House Bills

Essential information on each bill is below. For more details, click on the bill number – e.g., “HB 1000.” The new page will show the progress of the bill, videos of debate, and the link to send a comment to your legislator about the bill.

Topics
  • Safety
Expanding the circumstances that may constitute a major violation of the uniform controlled substances act.
Sponsor: Jim Walsh, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Rep. Jim Walsh, R- Aberdeen, has filed HB 1000, which would allow courts to impose tougher sentences for the knowing delivery or distribution of fentanyl or precursor chemicals used to illegally manufacture fentanyl. The bill also would allow longer sentences for those who distribute counterfeit substances containing fentanyl that causes substantial bodily harm, permanent impairment to cognitive functions, or death of a person.

Under current law, fentanyl possession is a misdemeanor. This particular bill was introduced last year; however, it did not receive a hearing. A huge surge in fentanyl-related deaths in Washington is forcing legislators to respond with bills that will give law enforcement officers and prosecutors the tools they need to clean up our communities as well as provide assistance to addicts.

  • Health Care
Recognizing posttraumatic stress disorder as an occupational disease for county coroners, examiners, and investigative personnel.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Skyler Rude, R

Washington State House Bill 1002 proposes amending existing law to recognize posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an occupational disease for specific public service workers. The bill specifically covers firefighters, law enforcement officers, public safety telecommunicators, and county coroners and medical examiner personnel, subject to certain conditions and exceptions. These exceptions include instances where PTSD stems from employer disciplinary actions or pre-existing conditions, as determined by a pre-employment psychological evaluation. The proposed changes aim to provide workers’ compensation coverage for PTSD in these high-stress professions. The bill also includes precise definitions for the covered professions and situations.

  • Transportation
Concerning county local roads.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Washington House Bill 1008 establishes a new county local road trust account within the state’s motor vehicle fund. The bill outlines the criteria for allocating funds to county road projects, prioritizing projects in overburdened communities and those addressing environmental health disparities. Specific project types are defined, and rules for project planning, funding, and eligibility are established. The bill also includes provisions for joint planning with cities and the state Department of Transportation, along with stipulations regarding matching funds and county levy diversions. Finally, it declares an emergency effective date of July 1, 2025.

  • Housing
Authorizing accessory dwelling units in rural areas.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

The legislature has found that Washingtonians are in a housing crisis and the state needs to produce another 1.1 million homes by 2044 to meet its housing needs. The legislature determined that accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are a potential solution to this housing crisis because they provide affordable housing, can be built quickly, and can provide supplemental income for property owners. ADUs are especially needed in rural communities that do not yet have the infrastructure for larger-scale development.

House Bill 1010, a Washington State legislative proposal, aims to address the state’s housing crisis by promoting the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), particularly in rural areas. The bill outlines specific regulations for detached ADUs, including size limits, water and sewage requirements, and design guidelines to ensure compatibility with existing properties. It also mandates updates to county comprehensive plans to accommodate these new ADU regulations and clarifies the review and revision processes for existing land-use plans. Finally, the bill emphasizes the need for collaboration between counties and cities in planning and addresses potential impacts on rural growth targets.

Bill Sponsor Sam Low, R-Lake Stevens, stated “We must take bold action during the upcoming session to increase housing supply and remove barriers to building affordable housing. While we can’t fix this crisis overnight, we can work to ensure Washington no longer holds the distinction of being the fifth most unaffordable state for housing.”

  • Education
Creating a school safety capitol grant program.
Sponsor: Cyndy Jacobsen, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Washington House Bill 1011 proposes a new school safety capital grant program. The bill outlines eligibility requirements for schools and projects, including a focus on physical security improvements. It details the application process, grant administration, and matching fund stipulations. A minimum 10-year commitment to maintain improvements is required of grantees. Funding limitations and project cost caps are also specified.

The School Safety Capital Grant Program, as outlined in the proposed legislation, would fund physical improvements to enhance the safety and security of school facilities. Eligible projects include design and construction of security vestibules and the purchase and installation of: metal detectors, key card access, panic buttons, silent alarms, fencing and lighting. Crime prevention through environmental design projects. All projects must incorporate crime prevention through environmental design principles to the extent applicable.

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction generally requires grantees to provide matching non-state funding equal to at least 100% of the state grant award. However, the office may reduce the required matching percentage for applicants with a higher than average percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals.

  • Taxes
Providing employer tax incentives for the support of veterans and military families.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Clyde Shavers, D

HB 1016 would provide tax incentives to employers who hire veterans and spouses of active-duty military members. The stated public policy objective of the legislation is to increase employment opportunities for veterans and military families.

The bill proposes a 20% tax credit, up to $3,000 per qualified employee, on wages and benefits paid to veterans or spouses of active-duty military personnel hired after January 1, 2026. To qualify, employees must hold permanent full-time positions for at least two consecutive calendar quarters. Seasonal employees who work the equivalent of 35 hours over two consecutive quarters also qualify.

The legislation designates a $5 million annual cap for the total tax credits. If claims exceed the limit, unused credits can be carried over to the next fiscal year.

The bill mandates that employers who discharge a qualified employee before claiming the credit are ineligible for a new credit for one year from the discharge date. However, this restriction doesn’t apply if the employee was terminated for documented work-related misconduct, or due to a felony or gross misdemeanor conviction.

To be eligible for the tax credit, a qualified employee must be employed for at least two consecutive full calendar quarters. This applies to both veterans and spouses of active-duty military members. The bill defines “full-time” employment as a normal work week of at least 35 hours.

