Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee
HB 1608
Brief Description: Concerning the selling, possessing, transporting, and distributing of farmed octopus.
Sponsors: Representatives Peterson, Berg, Fitzgibbon, Chase, Walen, Farivar, Leavitt, Ramel, Gregerson, Parshley, Reed, Bernbaum, Goodman, Springer, Kloba, Hill, Macri, Fosse and Davis.
Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits the sale, possession, transport, and distribution of farmed octopus.
Hearing Date: 2/14/25
Staff: Lily Smith (786-7175).
Background:

Aquaculture is the process of growing, farming, or cultivating private sector cultured aquatic products in marine or fresh waters.  Legislation enacted in 2024 prohibits octopus aquaculture in Washington.

 

The Department of Agriculture regulates the production and sale of certain food products for the purposes of food safety, quality, and security.

 

Multiple laws, including the Consumer Protection Act, authorize the Attorney General to bring civil actions on behalf of the state.
Summary of Bill:

The sale, possession, transport, or distribution of octopus that is a result or product of aquaculture is prohibited.

 

A violation of this prohibition is subject to a civil penalty of up to $1,000.  The Attorney General may bring a civil action in the name of the state for recovery of the penalty.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.