility proposal returns

  • Low-income housing property tax bill heard again

  • Bill seeks to specify compliance with apprenticeship utilization requirements

  • Public Depository Task Force finishes work – Treasurer’s Office & OFM make recommendations

  • Hearings scheduled for Voting Rights Act bills that could impact how city councilmembers get elected

  • Legislators return in 2018 with different expectations and challenges – what might it mean for cities?

  • NLC: Net neutrality is just the tip of the preemption iceberg

  • AWC board finalizes legislative priority to address behavioral health challenges

  • Governor’s 2018 budget includes increased law enforcement training

  • Streamlined sales tax mitigation advisory committee meeting

  • Another bill seeks to implement a Washington Voting Rights Act

  • Liquor and Cannabis Board releases marijuana home grow report

  • PERS/TRS 1 COLA recommended by the Select Committee on Pension Policy

  • Paid Family and Medical Leave rulemaking begins this month

  • Joint Transportation Committee hears assessment on Transportation Commission

  • AWC works to develop its economic development priority

  • Governor releases 2018 supplemental budget proposal

  • Apportionment workgroup

  • Business license workgroup

  • 2018 City Legislative Priorities

  • Control of the state Senate shifts –
    How might it impact cities?

  • Workgroup reviewing Washington’s civil asset forfeiture laws

  • Capital budget remains locked up

  • Public records performance metrics in HB 1594 - Guidance expected soon

  • Business license workgroup

  • Business license portal participation

  • Apportionment workgroup

  • Streamlined sales tax studies

  • City leaders present at rural jobs summit

  • "State bank" task force to produce report by the end of the year

  • Innovations and Partnerships in Transportation Conference is December 5 in Tacoma

  • Early action on state Voting Rights Act legislation expected in 2018 session

  • Webinar on new paid sick leave law taking effect January 2018

  • DRS releases updated guidance on the new LEOFF 2 "third party contract rule"

  • Washington State Supreme Court hearing to review state’s McCleary case progress scheduled for Oct. 24

  • City-County Assistance Account 2018 estimates released

  • B&O tax apportionment task force meeting update

  • Streamlined sales tax (SST) mitigation committee input needed

  • Tax reform heats up in the other Washington – SALT on the table

  • AWC participates in APWA conference

  • Ecology seeking input on municipal stormwater permits

  • State releases draft freight system plan

  • Joint policy summit on gang prevention and intervention in Tacoma on Nov. 1

  • Liquor & Cannabis Board studying legalized marijuana home grows – Comments due by Oct. 11

  • Police body camera task force continues to meet, report due by end of year

  • LCB studying options for recreational marijuana home grow

  • WSDOT soliciting feedback on Freight System Plan

  • AWC will be active participant in Ruckelhaus Center’s Roadmap to the Future

  • Ways to engage as AWC prepares 2018 Legislative Priorities

  • State agency engaging in new rulemaking on occupational lead exposure

  • Register for joint summit on gang prevention and intervention, co-hosted by AWC

  • Rulemaking continues on new I-1433 paid sick leave requirement

  • AGO proposes changes to public records Model Rules, deadline for initial comment September 29

  • Task forces on business licenses and B&O tax apportionment begin work

  • Capital budget update

  • AWC participates in housing tools conversation

  • Road mile usage charge study underway

  • New LEOFF 2 contribution change for third party contracts, timeline update from DRS

  • Rulemaking continues on new I-1433 paid sick leave requirement – public comment deadline 9/1

  • New LEOFF 2 contribution change for third party contracts, new policy under scrutiny

  • Small cell facilities were a hot topic this session

  • Unexpected excitement in the transportation world

  • Big issues talked about in public safety & criminal justice

  • Significant developments in personnel and pensions in 2017

  • Marijuana highlights from the 2017 session

  • Big win for AWC, priority public records laws pass this year

  • Public Works Trust Fund lives on

  • Some progress made on affordable housing and homelessness

  • School siting, buildable lands and GMA review addressed during 2017 session

  • Some positive steps forward on the economic development front

  • Several city priorities addressed in 2017-19 operating budget & revenue package, including internet sales tax, but disappointing outcome on property tax cap

