Bill > SB5145

This bill establishes a systematic approach to reviewing and managing new state spending programs by requiring every new statutory state spending program to have an expiration date of no more than 10 years, effective after January 1, 2026. The bill defines a "new statutory state spending program" as any state initiative that establishes a new expenditure program, agency, or entitlement, or expands state revenue distribution, with projected state expenditures exceeding $1,000,000 in its first fiscal biennium. Each new program must include a state spending performance statement that clearly articulates its legislative purpose and specifies measurable metrics for evaluating its effectiveness. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC) will be responsible for periodically reviewing these programs, considering factors such as public policy objectives, achievement of intended goals, potential unintended benefits, and fiscal impacts. After review, JLARC must recommend whether each program should be continued, modified, scheduled for future review, or terminated. If a program fails to meet its specified metrics, the committee will recommend termination. The bill aims to increase accountability and ensure that state spending programs remain effective and aligned with their original legislative intent.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5145&Year=2025&Initiative=false