State agencies must consider certain requirements before public works contractors can earn contracts to work on projects important to Washingtonians.

Under a bill sponsored by Sen. Kevin Ranker, D-Orcas Island, those same contractors would also need to share taxpayer values in order to earn taxpayer dollars.

Senate Bill 5462 would require agencies to make sure contractors are in compliance with state and federal anti-discrimination laws. If a bidder is found to not be in compliance with these laws, agency directors will no longer consider them for these contracts for no more than three years.

“Washington’s history of tolerance is a source of pride,” Ranker said. “We should hold those with whom our state does business and those whom we pay with taxpayer dollars to the same high standard. I hope this will encourage those who do not respect the rights of all Washingtonians to change their ways.”