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SB 6001

Concerning scissor stair regulations in the state building code.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jess Bateman and 2 co-sponsors

SB 6001 updates Washington's building code scissor stair standards, potentially affecting residential construction density, safety requirements, and housing costs statewide.

Senate Rules "X" file.
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Bill Summary · SB 6001

Legislative bill overview

SB 6001 modifies Washington State's building code to establish or revise regulations governing scissor stairs—a space-efficient stair design where two flights interlock in a crisscross pattern. The bill has advanced through the Senate Housing Committee with a substitute amendment and is currently in the Rules Committee for potential floor consideration.

Why is this important

Scissor stair regulations directly affect residential and commercial construction costs, building density, and housing accessibility. Updating these standards can either enable more compact development (potentially increasing housing supply) or impose stricter safety/design requirements depending on the specific code changes included in the substitute bill.

Potential points of contention

  • Housing density vs. safety concerns: Scissor stairs allow tighter floor plans but may raise questions about egress safety, accessibility for people with disabilities, and emergency evacuation routes
  • Construction cost implications: Stricter regulations could increase building expenses and housing costs, while looser standards might reduce compliance burden but raise safety questions
  • Limited public information: The substitute bill's specific language is not publicly detailed here, making it unclear whether changes are restrictive or permissive—stakeholders may disagree on the direction

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

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