Complete Story
02/10/2025
Washington State Legislative Update – Key Issues for Pest Management Professionals
Government Affairs
February 2025
The Washington State Legislature is in session, and several bills may impact pest management professionals and business owners. Thanks to Washington Friends of Farms & Forest for their ongoing advocacy and legislative updates. Here are the key issues to watch:
1. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) & Recycling Regulations
- HB 1071 (Support) – Improves recycling rates while including an exemption for pesticide and fertilizer packaging used in agriculture and commercial applications. This protects pest management businesses from unnecessary costs.
- HB 1150 (Oppose) – Requires producers to fund post-consumer recycling programs, which could increase costs for businesses relying on certain packaging materials.
2. Pesticide Application Safety Committee Extension (HB 1294 – Support)
- Extends the Pesticide Application Safety Committee from 2025 to 2035, ensuring continued industry oversight and best practices in pesticide application.
3. Low Carbon Fuel Standard (HB 1409 – Monitor Closely)
- Proposes changes to clean fuel requirements that could increase transportation costs for businesses. Fuel prices directly impact service rates and operational expenses.
4. Agriculture Workers Overtime Exemption (HB 1597 – Support)
- Would allow agricultural employers to select 12 weeks a year where workers could work up to 50 hours before overtime applies. While focused on agriculture, this could set a precedent for labor regulations in pest management.
5. PFAS Testing of Biosolids (HB 5033 – Monitor Closely)
- While not directly impacting pest control, regulations on PFAS (forever chemicals) testing in biosolids could indicate future environmental compliance trends affecting pesticides.
6. Rent Control (HB 1217 – Monitor for Business Impact)
- Would cap rent increases at 7% annually after the first year of tenancy. Business owners who lease office or storage space may see new restrictions on rent adjustments.
Next Steps for Pest Professionals
- Stay engaged! Follow legislative updates and be aware of any potential changes that could impact your business.
- Advocate for your industry. Consider reaching out to legislators to support or oppose bills that directly impact pest management professionals.
- Watch for amendments and exemptions – particularly on HB 1071 to ensure continued protection for pesticide packaging.
Special thanks to Washington Friends of Farms & Forest for their continued advocacy on behalf of our industry.
For more updates and ways to take action, stay connected with WSPMA.