  • How to use the 2017 legislative session recap

  • 2017 session recap: It took a record-breaking 193 days to finish, there’s still no capital budget, but overall, city issues were mostly addressed

  • Third special session ends without passage of a capital budget

  • New law may require you to update responsible bidder forms

  • New distracted driving bill now in effect

  • Liquor and Cannabis Board releases 2017 legislative fact sheets

  • Preliminary guidance on new public records reporting requirements

  • Budget includes new LEOFF 2 state/employer contribution shift under special circumstances

  • Webinar on new public records laws now available

  • Implementation of business license bill

  • Marketplace fairness and streamlined sales tax mitigation estimates updated

  • JLARC lodging tax report

  • Capital budget and water deal eludes Legislature

  • Capital budget stalemate intensifies

  • Long-standing AWC priority marketplace fairness act passes as part of budget revenue package

  • Budget includes boost in public defense grants

  • Legislature passes new statewide Paid Family & Medical Leave program

  • Property tax bill not addressed in budget negotiations

  • Rulemaking continues on new paid sick leave requirement – public hearings set

  • Tourism marketing effort revived in final hours of budget negotiations

  • New budget imposes restrictions on local marijuana revenue

  • Where to get more information on the McCleary education funding agreement

  • Capital budget fate still unclear and linked to water rights fight

  • LEOFF 2 state contribution maintained in the 2017-19 budget but other LEOFF 2 changes made

  • Legislature still not finished as AWC begins work identifying priorities for the 2018 session

  • Priority property tax bill

  • Congress in recess – AWC and partners talk infrastructure

  • Attorney General guidance on immigration enforcement

  • New report lays groundwork for a federal Infrastructure Initiative

  • City officials storm Capitol Hill in the other Washington

  • Workers’ compensation reform bill on the move in the Senate

  • Lodging tax bill introduced

  • Proposal to restore city liquor revenue moves out of committee

  • Property tax bills changing the levy limit heard this week

  • City business license and tax bills heard in House and Senate, SSB 5777 moves out of committee

  • House committee considers proposals for local infrastructure funding

  • Competing bills on emergency notices in multiple languages move forward

  • Bill that would change claims process on construction contracts still alive in the Senate

  • Occupational disease bill moves forward

  • AWC priority public records bills advance

  • Deadly force bill moves forward with amendments

  • Bill crafted to increase cities share of marijuana excise taxes

  • Bill that requires collective bargaining sessions to be open amended

  • What 350+ city officials heard in Olympia

  • Legislative Bulletin – City Action Days Recap | Priority bills advance | Hot sheet

  • Bill would give expanded authority to Parking and Business Improvement Areas

  • Bills would allow for greater participation in Main Street Program

  • Bill seeks authority to set speed limits for trains carrying hazardous flammable materials

  • Cities testify against small cell pre-emption bills but the work continues

  • Bill would cap public record penalties in certain cases

  • Bill would authorize the use of automated license plate readers

  • Legislation directs state to develop emergency plans for oil train accidents

  • AWC co-hosts lunch with legislators to discuss funding for removal of fish-blocking culverts

  • Business license and tax bills to be heard in House and Senate – HB 2005, SB 5777

  • Glimmer of hope for the Public Works Trust Fund? Your voices needed!

  • Affordable housing and homelessness bills in play

  • AWC priority public records bills heard in committee on Friday

  • Critical water bills get hearing and one bill advances

  • Bills seek to remedy issues related to abandoned and foreclosed homes

  • AWC Federal Priorities under review

  • Bills impacting city finances introduced

  • Local officials express overwhelming support for new limits on property tax increases

  • Legislative Bulletin – PWTF | Business license bills | Public records bills

  • Policy bills face a key deadline this Friday

  • Ask your legislator to support proposal to restore city and county liquor revenue

  • Sweeping pre-emption of city authority included in small cell deployment bills

  • Proposals expand occupational diseases for police and fire

  • Bills would require prime contractors to bond the subcontractors’ portion of retainage

  • Lots of opposition to bill aimed at claims process in construction contracts

  • Local options for affordable housing bill has public hearing on February 7

  • New responses to the Hirst and Foster water rights court decisions will be heard in the House

