SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6289
As of January 27, 2026
Title: An act relating to the creation of a statewide economic development and competitiveness strategic plan.
Brief Description: Creating a statewide economic development and competitiveness strategic plan.
Sponsors: Senators Kauffman, Cortes, Wilson, C., Hasegawa, Lovick, Nobles, Shewmake and Valdez.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Business, Trade & Economic Development: 1/29/26.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Requires the Department of Commerce to create an economic development and competitiveness strategic plan.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON BUSINESS, TRADE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Staff: William Bridges (786-7312)
Background:

The Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce) is the lead state agency charged with enhancing and promoting sustainable community and economic vitality in Washington. Among its legislatively stated responsibilities is to cooperate with the Legislature and the Governor in the development and implementation of strategic plans for the state's community and economic development efforts.

 

The Governor’s Supplemental Operating Budget Appropriations for 2025-2027. The Governor’s supplemental 2025-27 budget provisos from $150,000 of Commerce’s base budget, to initiate a statewide economic development and competitiveness strategic plan. At a minimum, the plan must establish goals and strategies for state-supported economic development activities in the state, utilizing analysis of economic and industry data. Commerce must inform the Governor and Legislature of its progress by November 1, 2026.
Summary of Bill:

Requiring the Development of an Economic Development Strategy. Commerce is required to develop a statewide economic development and competitiveness strategic plan. At a minimum, the plan must establish goals and strategies for state-supported economic development activities in the state, utilizing analysis of economic and industry data. The plan must be completed by November 1, 2026, and updated every two years thereafter. Completed plans must be delivered to the appropriate committees of the Legislature.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 22, 2026.
Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.