Bill > SB6355

This bill establishes the Washington Electric Transmission Authority to improve the reliability, resilience, and affordability of the state's electric transmission system, which is currently insufficient to meet growing electricity demand from electrification and new clean energy sources, and to withstand extreme weather events. The authority will coordinate the expansion and upgrading of transmission infrastructure, identify high-priority transmission corridors, and partner with utilities and developers. It will be overseen by a board of directors with diverse expertise and will work to protect natural resources, avoid impacts on vulnerable communities, support jobs, and mitigate wildfire risks. The bill also creates dedicated accounts for the authority's operating and capital expenses and outlines provisions for tribal consultation, property tax in-lieu payments, and the use of qualified workers and prevailing wages for construction and maintenance.