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Bill

HB 1606

Concerning state employee access to peer-reviewed journals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Bernbaum and 10 co-sponsors

Washington requires state agencies to provide employees access to peer-reviewed journals through subscriptions, consortial agreements, or open-access options to support evidence-based policy work.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · HB 1606

Legislative bill overview

HB 1606 requires the state of Washington to provide state employees with access to peer-reviewed scientific and academic journals, either through institutional subscriptions, consortial agreements, or open-access alternatives. The bill aims to ensure that public employees can access current research without financial barriers that might impede their work and decision-making.

Why is this important

State employees across agencies—from health departments to environmental protection to education—often need access to peer-reviewed research to inform policy decisions, regulations, and public health initiatives. Journal subscription costs have risen dramatically, creating barriers where public employees funded by taxpayers lack access to knowledge that private sector workers can easily obtain. This bill addresses a real equity issue in how government agencies function and make evidence-based decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Determining how much the state will spend on subscriptions versus negotiating open-access agreements, and which agencies receive priority funding
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether all state employees qualify or if access is limited to certain job categories, and whether this extends to contractors and temporary workers
  • Open-access preference: Potential tension between pushing publishers toward open-access models (which could reduce costs long-term) versus maintaining current subscription relationships that ensure immediate access

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

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