As the 2026 session approaches, WR has set a focused legislative agenda to support a competitive retail climate in Washington state. Priorities span taxation, public safety, technology, workforce, consumer protection, environmental policy, and regulatory enforcement.
On the issues of taxation and revenue, WR will advocate for restraint in new taxes and fees, stronger accountability for state spending, and greater transparency in fiscal notes and public information.
Addressing persistent retail theft and organized retail crime, WR will seek targeted penalties for repeat offenders, improved data sharing, and grants that help small retailers invest in prevention tools.
WR supports balanced oversight of artificial intelligence and data use that prioritizes high risk applications while preserving beneficial retail innovation.
With legislation onemployment law and consumer protection, WR will promote clarity, predictability, and cost conscious approaches that avoid overlapping or duplicative requirements.
The agenda also calls for fair licensing and payment processing costs, practical environmental standards, and enforcement models that emphasize agency led compliance and opportunities to correct issues before litigation.
Read the full WR 2026 Legislative Priorities.