The tax credit program has an expiration date built into the proposed legislation. Credits can be earned for tax reporting periods only through January 1, 2036. After that date, no further credits can be claimed. The program itself fully expires on January 1, 2037. However, the legislation includes a provision for potential extension. If a review determines that the number of unemployed veterans and military spouses has decreased by 10%, the legislative auditor is obligated to recommend extending the expiration date of the tax preference. The total annual cap on tax credits for employing veterans and their spouses is $5,000,000.

  • Housing
Creating a homes for heroes program.
Sponsor: April Connors, R
Co-Sponsor: McClintock, R; Low, R; Barkis, R

Washington House Bill 1022, also known as the “Homes for Heroes Act,” proposes a $15 million pilot program to assist eligible essential workers with down payments and closing costs on homes. The program targets individuals in critical occupations facing housing affordability challenges, such as firefighters, nurses, and police officers. Funding is capped, and the program is set to conclude in 2027, with reports on its effectiveness due to the legislature. Loan amounts are limited to 5% of the first mortgage or $25,000, and loans are interest-free, deferred until the mortgage is paid or the property is sold. The bill aims to alleviate Washington state’s workforce crisis by making homeownership more accessible to essential workers.

  • Health Care
Reopening the exemption from the long-term services and supports trust program for employees who have purchased long-term care insurance.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Joe Schmick, R

State Representatives Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia and Joe Schmick, R-Colfax have introduced a bill designed to reopen a limited opt-out period for WA Cares, Washington’s long-term care insurance program. This bill became necessary when Initiative 2124 failed during the election in November of 2024. The initiative would have made WA Cares optional.

WA Cares deducts 58 cents per $100 earned for every Washington worker to fund a dismal limited lifetime benefit of up to $36,000 for long-term care costs. Prior to the program becoming mandatory, workers were allowed a very short period of time to provide proof of a private insurance plan, which would allow them to opt out of the payroll tax.

House Bill 1025 would allow an extended opt-out window for purchasing a private insurance plan. The window of opportunity would end on November 1, 2027. Unfortunately, this bill does not allow for a refund of any payroll tax deductions made before the effective date of an approved exemption.

  • Health Care
Protecting spouses by allowing the sharing of benefits under the long-term services and supports trust program.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Joe Schmick, R

House Bill 1026, sponsored by Rep. Peter Abbarno, R-Centralia and co-sponsored by Rep. Joe Schmick, R-Colfax, would allow an individual to transfer any or all of the qualified person’s available WA Cares long-term care benefits to a spouse.

“One of the main flaws in the program is that there are a lot of families that have a stay-at-home spouse, or a spouse who took a break from their career to raise a family, or maybe something happened and they got hurt at work and had to take a year or two off work to recover, and then they are no longer vested and have to start all over again,” Abbarno said.

Abbarno continued, “We live in a community property state and when one spouse is not bringing home income, it seems patently unfair that a spouse who is missing out on that community asset wouldn’t get to use the long-term care program,” Abbarno noted. “You can end up getting taxed in a payroll tax for your entire career, and you may never use this benefit, but God forbid your spouse needs it, they can never use it.”

  • Safety
Concerning housing of inmates in state correctional facilities.
Sponsor: Cyndy Jacobsen, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

This proposed Washington state legislative act prohibits housing inmates convicted of sex offenses against a specific biological sex in correctional facilities that primarily house individuals of that same sex. The law adds a new section to chapter 72.09 RCW to implement this restriction. This aims to ensure the safety and security of inmates by preventing situations where prior sex offenders could be housed with vulnerable individuals of the same biological sex as their victims. The act specifically defines “sex offense” using existing state law (RCW 9.94A.030).

  • Safety
Addressing child exposure to violence.
Sponsor: Roger Goodman, D
Co-Sponsor: Carolyn Eslick, R

Washington House Bill 1028 is a bipartisan bill which aims to update the state’s laws regarding child abuse and neglect. The bill modifies definitions of key terms like “child forensic interview” and “children’s advocacy center” to reflect current best practices and the evolving landscape of child protection. It emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary team approaches and trauma-informed care. Further, the bill addresses the need for improved support and training for professionals involved in child abuse investigations, including provisions for peer review of forensic interviews. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the effectiveness of child protection services in Washington State.

  • Elections

HB 1030

Concerning the conduct of limited audits of counted ballots during the election certification period.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: Mena

At the request of the Secretary of State, bipartisan House Bill 1030 details amendments to Washington state election laws. Key change involve ballot duplication procedures, enhanced auditing methods – including risk-limiting audits and limited hand counts – and expanded rule-making authority for the Secretary of State. The bill aims to improve election accuracy and transparency, specifying processes for auditing and resolving discrepancies. Finally, the bill addresses observer participation and procedures for handling defective voting devices.

  • Education
Authorizing local licensing and regulation of child care providers.
Sponsor: Travis Couture, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Washington House Bill 1033 modifies the state’s child care licensing system. Counties will gain the option to license and regulate child care centers and family homes beginning July 1, 2026, subject to specific requirements outlined in the bill. The bill mandates a third-party analysis of this new system’s effectiveness. Existing state regulations are updated to reflect these changes, and some are repealed. The bill aims to improve child care quality and access while allowing for local control.

  • Parenting
Prohibiting puberty blocking medications, cross-sex hormones, and gender transition surgeries for minors.
Sponsor: Cyndy Jacobsen, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

This Washington state bill proposes to restrict medical interventions related to gender transition for minors. Specifically, it would prohibit puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and certain surgeries aimed at altering a minor’s perceived gender. Exceptions are made for individuals with diagnosed disorders of sex development or those requiring treatment for conditions arising from previous transition procedures. The bill defines “sex” as biological factors present at birth and “gender” as encompassing psychological and social aspects.

