Washington House passes package of bills on permits, health access, supervision and Good Samaritan updates

The Washington State House of Representatives passed a package of third‑reading measures Wednesday, advancing changes to administrative appeals, health‑services access, community supervision for stalking offenses and Good Samaritan protections after floor debate and recorded votes.

Representative Birnbaum summarized House Bill 24‑26 as a targeted change to “increase the efficiency of the permit appeal process by the Pollution Control Hearings Board,” saying it would help the state attract industrial investment. Representative Abell echoed support, describing the measure’s voluntary option for parties to agree to an alternate board composition. The House recorded 96 yays, 0 nays on final passage and the bill was declared passed.

Engrossed substitute House Bill 22‑42, substituted as recommended by the Healthcare and Wellness Committee, drew a series of floor amendments and discussion aimed at preserving access to no‑ or low‑cost preventive services and immunizations. Representative Marshall moved amendment 15‑22, saying the change “simply clarifies the intent language to ensure that while the bill is not creating vaccine mandates, that it is also not intended to create any extra regulations or barriers surrounding enrollment in schools or into daycare.” Representative Bernofsky urged members to preserve current access to preventive services and immunizations. Opponents raised concerns about Department of Health discretion; Representative Marshall warned the department “could shop for experts that would support whatever their position was.” The engrossed substitute passed on a recorded vote, 57 yays to 39 nays.

House Bill 25‑10, which adds stalking to the list of offenses subject to community custody supervision adjustments, was presented by Representative Burnett, who said the change was driven by victims’ testimony and advocacy. Representative Davis, among others, recounted personal and constituent experiences and urged support. The chamber recorded 96 yays, 0 nays and declared the bill passed.

Representative Macri introduced Engrossed House Bill 15‑74 as updates to the state’s Good Samaritan law to protect people seeking emergency help for overdoses and to expand certain health‑care facility supports. The bill prompted extended debate with several members opposing on grounds they said would enable continued drug use or impede law enforcement. Representative Graham said he supported a different approach focused on treatment access; Representative Griffey warned police might miss opportunities to apprehend people subject to warrants if responders are shielded. After floor remarks, the measure passed 55 yays, 42 nays, 1 excused.

Separately, the House adopted House Resolution 4689 honoring the Seattle Seahawks by unanimous consent. The Rules Committee was relieved of several bills and those measures were placed on second‑ and third‑reading calendars. The House adjourned by unanimous consent until 9 a.m. Thursday, February 12.

Votes at a glance: Engrossed HB 23‑17 (reconsideration and passage) — 96‑0; HB 24‑26 — 96‑0; Engrossed substitute HB 22‑42 — 57‑39; HB 25‑10 — 96‑0; Engrossed HB 15‑74 — 55‑42‑1 excused.

The next floor action is scheduled for the next legislative day following the House’s stated adjournment time.