House approves two‑hour behavioral‑health training for construction apprentices and trades

The Washington State House approved substitute House Bill 24 92, which requires two hours of behavioral and mental‑health training for building‑trades apprentices and, with an amendment, expanded to help experienced craftspeople. The bill passed on a recorded vote of 79 yays, 16 nays and 3 excused.

Representative Nance, the bill sponsor, described the training as a "proactive preventative strategy," citing high on‑the‑job fatality and suicide rates in construction and arguing the training would equip workers to "spot" warning signs, connect colleagues to help and reduce overdoses. "This modest training requirement helps workers better navigate the demands of their job," Nance said.

Supporters including Representative Schmidt framed the bill as lifesaving and practical: "We need to change the culture... and we're going to give them the information of where they can go to get help." Opponents argued the addition of even modest training requirements can accumulate into regulatory burdens that increase construction costs and slow building. Representative Jacobson urged a no vote, warning about the cumulative effect of repeated training mandates on builders' costs.

The bill advanced and was declared passed; the House record shows a 79‑16‑3 vote.

What happens next: With House passage complete, the bill will be sent to the Senate for its consideration.