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

Government

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Outdated processes will be modernized or eliminated.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.