AGC Northern District Report: State Supreme Court overturns Initiative 2066 | How Contractors C an Prepare for What's Next | Washington’s New Income Tax & I-645

The 2027 AGC of Washington Build Washington Awards are officially open, giving AGC members the opportunity to showcase the projects, people, safety programs and special initiatives that make your company stand out.
Maybe it’s an outstanding project your team delivered. Maybe it’s a safety program that is making a real difference. Or perhaps it’s an innovative idea, community initiative or leadership effort that deserves recognition. If you’re proud of it, enter it!
The awards provide more than a trophy. Winning companies receive recognition through AGC of Washington, social media, the Daily Journal of Commerce, the Build Washington Awards program and the annual awards celebration.
Don’t assume someone else will enter. Tell your story, celebrate your team and put your best work in the spotlight. Applications open September 21. Entries are due October 22, 2026. For more information and application details Click here.

Join fellow AGC members for an informative webinar on Initiative 645 and Washington’s new income tax proposal. This session will break down what the tax includes, how it works, key dates to know, and the potential impacts on Washington’s economy, workforce, and construction industry. Learn how the proposal could affect business owners, investors, pension recipients, project funding, and future construction investment. Whether you are concerned about your personal tax liability or the long-term impact on your company and the industry, this webinar will provide the facts you need and an opportunity to ask questions so you can make informed decisions. Register Today…

Plan to join Lauren Gubbe, AGC of Washington Director of the Group Retro Program, for a practical and informative discussion focused on Experience Modification Rate (EMR) management and effective claims management strategies. This program is designed to help contractors better understand the factors that influence their workers' compensation costs, improve claim outcomes, and strengthen their overall safety and risk management performance.
AGC Retro Participants will receive their prospective 2027 EMR at the meeting, and if you are not in the AGC Retro program, we will send you a release to obtain your 2027 prospective EMR before the meeting so you can have it in hand to walk through the calculation or you can just use the example EMR worksheet we will provide.
Come and learn how EMRs are calculated, how workplace injury claims impact future insurance costs, and the proactive steps employers can take to manage claims effectively from injury occurrence through resolution. Lauren will also provide insights into common claim management challenges, best practices, and opportunities available through AGC of Washington's Group Retro Program.
Why Participate?

• Gain a better understanding of how your EMR affects competitiveness and project opportunities.

• Learn strategies to reduce workers' compensation costs and improve claim outcomes.

• Understand the employer's role in the claims process and return-to-work programs.

• Identify opportunities to improve safety performance and financial results.

• Receive expert guidance from AGC of Washington's Group Retro Program leadership.

• Network with fellow Northern District contractors and share best practices.

Whether you are an owner, executive, safety professional, human resources manager, or operations leader, this session will provide valuable tools to help protect your workforce and your bottom line. FREE to AGC Members. REGISTER TODAY…

From economic uncertainty and shifting public policy to workforce challenges and rising costs, contractors are being asked to navigate a rapidly changing business environment. The companies that succeed in the years ahead will be those that can adapt quickly, make informed decisions, and stay focused on what they can control.
Join Hart Hodges, Director of Western Washington University's Center for Economic and Business Research; Jerry Vanderwood, Chief Lobbyist for AGC of Washington; and Tom Doll, Executive Business Consultant with TD Partners, for a candid discussion about the economic, political, and business forces shaping the construction industry today.
Hart Hodges will provide insight into economic conditions and what they may mean for contractors in the coming years. Jerry Vanderwood will share perspectives on legislative, regulatory, and political developments impacting the industry. Facilitated by Tom Doll, the discussion will connect these external trends to the practical leadership, financial, and operational decisions construction companies must make to remain competitive and resilient.
Through audience participation, live polling, and Q&A, attendees will leave with a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead, and practical insights to help their organizations respond pro-actively with confidence.
Whether you are an owner, executive, CFO, project manager, estimator, superintendent, foreman, or emerging leader, this program will provide valuable perspective on where the industry is headed and how your company can prepare for success in 2027 and beyond.
Because while no one can predict the future, the most successful contractors are building organizations that are ready for whatever comes next. FREE to attend for AGC Members REGISTER TODAY…

