A bill that would create an Extreme Weather Response Grant program is scheduled for a hearing the first week of the 2023 legislative session.

HB 1012, sponsored by Representative Mari Leavitt (D–University Place), establishes a grant program for cities and federally recognized tribes to receive reimbursements for costs associated with activities such as establishing and operating emergency warming and cooling centers, purchasing supplies including food and water, transporting people and pets, and staffing.

HB 1012 is similar to HB 1620 that was introduced during the 2022 session and made it through the House but failed to pass the House Rules Committee in time.

AWC supports this effort to provide assistance to cities in responding to extreme weather emergencies.

Dates to remember

HB 1012 is scheduled for public hearing and for an executive session in the House Committee on Innovation, Community & Economic Development, & Veterans on January 10 at 10:30 am.