1/24/25 Legislative Update – Key Bills Affecting Washington’s Bowling Industry
Dear WSBPA Member,
This is the first in a series of all-member legislative updates, which I will provide throughout the session ahead of our monthly all-member Zoom calls. Below are key legislative developments that may impact bowling proprietors in Washington State. We are actively tracking these bills and advocating on your behalf.
Senate Bill 5067 – Lowering BAC to 0.05%
Summary: Efforts are ongoing against this bill, which proposes reducing the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for drivers. The Senate and House versions are similar but differ in penalties and punishments, with the House taking a more lenient approach.
Impact on Our Industry:
• Potential decrease in alcohol sales at bowling centers.
• Increased liability concerns for businesses serving alcohol.
• The Labor Council supports this bill due to workplace safety concerns.
• The governor's stance is currently unclear.
Developments:
· Recent testimonies against the House version (HB 1315) have been well-received.
· Positive political dynamics are emerging in the House, offering hope for opposition success.
· Discussions emphasize Washington's stringent liquor liability laws, heightening business concerns.
Action Needed: Continue gathering employee testimonies to strengthen opposition. Be aware of potential insurance implications if BAC limits change.
House Bill 1181 – Minimum Wage Increase
Summary: Seeks to incrementally increase the minimum wage to $25 per hour by 2030 through annual $1.50 increases. Update: The minimum wage bill is expected to be reintroduced with technical corrections, and there is concern about the economic impact on businesses.
Additional Provisions:
• Mandatory 3 weeks paid vacation (accrued at 2.3 hours per 40 hours worked).
• 5 days of bereavement leave.
Impact on Our Industry:
• Significant increase in labor costs.
• Affects both small and large operators.
Action Needed: Please begin analyzing how these proposed changes could impact your operations. We are monitoring and opposing this legislation.
House Bill 1213 – Expansion of Paid Family Medical Leave
Summary: Proposes the following expansions to Paid Family Medical Leave:
• Requires all employers, regardless of size, to retain positions for employees on leave.
• Mandates continuation of healthcare contributions for up to 16 weeks.
• Lowers eligibility threshold to 90 days of employment.
Impact on Our Industry:
• Additional burdens on employers to manage extended leave.
• Potential staffing challenges.
Action Needed: Assess the potential operational impacts of these requirements on your business.
Other Legislation We Are Tracking
SB 5070 – Credit Card Interchange Fee Bill
• Would prohibit credit card companies from charging interchange fees on sales tax and tips.
• Could save Washington businesses significant costs.
• Concerns exist about potential unintended consequences.
Action Needed: We are seeking volunteers to provide testimony on the impact of credit card interchange fees at the upcoming hearing. Your input can make a difference.
HB 1184 – Overtime Exemption
• Provides targeted overtime exemptions for nonprofits and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.
• Aims to reduce the minimum salary threshold to 1.5 times the minimum wage.
HB 1095 – Law Enforcement Funding
• Proposes incentives for cities and counties to attract and retain commissioned law enforcement officers.
• Aims to ensure adequate funding for public safety.
Sales Tax Exemption Proposal
• A drafted bill seeks to exempt certain prepared food items from sales tax.
• Could benefit bowling center food service operations.
• Limited chance of passage due to fiscal impact.
Possible Legislation
• Freeze on the Minimum Wage & Removal of Sales Tax on Prepared Food
• Proposed by Sen. Fortunato.
• Unlikely to advance due to minimal legislative support.
Next Steps
• Monitoring Legislation: We will keep a close eye on SB 5067 and inform you of opportunities to engage with the legislature.
• Analysis: Begin assessing how HB 1213 and HB 1181 may affect your operations.
• Engagement: Your participation is crucial. Consider how you can contribute to advocacy efforts.
Join us for our next WSBPA Government Affairs Zoom Call!
WSBPA Board Government Affairs Check-in
Feb 4, 2025 10:00 AM Pacific Time
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83962376188
Or Dial in +1 253 205 0468 US
Meeting ID: 839 6237 6188
Please reach out if you have questions or wish to discuss these issues further. Your feedback and involvement are essential as we navigate these legislative developments.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Lex Nepomuceno
WSBPA Lobbyist
lex@incumbent.com