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Bill

SB 5784

Encouraging agency demographic data collection.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Hasegawa

SB 5784 encourages Washington state agencies to voluntarily collect demographic data on employees and service populations to identify disparities and improve equity.

Referred to Ways & Means.
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Bill Summary · SB 5784

Legislative bill overview

SB 5784 encourages Washington state agencies to collect and maintain demographic data on the populations they serve and employ. The bill does not mandate collection but promotes voluntary adoption of standardized demographic reporting practices across state government. This applies to both workforce composition and service recipient demographics.

Why is this important

Demographic data collection enables agencies to identify disparities in service access, employment opportunities, and outcomes across different population groups. Without this information, policymakers and agency leaders lack concrete evidence needed to address equity gaps or track progress toward inclusive governance.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy concerns: Collecting demographic information raises questions about data security, individual privacy rights, and potential misuse of sensitive personal information
  • Implementation burden: Agencies may face costs and administrative challenges in establishing new data collection systems, potentially requiring IT infrastructure and staff training
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's approach to defining demographic categories (race, ethnicity, gender identity, disability status, etc.) could create inconsistency across agencies or exclude relevant populations
  • Political sensitivity: Demographic data collection initiatives have become politically polarized, with some viewing it as essential for equity work and others opposing it on ideological grounds

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

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