  • Transportation
Improving choices of replacement tires for consumers.
Sponsor: Jim Walsh, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

In 2024, Washington House Bill 2262 sought to authorize the Department of Commerce to establish and enforce energy efficiency standards for replacement tires. The proposed legislation would have allowed the department to prohibit the sale of replacement tires based on their rolling resistance. Additionally, the department would have been allowed to rely on information from California agencies to justify banning certain tires. Fortunately, this bill did not make it out of committee.

In response, Rep. Jim Walsh, R – Aberdeen has prefiled a bill for the 2025 legislative session to protect consumer choice and prioritize road safety in Washington state. This legislation, House Bill 1041, ensures that tires meeting federal motor vehicle safety standards (pursuant to 49 U.S.C. Sec. 30111) can be manufactured, sold, and used across the state without interference from additional state or local regulations.

Walsh’s proposal seeks to prohibit restrictions on tire usage or sales through greenhouse gas reduction strategies or emission standards, such as those modeled after California’s vehicle emission policies. “Tires are critical to vehicle safety, especially in Washington’s rugged and wet conditions,” said Walsh. “Limiting tire options does practically nothing to protect the environment. People in Washington should be free to choose the tires that best meet their needs without bureaucratic overreach limiting those options.”

The idea behind reducing rolling resistance is that it decreases fuel consumption. However, most of the environmental benefits are based on theories and models rather than actual driving data. Rolling-resistant tires typically have less tread depth, resulting in less road grip. Furthermore, the tires need replacing more frequently and they are more expensive than traditional tires.

  • Taxes
Creating a sales tax exemption for equipment purchased by fire districts in rural counties.
Sponsor: Tom Dent, R
Co-Sponsor: Griffey, Low, Shavers, Eslick, Orcutt, Bronoske, Timmons, Rule, Nance, Davis

House Bill 1047 proposes a sales tax exemption for equipment purchased by eligible rural fire districts. The bill aims to alleviate disproportionate costs faced by these districts due to their large service areas and small tax bases. Eligibility is determined by population, with districts exceeding 10,000 residents excluded. The exemption covers fire and emergency medical apparatus and related equipment, and takes effect October 1, 2025. The bill modifies existing sales and use tax laws to implement the exemption.

  • Safety
Clarifying a hate crime offense.
Sponsor: Cindy Ryu, D
Co-Sponsor: Ramel, Leavitt, Berry, Taylor, Reed, Thai, Obras

Rep. Cindy Ryu, D-Shoreline, is proposing a new law that would expand when citizens can be charged with crimes motivated by bias even though bias was only part of the motive behind them committing the crime. House Bill 1052 seeks to amend the definition of a hate crime.

As it stands now, a person is guilty of a hate crime if they commit an act “because of” their belief about another person’s race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. The proposed change would modify the phrase “because of” to “in whole or in part because of,” ensuring that jurors can convict if bias is a partial, but not sole, motivation.

Ryu believes that hate crimes often have mixed motives. They range from minor offenses, such as spitting on someone because of his or her race, to serious acts of vandalism. Sadly, these “perceived offenses” can include a church member speaking about the evils of homosexuality or a teacher refusing to address a student by their preferred pronoun. There is no stop to what can be charged as a ‘hate crime’ if ‘bias’ is defined by the ‘victim’.

It will, if passed, place Washington alongside several other states which include California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York, and Wisconsin, which have already adopted similar language in combating mixed motives in hate crimes. Please oppose this horrendous bill.

 

  • Freedom
Enhancing access to public records.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Sam Low, R

State lawmakers have created at least 650 exceptions to the state’s Public Records Act. This proposed legislation from Peter Abbarno, R-Centrailia and Sam Low, R-Lake Stevens, would require an updated report on the access to public records within state agencies. The report, due this year, would also shed light on the cost of litigation when agencies deny a public records request. This bill also recommends creating the Office of Transparency Ombuds, an independent state agency dedicated to helping requesters to obtain public records.

  • Taxes
Promoting economic development by increasing support for local communities to access federal funds.
Sponsor: Stephanie Barnard, R
Co-Sponsor: Ryu, D; Leavitt, D; Barkis, R

House Bill 1057 (the MATCHED Act) aims to stimulate economic growth by helping local communities access federal funding more effectively. This proposed bipartisan legislation, crafted by Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, tackles the difficulties many communities face in securing federal funds, particularly in rural and distressed areas. A lack of state matching dollars, often required to access federal resources, is a common obstacle. The bill seeks to eliminate these barriers by providing state matching funds, enabling communities to leverage federal and private investments more effectively.

“With the statewide budget shortfall, many legislators are considering tax increases,” Barnard said. “But more taxes aren’t the solution. Instead, Washington should take full advantage of federal funding opportunities to tackle the budget crisis and grow our economy. The MATCHED Act helps pave the way for Washingtonians to succeed.”

In addition to offering state matching funds, the MATCHED Act focuses on expanding grant-writing support to improve access to federal assistance. The bill directs the Department of Commerce to establish a grant program by July 1, 2025. This program would help local governments, economic development organizations, and rural counties to hire grant writers. “Washington is leaving significant federal dollars on the table,” Barnard added. “By prioritizing support for distressed areas, we can secure funding for critical projects like broadband expansion, housing, infrastructure, and workforce training. These investments will directly benefit our communities.”

  • Property
Concerning Family Burial Grounds.
Sponsor: Jim Walsh, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, has prefiled House Bill 1065, legislation that clarifies existing law to allow families to bury loved ones on privately owned land under certain conditions. The legislation addresses ambiguity in state law, protects property rights, and honors cultural traditions. Walsh explained that this updated proposal builds on a previous version introduced in the last biennium, which received broad, bipartisan support in the Washington State House of Representatives but stalled in the Senate. The 19th District lawmaker also noted that the current bill includes bipartisan amendments added along the way.

