VIDEO | Removing barriers to federal funding: Rep. Stephanie Barnard on unlocking economic growth (testimony on House Bill 2186)


During a public hearing in the House Technology, Economic Development, and Veterans Committee, Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, testifies in support of her sponsored legislation, House Bill 2186, which is designed to help Washington stop leaving federal dollars on the table.

HB 2186 creates a framework for providing matching funds required by many federal grants, using a mix of state dollars (when available) and alternative funding sources such as grants, gifts, and donations. Too often, communities, nonprofits, and small businesses skip federal opportunities entirely because they cannot afford the required match.

In her testimony, Barnard highlights real-world examples of missed opportunities in housing, rural development, energy efficiency, and workforce advancement, and explains how this bill removes a key barrier to economic development, innovation, and job growth across Washington.

The bill also expands access to grant information through the state’s FundHub WA website, helping communities better navigate available federal resources and prepare to act when funding becomes available.

This bill puts smart policy in place now so Washington can move quickly, efficiently, and responsibly when investment opportunities arise.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov