Committee moves heritage‑orchard registry bill out of committee

The Postsecondary Education and Workforce Committee voted to report substitute House Bill 2525, which would establish a heritage orchard program at Washington State University and create a registry for heritage orchards.

Sponsor Rep. Mendoza moved the proposed substitute and an amendment (H3244.2) adding a null‑and‑void clause so the program would be void if not funded in the budget. The amendment was described as a "responsible amendment" by Rep. Nance and was adopted by voice vote.

Rep. Mendoza framed the bill as preserving orchard heritage and promoting agricultural education in rural districts, saying Washington produces "approximately 60% of the apples in The United States" and urging members to support the bill. Colleagues including Rep. Nance and others voiced support for the registry.

Staff announced 17 ayes on the final voice vote; by that vote substitute HB2525 was reported out of committee with a due‑pass recommendation. The adopted null‑and‑void clause makes the program contingent on budget funding.