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Bill

HB 1869

Prohibiting the expenditure of Washington state funds for any capital costs of a transit agency created pursuant to the laws of an adjacent state.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Peter Abbarno and 20 co-sponsors

Washington state cannot spend public money on capital costs for transit agencies established and operating under adjacent states' laws.

First reading, referred to Transportation.
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Bill Summary · HB 1869

Legislative bill overview

HB 1869 would prohibit Washington state from spending public funds on capital infrastructure projects (buildings, equipment, facilities) for transit agencies that operate in neighboring states. The bill targets transit systems created under the legal authority of adjacent states, effectively preventing Washington from contributing to their development costs.

Why is this important

This addresses funding flows between states and can impact regional transportation coordination. Washington currently participates in some multi-state transit initiatives or regional systems that cross state lines, and this bill would restrict that financial involvement. The practical effect depends on whether Washington currently funds such projects and whether any cross-border transit agreements exist.

Potential points of contention

  • Regional cooperation vs. state sovereignty: The bill limits interstate collaboration on transportation infrastructure that may benefit Washington residents commuting to or through neighboring states (particularly Oregon and Idaho border regions)
  • Existing commitments: If Washington has ongoing funding agreements for regional transit projects, this bill could create legal or financial complications and damage interstate relationships
  • Economic efficiency: Cross-border transit systems may serve Washington communities more cost-effectively than duplicative state-only systems, making this restriction economically counterproductive for certain regions

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

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