Multiple Agency Fiscal Note Summary — 1503 HB: Digital equity
Summary
A Multiple Agency Fiscal Note Summary for Bill Number 1503 HB, titled Digital equity, prepared by Marie Davis of OFM and published as Final 2/ 6/2025, followed by individual state agency and local government fiscal notes. The summary lists the Office of the Governor with estimated cash receipts of 1,192,000 for 2025-27 and 3.5 FTEs. The Office of the Governor note states that Section 6 transitions responsibility for developing and monitoring the State Digital Equity Plan to the Office of Equity and that Section 7 designates the Office of Equity as the sole agency required to staff the Digital Equity Forum. The local government fiscal note states that the bill would not impact local government expenditures or revenues.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
Cite this document
“Multiple Agency Fiscal Note Summary — 1503 HB: Digital equity.”
Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/2025-02-12-a32782-d278699-1503-fn-d0fc89d23c/
, SHA-256 9f823f1110b33f2a90b3bd7c30e30cde421fab7f29155d10a164fd98afaf0f39.Full text
Multiple Agency Fiscal Note Summary
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity
Estimated Cash Receipts
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
GF-State NGF-Outlook Total GF-State NGF-Outlook Total GF-State NGF-Outlook Total
Office of the 0 0 1,192,000 0 0 1,174,000 0 0 1,174,000
Governor
Total $ 0 0 1,192,000 0 0 1,174,000 0 0 1,174,000
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
GF- State Total GF- State Total GF- State Total
Local Gov. Courts
Loc School dist-SPI
Local Gov. Other No fiscal impact
Local Gov. Total
Estimated Operating Expenditures
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTEs GF-State NGF-Outlook Total FTEs GF-State NGF-Outlook Total FTEs GF-State NGF-Outlook Total
Office of the 3.5 0 0 1,192,000 3.5 0 0 1,174,000 3.5 0 0 1,174,000
Governor
Office of the .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0
Secretary of
State
Department of 1.4 (208,110) (208,110) (208,110) 1.4 (208,110) (208,110) (208,110) 1.4 (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Commerce
Washington .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0
Technology
Solutions
Utilities and 1.0 0 0 295,540 1.0 0 0 295,540 1.0 0 0 295,540
Transportation
Commission
Superintendent .0 7,000 7,000 7,000 .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0
of Public
Instruction
Department of .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0
Transportation
Community and .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0 .0 0 0 0
Technical
College System
Total $ 5.9 (201,110) (201,110) 1,286,430 5.9 (208,110) (208,110) 1,261,430 5.9 (208,110) (208,110) 1,261,430
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTEs GF-State Total FTEs GF-State Total FTEs GF-State Total
Local Gov. Courts
Loc School dist-SPI
Local Gov. Other No fiscal impact
Local Gov. Total
FNPID 72488
:
FNS029 Multi Agency rollup
Estimated Capital Budget Expenditures
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTEs Bonds Total FTEs Bonds Total FTEs Bonds Total
Office of the Governor .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Office of the Secretary of .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
State
Department of Commerce .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Washington Technology .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Solutions
Utilities and .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Transportation
Commission
Superintendent of Public .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Instruction
Department of .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
Transportation
Community and Technical .0 0 0 .0 0 0 .0 0 0
College System
Total $ 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0.0 0 0
Agency Name 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTEs GF-State Total FTEs GF-State Total FTEs GF-State Total
Local Gov. Total
Local Gov. Courts
Loc School dist-SPI
Local Gov. Other No fiscal impact
Estimated Capital Budget Breakout
Prepared by: Marie Davis, OFM Phone: Date Published:
(360) 890-1163 Final 2/ 6/2025
FNPID 72488
:
FNS029 Multi Agency rollup
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 075-Office of the Governor
Part I: Estimates
No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
ACCOUNT FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Gov Central Service Account-State 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
462-1
Total $ 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
Account
Gov Central Service Account-State 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
462-1
Total $ 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
X
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Kathy Cody Phone: (360) 480-7237 Date: 01/28/2025
Agency Approval: Jamie Langford Phone: (360) 870-7766 Date: 01/28/2025
OFM Review: Gwen Stamey Phone: (360) 790-1166 Date: 02/05/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,060.00 Request # 25-072-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
Section 6:
- Transitions responsibility for developing and monitoring the State Digital Equity Plan and relevant reporting requirements
to the Office of Equity.
- Requires the Office of Equity to conduct, in coordination with the Department of Commerce, an outreach effort to
hard-to-reach communities and low-income communities across the state to provide information about broadband and digital
equity programs available to consumers in these communities and assist consumers in enrolling in these programs.
- Gives the Office of Equity oversight over the Digital Equity Dashboard.
Section 7:
- Designates the Office of Equity as the sole agency required to staff the Digital Equity Forum.
- Allows members of the Digital Equity Forum to receive community compensation.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
The Office of Equity currently performs this digital equity work through an interagency agreement with the Department of
Commerce. With the passage of this legislation, such funding would be shifted from the Department of Commerce to the
Office of Equity as a direct appropriation.
Salaries and Benefits:
- 1.0 FTE - Digital Equity Program Managers at $144,000/year (salaries and benefits) - This position will work with state
agencies, the community, Statewide Business Resource Groups (BRGs), and advocacy groups to identify barriers and
improve access to digital platforms and resources. Facilitate statewide conversations around enhancing program
development and planning, partnership building, and ongoing evaluation of digital equity initiatives. The incumbent will
provide expertise and direction to the Digital Equity Forum and the Office of Equity's Access and Accessibility bench in
support of the development and maintenance of the Universal Access & Belonging Plan.
