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These new Washington state laws took effect June 11
The laws include a $10 million abortion-services tax, penny-rounding guidance for retailers and new voting and housing rules.
On June 11, over 200 new Washington state laws took effect, marking 90 days since the end of the 2026 legislative session. The laws span tax increases, voting rights protections, and retail guidance.
Senate Bill 6182 imposes a new assessment on health insurers offering plans through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange to fund abortion services. The $0.82-per-enrollee monthly tax aims to raise about $10 million in the first year.
Under House Bill 2334, retailers may round cash purchases to the nearest nickel, addressing shortages from the federal decision to stop producing pennies. Totals ending in 1, 2, 6, or 7 cents round down; those ending in 3, 4, 8, or 9 cents round up.
Tribal casinos may now accept wagers on in-state college sports under Senate Bill 6137, ending a previous prohibition. The legislation prohibits prop bets on individual athletes from schools like the University of Washington.
New voting rights measures require jurisdictions with discrimination histories to obtain approval before changing voting systems, while House Bill 2266 mandates cities allow permanent supportive housing in residential zones. Both laws address longstanding equity gaps in the state.