WA HB2469

Establishes a state-owned public bank task force appointed by the state treasurer, with 17 members including representatives from community banks, credit unions, farming, mining, logging, transportation, and commercial building industries

Task force must convene by October 31, 2025, meet at least monthly, and submit findings to the governor and legislature by December 1, 2026

Feasibility study will examine legal barriers, capital requirements, financial viability, governance structure, and potential benefits of creating a public bank modeled after the Bank of North Dakota

Study scope includes whether a state bank should serve as depository for state/local funds, fund infrastructure projects, and provide capital for agriculture, natural resources, and energy sectors

Task force expires January 1, 2027; staff support provided by the Office of the State Treasurer; act takes effect immediately as emergency legislation