Tonight on Legislative Review, Washington lawmakers take on three high-stakes policy debates:
Regulating AI chatbots
Senate Bill 5984 would establish new rules for AI companion chatbots, including transparency requirements, protections for minors, limits on emotionally manipulative design, and safeguards related to self-harm. Supporters frame it as a consumer safety measure, while critics warn of regulatory overreach and impacts on innovation.
Abortion medication access
Lawmakers debate Senate Bill 5917, a proposal to change how abortion medications are distributed statewide. The bill aims to expand access by adjusting pricing and distribution rules, while opponents raise concerns about oversight, taxpayer funding, and the role of state agencies.
Fast-tracking housing construction permits
Senate Bill 5729 seeks to streamline local permitting processes to speed up affordable housing construction. Backers say it cuts red tape and lowers costs, while critics argue it could limit oversight and public input.