Appropriations Committee advances bill to encourage consistent local housing code standards

The Washington House Appropriations Committee on Oct. 12 voted to report Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5613 out of committee with a due-pass recommendation, 23-8.

Supporters told the committee the bill would provide clearer, more objective code provisions that could reduce costs and appeals for cities and make development easier across jurisdictions. "We've heard from developers that if they could have similar code provisions, across communities, not exactly the same, but similar code provisions that were easy to understand, that were, say, clear and objective, that that would make their work a lot easier in developing the housing that we need," Representative Peterson said.

The measure would not require identical ordinances in every city but would seek to offer consistent, easy-to-understand provisions that supporters say could lower appeals and legal costs.

Opponents urged caution because a comparable Oregon law is facing legal challenges. "This law was based on a law in the state of Oregon, and, this law is currently having many, many legal challenges right now to it. And I think it would be good to kind of watch and see what happens in the state of Oregon, with this law before we put it into place," Representative Connors said, and said she would encourage a no vote on that basis.

Committee staff conducted an oral roll call after discussion; the tally announced was 23 ayes, 8 nays and 0 excused. The committee chair then reported the bill out of Appropriations as amended with a due-pass recommendation.

The committee record shows debate focused on striking a balance between predictability for developers and preserving the role of local governments in code development. No final floor actions or effective dates were set in the committee record.

Votes at a glance: Engrossed Second Substitute Senate Bill 5613 — reported out of committee with a due-pass recommendation; committee vote 23-8.