- 1.0 FTE - Digital Equity Tribal Liaison at $132,000/year (salaries and benefits) - This position will bridge tribal
communities and equity initiatives, ensuring compliance with government-to-government relationships with Indian Tribes.
This role integrates tribal perspectives into broader equity strategies, ensuring that these initiatives are inclusive and
respectful of tribal sovereignty, community protocols, and cultural values. To achieve this, the role: 1. Collaborates and
consults with tribal leaders, government agencies & enterprises, communities, and technology providers to address equity
disparities and promote inclusivity in the equity landscape. 2. Leads enterprise-wide collaboration, facilitates forums, and
fosters community engagement to drive impactful equity initiatives.
- 0.5 FTE - Communications Specialist at $130,000/year (salaries and benefits) - This position will develop and execute
communications strategy and content that speaks to the Office of Equity's digital equity initiatives, coordinate
communications projects that maximize the effectiveness of digital systems as a tool for messaging and advise on
information and programs to build understanding at the state and community level of how to communicate with the Office of
Equity and connect to digital equity programs and initiatives.
Digital equity 075-Office of the Governor
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,060.00 Request # 25-072-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
- 0.5 FTE - Digital Equity Analyst at $130,000/year (salaries and benefits) - This position will focus on assessing and
enhancing the accountability and impact of digital equity initiatives. This role evaluates the effectiveness and outcomes of
digital equity programs, ensuring transparency, fairness, and positive societal impact. Responsibilities encompass both
assessing compliance with established policies and evaluating the impact and effectiveness of programs and projects.
- 0.5 FTE - Administrative Specialist at $100,000/year (salaries and benefits) - This position provides administrative support
directly for the digital equity program and related staff.
Goods and services: Based on average employee costs, the Office requires ongoing funding for supplies and materials,
communications and telecommunications services, lease space, training, software licensing and maintenance at $3,000 per
year, per FTE.
Travel: Based on average employee travel in FY 2019, the Office requests ongoing funding for travel associated with this
position at $4,000 per year, per FTE.
Capital Outlays: The Office requests one-time funding for purchasing equipment for working remotely at $5,000 per FTE.
Shared Service Costs: The Office of Financial Management provides administrative support for the Office of Financial
Management, Office of the Governor, and Office of Independent Investigations. These services include IT support, budget
and accounting services, facilities support, and human resource assistance. To fund these shared services, each budgeted
FTE is assessed an ongoing cost of $30,000 and 0.22 of an FTE.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
Account Account Title Type FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
462-1 Gov Central Service State 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
Account
Total $ 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
A-Salaries and Wages 345,000 345,000 690,000 690,000 690,000
B-Employee Benefits 112,000 112,000 224,000 224,000 224,000
C-Professional Service Contracts
E-Goods and Other Services 11,000 11,000 22,000 22,000 22,000
G-Travel 14,000 14,000 28,000 28,000 28,000
J-Capital Outlays 18,000 18,000
M-Inter Agency/Fund Transfers
N-Grants, Benefits & Client Services
P-Debt Service
S-Interagency Reimbursements
T-Intra-Agency Reimbursements 105,000 105,000 210,000 210,000 210,000
9-
Total $ 605,000 587,000 1,192,000 1,174,000 1,174,000
Digital equity 075-Office of the Governor
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,060.00 Request # 25-072-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: List FTEs by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals need to agree with total FTEs in
Part I and Part IIIA
Job Classification Salary FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Admin Specialist 73,000 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Communications Specialist 98,000 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Digital Equity Analyst 98,000 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Digital Equity Program Manager 110,000 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Digital Equity Tribal Liason 100,000 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Total FTEs 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 075-Office of the Governor
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,060.00 Request # 25-072-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 4 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 085-Office of the Secretary of
State
Part I: Estimates
X No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
NONE
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Bonnie Luntzel Phone: 360-704-5262 Date: 01/24/2025
Agency Approval: Tim Gallivan Phone: (360) 763-2044 Date: 01/24/2025
OFM Review: Marie Davis Phone: (360) 890-1163 Date: 01/30/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,052.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
The Office of the Secretary of State (OSOS) has reviewed this bill and determined it will not increase or decrease the
current workloads, therefore, no fiscal impact to OSOS.
House Bill 1503 adds the State Library Agency to the definition of a “community anchor institution.” This inclusion allows
the State Library to be a recognized entity for potential coordination efforts and specifies the State Librarian as a possible
collaborator in the Digital Equity Forum, as appointed by the Washington State Broadband Office. While the Washington
State Broadband Office may seek participation from the State Librarian or their representative in the Forum, this
involvement can be managed within existing resources. The bill does not introduce any additional duties or responsibilities
for OSOS.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
No Impact.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
No Impact.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
NONE
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part I
and Part IIIA.
NONE
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
Digital equity 085-Office of the Secretary of State
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,052.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
No Impact.
