WR is closely monitoring the bills that have advanced through the legislative process. Each week, we’ll spotlight our weekly “hot list” key legislation that could have the most significant impact on WR members.
Grocery Algorithmic Pricing (HB 2481)
This bill addresses the use of algorithmic pricing in grocery retail. Proponents argue the legislation is necessary to prevent discriminatory individualized pricing through digital price tags; however, as drafted, the bill is overly broad and would effectively prohibit routine and consumer-friendly pricing practices, including sales, flash discounts, coupons, and targeted discounts for groups such as seniors and veterans. WR is working closely with other grocery retail associations to pursue amendments that would narrow the bill’s scope and preserve standard pricing practices.
Position: WR opposes this bill, the goal is to move toward a neutral position through meaningful amendments.
Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA) (SB 5976/HB 2274)
CEMA Legislation Gains momentum: Washington’s Commercial Electronic Mail Act (CEMA) legislation advanced last week with a public hearing on House Bill 2274 in the House Consumer Protection & Business Committee. The bill seeks to clarify the law following a recent court interpretation that has triggered a surge in litigation over routine marketing emails. Momentum increased following the public hearing, and the bill has since been amended to address concerns raised by the Attorney General’s Office (AGO), with executive scheduled in the House committee on January 27, there was no action taken on this bill. The Senate companion bill is scheduled for a public hearing on January 29. WR issued an Action Alert urging subscribers to email the House Consumer Protection & Business Committee members and ask them to vote in support of HB 2274 as amended, while actively organizing testimony panels featuring small business owners, retailers, and legal experts to build strong support. Discussions with the AGO have been productive, with the office providing constructive feedback rather than outright opposition and expected to submit formal comments ahead of the next hearing. WR will continue vote-counting, finalize amendment strategy, and coordinate testimony panels in preparation for upcoming committee action and hearings.
Position: WR supports this bill.
Status: Public hearing on January 29.
Millionaire‘s Tax
Governor Ferguson proposed “Millionaire’s Tax” income tax legislation, noting that draft language is circulating and will be shared with PGAC members along with a summary. The proposal would impose a 9.9% income tax on Washington taxable income for individuals and would apply to pass-through entities such as LLCs, PLLCs, S-Corps, and partnerships. While the bill attempts to limit impacts on employers, it includes credit mechanisms for taxes paid to other states and for Washington B&O and public utility taxes. Due to its broad reach and potential impacts on many taxpayers and small businesses, careful review is required.
Position: WR has concerns with this tax.
Pathway to unionizing security guard by establishing an industry standard board (HB 2524)
This bill would establish an industry standards board for security guards with authority to set requirements for training, wages, benefits, and working conditions, create a private right of action, and fund its operations through workers’ compensation premium dollars. WR is opposing the bill due to concerns about significant cost increases, added regulatory burden, and heightened litigation exposure for employers. A public hearing is scheduled for next Tuesday.
Position: WR is opposed to this bill.
