WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- We just launched the 2026 State Legislative Agenda.
- It is used to advocate in Olympia on behalf of the Spokane region.
- Priorities in the agenda will help address business climate and taxation, transportation projects, drug pricing, and healthcare workforce shortages.
Advocating for the Spokane Region
Each year, GSI and a delegation of businesses and community leaders go to Olympia, WA to ensure the voices of Spokane and the Inland Northwest are heard loud and clear in our state’s capitol. The 2026 State Legislative Agenda is here, and it’s a unified, collaborative blueprint for advancing the projects and policies that will shape our region’s future. The agenda was launched at this year’s Legislative Kickoff, an annual event that helps kick off the upcoming Legislative Session.
Why Do We Create a State Agenda?
National issues have regional impacts and GSI’s advocacy work with the state legislature on behalf of the Spokane region provides more rapid results for our partners and the business community than waiting for national policies to be implemented.
We’re working to build a strong, sustainable future for your business and our community. From economic development policies to clarifying new service sales taxes, each agenda item directly impacts our ability to improve the business climate and create a vibrant, thriving economy.
Our Priorities Developed with Your Input
GSI asks the community to submit top projects and works with the more than 80 business and community members on its Regional Advocacy Committee to create a unified agenda. This agenda is taken to Olympia each year where our delegation meets with lawmakers and advocates for Spokane regional interests. This year’s top priorities address:
- Empowering business growth by enacting transparent and predictable policies,
- Protecting and preserving existing investments in infrastructure projects,
- Strengthening the workforce talent pipeline,
- Providing clarity and common sense carveouts in the new service sales tax, and
- Strengthening policies that improve healthcare access for community members.
Our focus is to advance policies that invest in our region and make it easier to start and grow our local business community.
Living Up to our Motto: Together We’re Greater
One of the greatest strengths of our advocacy is that it’s regional. By presenting a unified voice, we amplify the needs of the Inland Northwest. This approach shows legislators that Spokane is organized, focused, and serious about securing the resources we need to succeed. Members of our Regional Advocacy Committee and Association Partners Downtown Spokane Partnership and Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce were critical to the agenda development and prioritization process.
Get Involved: Join Us for the Olympia Fly-In
Want to make an impact? Get involved with our annual fly-ins. The 2026 Olympia Fly-In, happening January 28-30, is an opportunity for Spokane-area business leaders like you to engage directly with policymakers. We’d like to invite you to join us to:
- Voice your perspective: Help legislators understand why Spokane’s needs matter to businesses like yours.
- Network with decision-makers: Build relationships with key leaders shaping Washington State’s policies.
- Be part of change: Collaborate with other regional leaders to push Spokane’s agenda forward.
How to Sign Up
Be part of this crucial effort. Visit our Olympia Fly-In page to register today. Your participation makes a difference—and ensures Spokane’s needs are front and center.
Together, we’ll champion Spokane’s priorities and pave the way for a brighter future.
Together, we’re greater.