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 085-Office of the Secretary of State
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,052.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note Revised
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 103-Department of Commerce
Part I: Estimates
No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4
Account
General Fund-State 001-1 (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Total $ (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
X
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Erin LaLonde Phone: (360) 725-4060 Date: 01/31/2025
Agency Approval: Erin LaLonde Phone: (360) 725-4060 Date: 01/31/2025
OFM Review: Marie Davis Phone: (360) 890-1163 Date: 02/02/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
Section 4(1)(b) amends RCW 43.330.534 to require the Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO) to coordinate with
"relevant state agencies" and "community anchor institutions on "broadband adoption" among existing power and duties of
WSBO.
This added language broadens the scope of stakeholders and partners that WSBO must engage with as the state's central
broadband planning body.
Section 4(5) is removed which referred to the WSBO's responsibility to coordinate an outreach effort to hard-to-reach and
low-income communities across the state to provide information about broadband programs available to their consumers.
This outreach effort requires providing information to applicable communities about the federal Lifeline program and other
low-income broadband benefit programs.
Section 4(5) is replaced to require WSBO to collaborate with federally recognized tribes and all relevant state agencies in
carrying out its purpose.
This new language will broaden the scope of WSBO's collaboration with tribes and lists specifically the Washington State
Office of Equity and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Section 4(5) also requires WSBO to provide the Office of Equity with data about broadband adoption and digital equity
programs to assist the Office of Equity in monitoring and implementing a state digital equity plan. This requirement broadens
the scope of WSBO's duties.
Section 5 amends RCW 43.330.536 to update the state's speed goals to align with the deployment of federal Broadband
Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) resources.
Section 6(1) amends RCW 43.330.539 to require the Office of Equity as the primary entity responsible for encouraging,
fostering, developing, and improving digital equity by facilitating the provision of digital devices and services to individuals
and communities in Washington in coordination with WSBO.
This new language intends to designate the Office of Equity as the oversight body for the digital navigator grants.
Section 6(2) adds new language directing the Office of Equity to coordinate with the WSBO and the Department of
Commerce (Department) for an outreach effort to hard-to-reach communities and low-income communities across the
state to provide information about broadband and digital equity programs available to consumers of these communities and
assist consumers in enrolling in these programs. The outreach effort must include, but is not limited to, providing information
to applicable communities about the federal lifeline program and other low-income broadband benefit programs and must
facilitate relationship building and the communication of lived experience to amplify local efforts and identify continuing
needs. The Office of Equity shall review the outreach effort annually. The Office of Equity shall coordinate with state
boards and commissions that support the participation of people from underrepresented populations in policy-making
processes and may otherwise coordinate or contract with public or private entities, including conduct outreach to
communities and assisting consumers and program enrollment as provided under this subsection.
Section 6(3-4) adds language directing the Office of Equity to consult with WSBO and other relevant state agencies to
develop and monitor the implementation of a state digital equity plan.
Section 6(5)(a) transfers the responsibility of submitting a legislative report to the governor and the appropriate legislative
committees regarding the Digital Equity Forum's collaboration with key partners to develop the plan.
This reporting would become the Office of Equity's responsibility.
Digital equity 103-Department of Commerce
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
Section 6(6) directs the WSBO to report data to the Office of Equity on the progress made in promoting digital equity
among underserved communities in the state according to measurable objectives in the digital equity plan. This overview
must include a description of the successes and remaining challenges of promoting digital equity among specific types of
underserved populations. As part of this requirement, the Office of Equity shall have oversight over and direct future
improvements as it determines is necessary to the public data resources maintained by the statewide broadband office to
track digital equity and the digital divide.
Section 7(7) removes the WSBO from providing staffing for the Digital Equity Forum and leaves the Office of Equity as the
sole entity responsible for managing this entity and submitting the report to the legislature regarding the Digital Equity
Forum's recommendations by October 28, 2025, and every odd-numbered year thereafter.
New Section 9 recodifies RCW 43.330.539 and RCW 43.330.5395 as sections in chapter 43.06D RCW.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
The Department assumes that Section 4 would result in a net decrease in the funding allocated for outreach to
hard-to-reach communities in the amount of $100,000 per year on an ongoing.
The Department assumes the transfer of responsibility for staffing the Digital Equity Forum, under Section 7(7), would
result in cost savings for the ongoing funding dedicated for this purpose ($253,000) beginning in FY26.
The Department assumes the transfer of responsibility for the biennial Digital Equity Forum legislative report would result in
cost savings for the staff time dedicated to report production in FY26 and every two years thereafter.
The Department assumes that Section 4(5) broadens the scope of WSBO’s collaboration with tribes and also lists
specifically the WA State Office of Equity and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, which increases the
amount of staff time needed to coordinate broadband deployment, adoption and digital equity activities in FY26 and ongoing.
The Department assumes indeterminate costs with supporting the expanded outreach and enrollment activities in Section
6(2), which would be in support of the Office of Equity.
0.2 FTE Administrative Assistant 3 (418 hours) FY26-FY31 for meeting coordination, schedule and document preparation to
assist with additional coordination responsibilities.
0.1 FTE Management Analyst 4 (209 hours) FY26-FY31 to gather, compile and analyze data to assess coordination,
outreach, and provide recommendations for improvement.
0.4 FTE Commerce Specialist 3 (835 hours) FY26-FY31 to support initial planning for statewide outreach to hard-to-reach
communities, and coordinate with the Office of Equity and other partner agencies on the state digital equity plan.
0.1 FTE Commerce Specialist 3 (209 hours) FY26-FY31 for the Tribal Outreach and Engagement Manager to coordinate
with tribes and report on activities and lead tribal digital equity events.
