WashingtonHB 23482025-2026 Regular SessionHouse

Updating timber sale process efficiencies and adopting consistent language for the department's land sales.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

Clearer sale notices for prospective buyers

Beginning June 11, 2026, Washington’s Department of Natural Resources posts public land sale notices online and at regional offices. Land lists with appraised values must be available four weeks before sales, with free copies at regional offices. Board-approved timber and other valuable-materials sales appraised at $250,000 or less have a separate advertising option. For these sales, excluding direct sales, the department can advertise at least 10 days ahead through newspapers, its website, or another practical method. Other materials sales require individual notices, regional posting, and a statewide list available on request at least four weeks ahead. That rule excludes sales covered by RCW 79.15.050 and the smaller-sales option described above.

New locations and reoffers for timber buyers

Beginning June 11, 2026, timber and other valuable-materials sales take place at the responsible regional office or another department-chosen location. The law removes the separate option for county-designated sale sites. When a sale receives no bids, the department can offer the materials again, giving buyers another chance to bid. Reoffers no longer require separate advertising under the public-land notice law. They must still follow the applicable materials appraisal and notice rules.

State land sales protect trust revenue

Beginning June 11, 2026, covered state-acquired lands can be auctioned, transferred to public agencies, or marketed through licensed brokers or other practical methods. These lands include property received by gift, inheritance, or when someone dies without legal heirs. The Board of Natural Resources must approve the method, and the department must appraise the land first. Transactions must meet fair market value, stay at or above appraised value, and serve the state’s or affected trust’s best interest. Marketing costs, including commissions, can come from sale proceeds; the remaining money goes to the proper state fund, subject to donor restrictions.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Tom Dent
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Kristine Reeves
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 143 • No: 0

Senate vote • 3/4/2026

3rd Reading & Final Passage

Yes: 48 • No: 0 • Other: 1

House vote • 2/12/2026