SB 5261, sponsored by Sen. Hans Zeiger (R–Puyallup), creates a pilot program for certain cities to hire persons experiencing homelessness for local beautification projects.

The bill directs the department of commerce to create the pilot program. The program must include three cities, two on the westside and one on the eastside of the Cascades. The cities selected are strongly encouraged to administer their programs during the summer months.

The workers would be paid at least the local minimum wage and must be connected with organizations that provide wraparound housing services. However, the workers would not be considered city employees. The pilot program expires July 1, 2022, and the participating cities are required provide a report to the Legislature by December 1, 2022.

Dates to remember

SB 5261 is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Housing Stability & Affordability Committee at 1:30 pm on Wednesday, January 23.