Walsh’s proposal clarifies that families wishing to continue traditional burial practices must follow local land-use guidelines, including wetlands and title filings. It specifies that the option only applies to direct family members and disallows any commercial use—thereby protecting landowners while preserving cultural and historical customs. In addition to its past bipartisan legislative support, HB 1065 has garnered backing from several groups, including Native American tribes, property rights organizations, and those invested in preserving Washington’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Environment
Implementing strategies to achieve higher recycling rates within Washington’s existing solid waste management system.
Sponsor: Jake Fey, D
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt, Walen, Bronoske, Reeves, Barkis, Waters, Callan, Thai, Berg, Low, Schmidt, Rule, Goodman, Pollet, Lekanoff, Salahuddin

House Bill 1071 is a bipartisan bill that aims to increase Washington state’s recycling rate to 65 percent for packaging and paper products. The bill mandates a statewide needs assessment to identify necessary investments and improvements to the recycling system. It also establishes a producer responsibility program, requiring producers to register and report data on the volume of products sold and to increase the use of postconsumer recycled content. An advisory committee will guide the process, and penalties are outlined for noncompliance. The bill also addresses low-income discounts for solid waste services and clarifies the Pollution Control Hearings Board’s jurisdiction over appeals.

  • Health Care
Preserving access to protected health care services.
Sponsor: Amy Walen, D
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt, Reeves, Berg, Ryu

During the 2024 Legislative Session, SB 5241 would have allowed Washington’s attorney general to block health system mergers under the guise of protecting the availability of abortion, assisted suicide and gender transition procedures. Fortunately, the bill died in committee.

Rep. Amy Walen, D-Kirland, has now introduced HB 1072. This bill would require the Department of Health to assess whether a proposed merger could limit access to these same procedures and would then approve or deny the health business transaction. In turn, the attorney general could then block the merger based upon the agency’s recommendations.

While technically different than SB 5241, the proposed legislation still gives the AG and Department of Health the authority to block health care mergers. And make no mistake, this law is primarily interested in blocking religious-affiliated hospitals and clinics from merging unless they agree to provide ‘protected healthcare services’.

While less sweeping than the original medical mergers bill, the proposed legislation still gives the AG and DOH authority to block some health care business dealings. We expect HB 1072 to receive strict scrutiny from lawmakers, hospital and health care lobbyists, and reproductive rights stakeholders. We’ll be tracking this one closely.

  • Safety

HB 1074

Excluding any person who is convicted of a hit and run resulting in death from being eligible for a first-time offender waiver.
Sponsor: Cyndy Jacobsen, R
Co-Sponsor: Schmidtt, Burnett, Caldier

House Bill 1074 is a Republican-sponsored bill that amends state law regarding first-time offender waivers. The bill specifies that individuals convicted of a felony hit and run resulting in death are ineligible for such waivers. The legislation details the types of felonies excluded from this waiver program, including drug-related offenses and certain driving under the influence charges. The proposed changes modify sentencing guidelines for eligible first-time offenders, allowing for alternative sentences including community custody and restitution.

  • Parenting
Concerning qualifications for child care providers.
Sponsor: Tana Senn, D
Co-Sponsor: Carolyn Eslick, R

This bipartisan legislation, submitted by Tana Senn, D-Mercer Island, and Carolyn Eslick,R-Sultan, Chair and Ranking member of the House Human Services, Youth, and Early Learning Committee would delay and revise education requirements for child care providers. House Bill 1082 would allow child care providers to meet competency requirements in various manners and would also postpone state licensure requirements for child care workers until 2028. This legislation would update the training and evaluation of child care providers but does not completely eliminate qualifications. Given the extreme shortage of child care facilities in Washington state, this bill is a move in the right direction.

  • Safety
Improving school safety by extending penalties for interference by, or intimidation by threat of, force or violence at schools and extracurricular activities and requiring schools to notify the public of such penalties.
Sponsor: Suzanne Schmidt, R
Co-Sponsor: Timmons, Waters, Leavitt, Ybarra, McClintock, Nance, Low, Volz, McEntire, Griffey, Barkis, Eslick, Couture, Klicker

Washington State House Bill 1085 is a bipartisan bill that aims to improve school safety by increasing penalties for violence and intimidation at schools and extracurricular activities. The bill strengthens penalties for interfering with school activities through force or violence, specifically targeting threats against school officials and volunteers at athletic events. Increased fines and jail time are proposed, along with mandatory exclusion from school or events for those convicted. The bill also mandates public signage notifying people of these enhanced penalties. Finally, the bill expands the definition of those protected under the law to include more school personnel and volunteers.

  • Safety
Concerning motor vehicle chop shops.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: Couture, Penner, Leavitt, Barnard, Klicker, Marshall, Paul

As Washington grapples with persistently high motor vehicle theft rates and the growing threat of illegal chop shops, Rep. Sam Low, R-Lake Stevens, has pre-filed House Bill 1086, a bipartisan measure aimed at dismantling these criminal enterprises, delivering justice for victims, and restoring community safety.

In 2023, more than 54,000 motor vehicles were stolen in Washington, resulting in the state having the third-highest motor vehicle theft rate in the nation. In 2024, the Washington Crime Information Center (WACIC) reported another 28,000 automobiles were stolen statewide.

