2026 Legislative Priorities

This legislative session, Pacific Science Center is advocating for budget and policy measures that support our work to make science, curiosity, and discovery accessible for all.

Maintain funding for Science on Wheels

Science on Wheels is the largest science education outreach program in Washington. Last year, Science on Wheels and our digital extended learning series, Digital Discovery Workshops, served more than 116,000 learners across 48 legislative districts. Support from the Washington State Legislature enables PacSci to offer these programs at accessible costs to low-income schools.

Amend ESSB 5814

ESSB 5814 (2025) expanded Washington’s retail sales tax to include certain live presentations. This change increases costs for programs like Science on Wheels. During the 2026 legislative session, PacSci will advocate for an amendment that protects access to essential STEM learning and keeps programming within reach for all students.

Restore public access to the Yamasaki Courtyard

PacSci is working to remove the north gates that currently separate our historic Yamasaki Courtyard from the rest of the Seattle Center campus ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A capital investment from the Washington State Legislature would help restore the original intent for the courtyard: a freely accessible public space for gathering, reflection, and discovery.

Join our advocacy network to stay informed and help protect access to high-quality science education.