0.2 Commerce Specialist 5 (418 hours) FY26-FY31 to prepare for meetings and additional follow up data requests; to
Digital equity 103-Department of Commerce
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
oversee and supervise the WSBO digital equity staff team; and to support digital equity planning efforts.
0.4 FTE WMS 3 (835 hours) FY26-FY31 for the WSBO Director to review reports, attend meetings and present reports to
the Office of Equity on an ongoing basis. This position will be needed to participate in Digital Equity Forum general
meetings, including subcommittee participation, as needed, including interagency, tribal, or other community-based digital
equity coordination meetings.
Salaries and benefits:
FY26: $169,750
FY27: $182,688
FY28: $169,750
FY29: $182,688
FY30: $169,750
FY31: $182,688
Goods and Services: The Department assumes that Section 4 would result in a net decrease in the funding allocated for
outreach to hard-to-reach communities of $100,000 per year on an ongoing basis.
FY26: ($86,700)
FY27: ($86,600)
FY28: ($86,700)
FY29: ($86,600)
FY30: ($86,700)
FY31: ($86,600)
Travel: The Department’s standard travel assumptions apply for the new positions required to support interagency
coordination, and community outreach and engagement.
FY26-FY31: $1,400 each fiscal year
Inter-agency Agreements: The Department assumes the transfer of responsibility for staffing the Digital Equity Forum
under Section 7(7), which would result in cost savings for the ongoing funding dedicated for this purpose ($253,000)
beginning in FY26.
FY26-FY31: ($253,000) each fiscal year
Intra-Agency Reimbursements:
FY26: $55,848
FY27: $60,104
FY28: $55,848
FY29: $60,104
FY30: $55,848
FY31: $60,104
Total Costs:
FY26: ($112,702)
FY27: ($95,408)
FY28: ($112,702)
FY29: ($95,408)
FY30: ($112,702)
FY31: ($95,408)
Digital equity 103-Department of Commerce
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 4 Bill # 1503 HB
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
Account Account Title Type FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
001-1 General Fund State (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Total $ (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4
A-Salaries and Wages 128,787 138,591 267,378 267,378 267,378
B-Employee Benefits 40,963 44,097 85,060 85,060 85,060
C-Professional Service Contracts
E-Goods and Other Services (86,700) (86,600) (173,300) (173,300) (173,300)
G-Travel 1,400 1,400 2,800 2,800 2,800
J-Capital Outlays
M-Inter Agency/Fund Transfers
N-Grants, Benefits & Client Services
P-Debt Service
S-Interagency Reimbursements (253,000) (253,000) (506,000) (506,000) (506,000)
T-Intra-Agency Reimbursements 55,848 60,104 115,952 115,952 115,952
9-
Total $ (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: List FTEs by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals need to agree with total FTEs in
Part I and Part IIIA
Job Classification Salary FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Administrative Assistant 3 54,199 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
Commerce Specialist 3 84,518 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Commerce Specialist 5 98,040 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
Management Analyst 4 88,794 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
WMS Band 3 142,511 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4
Total FTEs 1.3 1.4 1.4 1.4 1.4
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
Program FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Local Government Division (600) (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Total $ (112,702) (95,408) (208,110) (208,110) (208,110)
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Digital equity 103-Department of Commerce
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 5 Bill # 1503 HB
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 103-Department of Commerce
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,891.00 Request # 068-600-2
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 6 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 163-Washington Technology
Solutions
Part I: Estimates
X No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
NONE
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Shaun Hanon Phone: (360)407-9019 Date: 01/24/2025
Agency Approval: Nenita Ching Phone: 360-407-8878 Date: 01/24/2025
OFM Review: Val Terre Phone: (360) 280-3073 Date: 01/26/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,410.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
Sec. 3. Expands the purpose of the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office (SBO) to also include broadband adoption and
digital equity.
Sec. 4. Expands the SBO’s authority to also include coordination with relevant state agencies and community anchor
institutions. Requires the SBO to coordinate with federally recognized tribes and all relevant state agencies in carrying out
its purpose. Requires the SBO to provide data to the Office of Equity (OOE) regarding broadband adoption and digital
equity programs.
Sec. 5. Modifies state broadband access goals.
Sec. 6. Provides that the OOE, in coordination with the SBO, is primarily responsible for digital equity to individuals and
communities in the state.
Sec. 9. Moves authority for the state digital equity plan and digital equity forum from the SBO to the OOE.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
None.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
This bill clarifies the commitment of the legislature to the role of the Department of Commerce and the Office of Equity and
defines “anchor institution” and coordination with state agencies such as WaTech. WaTech does not have an expanded
role or responsibility with the changes in this bill from the engagement today in the digital equity forum and with the
broadband office.
Sec. 4. Expands the SBO’s authority to also include coordination with relevant state agencies and community anchor
institutions.
The bill does not have a fiscal impact on WaTech.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
NONE
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part I
and Part IIIA.
NONE
Digital equity 163-Washington Technology Solutions
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,410.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 163-Washington Technology Solutions
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,410.00 Request # 1503 HB-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 215-Utilities and
Transportation Commission
Part I: Estimates
No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Account
Public Service Revolving 147,770 147,770 295,540 295,540 295,540
Account-State 111-1
Total $ 147,770 147,770 295,540 295,540 295,540
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
X
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
X Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Michelle Parish Phone: 360-664-1158 Date: 01/24/2025
Agency Approval: Michelle Parish Phone: 360-664-1158 Date: 01/24/2025
OFM Review: Kyle Siefering Phone: (360) 995-3825 Date: 01/28/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,534.00 Request # 2025-10-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
Section 4 provides the state broadband office with the power to coordinate with relevant state agencies to develop
broadband adoption and increases the minimum broadband speed to one hundred megabits per second download and twenty
megabits per second upload. The state broadband office must collaborate with the UTC in carrying out its purpose.
