This report explores the existing authority that cities have in Washington to make decisions and laws close to home. The need for local control dates back to our state’s founding in 1889, when delegates assembled in Olympia to frame the state constitution with specific protections for city authority. Learn about the history of local control and the events that followed, including legal attempts to clarify or even undermine this authority.

This report:

• Outlines the history of local decision-making (home rule) in Washington;
• Examines the case law underlying the interpretation of city powers;
• Provides background on preemption of local powers by the state;
• Contains examples showing how preemption impacts cities; and
• Delivers guidance for communicating about the importance of local authority with legislators and your community.