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Washington Senate confirms three gubernatorial appointees and clears package of House bills including AI chatbot limits and passenger-only ferry rules
Summary
The Washington State Senate confirmed three gubernatorial appointments and passed a broad set of House bills on March 5, 2026, including measures to regulate AI companion chatbots, allow passenger-only ferries with environmental protections, and adjust rules for timberland REET and traffic-safety reviews. The body recessed for lunch and caucus after a series of roll-call votes.
The Washington State Senate met in Olympia on March 5, 2026, confirming three gubernatorial appointments and approving a wide slate of House bills that drew debate across policy areas.
Senators confirmed Kristen L. Fraser to the Board of Tax Appeals after Senator Robinson introduced her qualifications, including University of Washington degrees and experience as a tax referee. "Kristen has a brilliant mind and a servant's heart," Robinson said while urging confirmation. The roll call showed 48 yeas, 0 nays and 1 excused and the appointment was confirmed.
The chamber also confirmed Sharmila Swenson to the Highline College Board of Trustees following remarks from Senator Nobles about Swenson's professional background at Symetra and prior service on a community college board; the roll call recorded 47 yeas, 1 nay and 1 excused. Robert A. Battles was confirmed to the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals after senators cited his legal and workers'-compensation background; that confirmation passed by a similar recorded margin.
On legislation, senators advanced and passed a set of House bills covering disparate areas. House Bill…
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