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Bill

HB 1354

Concerning coverage of legislative session employees in the insurance programs offered by the public employees' benefits board.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Stephanie Barnard and 18 co-sponsors

HB 1354 extends state health insurance coverage to Washington legislative session employees, expanding PEBB eligibility to previously excluded part-time legislative staff.

First reading, referred to Appropriations.
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Bill Summary · HB 1354

Legislative bill overview

HB 1354 extends health insurance coverage through Washington's Public Employees' Benefits Board (PEBB) to legislative session employees—typically part-time staff who work during the state legislature's annual sessions. Currently, these employees are excluded from PEBB coverage despite performing essential legislative functions. The bill would make them eligible for the same health insurance benefits available to other state employees.

Why is this important

Legislative session employees fill critical roles in state government but historically lack employer-sponsored health insurance, creating a coverage gap for a working population. Including them in PEBB would provide health security for these workers and potentially improve retention and recruitment for legislative positions. This also affects state budget priorities, as expanded coverage increases the state's insurance expenditures.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: The bill increases state spending on employee benefits; the actual cost depends on how many session employees enroll and their demographics, which the Appropriations Committee will scrutinize
  • Definition and scope: Uncertainty about which legislative employees qualify (full session only? interim committee staff?) and whether this sets precedent for other part-time state workers seeking similar benefits
  • Budget priorities: Competing claims on state resources during a period of fiscal constraints may create opposition to expanding benefit programs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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