Government

Executive Order 25-03: Making Washington Work for Small Business

Executive Order 25-03 is about more than improving paperwork—it's about holding state agencies accountable to the people they serve. Governor Ferguson has made it clear: if you're applying for a permit, license, or certification, you deserve timely, transparent service. And if an agency can't deliver within a reasonable timeframe, you may be eligible to get your application fee refunded.


What Agencies Track

Application counts, processing times for all vs complete applications, and post-approval steps like inspections.

Public Deadlines

Each program sets efficient, public processing deadlines so applicants know what to expect.

Fee Refunds

If a complete application exceeds the posted deadline, the agency refunds the application fee where allowed by law.


📌 What It Means for You
  • Faster, more predictable approvals for permits and licenses.
  • Clearer steps and fewer delays when starting or expanding your business.
  • Greater consistency across agencies—reduced guesswork or conflicting instructions.
📊 Accountability in Action
  • Agencies must publicly report how long approvals take—and improve them.
  • Outdated processes will be modernized or eliminated.
  • If timelines aren't met, you may qualify for a refund of your application fees.
EO 25-03 /
Regulatory Timeliness Data
Agency
Catalogs
29
Reporting Agencies
1,548
Total Entries Reported
48.7
Average Processing Time (Days)
💬 A Smarter, Fairer System

Whether you're applying for a license, renewing a certification, or navigating state requirements, Executive Order 25-03 ensures that agencies are held to a higher standard. It’s about building a government that works as hard as you do—and respects your time, your money, and your effort.