WA HB2718

Requires the Department of Transportation to implement a multiagency permit program with strict timelines: agencies must meet within 30 days of permit parameters being established, reach decisions within 90 days, and permits are automatically deemed approved if no comments are received within 60 days

Establishes automatic permit approval for hydraulic project approvals, shoreline permits, SEPA permits, and wastewater discharge permits if agencies fail to respond within specified timeframes or if all objective written standards have been addressed

Mandates creation of a publicly accessible contractor rating website evaluating bid accuracy, final costs, proposed vs. actual completion dates, and other criteria that may be considered when awarding state transportation contracts

Requires collaboration with federally recognized tribes and impacted cities/counties throughout the permitting process, with community input solicitation beginning within 30 days of permit determination

Directs WSDOT to report to the legislature by December 1, 2027 on permit streamlining efforts including template development, emergency provision identification, and programmatic permit plans; act takes effect October 1, 2026