Section 5 increases the speed goals for 2028, 2030, and 2032 which will require the UTC to include these speed
requirements when appropriate and ultimately review and provide input for the 2032 goals.
Section 6 requires the office of equity in consultation with the UTC to develop and monitor a state digital equity plan that is
submitted to the legislature by December 1, 2026. Focus on digital equity and affordability will increase the number of
petitions seeking the ability to receive federal low-income support for telecommunication services.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
UTC assumes no cash receipts will go to UTC as a result of this legislation.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
The bill requires the Office of Equity to collaborate with the UTC in developing the state digital equity plan and its
subsequent monitoring. To participate in the collaborative effort, UTC will need necessary resources to conduct research
and analysis concerning broadband locations and adoption, digital equity planning, and best practices, and will work with
interested parties to make sound recommendations that will improve broadband deployment in underserved and unserved
areas, promote adoptions of new technology and digital equity actions. A key component of broadband adoption is
affordability, and it is expected that companies’ participation in low-income programs, such as Lifeline, will increase the
filings and workload of UTC staff on an ongoing basis.
$147,770 for FY 2026 (1 FTE) for 2026 and each fiscal year thereafter.
(Regulatory Analyst 3)
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
Account Account Title Type FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
111-1 Public Service State 147,770 147,770 295,540 295,540 295,540
Revolving Account
Total $ 147,770 147,770 295,540 295,540 295,540
Digital equity 215-Utilities and Transportation Commission
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,534.00 Request # 2025-10-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
A-Salaries and Wages 100,524 100,524 201,048 201,048 201,048
B-Employee Benefits 35,183 35,183 70,366 70,366 70,366
C-Professional Service Contracts
E-Goods and Other Services 12,063 12,063 24,126 24,126 24,126
G-Travel
J-Capital Outlays
M-Inter Agency/Fund Transfers
N-Grants, Benefits & Client Services
P-Debt Service
S-Interagency Reimbursements
T-Intra-Agency Reimbursements
9-
Total $ 147,770 147,770 295,540 295,540 295,540
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: List FTEs by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals need to agree with total FTEs in
Part I and Part IIIA
Job Classification Salary FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Regulatory Analyst 3 100,524 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Total FTEs 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
UTC assumes it will not be required to conduct a rulemaking as a result of this legislation.
Digital equity 215-Utilities and Transportation Commission
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,534.00 Request # 2025-10-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 350-Superintendent of Public
Instruction
Part I: Estimates
No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Account
General Fund-State 001-1 7,000 0 7,000 0 0
Total $ 7,000 0 7,000 0 0
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
form Parts I-V.
X If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Tisha Kuhn Phone: 360 725-6424 Date: 01/30/2025
Agency Approval: Mike Woods Phone: 360 725-6283 Date: 01/30/2025
OFM Review: Val Terre Phone: (360) 280-3073 Date: 01/31/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
Section 1 (New)
Declares the legislature's intent to address digital equity by improving internet access and digital skills statewide through
cross-agency collaboration, especially between the Department of Commerce and the Office of Equity.
Section 2 (Amended)
Section 2 strikes reference to RCW 43.330.5395.
Section 2(5): Expands the definition of “broadband adoption” to include an individual’s ability to use the internet daily and to
participate fully and safely online.
Section 2(7): Language added to define “community anchor institution”.
Section 2(9): Revises definition for “digital equity” to include information technology capacity in democracy.
Section 2(14):
• Strikes language indicating “low-income” means households as defined by the Department of Social and Health Services,
provided that definition may not exceed the higher of 80 percent of area median household income.
• Revised the definition for “low-income” to include households with a household income that does not exceed 200 percent
of the federal poverty level or that does not exceed the self-sufficiency standard as determined by the University of
Washington's self-sufficiency calculator.
Section 2(18): Revises definition for “underserved population” to include individuals with limited English proficiency and
dependents in foster care. Strikes “children and youth” in foster care.
Section 2(19): Revises definition for “unserved areas” to include adequate, reliable, and affordable broadband service.
Section 3 (Amended)
Section 3(2): Expands the purpose of the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to include broadband adoption, and digital
equity.
Section 4 (Amended)
Section 4(1)(b): Expands the list of entities that the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office must coordinate with when
developing strategies and plans promoting deployment of broadband infrastructure and greater broadband access and
broadband adoption to include relevant state agencies and community anchor institutions.
Section 4(1)(e): Updates the actual speeds for the state’s definition for broadband service from no less than twenty-five
megabits per second download and three megabits per second upload to 100 megabits per second download and 20
megabits per second upload.
Section 4(2)(d): Requires the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to ensure the minimum broad service speed is 100
megabits per second download and 20 megabits per second upload when developing plans or strategies for broadband
deployment. The speeds were previously twenty-five megabits per second download and three megabits per second
upload.
Section 4(5):
• Strikes language regarding the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office coordination and outreach efforts.
