Washington state lawmakers are advancing legislation that would permanently bar public port funds from being used to purchase fully automated container-handling equipment, a move that could significantly influence how ports in the Seattle–Tacoma gateway modernize their terminals. Senate Bill 5995 would allow state grants for zero- and near-zero-emission cargo-handling equipment only if it is human-operated, while explicitly cutting off funding for equipment defined as fully automated, including systems that are remotely operated or monitored. The proposal has strong backing from longshore labor groups, who argue automation threatens dockworker jobs and should not be subsidized with public dollars. Port authorities and industry representatives, however, warn the restriction could limit options for improving efficiency and reducing emissions, especially as ports invest heavily in electrification and modernization projects. If enacted, the bill would make the funding prohibition permanent, forcing ports to carefully navigate the line between labor protections, climate goals, and competitiveness as the legislation moves through committee hearings and potential amendments.