Chop shops—illegal operations that dismantle stolen vehicles and sell their parts—are causing significant financial losses for victims and contributing to rising insurance rates and safety concerns in communities. In collaboration with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office, Rep. Low’s proposed legislation includes the following provisions:

  • Operating or aiding a chop shop will be classified as a Class B felony (seriousness level II), with repeat offenses elevated to a Class A felony (seriousness level IV).
  • Convicted offenders will be required to compensate victims for theft-related costs, including financial losses and environmental cleanup.
  • Law enforcement will have the authority to seize and forfeit tools, vehicles, and properties involved in chop shop operations.

“Washington’s surge in motor vehicle thefts has disrupted lives, driven up insurance premiums, and placed significant strain on law enforcement. Illegal chop shops are making the problem worse by turning stolen vehicles into profit, thereby encouraging more theft and organized crime,” said Low. “With this bill, we’re looking to fight back against criminals and send a clear message that they will no longer be able to run wild in Washington.”

  • Safety
Expanding the crime of endangerment with a controlled substance to include fentanyl and other high-potency synthetic opioids.
Sponsor: Jenny Graham, R
Co-Sponsor: Couture, R; Barkis, R

House Bill 1087 would criminalize knowingly exposing a child or dependent adult to fentanyl or other synthetic opioids.

“Fentanyl has devastated families and communities across Washington state. No child should be put in harm’s way because of the reckless actions of adults,” said Graham, who was recently appointed ranking Republican on the House Community Safety Committee. “This bill is a solution to fix Washington by protecting our most vulnerable and holding offenders accountable.”

Currently, under state law, endangerment with a controlled substance applies primarily to methamphetamine exposure. If passed, House Bill 1087 would expand the applicable substances to include fentanyl, its chemical derivatives and other synthetic opioids. Knowingly exposing a child or dependent adult to these substances would be classified as a Class B felony,

“We must do more to address the addiction crisis in Washington state, specifically regarding fentanyl,” Couture said. “At the same time, we have to ensure this drug is not claiming the lives of Washington children who do not choose to expose themselves to this drug. Sadly, we are seeing these unnecessary deaths rising in our state. When a parent’s addiction costs a child their life, there must be real consequences. This bill ensures those consequences exist.”

  • Housing
Increasing housing options through lot splitting.
Sponsor: Andrew Barkis, R
Co-Sponsor: Ryu, Connors, Leavitt, Klicker, Reed, Fitzgibbon, Richards, Couture, Macri, Callan, Doglio, Bronoske, Tharinger, Wylie, Duerr, Timmons, Ormsby, Fosse, Stonier, Bernbaum, Hill

House Bill 1096 aims to enhance housing options in Washington by allowing existing residential lots to be split into new residential lots through a streamlined administrative process. This initiative is designed to support homeowners facing changing life circumstances and to provide prospective homebuyers, particularly first-time buyers, with more affordable housing opportunities. The legislation mandates that cities complying with minimum density requirements must establish a process for simultaneous review and approval of administrative lot splits and residential building permits, facilitating the development of middle housing or single-family homes.

Key provisions include that the lot split process may only require an administrative decision without a public hearing, provided certain conditions are met, such as compliance with development standards and the absence of displacement of renters. The bill also stipulates that cities
cannot impose limits on the number of dwelling units below what is allowed by existing zoning laws and that any newly created lots must adhere to local density requirements. Additionally, cities are granted immunity from liability related to the approval of lot splits, and the Department of Commerce is tasked with developing guidance and providing grants to assist cities in implementing these requirements.

  • Transportation
Concerning county local roads.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: Barkis, Paul, Nance, Timmons

House Bill 1098 proposes establishing a new county local road trust account in Washington State’s motor vehicle fund and directs the County Road Administration Board to adopt rules regarding the allocation of funds in the account. The bill defines key terms related to road projects and establishes criteria for project selection, prioritizing overburdened communities and environmental health. It outlines eligible project types and details fund allocation procedures, including matching fund requirements and eligibility restrictions for counties working with the Washington State Department of Transportation. It limits the eligibility for these funds to counties with populations under 8,000 and counties that have not diverted county road levy funds for other purposes.

  • Housing
Creating a tenant assistance program.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: April Connors, R; Andrew Barkis, R

House Bill 1099, sponsored by Sam Low, R-Lake Stevens, would establish a Tenant Assistance Program to provide monthly financial assistance of up to $400 for low-income renters, ensuring they pay no more than 30% of their monthly income on housing.

Washington’s housing crisis continues to burden residents across the state, with sky-rocketing home prices, the sixth-highest rents in the nation and more than 200,000 people experiencing homelessness or housing instability. In the past 40 years, Washington ranks #1 in the nation for the largest home price increase at 828 percent – way above the national average of 500 percent.

Rep. Low noted,”The situation we’re facing in Washington is dire. Nearly three-quarters of residents can’t afford to buy a median-priced home and renters are struggling with skyrocketing costs.” Low continued, “The housing crisis is not just about numbers—it’s about people—families struggling to make ends meet, young professionals unable to buy their first home, and seniors living in fear of losing what they’ve worked their entire lives to attain. This bill is designed to provide immediate relief and long-term solutions.”

  • Freedom
Increasing support and services for veterans.
Sponsor: Clyde Shavers, D
Co-Sponsor: Ryu, Leavitt, Callan, Simmons, Goodman, Wylie, Nance, Fosse, Reeves

Washington State Substitute House Bill 1102 aims to expand the state’s veterans service officer program. The bill addresses the low percentage of Washington veterans receiving federal benefits, noting significant disparities across counties. It proposes expanding the program to increase the number of veterans accessing benefits by adding one to two officers per biennium, prioritizing counties with the lowest rates. Funding and reporting requirements are detailed, focusing on improving outreach, support, and data collection to better serve veterans. The bill modifies existing law to clarify eligibility and funding processes for the program.

