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

This legislative session was relatively quiet for infrastructure-related legislation, but there were several key issues that cropped up.

One of AWC’s 2020 priorities was to increase funding for the Public Works Trust Fund (PWTF). This revolving loan fund is a critical source of funding for local government infrastructure projects and has been drastically underfunded for multiple biennia. Last year, an infusion of $95 million in new funding was secured in the budget and we hoped to add additional funding during the supplemental budget this year. Unfortunately, the final budget did not contain additional infrastructure dollars, but it did maintain the funding that was provided last year.

A few other policy bills related to infrastructure and public works passed this session. AWC worked closely with industry and public agency stakeholders to develop and pass legislation requiring manufacturers to label their nonflushable disposable wipe products. HB 2565 is a first in the nation law which grants local governments power to enforce the labeling standards. A big thank you to Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon (D–Burien) who sponsored the legislation.

AWC was also active on HB 2850, which would have increased requirements for local government construction projects that potentially impact tribal resources. While the bill did not pass, we are committed to working on the issue through the interim with the sponsor, Rep. Deb Lekanoff (D–La Conner).

AWC appreciates the engagement and support from our members in efforts to fully funding the Public Works Trust Fund. We intend to continue the push for additional resources to the PWTF and will work through the interim to prepare for next session. Be sure to let your local legislators know about the value of the PWTF for your communities and residents.

City priorities – Outcomes

The Legislature:

PRO: Passed supplemental budgets that did not sweep any additional funds out of the PWTF.

CON: Continued diversions and sweeps from the PWTF that were adopted in the 2019 session.