OLYMPIA – Washington will continue to lead on clean energy infrastructure thanks to HB 1461, sponsored by Rep. Chris Stearns (D-Auburn).
The bill, signed by Governor Ferguson on April 16, modernizes contracting requirements for Joint Operating Agencies (JOAs) and Public Utility Districts (PUDs) and aligns standards between agencies, making it easier to Build and manage power generation and transmission projects.
“We’ve seen how rising costs can slow down power projects, especially when multiple agencies are involved,” said Rep. Stearns. “If we’re going to meet Washington’s future energy needs, which are increasing and urgent, we’ve got to make sure our agencies are empowered to respond to changing markets when building our new power generating plants.”
Bid thresholds are updated to better reflect current economic conditions for materials, equipment, or supply purchases, and large construction projects involving single or multiple trades.
There is no fiscal appropriation and the bill will take effect 90 days after the legislative session adjourns.