Rep. Kevin Waters

Maddy summaryHB 1346 removes a restriction requiring cannabis business investors to be Washington residents, allowing out-of-state investment like venture capital and equity funding for the first time. This change directly affects cannabis businesses seeking growth capital, particularly small or community-based operators, by aligning Washington's rules with other legal cannabis states. The bill also adds provisions to suspend inactive cannabis producer licenses to address market oversupply, pending potential federal or interstate cannabis markets. These updates amend licensing rules under RCW 69.50.325 and 69.50.331 without altering product regulations or safety standards.

Maddy summaryHB 1633 modifies bidding requirements for prime contractors on public works projects costing $1,000,000 or more for state and local entities. It requires prime contractors to submit the names and proof of license for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical subcontractors *at* the bid submittal time, allowing 48 hours for license corrections. Additionally, prime contractors must submit names of structural steel and rebar subcontractors within 48 hours after the bid submittal. The bill prohibits "bid shopping" or "bid peddling" and specifies valid reasons for substituting a listed subcontractor.

Maddy summaryHB 1731 updates how Washington state museums and historical societies manage unclaimed property and items on loan. It revises the notification process for property owners, requiring an initial certified mail attempt followed by public notice using digital methods like websites or social media, or physical postings, for three consecutive weeks. The bill also establishes a new procedure for property found without donor documentation, requiring public notice on the museum's website or physical premises. If no claim of ownership is made within 90 days after the final required notice, the property's title transfers to the museum or historical society.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 4650 is a commemorative resolution recognizing Representative Bruce Q. Chandler for his 26 years of distinguished service to the 15th Legislative District and the State of Washington. It honors his contributions in areas such as agriculture, business, early learning, and state budgeting.

Maddy summaryHB 1698 updates Washington state's liquor permit and licensing provisions. The bill amends existing laws governing special permits for purchasing and consuming liquor, affecting various businesses, institutions, and individuals. One specific change removes the special permit category that allowed military installations to purchase liquor for use on their premises. It also renumbers the subsequent categories of special permits.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 4664 is a commemorative bill that honors the life and legacy of former Speaker Frank Chopp. It recognizes his extensive public service, advocacy for social justice and housing, and his record as the longest-serving Speaker in Washington state history.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies regulations for domestic breweries in Washington state, particularly concerning their food service operations. It allows domestic breweries holding a beer and/or wine or spirits, beer, and wine restaurant license to subcontract their food service requirements, rather than managing them directly. This change helps these breweries meet the necessary food service provisions for their restaurant licenses. Additionally, the bill updates rules for breweries acting as distributors or retailers and selling bottled beer at qualifying farmers markets.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1609 amends RCW 43.30.205, a state law that defines the composition of a specific six-member board. This board includes the Governor, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, a Commissioner, and representatives from university forest and agricultural science programs. The bill also outlines the selection process for a county representative on this board, chosen by legislative authorities

Maddy summaryHB 1606 directs the Washington state institute for public policy to conduct a study on providing state employees with electronic access to peer-reviewed journals. The study will investigate potential funding, organizational structures, and policy mechanisms to facilitate this access. Its purpose is to improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness for state agencies that currently face challenges in accessing these academic, scholarly, or scientific publications. The institute must complete and submit the study to relevant legislative committees by June 30, 2026. This section of the act is set to expire on June 30, 2027.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1760 aims to remove regulatory barriers for organizations that sell manufactured homes to low-income households at cost. The bill directly affects these organizations and the low-income individuals they serve by facilitating access to affordable housing options. It achieves this by amending RCW 46.70.011, which pertains to vehicle dealer regulations and related definitions. This change is intended to streamline the process for these specific types of manufactured home sales.