OLYMPIA, Wash. – Legislation by Pasco Representative Stephanie Barnard to upgrade Washington’s electric grid has been unanimously approved by the state House of Representatives.
The bill seeks to streamline upgrades by removing regulatory delays while maintaining environmental and tribal protections. It would also incentivize utilities to invest in advanced technologies, offering an incentive rate of return for such investments.
“Our energy grid is outdated and struggling to keep up with demand,” said Barnard in a release. “This bill takes a practical approach to upgrading infrastructure by cutting red tape and encouraging innovation while still respecting environmental and cultural considerations. I’m proud to see such strong bipartisan support for a solution that benefits every Washingtonian.”
With unanimous support, HB 1819 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
