The bill aims to update the predesign thresholds for major capital construction projects in Washington State, reflecting the significant rise in construction costs since 2021. It introduces a new section that establishes a cost threshold of $15,000,000 for predesign requirements, which will be adjusted annually for inflation starting July 1, 2027. The bill amends existing laws, specifically RCW 43.88.110, RCW 43.82.035, and RCW 43.88.0301, to incorporate these changes and enhance the efficiency of governmental processes related to capital projects.

Additionally, the bill outlines the procedures the Office of Financial Management must follow for reviewing major capital construction projects, including evaluations of facility requirements, cost comparisons, and value-engineering analyses. It also mandates that state agencies submit modified predesigns for certain facility requests and requires them to identify plans for major leased facilities as part of their ten-year capital budget plan. The legislation emphasizes the importance of aligning capital projects with local planning efforts and ensuring that they contribute positively to community development and environmental outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 43.88.110, 43.82.035, 43.88.0301