Digital equity 350-Superintendent of Public Instruction
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
• Language added requiring the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to collaborate with federally recognized tribes, the
Washington State Office of Equity, and the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
• Requires the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to provide data to the Washington State Office of Equity regarding
broadband adoption and digital equity programs maintained to assist the Washington State Office of Equity in monitoring the
implementation of a state digital equity plan in accordance with RCW 43.330.539 (as recodified by this act).
Section 5 (Amended)
• Strikes previous broadband goals for the state of Washington.
• Updates broadband goals to include the following:
1. By 2028, all Washington businesses, residences, and community anchor institutions have access to broadband service of
150 megabits per second download and 20 megabits per second upload in accordance with RCW 43.330.530;
2. By 2030, Washington businesses, residences, and community anchor institutions have access to at least one gigabit per
second download speed paired with 500 megabits per second upload speed for long-term fixed broadband in the state; and
3. By 2032, broadband goals for the state of Washington are reviewed and updated with input provided by entities, such as
the digital equity forum, communities, tribes, nonprofit organizations, local governments, consumer-owned and
investor-owned utilities, relevant state agencies, and public and private entities.
Section 6 (Amended)
Section 6(1): New language informing the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office’s primary responsibilities.
Section 6(2): New language requiring the following:
• The Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to coordinate with the statewide broadband office and the Department of
Commerce for an outreach effort to hard-to-reach communities and low-income communities to provide information about
broadband and digital equity programs and assist consumers in enrolling in these programs.
• The outreach program must include, but is not limited to, providing information to applicable communities about the federal
lifeline program and other low-income broadband benefit programs, and must facilitate relationship-building and the
communication of lived experience to amplify local efforts and identify continuing needs.
• Review the outreach effort annually.
• The Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to coordinate with state boards and commissions that support the
participation of people from underrepresented populations in policy-making processes.
• May otherwise coordinate or contract with other public or private entities, including to conduct outreach to communities
and assist consumers in program enrollment as provided under this subsection.
Section 6(3): Expands the list of entities that the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office must coordinate with when
developing and monitoring the implementation of a state digital equity plan to include the statewide broadband office and
other relevant state agencies.
Section 6(3)(a):
• Stikes language requiring the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to seek any available federal funding for the
purposes of developing and implementing the state digital equity plan.
• New language requiring the state digital equity plan to build upon the progress made by the state broadband office in
developing a state digital equity plan.
Section 6(5)(a):
• Changes the date that the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office must report to the governor and the appropriate
committees of the legislature information regarding the digital equity plan from December 1, 2023 to December 1, 2026.
• Changes “stakeholders” to “partners”.
• Strikes language requiring the report to include any available information on the extent to which state residents have
enrolled in the affordable connectivity program through an approved program.
• Language added requiring the report to include an evaluation of existing state digital equity initiatives, policies, programs,
funding needs, and public and private investments, including a recommended model for future infrastructure and outreach
Digital equity 350-Superintendent of Public Instruction
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
investments.
• Strikes language indicating that for the purpose of this section, "office" means the statewide broadband office established
in RCW 43.330.532.
Section 6(5)(b):
• Language added requiring the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to review, update, and submit to the governor and
the appropriate committees of the legislature a revised state digital plan every two years after its initial publication.
• Language added requiring the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to submit to the governor and the appropriate
committees of the legislature an updated report that includes the topics in (a)(i) through (v) of this subsection and subsection
(6) of this section the year following its submission of a revised state digital equity plan.
Section 6(6):
• Requires the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to make publicly available, on an ongoing basis, an overview of the
progress made in promoting digital equity among underserved communities.
• Requires the overview to include a description of the successes and remaining challenges of promoting digital equity
among specific types of underserved populations.
• Informs that the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office will have oversight over and direct future improvements as it
determines is necessary, to the public data resources maintained by the statewide broadband office to track digital equity
and the digital divide.
Section 7 (Amended)
Section 7(1):
• Expands the purpose of the Washington digital equity forum to include developing recommendations to advance broadband
adoption and digital equity.
• Strikes language requiring the Washington digital equity forum to advise the statewide broadband office on the digital
equity opportunity program as provided under RCW 43.330.412 and the digital equity planning grant program as provided
under RCW 43.330.5393)).
Section 7(2): Revises the requirements the forum must do when developing the recommendations to advance digital
connectivity, broadband adoption, and digital equity to include:
• Expanding the goals to include the goals of the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office, as provided by RCW
43.06D.020.
• Strengthening cooperatives, and other partnerships that promote digital connectivity, broadband adoption, and digital equity.
• Recommend opportunities for sustainable digital equity funding.
Section 7(3):
• Strikes language regarding the Washington state office of equity.
• Expands the applicable appointees that the directors of the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office may appoint to the
digital equity forum to include local agencies involved in digital equity.
Section 7(4):
• Allows a majority of the members appointed by the directors to appoint an administrative chair or cochairs of the forum.
Section 7(6): Strikes language requiring each member of the digital equity forum to serve without compensation but may be
reimbursed for travel expenses as authorized in RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060.))
Section 7(7):
• Language revised indicating that staff for the digital equity forum must be provided by the Governor’s Statewide
Broadband Office.
• Language revised indicating that the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office is responsible for transmitting the
recommendations of the digital equity forum to the legislature, consistent with RCW 43.01.036, by October 28, 2025, and
Digital equity 350-Superintendent of Public Instruction
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 4 Bill # 1503 HB
every odd-numbered year thereafter.