  • Taxes
Recognizing the tremendous sacrifices made by our military veterans by phasing down the disability rating requirements to ensure more disabled veterans are eligible for property tax relief.
Sponsor: Stephanie Barnard, R
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt, Eslick, Penner, Klicker, Richards, Shavers, Couture, McClintock, Callan, Marshall, Kloba, Nance, Simmons

Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has filed a bill to increase property tax breaks for disabled veterans in Washington State. House Bill 1106 seeks to lower the required disability ratings gradually, making more veterans eligible for property tax relief and providing greater financial assistance to those who have served.

Under current statute, veterans must have a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 80% or higher to qualify for the senior property tax exemption. It’s important to note that this bill does not impact all property-owning veterans who meet the service-connected thresholds. Veterans will still have to meet the financial requirements of 70% of the county median household income, which remains challenging to achieve. This bill does not impact those financial limits.

HB 1106 would introduce significant property tax relief measures through a phased approach to disability rating requirements. Starting in 2026, veterans with a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 60% or higher will become eligible for property tax exemptions. This eligibility threshold will gradually decrease to 40% in 2027 and further to 20% or higher, including those with a total disability rating, beginning in 2028 and beyond. This phased reduction aims to extend financial assistance to a broader group of veterans over time.

“This bill is a testament to our commitment to honor and support the brave men and women who have served our state and nation,” said Barnard. “By expanding property tax relief, we ensure that our disabled veterans receive the recognition and assistance they deserve while also maintaining fiscal responsibility for our local governments.”

  • Housing
Creating a task force on housing cost driver analysis.
Sponsor: Mark Klicker, R
Co-Sponsor: Peterson, Barkis, Ybarra, Low, Leavitt, Schmidt, Eslick, Penner, Connors, Paul, Ramel

The median price of a single-family home in Washington now exceeds $600,000 – 29% higher than the national average. Rep. Mark Klicker, R-Walla Walla, wants to know why. He’s reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would create a task force of builders, realtors, lenders, tenants, landlords, and housing experts to determine what is driving these costs skyward. The task force would have until the end of 2026 to present its report to the Legislature.

“Until we get to the root of the problem, we’re not going to be able to fix it. We need to bring people to the table that are continuously in this environment”, states Klicker. Excessive government regulations tracing back to passage of the Growth Management Act in the 1990’s is one of the primary cost drivers. Klicker adds, “As regulations increase, and it starts at the state level and down to the local level, you continue to create more unaffordable housing.”

  • Safety
Providing judicial discretion to modify sentences in the interest of justice.
Sponsor: Tarra Simmons, D
Co-Sponsor: Obras, Scott, Stearns, Ryu, Taylor, Peterson, Reeves, Tharinger, Fey, Morgan, Alvarado, Macri, Ornsby, Stonier, Doglio, Berg, Fosse, Reed, Berry, Duerr, Kloba, Goodman, Farivar, Street, Donaghy, Pollet, Bernbaum, Nance, Ortiz-Self, Slatter, Ramel, Mena, Gregerson, Wylie, Hill.

Washington State House Bill 1125, the “Judicial Discretion Act,” proposes amendments to the state’s sentencing laws. The bill will give our liberal judges more authority to modify lengthy sentences for dangerous inmates who reportedly meet specific criteria, such as age at the time of the offense or terminal illness. The act also establishes procedures for petitioning for sentence modification, including victim notification and legal representation provisions, and addresses the financial implications of such modifications by creating a flexible fund for victim services. Finally, it modifies existing laws related to exceptional sentencing and collateral attacks on convictions.

The number of Democrats supporting this legislation and the absence of any conservative lawmakers should be your first clue that this is a bad bill. You have witnessed how well the Democrats ’soft on crime’ approach has worked over the past several years. Rather than admit their mistakes, they just continue to push for more leniency.

  • Safety
Promoting public safety and deterring unlawful firearm possession by increasing criminal penalties for unlawful possession of a firearm.
Sponsor: Sam Low, R
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt

In a bid to crack down on criminal activity in Washington state, Rep. Sam Low, R-Lake Stevens, has pre-filed legislation to increase penalties for unlawful firearm possession. The bill, which was crafted with input from law enforcement and public safety leaders in Snohomish County, would ensure those who illegally carry firearms face greater consequences for breaking the law.

House Bill 1139 introduces significant changes to existing law, including reclassifying unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree as a violent offense, increasing sentencing penalties for offenders, and mandating jail time for violations.

“A large number of gun-related crimes are committed by individuals who are in illegal possession of that firearm,” said Low. “This bill is not about gun control, nor is it anti-Second Amendment. Our goal with this legislation is to better protect our communities by ensuring firearms stay out of the hands of dangerous individuals who are already barred from owning them. If passed by the Legislature, offenders will no longer receive a slap on the wrist or benefit from catch-and-release policies. Instead, they will face tougher penalties that ensure accountability and safer communities across our state.”

  • Education
Establishing empowerED scholarships using educational savings accounts.
Sponsor: Travis Couture, R
Co-Sponsor: Jim Walsh, R

House Bill 1140 has been introduced by Rep. Travis Courture, R-Allyn and Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen. This legislation would create new “empowerED scholarships” using Education Savings Accounts. The proposal would specifically fund ESA’s for low income students, special needs families and students who are trapped in failing schools. The funds would be available via a state-issued debit card, with oversight capability. The money would have to be spent on education, including tuition, fees, textbooks, tutoring, therapies and more. The fund would receive revenue from the legislature, as well as a B&O tax credit, where businesses could offer support on a voluntary basis. The maximum scholarship for students without disabilities would be $12,700, but those who are special needs could receive more.