As Washington heads toward the November general election, early results suggest Democrats are positioned to expand their legislative majority in Olympia. For the construction industry, that could mean a faster push toward policies that increase the cost of doing business and make it more difficult to build the housing, infrastructure, and public works projects our state needs.
One of the largest concerns is taxation. In recent years, lawmakers have pursued new taxes, fees, and other revenue measures to fund growing government priorities. A stronger Democratic majority could increase the likelihood of additional tax proposals impacting businesses, investors, property owners, and employers. While supporters view these measures as necessary investments, the reality is that higher taxes often translate into higher project costs, reduced private investment, and a less competitive economic environment. READ MORE…

The November 3 election will help shape the policies and priorities that affect Washington's economic future, including transportation investments, workforce development, permitting, taxes, and the overall business climate. These issues have a direct impact on the construction industry and our ability to build projects, create jobs, and strengthen local communities. We encourage every AGC member to take time to learn about the candidates and ballot measures and consider how they may influence economic growth, infrastructure, and opportunities for employers and workers across our state.

Washington voters should begin receiving their ballots in the mail Oct 16th, so be sure to watch for yours and make a plan to vote early. Washington election officials recommend returning ballots well before Election Day, and voters can also use official ballot drop boxes to ensure timely delivery. Ballots must be postmarked or placed in an official drop box by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
To help members stay informed, AGC has prepared a BUILD PAC Northern District Endorsements and Ballot Measure Guide highlighting endorsed candidates and initiatives that have been evaluated through the association's member-driven political process. We encourage members to review the guide using the link below as one resource in making informed voting decisions and to learn more about the races and issues affecting our industry.
Your vote matters. An informed vote is one of the most important ways to help shape a strong economy, support a healthy construction industry, and ensure the continued growth and prosperity of our communities.

(From AGC of WA) Extreme environmentalists on the State Building Code Council (SBCC) appointed by former Democrat Governor Inslee have been trying to ban natural gas in new residential and commercial construction for several years. These extreme environmentalists do not care about the massive added upfront costs to residential and commercial developers when forcing electric heat pumps over natural gas. These massive added upfront costs could delay or completely halt some residential and commercial construction projects. AGC’s representative on the SBCC opposed the natural gas ban at every opportunity and instead promoted choice in energy sources. In response to these extreme proposals, AGC joined a large coalition that promoted energy choice in new construction. Our coalition won two six-month delays in the natural gas ban fight at the SBCC. One delay came because of a potential conflict with federal law and the other delay came because of a concern that local building officials would not be ready to enforce a new energy code that included a natural gas ban. Ultimately, the extreme environmentalists on the SBCC passed a natural gas ban. READ MORE…

(From AGC of America) The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued its final rule revising the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program, providing additional clarity on several issues AGC of America raised following the October 2025 Interim Final Rule (IFR).
The final rule maintains the IFR’s central change: DBE applicants can no longer use race or sex to automatically create a presumption of disadvantage and instead must demonstrate social and economic disadvantage through individual narratives.
Applicants may discuss personal experiences involving race or sex in their individual narratives, including specific instances of discrimination or social barriers, to create a presumption of disadvantage. This directly addresses AGC’s comments, which argued that eliminating race- and sex-based presumptions should not prevent applicants from explaining discrimination they personally experienced. READ MORE…

(From AWB Communications) Report calls for sustainable budgeting, stable taxes and cutting red tape to help Washington businesses grow and thrive
OLYMPIA — Washington can strengthen its economy by bringing greater discipline to state spending, creating a predictable and stable tax environment and reducing regulatory barriers to growth, according to a report released today by the Association of Washington Business and Washington Roundtable.
The report captures the shared priorities and recommendations from the Economic Future Solutions Summit, a one-day event in July that brought together more than 150 business leaders, policymakers and economic development experts to create a growth agenda for Washington’s economy.
It marks the next chapter of the Washington in the Making 2040 long-range economic plan that envisions Washington as a top state for starting, growing and selling a business. READ MORE…

