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This June 2025 briefing presented to the Port of Seattle Commission reviews the outcomes of the 2025 Washington State Legislative Session, covering the state budget, major revenue legislation, and Port of Seattle policy priorities. It highlights legislative successes and ongoing work, as well as planning for the 2026 interim period. Note: this document focuses on statewide budget and Port priorities broadly and does not specifically address Sea-Tac Airport noise policy.

Washington State Senate Bill 5195 is a capital budget act for the 2025-2027 biennium, appropriating funds for various state construction and infrastructure projects. It includes allocations for projects such as stadium security and field improvements to support Seattle's hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, early learning facility upgrades, and other general government building needs. The bill covers spending from the effective date of the act through June 30, 2027, drawing from several state funds.

Substitute Senate Bill 5195 is a Washington State capital budget bill that appropriates funding for various state capital projects for the period ending June 30, 2027. Originally sponsored by Senators Trudeau, Schoesler, Chapman, Dozier, and Nobles at the request of the Office of Financial Management, the bill amends numerous existing state laws and allocates funds across state agencies and programs. It establishes definitions, conditions, and limitations governing how appropriated funds may be spent, lapsed, or reappropriated.

This proposed Washington State bill would require large port districts — such as those operating major airports like Sea-Tac — to develop and adopt environmental justice implementation plans aimed at reducing health and environmental disparities in surrounding communities. The plans must include specific goals, measurable metrics, community engagement strategies, and timelines for incorporating environmental justice considerations into port activities. It also establishes oversight for major capital projects valued at $8 million or more, or any actions that increase the number of airport gates.

House Bill 1303, titled 'Environmental Justice,' is a Washington State legislative proposal whose fiscal note estimates total operating expenditures of approximately $21.3 million across multiple state agencies for the 2025–27 biennium, with similar costs projected through 2031. The largest spending impacts fall on the Department of Natural Resources (~$17.8 million) and the Department of Ecology, while agencies such as the Administrative Office of the Courts report no fiscal impact. Several agencies, including the Department of Transportation and State Parks and Recreation Commission, report non-zero but indeterminate costs that require further review.

The City of SeaTac's 2025 State Legislative Agenda outlines the city's top priorities and policy goals for the Washington State Legislature, with aviation impacts—including airport noise and soundproofing—listed as a leading concern. The City specifically urges the Legislature to allocate an additional $5 million to the Port District Equity Fund, established in 2024, to repair failed soundproofing in homes affected by Seattle-Tacoma International Airport noise. Additional priorities include fire service funding, public safety, affordable housing, and infrastructure investments tied to the city's unique role as host to the region's major international airport.