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Bill

HB 2294

Prohibiting negative use restrictions on real property that have the effect of limiting consumer access to food and medicine.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Adam Bernbaum and 24 co-sponsors

Washington bill prohibits property deed restrictions that prevent residents from accessing or producing food and medicine on their property.

Effective date 6/11/2026.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2294

Legislative bill overview

HB 2294 prohibits property owners from enforcing restrictive covenants or deed restrictions that prevent residents from accessing food and medicine on their property. The bill targets negative use restrictions—typically found in homeowner association bylaws or deed language—that could prevent residents from growing food, maintaining vegetable gardens, keeping chickens, or accessing medical supplies and treatments.

Why is this important

Food security and healthcare access are basic needs, and restrictive property covenants can create barriers to self-sufficiency, particularly for low-income households or those in food deserts. The bill addresses potential equity issues where HOA rules might prevent residents from supplementing groceries through home gardening or managing their own healthcare needs. However, implementation raises questions about balancing individual property rights with community standards and aesthetic preferences.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. community standards: Homeowners and HOAs may argue that deed restrictions protect neighborhood character and property values, and that property owners agreed to these restrictions voluntarily
  • Definition ambiguity: Terms like "limiting consumer access" could be interpreted broadly or narrowly—does this cover backyard agriculture, livestock, medical marijuana, or only essential medications?
  • Enforcement challenges: The bill doesn't clearly specify remedies, penalties, or how disputes would be resolved between individual homeowners and HOAs
  • Unintended consequences: Could enable activities (commercial operations, unsanitary conditions) that legitimately concern neighbors, or interfere with legitimate HOA governance

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

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