As Washington prepares for the 2026 legislative session, retailers can expect a fast-moving and consequential 60 days. Despite record revenues, state spending has continued to accelerate, prompting lawmakers to revisit a wide range of tax concepts including renewed discussions around wealth and intangibles taxes, property tax cap increases, and sector- or product-specific fees.
Public safety will again be one of the most dominant themes. With Washington continuing to experience some of the highest rates of retail theft and organized retail crime in the nation, legislators are preparing to advance proposals that increase penalties for coordinated theft rings, improve accountability for repeat offenders, and strengthen local ORC task-force funding.
Environmental and sustainability policy will also play a significant role this session, with expected proposals around expanded producer responsibility programs, new packaging and chemical standards, and renewed interest in a statewide bottle-deposit system or further restrictions on plastic products.
Meanwhile, policymakers are preparing to revisit several major issues in technology and consumer data, including AI transparency requirements, deepfake and content-verification standards, and broad updates to consumer privacy law.
Employment and workforce policy will add further complexity, with anticipated debates around minimum wage increases, scheduling mandates, PFML adjustments, workplace-monitoring rules, and long-term sustainability concerns within the state’s unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation systems.
The WR team will be working hard in Olympia to ensure that retail industry is well-represented as we advocate for policies that support safe stores, a strong workforce, and a competitive business climate. The upcoming session presents both significant challenges and meaningful opportunities to shape balanced, practical policy solutions.
