Rep. Peter Abbarno’s bill to strengthen city-tribal partnerships passes House unanimously

A bill championed by Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia, to support the cooperation between local governments and tribal nations has cleared a major legislative hurdle, unanimously passing the Washington State House of Representatives on Thursday.

House Bill 1039 provides a clear legal framework for cities and federally recognized tribes—specifically the City of LaCenter and the Cowlitz Tribe—to establish agreements that extend urban governmental services beyond traditional urban growth boundaries. The legislation ensures these agreements comply with the state’s Growth Management Act, paving the way for smarter infrastructure development, improved public services, and stronger city-tribal collaboration.

“This bill is about partnership, progress, and responsible growth,” said Abbarno, House Republican Caucus Chair. “By allowing cities and tribal governments to work together, we are creating more efficient, locally driven solutions that benefit residents, businesses, and communities alike.”

Under current law, cities face restrictions when providing municipal services outside their urban growth areas. HB 1039 removes these barriers and enables LaCenter and the Cowlitz Tribe to develop agreements that support economic development and essential infrastructure improvements.

“The overwhelming support for this bill underscores the importance of city-tribal collaboration,” Abbarno noted. “I appreciate my colleagues’ commitment to advancing this legislation, and I look forward to working with the Senate to ensure it becomes law.”

With unanimous bipartisan support, the bill now heads to the Senate Local Government Committee for further consideration.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov