OLYMPIA – The Washington State House of Representatives passed House Bill 1302, allowing municipalities to waive utility connection charges for organizations practicing industrial symbiosis. This initiative promotes sustainability, resource efficiency, and economic development.
Sponsored by Rep. Julio Cortes (D-Everett), HB 1302 supports industries reducing waste by repurposing byproducts. Industrial symbiosis fosters collaboration, enhances efficiency, and minimizes environmental impact.
“This is a major step toward sustainable business practices,” said Cortes. “Supporting industrial symbiosis strengthens local economies while conserving resources.”
Inspired by successful models in Denmark, the bill encourages Washington businesses to innovate while reducing operational costs. Public ports and economic stakeholders strongly support this approach.
HB 1302 builds off legislation Cortes introduced last year, HB 1326, which helped non-profits, transitional and permanent supportive housing, and emergency shelters establish services quicker by giving municipalities the ability to waive utility connection charges.
The bill now moves to the Senate. If enacted, HB 1302 will position Washington as a leader in sustainability and industrial innovation.