State Economic Council Aims to Boost Washington Business

Every factual claim below was checked against the original public record. Source: original document ↗

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  Governor Bob Ferguson established the Governor’s Economic Development Council on June 25, 2026.“June 25, 2026 Story Body Council will guide economic policy to ensure Washington remains a great place to do business SEATTLE — Today Governor Bob Ferguson established a new Governor’s Economic Development Council, a partnership of small businesses, labor, Tribes, educators and large employers in tech and aerospace to guide Washington’s economic strategy.”
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  The council includes 26 leaders from businesses, labor, Tribes, and education.“The Council will include 26 leading Washingtonians across industries to identify practical actions that strengthen Washington’s economy, expand opportunity and help more Washingtonians succeed.”
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  It aims to maintain Washington’s rank as the 9th largest U.S. economy and the nation’s top in economic productivity.“Washington state’s economy is the 9th largest in the nation. Washington’s economy is ranked as the 2nd best state economy by WalletHub and first in the nation in economic productivity by the latest State of the States report.”
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  The council will advise the Governor on the statewide economic development plan, due June 2027.“Advise the Governor and the Department of Commerce on the statewide economic development and competitiveness strategic plan funded in Governor Ferguson’s first budget, due June 2027.”
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  It will also review regulatory barriers and make recommendations on marketing Washington to outside businesses.“Review our regulatory environment to address barriers to economic growth and alignment with federal, state, and local policies. Bring ideas that state agencies can take action on immediately. The Council will meet quarterly and submit advisory reports to the Governor with its findings and recommendations.”
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  Members represent over a quarter-million workers and span many parts of Washington state.“Members of the Council Members of the Council employ over a quarter of a million workers, represent over half a million union members, educate over a hundred thousand students, oversee tens of billions in port shipments, and span many parts of Washington state on both sides of the mountains.”
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  This is the first such council since Governor Christine Gregoire’s Global Competitiveness Council in 2006.“This is the first such body in two decades — since Governor Christine Gregoire’s Global Competitiveness Council in 2006.”
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  Governor Ferguson has already signed executive orders to reduce permitting times at state agencies.“Governor Ferguson signed an Executive Order on his first day in office to cut down on permitting times at state agencies.”
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  Governor Ferguson has signed executive orders to cut processing times for licenses and permits by up to 75 percent.Not found in the source record — unverified.