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Bill

HB 1336

Protecting utility consumer meter choice.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Marshall and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1336 grants Washington utility consumers the right to choose meter type, allowing opt-outs from mandatory smart meter installations.

By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1336

Legislative bill overview

HB 1336 would establish consumer rights to choose their utility meter type in Washington state, likely addressing smart meter adoption mandates. The bill aims to protect consumers who prefer traditional analog meters or wish to opt out of advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) systems. It was introduced in January 2025 and is currently in the Environment & Energy Committee.

Why is this important

Smart meter deployment has become widespread nationally, but some consumers have concerns about radiation exposure, privacy, data security, and electromagnetic sensitivity. This bill directly addresses growing consumer pushback against mandatory smart meter installations by providing an alternative. The outcome could affect how utilities in Washington balance modernization goals with individual choice.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: If meter choice is allowed, how will costs for maintaining multiple meter types be distributed? Traditional meters may become more expensive per unit if deployed at smaller scale.
  • Grid modernization vs. consumer autonomy: Utilities argue smart meters enable demand response, outage detection, and efficiency gains. Allowing opt-outs could undermine these grid benefits and increase operational complexity.
  • Data privacy and health claims: The bill likely reflects concerns about data collection and EMF exposure, though scientific consensus on smart meter health risks remains limited—potential disagreement over legitimacy of these concerns.

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

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