HOUSE BILL REPORT
HB 1608
As Reported by House Committee On:
Agriculture & Natural Resources
Title: An act relating to the selling, possessing, transporting, and distributing of farmed octopus.
Brief Description: Concerning the selling, possessing, transporting, and distributing of farmed octopus.
Sponsors: Representatives Peterson, Berg, Fitzgibbon, Chase, Walen, Farivar, Leavitt, Ramel, Gregerson, Parshley, Reed, Bernbaum, Goodman, Springer, Kloba, Hill, Macri, Fosse and Davis.
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Agriculture & Natural Resources: 2/14/25, 1/14/26 [DP].
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits the sale, possession, transport, and distribution of farmed octopus.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & NATURAL RESOURCES
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by 6 members:Representatives Reeves, Chair; Morgan, Vice Chair; Bernbaum, Nance, Richards and Springer.
Minority Report: Do not pass.Signed by 2 members:Representatives Orcutt and Schmick.
Minority Report: Without recommendation.Signed by 3 members:Representatives Dent, Ranking Minority Member; Engell, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; McClintock.
Staff: Lily Smith (786-7175).
Background:

Aquaculture is the process of growing, farming, or cultivating private sector cultured aquatic products in marine or fresh waters.  Legislation enacted in 2024 prohibits octopus aquaculture in Washington.

 

The Department of Agriculture regulates the production and sale of certain food products for the purposes of food safety, quality, and security.

 

Multiple laws, including the Consumer Protection Act, authorize the Attorney General to bring civil actions on behalf of the state.
Summary of Bill:

The knowing sale, possession, transport, or distribution of octopus that is a result or product of aquaculture is prohibited.

 

A violation of this prohibition is subject to a civil penalty of up to $1,000.  The Attorney General may bring a civil action in the name of the state for recovery of the penalty.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony:

See Committee Records from the 2025 Legislative Session.
Persons Testifying:

See Committee Records from the 2025 Legislative Session.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying:

See Committee Records from the 2025 Legislative Session.