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WA SB5927
Bill
Status
Introduced
1/12/2026
Primary Sponsor
Mark Schoesler
Click for details
AI Summary
- Caps annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) for workers' compensation pensions at 3%, effective July 1, 2026, replacing the current system that ties increases to the full percentage change in Washington's average monthly wage
- Applies to permanent total disability pensions, temporary total disability compensation, and death benefits for surviving spouses and dependents
- Addresses premium rate instability cited in legislative findings: rates increased cumulatively 17.6% since 2020 (over 22% with proposed changes), while "break even" rates have exceeded proposed rates for five consecutive years
- Notes volatility in the state's average monthly wage metric, which has fluctuated from 2% to 10.1% annual increases since 2019, compared to a more stable 2-4% range in the mid-2010s
- Amends RCW 51.32.072 and 51.32.075, maintaining existing COLA calculation methods for adjustments through June 30, 2026
Legislative Description
Capping the rate of increase for future workers' compensation cost-of-living adjustments.
Last Action
Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce at 10:30 AM.
1/27/2026
Committee Referrals
Labor & Commerce1/12/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available