Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session

Washington Senate Bill SB5145

Introduced
1/13/25  

Caption

Implementing the periodic review of state spending programs.

Impact

Should SB5145 be enacted, it would significantly influence how state expenditures are monitored and managed. The bill requires state agencies to establish criteria for evaluating their programs, which may involve collecting quantitative data, soliciting feedback from stakeholders, and adjusting operations based on the findings. This process could lead to reallocating funds from underperforming programs to those that are more effective, potentially transforming the state's approach to public service delivery and fiscal responsibility.

Summary

SB5145 introduces a structured process for the periodic review of state spending programs. The bill aims to ensure that all state-funded programs are evaluated regularly to assess their effectiveness, efficiency, and necessity. This initiative is seen as a response to increasing concerns over public spending and the need for greater financial accountability at the state level. By mandating these reviews, the bill seeks to prioritize spending on programs that yield positive results for the community and eliminate or modify those that do not meet performance expectations.

Contention

While the bill is generally supported by those advocating for increased transparency and accountability in state spending, it is expected to face opposition from stakeholders in programs that may be scrutinized more heavily. Concerns may arise about the impact of these reviews on essential services, especially if the evaluations lead to funding cuts or program terminations. Additionally, some legislators may argue that the bill could create bureaucratic challenges or place undue pressure on agencies to justify their funding, diverting attention from service delivery to compliance with the new review processes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA HB1851

Implementing the first approach skills training program.

WA HB1204

Implementing the family connections program.

WA SB5426

Implementing the family connections program.

WA SB5359

Establishing a responsible state spending limit with excess revenues dedicated to property tax relief.

WA SB5906

Implementing a statewide drug overdose prevention and education campaign.

WA SB5338

Reviewing the state's essential health benefits.

WA SB6304

Implementing certain recommendations of the transportation electrification strategy.

WA SB5477

Implementing the recommendations of the Washington state missing and murdered indigenous women and people task force.

WA SB5795

Implementing year-round Pacific standard time.

WA HB2254

Implementing recommendations of the 2023 child support schedule work group.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.