WA HB1903

Establishes a statewide low-income energy assistance program within the Department of Commerce, operational by July 1, 2026, to address over $270 million in biennial energy burden affecting Washington households

Allows low-income households to apply directly, through participating utilities, or via self-attestation of income eligibility, with no risk to eligibility based on immigration status and exploration of auto-enrollment for known eligible households

Requires gas and electric companies to either participate in the statewide program or opt out by demonstrating they provide monthly bill assistance to at least 50% of their low-income customers by July 1, 2028

Utilities with over 25,000 customers must provide assistance first then seek reimbursement within 30 days; smaller utilities may request funds in advance, with assistance amounts tiered to prioritize households with greatest need

Adds the statewide low-income energy assistance program as an eligible use of Climate Commitment Act auction revenues and requires biennial program evaluation reports to the legislature starting July 1st of even-numbered years