The 2025 legislative session may have wrapped, but the work in Olympia continues. Interim activities are already shaping the policy and budget debates ahead. From committee meetings and agency requests to elections and revenue forecasts, this is the time to stay informed and engaged. Here’s what to watch between now and the start of the 2026 session on January 12:
July: Interim Legislative Committees on the Move
Several legislative committees are holding meetings this month, both virtually and in person. These interim gatherings are often early indicators of the issues that will gain traction next session. A few to note:
- July 8 – House Transportation meets at 10:00 a.m. at Seattle City Hall
- July 9 – Senate Business, Financial Services & Trade meets virtually at 9:00 a.m.
- July 9 – House Local Government meets at 10:30 a.m. in Olympia
- July 10 – House State Government & Tribal Relations meets virtually at 8:30 a.m.
- July 22 – Senate Health & Long-Term Care meets at 10:00 a.m. in Olympia
- July 24 – Senate Housing meets at 2:00 p.m. in Olympia
August: Primary Elections
August 5 marks Washington’s primary election day, including special elections in several key legislative districts. Click here to read which state legislators will be on the ballot.
September: Budget Prep and Revenue Forecasts
Agency planning heats up in September as budget development for the 2026 supplemental cycle begins.
- September 15 – State agencies must submit their decision packages to the Governor’s Office, outlining proposed budget changes.
- September 23 – The Economic & Revenue Forecast Council releases its fall Revenue Review.
- September 26 – The Transportation Budget Forecast provides early insight into what funding may be available for infrastructure investments next year.
November: General Elections and Budget Finalization
- November 3 – The General Election will finalize legislative and local races that may impact policy direction in 2026.
- November 14 – The final Transportation Budget Forecast before session begins.
- November 18 – The final Operating Budget Revenue Forecast, providing the fiscal baseline for the Governor and Legislature.
December: Interim winds down; Assembly Days and the Governor’s Budget
- First week of December – House and Senate Committee Assembly Days will be held in Olympia, giving legislators and stakeholders a chance to discuss interim work and pre-session planning.
- Mid-December – Governor Ferguson’s supplemental budget proposal is expected, providing a first look at executive priorities heading into 2026.
Stay Engaged
The months ahead will shape the 2026 session long before it begins. Keep checking our site for updates. Stay plugged into the action in Olympia—because in Washington, policy takes shape long before the gavel falls.