Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB1842

Introduced
2/5/25  
Refer
2/5/25  
Report Pass
2/20/25  
Refer
2/21/25  
Engrossed
3/11/25  
Refer
3/13/25  
Report Pass
3/28/25  
Enrolled
4/11/25  
Chaptered
4/16/25  

Caption

Allowing public utility districts to form, own, or use captive insurers.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1842 would fundamentally alter the landscape of insurance regulation for public utility districts in the state. This bill permits these districts to take charge of their insurance needs, which could lead to a more conducive environment for local government financial management. By enabling captive insurance arrangements, public utility districts could tailor their insurance solutions to meet specific operational risks, thereby enhancing their overall resilience and fiscal health.

Summary

House Bill 1842 focuses on allowing public utility districts the authority to form, own, or utilize captive insurers. This legislative measure aims to enhance the ability of public utility districts to manage risks and financial stability by providing them with the option to establish their own insurance entities. Such a move is seen as a way to bolster self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on traditional insurance providers, potentially leading to cost savings for public utility districts and their constituents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1842 appears to be supportive among proponents who argue that it presents a vital opportunity for public utility districts to better manage their financial risks. Advocates suggest that the bill could lead to enhanced financial independence for these entities. However, there may be some concerns from critics about potential negative implications, such as the risks of inadequate insurance coverage if public utility districts lack the expertise to manage captive insurers effectively. Thus, the discussions are characterized by a mixture of optimism for improved financial autonomy and caution regarding regulatory oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention hark back to concerns over regulatory oversight and the implications of allowing public utility districts to set up captive insurers. Critics argue that such a development may lead to uneven insurance practices, potentially exposing these districts to financial instability if not properly managed. The balancing act between granting public utility districts more control over their insurance and ensuring adequate regulatory standards is a focal point in the debates surrounding HB 1842.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB2016

Allowing certain minors to contract for housing and utilities.

WA HB1663

Allowing functionally consolidated port districts to adopt a unified levy.

WA HB2173

Concerning executive sessions by publicly owned natural gas utilities under the open public meetings act in order to comply with the climate commitment act.

WA HB1621

Concerning standardizing local government procurement rules among special purpose districts, first-class and second-class cities, and public utility districts.

WA SB6047

Revised for 1st Substitute: Concerning executive sessions under the open public meetings act in order to comply with the climate commitment act.Original: Concerning executive sessions by publicly owned natural gas utilities under the open public meetings act in order to comply with the climate commitment act.

WA HB1768

Exempting certain sales of electricity to qualifying green businesses from the public utilities tax.

WA HB2283

Allowing state employees living in an emergency or disaster area to receive shared leave.

WA HB2428

Allowing cities to voluntarily share certain sales and use tax revenue.

WA SB5069

Allowing interstate cannabis agreements.

WA HB2306

Allowing main street programs to use remaining main street tax credits after a certain date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.