Title
2026 State Legislative Session Debrief, Interim Planning, and Preliminary 2027 Legislative Agenda Check-in
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing on outcomes from the 2026 State Legislative Session, discuss interim state advocacy planning, and provide early guidance on priorities for the 2027 Legislative Agenda.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive a briefing on outcomes from the 2026 State Legislative Session, discuss interim state advocacy planning, and provide early guidance on priorities for the 2027 Legislative Agenda.
Staff Contact:
Susan Grisham, Legislative Liaison, City Manager’s Office, 360.753.8441
Presenter(s):
Kyla Shkerich Blair, Principal, Capitol Path Consulting
Daniel Pailthorp, Senior Associate, Capitol Path Consulting
Background and Analysis:
The 2026 Washington State Legislative Session concluded on March 12, 2026. This item provides an opportunity for the City Council to receive a summary of key outcomes, assess progress on the City’s legislative priorities, and identify opportunities and challenges that will inform future advocacy efforts.
Capitol Path Consulting will provide a debrief of the session, including:
• Status of the City’s priority items
• State budget outcomes and impacts to Olympia
• Emerging policy trends and considerations for future sessions
• Key relationships and engagement with the 22nd Legislative Delegation
In addition to the session recap, this discussion will transition into interim planning, focusing on how the City can effectively position itself ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session. The interim period provides a window to:
• Build and strengthen relationships with state legislators and agencies
• Advance policy concepts outside of the compressed legislative timeline
• Coordinate with regional partners and associations
• Identify funding opportunities and early budget requests
This meeting will also serve as an initial check-in on the 2027 Legislative Agenda, allowing Councilmembers to:
• Reflect on lessons learned from the 2026 session
• Identify emerging priorities and policy interests
• Provide early direction to guide staff and the City’s lobbying team
Staff will return later in the year with a more developed draft 2027 Legislative Agenda for formal Council consideration, consistent with the City’s updated approach to legislative planning.
Climate Analysis:
This item does not directly affect climate; however, the City actively advocates for state policies related to climate and environmental sustainability.
Equity Analysis:
This item does not directly affect equity; however, the City’s legislative advocacy includes priorities that advance equity and access to services.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
There are no specific community concerns regarding this item; however, state legislative outcomes and future priorities have broad impacts on Olympia residents and community partners.
Financial Impact:
$52,000 is allocated for state lobbying services in the General Fund budget.
Options:
Discussion Only - No Action Required
Attachments:
2026 Legislative Agenda