The proposed bill establishes the Washington Institute for Scientific Advancement in response to a funding crisis in scientific research due to recent federal cuts. It recognizes a state of emergency in research activities that threaten advancements in health and economic prosperity for Washington residents. The bill emphasizes the importance of sustaining ongoing and future scientific research across various fields, including medicine, agriculture, climate, and technology, while also addressing the potential economic downturn from diminished research capacity. To support these initiatives, the bill authorizes the issuance of up to $6 billion in general obligation bonds, with proceeds allocated to newly created accounts for advancing scientific research and appropriated for various high-priority research projects.

Additionally, the bill introduces new governance and funding provisions for scientific research, including the establishment of a research council responsible for overseeing a competitive grant process. The council will determine final grant awards, maintain proportional representation, and serve without compensation, with reimbursement for travel expenses. It also allows for the creation of scientific peer review panels to evaluate research proposals while ensuring no conflicts of interest. The bill amends existing laws regarding public meetings and confidentiality, applying the Open Public Meetings Act to the institute's meetings and introducing new exemptions for grant application materials. Furthermore, it includes a referendum provision requiring voter approval for certain sections of the act in the next general election.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 42.30.110