Section 8 (New)
• A new section is added to chapter 43.06D.
• Provides definitions that apply to RCW 43.330.539 (as recodified by this act) and 43.330.5395 (as recodified by this act)
unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
• Informs that definitions in this section have the meaning defined in RCW 43.330.530.
Section 9 (New)
Recodified RCW 43.330.539 and 43.330.5395 as sections in chapter 43.06D RCW.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
No cash receipts impact anticipated.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
OSPI Fiscal Impact:
OSPI is included in the list of entities with which the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office must collaborate. OSPI
would require the following positions to execute the work:
• .01 FTE Director at a cost of $3,000 in FY26
• .02 FTE Program Supervisor at a cost of $4,000 in FY26
Charter School Commission (CSC), Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB), State Board of Education (SBE):
Section 6(2) requires the Governor’s Statewide Broadband Office to coordinate with state boards and commissions that
support the participation of people from underrepresented populations in policy-making processes.
Per the Office of Equity, the CSC, PESB, and SBE are boards and commissions that weren’t contemplated by the language
in this section, thus resulting in no fiscal impact.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
Account Account Title Type FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
001-1 General Fund State 7,000 0 7,000 0 0
Total $ 7,000 0 7,000 0 0
Digital equity 350-Superintendent of Public Instruction
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 5 Bill # 1503 HB
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
FTE Staff Years 0.0 0.0
A-Salaries and Wages 3,382 3,382
B-Employee Benefits 2,888 2,888
C-Professional Service Contracts
E-Goods and Other Services 199 199
G-Travel 199 199
J-Capital Outlays 332 332
M-Inter Agency/Fund Transfers
N-Grants, Benefits & Client Services
P-Debt Service
S-Interagency Reimbursements
T-Intra-Agency Reimbursements
9-
Total $ 7,000 0 7,000 0 0
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: List FTEs by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals need to agree with total FTEs in
Part I and Part IIIA
Job Classification Salary FY 2026 FY 2027 2025-27 2027-29 2029-31
Director 144,200 0.0 0.0
Program Supervisor 96,990 0.0 0.0
Total FTEs 0.0 0.0 0.0
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
No capital budget impact anticipated.
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 350-Superintendent of Public Instruction
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 199,700.00 Request # HB 1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 6 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 405-Department of
Transportation
Part I: Estimates
X No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
NONE
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Mark Janzen Phone: 360-705-7318 Date: 01/24/2025
Agency Approval: Mark Gaines Phone: 360-705-7231 Date: 01/24/2025
OFM Review: Maria Thomas Phone: (360) 229-4717 Date: 01/24/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,637.00 Request # 25-22-1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
See attached agency fiscal note.
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
NONE
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part I
and Part IIIA.
NONE
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Digital equity 405-Department of Transportation
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,637.00 Request # 25-22-1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 405-Department of Transportation
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,637.00 Request # 25-22-1503-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: HB 1503 Title: Digital Equity Agency: 405-Department of Transportation
Part I: Estimates
No Fiscal Impact (Explain required in section II. A)
Indeterminate Cash Receipts Impact (Explain in section II. B)
Partially Indeterminate Cash Receipts Impact (Explain in section II. B)
Indeterminate Expenditure Impact (Explain in section II. C)
Partially Indeterminate Expenditure Impact (Explain in section II. C)
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire
fiscal note form Parts I-V
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete
entire fiscal note form Parts I-V
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV
Requires new rule making, complete Part V
Revised
Fiscal Detail
N/A
Agency Assumptions
N/A
Agency Contacts:
Preparer: Mark Janzen Phone: 360-705-7318 Date: 1/22/2025
Approval: Mark Gaines Phone: 360-705-7231 Date: 1/23/2025
Budget Manager: Doug Clouse Phone: 360-705-7535 Date: 1/24/2025
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief description of what the measure does that has fiscal impact
Section 4 amending RCW 43.330.534 revises the State Broadband Office to collaborate with the state office of equity
along with federally recognized tribes and all relevant state agencies. The Washington State Department of Transportation
was already listed in the current version of the RCW.
II. B – Cash Receipts Impact
N/A
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 405-Department of Transportation
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
II. C - Expenditures
There is no fiscal impact because of this bill. The department is already collaborating with the State Broadband Office in
our regular capacity.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Expenditures by Object or Purpose
N/A
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
N/A
Part V: New Rule Making Required
N/A
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 405-Department of Transportation
Individual State Agency Fiscal Note
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity Agency: 699-Community and Technical
College System
Part I: Estimates
X No Fiscal Impact
Estimated Cash Receipts to:
NONE
Estimated Operating Expenditures from:
NONE
Estimated Capital Budget Impact:
NONE
The cash receipts and expenditure estimates on this page represent the most likely fiscal impact. Factors impacting the precision of these estimates,
and alternate ranges (if appropriate), are explained in Part II.
Check applicable boxes and follow corresponding instructions:
If fiscal impact is greater than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete entire fiscal note
form Parts I-V.
If fiscal impact is less than $50,000 per fiscal year in the current biennium or in subsequent biennia, complete this page only (Part I).
Capital budget impact, complete Part IV.
Requires new rule making, complete Part V.