  • AWC priority property tax bill gets hearing

  • Source of income discrimination bill gets public hearing

  • With MTCA facing shortfalls a surcharge is being considered again

  • Bill would require public employee collective bargaining sessions to be open, public meetings

  • Authorizing manufactured housing communities outside of Urban Growth Areas (UGAs)

  • Bill would allow employees over 60 the option of opting out of retirement system membership

  • Bills that change deadly force laws get hearings in House and Senate

  • Problematic surplus housing bill surfaces again

  • AWC priority public records bills set for hearing

  • Major proposal on homelessness, preempting cities on encampments, many policy changes

  • New bill restricts city authority to regulate homeless camps operated by religious institutions

  • Bill gives new authority to Boundary Review Boards

  • Bills would require cities to provide emergency notices in languages other than English

  • Bill would shift to the state all regulation and licensing of ride-share companies

  • Working to bring Federal infrastructure investments to Washington

  • Education funding bills start to frame the budget debate, which will reveal the fate of city shared revenues and key programs

  • Update on marijuana bills of interest

  • Legislative Bulletin – City priority bills on the move

  • Confusion and legal questions surround "sanctuary city" executive order

  • AWC priority bill to increase and stabilize homeless funding gets public hearing

  • Authorizing rail dependent uses outside of Urban Growth Areas

  • New Federal Infrastructure Investment?

  • Another busy week for personnel bills

  • Extension of transit-oriented SEPA authority

  • Bill moves forward that penalizes cities for local restrictions on marijuana retailers

  • House Committee considers proposal to restore city and county liquor revenue

  • Bills exempt public employee addresses GPS data from records requests

  • Proposal linking annual property tax increases to inflation and population growth introduced

  • Pavement preservation report bill scheduled for hearing this week

  • Numerous bills address state building codes

  • Bill would pre-empt city authority to offer safe injection sites

  • AWC priority public records bills dropped with broad bipartisan support last week

  • Bill would affect claims on construction contracts

  • Bill would require cities to pay relocation assistance when property is acquired for public purpose

  • Several septic and sewer related bills emerge

  • AWC priority policy bills on the move

  • Legislative Bulletin – Week four and city priority bills are on the move

  • Executive orders 101

  • House and Senate Transportation Committees hear from AWC

  • Bill to promote tourism would divert funds from transportation account

  • Hearings scheduled this week on new employee protections and workers’ compensation reform bills

  • AWC priority liquor revenue bill to be heard in House

  • Bill grants new authorities for public facilities districts

  • Major homelessness funding and GMA buildable lands bill up for hearing on January 26

  • Multiple marijuana bills dropped in House and Senate

  • Bill penalizes cities for restricting marijuana stores advances

  • Significant vesting bill up for consideration

  • Bill would change civil asset forfeiture law and impact law enforcement efforts statewide

  • FCC threatens to limit local land use authority on wireless siting

  • Funding proposal for state’s oil spill prevention activities

  • Inside advice from legislators who’ve been in your shoes

  • Major water bills heard on Tuesday the 24

  • Legislative Bulletin – Day 15 and many bills introduced | Priority bill would restore liquor revenue

  • Is your city eligible for Volkswagen settlement funds?

  • Implementing the family and medical leave insurance program

  • Bill would increase grants for public-use airports

  • Civil asset forfeiture comes under scrutiny by House and Senate committees during first week of session

  • Bill requires cities without bans to issue local marijuana licenses

  • Bill prohibiting the use of eminent domain for economic development purposes surfaces anew

  • Bill aims to reduce overlap between SEPA and other state and local laws

  • Proposal to restore city liquor revenue introduced in House

  • Hearings on Governor’s proposed state budget

  • Dig Law clean-up bill gets hearing

  • Senate committee holds another work session on small cell networks

  • Seven principles guide our work as we represent your state budget interests

  • School siting conversation begins anew

  • Water bills begin to surface

  • Final report released by task force on local tax & licensing simplification

  • Still no agreement about how to fund basic education

  • Studies conclude pension mergers possible

  • Legislation expected on regulation of small cell networks

  • Statewide pharmaceutical take-back program proposed

  • Over at least the next 15 weeks, we will keep you informed and at crucial times, will ask for your help

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