SPOKANE, Wash. — Inland Northwest lawmakers are heading to their state capitals in the next week with packed agendas that could reshape how residents live, work, and pay taxes.
Idaho legislators convene in Boise on Monday, January 6, while Washington lawmakers return to Olympia on Monday, January 13, for their respective sessions.
However, what we know now depends on the state. Washington allows lawmakers to file bills early, giving voters a preview of what’s coming, while Idaho keeps its cards close to the vest until the session begins.
Washington lawmakers have already filed dozens of proposals.
In those proposals, a significant target is sexually violent predators. Senate Bill 5854 would require offenders to show remorse and complete treatment before release. Lawmakers drafted the bipartisan measure after Kevin Coe, Spokane’s notorious South Hill Rapist, walked free recently.
Another bill tackles a problem millions face twice yearly. House Bill 2119 would eliminate daylight saving time in Washington. Supporters argue that the clock changes harm public health and disrupt sleep patterns. Previous attempts have stalled, but lawmakers continue pushing the change.
Parents watching school budgets shrink will follow House Bill 2147 closely. The measure calls for increased education funding to combat inflation’s impact on classroom resources. Lawmakers say schools need more money to maintain purchasing power for basic supplies and operations.
Tax relief dominates several other proposals. Three separate bills would restore tax exemptions on purchases of gold, silver, and other precious metals.
Previous coverage – Washington implements new sales tax on precious metals starting January 1
Another measure targets the hefty nicotine tax that took effect recently, which nearly doubled costs for tobacco users.
Washington lawmakers are also considering lowering the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers from 0.08% to 0.05%.
Previous coverage – WA lawmakers push to lower legal BAC driving limit to 0.05%
Yet not prefiled, the likely proposal follows data showing little progress in reducing drunk driving deaths across the state.
Time pressure will drive decision-making in Olympia. Washington operates under a short legislative session this year, forcing lawmakers to prioritize quickly or watch bills die.
You can stay up to date on current legislation in Idaho here and in Washington here.