Legislative Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Preparation: Stephanie Winner Phone: 360-704-1023 Date: 01/27/2025
Agency Approval: Stephanie Winner Phone: 360-704-1023 Date: 01/27/2025
OFM Review: Ramona Nabors Phone: (360) 742-8948 Date: 01/29/2025
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,937.00 Request # 22-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 1 Bill # 1503 HB
Part II: Narrative Explanation
II. A - Brief Description Of What The Measure Does That Has Fiscal Impact
Significant provisions of the bill and any related workload or policy assumptions that have revenue or expenditure impact on the responding agency by
section number.
This bill would further increase access to broadband and related infrastructure and increase digital equity by facilitating the
provisions of digital devices and services to individuals and communities in Washington. This is to be a collaborative effort
between the department of commerce and the office of equity.
Sec. 2 (7) Community colleges or other institutions of higher education are in the definition of community anchor institution.
Sec. 4 (1)(b) The office may coordinate with community anchor institutions to develop strategies and plans promoting
deployment of broadband infrastructure and greater broadband access and broadband adoption.
Sec. 5 (3) It is the goal of the state of Washington that by 2028 all community anchor institutions, and other entities, have
access to specified broadband services
II. B - Cash receipts Impact
Cash receipts impact of the legislation on the responding agency with the cash receipts provisions identified by section number and when appropriate, the
detail of the revenue sources. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the cash receipts impact is derived. Explanation
of how workload assumptions translate into estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
No cash receipts impact.
II. C - Expenditures
Agency expenditures necessary to implement this legislation (or savings resulting from this legislation), with the provisions of the legislation that result in
the expenditures (or savings) identified by section number. Description of the factual basis of the assumptions and the method by which the expenditure
impact is derived. Explanation of how workload assumptions translate into cost estimates. Distinguished between one time and ongoing functions.
No expenditure impact.
Part III: Expenditure Detail
III. A - Operating Budget Expenditures
NONE
III. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
III. C - Operating FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part I
and Part IIIA.
NONE
III. D - Expenditures By Program (optional)
NONE
Part IV: Capital Budget Impact
IV. A - Capital Budget Expenditures
NONE
Digital equity 699-Community and Technical College System
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,937.00 Request # 22-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 2 Bill # 1503 HB
IV. B - Expenditures by Object Or Purpose
NONE
IV. C - Capital Budget Breakout
Acquisition and construction costs not reflected elsewhere on the fiscal note and description of potential financing methods.
NONE
IV. D - Capital FTE Detail: FTEs listed by classification and corresponding annual compensation. Totals agree with total FTEs in Part IVB.
NONE
Part V: New Rule Making Required
Provisions of the bill that require the agency to adopt new administrative rules or repeal/revise existing rules.
Digital equity 699-Community and Technical College System
Form FN (Rev 1/00) 198,937.00 Request # 22-1
FNS063 Individual State Agency Fiscal Note 3 Bill # 1503 HB
LOCAL GOVERNMENT FISCAL NOTE
Department of Commerce
Bill Number: 1503 HB Title: Digital equity
Part I: Jurisdiction-Location, type or status of political subdivision defines range of fiscal impacts.
Legislation Impacts:
Cities:
Counties:
Special Districts:
Specific jurisdictions only:
Variance occurs due to:
Part II: Estimates
X No fiscal impacts.
Expenditures represent one-time costs:
Legislation provides local option:
Key variables cannot be estimated with certainty at this time:
Estimated revenue impacts to:
None
Estimated expenditure impacts to:
None
Part III: Preparation and Approval
Fiscal Note Analyst: Kristine Williams Phone: (564) 669-3002 Date: 01/24/2025
Leg. Committee Contact: Emily Poole Phone: 360-786-7106 Date: 01/21/2025
Agency Approval: Alice Zillah Phone: 360-725-5035 Date: 01/24/2025
OFM Review: Marie Davis Phone: (360) 890-1163 Date: 01/30/2025
Page 1 of 2 Bill Number: 1503 HB
FNS060 Local Government Fiscal Note
Part IV: Analysis
A. SUMMARY OF BILL
Description of the bill with an emphasis on how it impacts local government.
This legislation increases cross-agency collaboration between the Department of Commerce and the Office of Equity by
adding certain data sharing, facilitation, and outreach responsibilities necessary to develop and implement the state's digital
equity plan. Several definitions are added or modified including "broadband adoption", "community anchor institution",
"low-income", "underserved population", and "unserved areas".
Sec. 5 amends RCW 43.330.536 to revise Washington state's broadband goals and timelines. Subsection (3) is added
which requires the state of Washington to review and update its broadband goals by 2032 with input provided by entities
such as local governments.
This legislation would take effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.
B. SUMMARY OF EXPENDITURE IMPACTS
Expenditure impacts of the legislation on local governments with the expenditure provisions identified by section number and when
appropriate, the detail of expenditures. Delineated between city, county and special district impacts.
This bill would not impact local government expenditures.
C. SUMMARY OF REVENUE IMPACTS
Revenue impacts of the legislation on local governments, with the revenue provisions identified by section number, and when
appropriate, the detail of revenue sources. Delineated between city, county and special district impacts.
This bill would not impact local government revenues.
Page 2 of 2 Bill Number: 1503 HB
FNS060 Local Government Fiscal Note
File and source
- File
- 2025-02-12_a32782_d278699_1503-fn.pdf
- Size
- 1,151,230 bytes
- SHA-256
- 9f823f1110b33f2a90b3bd7c30e30cde421fab7f29155d10a164fd98afaf0f39
- Original
- No public link identified.