SEATTLE, WA (October 3, 2025) – Washington Policy Center (WPC), a nonpartisan policy research leader supporting the people of Washington state, has named Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) its 2025 Champion of Freedom, WPC’s highest honor.
WPC President and CEO Steven Hatting stated: “The Champion of Freedom award recognizes an outstanding individual or organization that advances the cause of freedom – either through a single action or a dedicated career. We are delighted to announce that this year’s recipient is the Building Industry Association of Washington for 75 years of leadership typified by their remarkable efforts in the last year to prevent the state’s costly and unnecessary ban on natural gas. Congratulations to BIAW for their tireless commitment to freedom and affordability for all Washingtonians.”
To challenge the statewide natural gas ban, BIAW galvanized a formidable campaign – gathering more than 540,000 signatures in opposition in a span of just seven weeks, forcing the ban to a vote where citizens overwhelmingly sided with BIAW for energy choice. While the results of the vote are still being reviewed by the Supreme Court of Washington, BIAW’s efforts to bring choice to the people of Washington are inspiring and truly embody WPC’s mission to create a thriving state where free-market principles create growth, innovation and opportunity for everyone.
Of the recognition, BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane commented: “BIAW is proud to accept Washington Policy Center’s Champion of Freedom Award on behalf of the thousands of builder and associate members in our organization who build and protect the American dream in our state. We’re grateful for the partnership, high-quality research and advocacy we receive as long-time supporters of the WPC and thank them for this prestigious recognition of our work for the people of Washington.”
The 2025 Champion of Freedom Award will be officially presented to BIAW by 2024 Champion of Freedom Honoree and former U.S. Representative Cathy McMorris Rodger at this year’s Annual Policy Dinner for Eastern Washington on October 10th at the Spokane Convention Center.
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About Washington Policy Center
Washington Policy Center (WPC) is an independent, non-profit think tank that promotes sound public policy based on free-market solutions. WPC’s mission is to promote fact-based dialogue around solutions that advance free-market principles through research and collaboration with lawmakers, stakeholders and citizens.
