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Bill would create statewide low‑income energy assistance program to address $270M estimated need

Washington State Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee · February 18, 2026
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Summary

HB 1903 would establish a phased, statewide low‑income energy assistance program administered by Commerce, designed to build on existing utility and community action agency programs; supporters say the state faces about $270–275 million in unmet annual need for energy assistance.

Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1903 would create a statewide low‑income energy assistance program at the Department of Commerce to reduce energy burden for households across Washington. Committee staff described the program as phased in subject to appropriation, with enrollment options via utilities, community action agencies, or direct application, and a requirement that participating utilities not reduce existing assistance levels.

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