Did your project team go above and beyond to overcome challenges and successfully deliver a WSDOT project? It’s time to get recognized!
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Partnership for Excellence in Contract Administration Awards, a joint AGC/WSDOT program celebrating outstanding contractor-WSDOT partnerships and the project teams behind them.
The awards recognize project teams that demonstrate exceptional collaboration in delivering transportation projects safely, efficiently and professionally. Winning projects showcase what can happen when contractors and WSDOT work together to overcome challenges, communicate effectively, involve stakeholders and find innovative ways to keep projects moving.
Award categories are available for projects of varying sizes in Eastern and Western Washington, as well as statewide categories for Design-Bid-Build projects over $10 million and Design-Build projects.
Eligible projects must be administered by WSDOT and have major construction activities completed. Contractors and WSDOT Project Engineers are encouraged to work together on nominations, although either party may initiate the process.
Get your nomination turned in by October 2!
Winning teams will be honored at the AGC/WSDOT Annual Meeting on January 7, 2027, where contractors and WSDOT leaders from across the state will come together to recognize the year’s outstanding projects and partnerships.
2026 nomination forms are available on the WSDOT/AGC Industry Partners webpage (you will need to scroll down to find the information).
For questions, contact Mike Niedringhaus at Mike.Niedringhaus@aecom.com.

(From Construction Dive) The guidance is part of the Great American Recovery Initiative, an effort by the Trump Administration focused on addiction treatment and recovery.
OSHA’s new guidance is part of the Great American Recovery Initiative, an effort by the Trump Administration focused on addiction treatment and recovery.
"Because fentanyl has infiltrated the illicit drug landscape and acts as a chemical weapon against our people, it is critically important that the American workforce is familiar with drug overdose recognition and reversal," White House Drug Czar Sara Carter said in a statement. "I am grateful to the Department of Labor for informing employers and workers about life-saving overdose reversal treatments like naloxone." READ MORE…

New Technology. Easier Access. A Better Experience for You.

At AGC of Washington, we're always looking for ways to better serve our members. This fall, we're taking an exciting step forward with the launch of a new membership management system and an updated website designed to make your AGC experience easier, more efficient, and more convenient.

Whether you're registering for an event, renewing your membership, or managing your company's information, these improvements will help streamline the way you connect with AGCW.

What's Changing?

We're investing in new technology to improve the online tools our members use most. Our new membership management system will work alongside our updated website to provide a more seamless experience.

Members can look forward to:

Simplified Event Registration: An improved registration experience that makes signing up for AGC events and programs easier.
Easier Membership Renewals: A more streamlined online process for renewing your company's annual membership.
Improved Account Management: Convenient access to your membership information and company profile.
A Refreshed Website: An updated online experience designed to help you find the information, resources, and opportunities you need.

What Does This Mean for You?

Our goal is simple: spend less time navigating online processes and more time taking advantage of your AGC membership.

As we transition to the new system, members may receive additional information about accessing their accounts and navigating the updated features. We'll provide instructions and support to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

Stay Tuned!

We're looking forward to introducing these improvements soon and will share additional details as we get closer to launch.

Thank you for being part of AGC of Washington. We're excited to bring you a better online experience and continue finding new ways to deliver value to our members.

Same AGC commitment. A better member experience.

Watch your inbox and AGCWA.com for updates!

For the complete on-line Fall 2026 class list and registration click here

Trenching & Shoring Competent Person

Oct 6; 12:00pm - 4:00pm | First Floor Training Room

Remote Supervisory Training Program - STP Unit 2: Communication

Oct 12; 5:00pm - 8:00pm | Remote Class

Online Lift Director

Oct 14; 12:00am - 11:59pm | Online

MS Project 1: Building a Schedule

Oct 14; 12:00pm - 4:30pm | AGC Building Seattle - Emerald Room

Fall Protection Competent Person

Oct 15; 7:30am - 11:30am | First Floor Training Room

Gain Your Competitive Edge: AGC EDGE
Introducing AGC’s Live Virtual Training
-- the same high-quality learning experience and expert instruction you expect from AGC's in-person classroom training, but from the comfort of your home or work computer.