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Bill

HB 2602

Establishing data and personal safety protections within areas of public accommodation for all Washington residents.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Fosse and 9 co-sponsors

HB 2602 mandates data protection and safety standards for Washington public accommodations, requiring businesses to implement safeguards for consumer information and physical security.

First reading, referred to Civil Rights & Judiciary.
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Bill Summary · HB 2602

Legislative bill overview

HB 2602 establishes data and personal safety protections for individuals in public accommodations throughout Washington state. The bill creates standards for how businesses and public spaces must handle personal data and ensure physical safety for all residents. The specific mechanisms and requirements are under consideration in the Civil Rights & Judiciary committee.

Why is this important

Public accommodations—restaurants, hotels, shops, transit systems—collect significant personal data and have responsibility for patron safety. Clear state-level protections establish baseline standards across diverse private businesses and can address gaps where federal law or existing state protections may be insufficient. This affects both consumer rights and business compliance obligations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition: What counts as a "public accommodation" and which data practices are covered could significantly impact small businesses versus large corporations differently
  • Compliance costs: Businesses may argue that new safety and data security requirements impose substantial operational and infrastructure expenses
  • Privacy vs. security balance: Defining how much data collection is necessary for legitimate safety purposes versus excessive tracking, and who determines that line
  • Enforcement mechanism: Whether enforcement falls to state agencies, allows private lawsuits, or both—affecting litigation risk and regulatory burden
  • Interstate commerce concerns: Whether requirements create competitive disadvantages for Washington businesses compared to neighboring states

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

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