Democrats control near super majorities in the Washington legislature, and the state’s Superintendent of Public Instruction has made it clear he has no interest in providing families with more options, despite the state’s dramatic increase in education spending and equally dramatic poor public education outcomes. Instead, it appears more likely that lawmakers will simply throw more money at public education, even as fewer and fewer students attend public schools. In Washington, more than 118,000 students and their families now opt out of the state’s public school system.

Those who can afford to send their child to private school, or home school, already do so. But those who can’t are left behind, something this bill aims to fix. ESA’s are extremely popular with the general public – more than 70% support the policy nationwide.

  • Health Care
Standardizing basis training and certification requirements for long-term care workers who provide in-home care for their family members, including spouses or domestic partners.
Sponsor: Nicole Macri, D
Co-Sponsor: Ryu, Reed, Callan, Farivar, Simmons, Street, Ormsby, Lekanoff, Reeves, Hill, Tharinger

House Bill 1142 standardizes basic training and certification requirements for long-term care workers providing in-home care, especially for family members, including spouses and domestic partners. The bill modifies existing laws (RCW 18.88B.041 and 74.39A.076) to establish specific training hour mandates based on care recipient relationships and care hours provided. Specifically, the bill explicitly includes long-term care workers caring for spouses or domestic partners as exempt from standard certification requirements, and outlines specific training requirements for different categories of family caregivers. For example, a parent caring for a developmentally disabled child must complete 12 hours of specialized training within 120 days of becoming a caregiver, while a spouse caring for another spouse must complete 15 hours of basic training and at least six hours of additional focused training based on the care recipient’s specific needs.

The bill also provides flexibility for different types of family caregivers, such as those providing limited hours of care or respite services, by establishing tailored training requirements. Additionally, the legislation maintains the principle that exempted workers are not prohibited from voluntarily enrolling in training programs and allows the department of social services to adopt rules to implement these provisions, including potential adjustments during emergencies like pandemics that might impact training accessibility.

  • Health Care
Concerning workplace violence in health care settings.
Sponsor: Mari Leavitt, D
Co-Sponsor: Schmidt, Berry, Ryu, Macri, Bronoske, Pollet, Nance, Timmons, Ormsby, Hill

House Bill 1162 is another example of government overreach – particularly in the health care arena. This bill aims to enhance workplace violence prevention in health care settings by amending existing regulations and introducing new requirements. It mandates that each health care setting develop and implement a workplace violence prevention plan, which must be updated at least once a year. The plan should address various factors contributing to workplace violence, including security measures, staffing patterns, job design, and employee training. Additionally, health care settings with established safety or workplace violence committees are required to involve these committees in the development and monitoring of the prevention plan.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that requires health care settings to conduct timely investigations of workplace violence incidents. These investigations must assess the contributing factors of each incident and include a detailed report submitted to the relevant committee. The report should analyze systemic causes of violence and provide recommendations for modifying prevention strategies. The frequency of these reports varies based on the type of health care setting, with some required to submit summaries twice a year and others quarterly. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

The vast majority of health care entities in Washington State are not government facilities; therefore, they should not be mandated by state government to follow through on this “order”. Furthermore, why the focus on health care entities? If the government is going force this on healthcare entities, it should be required of every business. Can you imagine how well that would go over? Democrats need to stay out of the health care realm altogether. They can’t even manage government well.

  • Property
Allowing small business establishments in residential zones.
Sponsor: Mark Klicker, R
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt, Taylor, Parshley

Rep. Mark Klicker, R – Walla Walla, has introduced bipartisan legislation that would strengthen community bonds and increase public safety while also driving small business growth. House Bill 1175 would require Washington cities and towns to allow small cafés and stores in residential areas. Under current Washington law, cities may allow these businesses, but they are not required to do so. Rep. Klicker introduced a similar bipartisan bill during the 2024 legislative session. HB 2252 made it through most of the legislative process before failing to be voted out of the Senate by the end of the session

The bill defines a neighborhood café as a business serving a limited menu. A business may also sell alcohol only if it also serves food. A neighborhood store is a small market of at least 500 square feet that may sell food, beverages and household items. The bill would not permit bars that solely sell alcohol, nightclubs or big-box stores and local governments could still regulate operating hours, parking and maximum square footage.

“This bill is fundamentally about creating community and fostering small business growth,” Klicker said. “Imagine walking down your sidewalk to a local coffee shop on a Saturday morning or stopping by a neighborhood market to get fresh produce and a gallon of milk. This also incentivizes people to grow a small business in their communities, which will bring more job opportunities for people closer to home.”

Rep. Klicker also said the bill would improve public safety by increasing foot traffic in neighborhoods. “Communities are safer when there are more eyes on the ground. Business owners and customers are invested in safe, vibrant neighborhoods.”

  • Parenting
Concerning greater consistency in the provision of health care services for minors under the age of 17.
Sponsor: Jim Walsh, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, has pre-filed House bill 1176 for the upcoming 2025 legislative session, aimed at protecting parental rights and reinforcing the family’s role in caring for and protecting their minor children. The bill would raise the age at which minor children can independently consent to certain health care services to 17, protect families from unexpected financial liability, and keep parents informed about important medical decisions”

Under HB 1176, minor children must be at least 17 years old to consent to STD-related treatment, inpatient mental health or substance use disorder treatment, and other specified health services. Parents or guardians must give consent for minors under 17. The bill also prevents parents or guardians who did not consent to an abortion from being held financially responsible, and it bars state funds from covering abortion procedures for minor children under 17 unless the minor child’s life is in imminent danger. Additionally, the measure eliminates the “mature minor rule” where it conflicts with these new requirements, creating greater clarity for families and caregivers.

