Committee debates study of 5G and RF effects on wildlife and children; bipartisan concerns about timing and methodology leave measure unresolved

Sponsor Representative Tracy Quint asked the Energy, Utilities and Technology Committee to create an independent commission to review scientific literature on the effects of 5G and other non‑ionizing radiofrequency (RF) technologies on birds, bees, insects, other wildlife and on long‑term and acute RF exposure in children (LD 878). The resolve would have directed the commission to report to the EUT and Education and Cultural Affairs committees by December 3, 2025.

Witnesses and committee members pressed on two core issues: (1) whether a short study window would allow a credible, methodical synthesis of the scientific literature and (2) how to avoid biased or selective use of research. Andrew Thatcher, a radio‑frequency specialist who previously served as an RF expert for the Washington State Department of…