HOUSE BILL REPORT
SSB 6149
As Passed House:
March 3, 2026
Title: An act relating to the definition of "rural county" for purposes of public facilities funding.
Brief Description: Concerning the definition of "rural county" for purposes of public facilities funding.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Business, Trade & Economic Development (originally sponsored by Senators Wilson, J., Dozier, Short and Chapman).
Brief History:
Committee Activity:
Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans: 2/24/26, 2/25/26 [DP].
Floor Activity:
Passed House: 3/3/26, 93-1.
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill
  • Expands the definition of rural county to include a county with a population density of 100 persons per square mile or greater, with no city with a population greater than 45,000 persons.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, & VETERANS
Majority Report: Do pass.Signed by 10 members:Representatives Ryu, Chair; Kloba, Vice Chair; Cortes, Donaghy, Keaton, Paul, Penner, Shavers, Simmons and Thomas.
Staff: Emily Poole (786-7106).
Background:

A rural county is defined as a county with a population density of fewer than 100 persons per square mile or a county smaller than 225 square miles, as determined by the Office of Financial Management.

 

Several statutes use this definition, including but not limited to statutes referencing public facilities loans and grants, the coordination of community and economic development services, and excise taxes.  As of 2025, there are 29 rural counties.
Summary of Bill:

The definition of rural county is expanded such that a county with a population density of 100 persons per square mile or greater, with no city with a population greater than 45,000 persons, is also defined as a rural county.
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:

(In support) This bill will allow certain counties like Cowlitz County with generally low population density, and with no large cities, to be considered rural counties.  The bill creates a new category of rural county, and it takes a forward-thinking approach by putting a cap on how large the largest city may be in such a county.  This bill will have a positive impact for economic development.

 

(Opposed) None.
Persons Testifying:

Senator Jeff Wilson, prime sponsor.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: None.