Bill > SB5434

This bill establishes new mechanisms for legislative oversight of gubernatorial emergency powers by modifying existing state law. Specifically, the bill provides multiple ways for a state of emergency to be terminated, including through a gubernatorial proclamation, a concurrent resolution by the legislature if in session, or by written agreement of the four legislative leadership members (majority and minority leaders of the senate and house) if the legislature is not in session and the emergency has lasted more than 90 days. The bill also adds constraints on the governor's emergency powers by requiring that any emergency orders lasting more than 30 days can be terminated by legislative action, either through a concurrent resolution or by written agreement of the four legislative leaders. These changes aim to create a more balanced approach to emergency governance by ensuring that the legislature has a more active role in monitoring and potentially limiting extended emergency declarations. The bill maintains the governor's ability to issue emergency orders related to public safety, movement, and economic regulations during a declared emergency, but introduces new accountability measures to prevent potential overreach of executive authority during prolonged emergency situations.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5434&Year=2025&Initiative=false