WA SB6355

Creates the Washington Electric Transmission Authority as a public body to improve transmission reliability, resilience, and affordability, with a 10-member board appointed by January 1, 2027 and an executive director hired by June 30, 2027

Department of Commerce must identify high priority transmission corridors by October 30, 2027, with the authority updating this study by October 30, 2032 and every five years thereafter

Authority may exercise eminent domain for new transmission corridors, enter partnerships with public/private entities, own transmission equipment, and charge a $5,000 application review fee for partnership services

Establishes a Tribal Clean Energy Partnership Work Group within Commerce to develop pathways for tribal participation in clean energy development, with reports due April 1, 2027 (interim) and December 1, 2027 (final), expiring June 1, 2028

Requires transmission construction and maintenance work to be performed by qualified electrical employees or contractors with registered apprenticeship programs (minimum 25% completion rate), in compliance with prevailing wage requirements