Drawing on personal experience, Walsh emphasized why family guidance is essential: “My wife and I raised five children. From that, I know that a minor child who’s 13 or 14 years old simply doesn’t have enough wisdom or experience to make informed choices about physical or mental health care. They are susceptible to all kinds of influences—some, not good. Those minor children need parents, grandparents, and family members to look out for them, to protect them. That’s what good parents do. That’s what families do.”

According to Walsh, HB 1176 will bring much-needed consistency to how minor children receive medical care. It removes the patchwork of regulations that have allowed health decisions to be made without parental consent or notification, while still preserving exceptions for life-threatening situations.

  • Safety
Implementing certain recommendations from the sex offender policy board concerning the criminal offense of failure to register.
Sponsor: Darya Farivar, D
Co-Sponsor: Goodman, Reed, Obras, Simmons, Ormsby, Hill

It is well-documented that sex offenders have extremely high recidivism rates. For this reason, the great majority of Washington citizens are very leery of reducing sentencing rates for registered sex offenders. In addition, community custody efforts are nearly always met with “not in my backyard” resistance.

Washington HB 1180, sponsored by Democrats, addresses changes to “Felony Failure to Register Offenses”. Felony Failure to Register as a sex offender is an unranked class C felony, and the elevation to a class B felony for a third or subsequent felony Failure to Register offense is removed. Furthermore, the definition of “sex offense” in the SRA is modified to not include a second or subsequent felony Failure to Register offense. The bill also encourages diversionary approaches for first-time offenders and mandates a minimum community custody period for certain offenders. Please oppose this legislation.

  • Elections
Revoking a person’s voting rights only when convicted of a state crime punishable by death.
Sponsor: Tarra Simmons, D
Co-Sponsor: Mena, Ryu, Ormsby, Hill

The passage of HB 1078, which took effect on January 1, 2022, restored voting rights to people with past felony convictions immediately after they finished their prison terms. Misdemeanors do not affect voting rights in this state. A juvenile conviction does not impact your right to vote. In addition, your voting rights cannot be revoked because of court debt.

Now, House Bill 1196, also known as the “Free the Vote Act”, narrows the definition of an “infamous crime” in Washington state to only include state crimes punishable by death, which significantly changes voting rights restoration for people with criminal convictions. Currently, individuals convicted of felonies lose their voting rights; however, under this new legislation, voting rights would only be revoked for those convicted of a state crime punishable by death. When a person is convicted of such a crime and sentenced to total confinement, their voting rights are automatically revoked, but those rights are also automatically restored once they are no longer serving a sentence of total confinement under the department of corrections. The bill requires individuals whose voting rights have been restored to re-register to vote before casting a ballot. Additionally, the legislation modifies various related statutes to align with this new definition, including voter registration forms, ballot declarations, and jury service eligibility.

When you commit crimes against society, and are removed from society for a period of time to serve a prison sentence, you deserve forfeiture of your voting rights. Once you have completed your prison sentence and paid all court debts, your rights should be automatically restored. We stand against firmly against any legislation that allows convicts the right to vote prior to their release from prison, especially those convicted of felonies.

I implore all democratic legislators to focus more attention on the innocent victims of crime rather than on the rights of those convicted of crimes. Please oppose this unnecessary legislation.

  • Health Care
Prohibiting the sale of certain tobacco and nicotine products.
Sponsor: Reeves, D
Co-Sponsor: Entenman, Nance, Peterson, Pollet, Ryu, Stonier, Reed, Leavitt, Berry, Ramel, Macri, Callan, Obras, Doglio, Gregerson, Street, Kloba, Berg, Davis, Ormsby, Bergquist, Hill

Washington House Bill 1203 aims to protect public health by banning the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products in Washington State starting January 1, 2026. The proposal includes bans on flavored electronic cigarettes, also called vapes, menthol cigarettes and nicotine pouches, like Zyn. The legislation also targets so-called “entertainment vapor products” that include video games or music.

The bill cites alarming statistics on youth vaping and smoking rates, emphasizing the link between flavored products and addiction. In 2023, 29% of Washington’s 12th graders reported having tried e-cigarettes, according to the state’s Healthy Youth Survey. That’s compared to 17.5% who said they’d smoked cigarettes. Nationally, students who have used e-cigarettes overwhelmingly reported choosing flavored options, with fruit flavors being the most popular, according to federal Food & Drug Administration data.

It establishes penalties for retailers who violate the ban and mandates public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of these products. The legislation also includes amendments to existing laws concerning tobacco and vapor product sales, outlining specific enforcement procedures and penalties. Businesses licensed to sell these products would be required to post signage noting the statewide prohibition. The state Department of Health would also run a campaign to build awareness about the harms of flavored tobacco products.
Critics of such bans have argued the measures would cause the state to lose out on millions in tax revenue. How pathetic is that?

  • Religion
Concerning the duty of clergy to report child abuse and neglect.
Sponsor: Amy Walen, D
Co-Sponsor: Taylor, Reed, Ryu, Ramel, Macri, Callan, Pollet, Fey, Kloba, Duerr, Ormsby, Lekanoff, Stonier, Hill

State law currently requires teachers, police, registered nurses, social service counselors and members of several other professions to report to law enforcement or the state Department of Children, Youth and Families if they have reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered abuse or neglect. This bill would add clergy to the list and remove their privilege to keep information shared in penitent communications confidential.

Democratic state lawmakers are trying again to require clergy members in Washington to report child abuse or neglect, including when it is disclosed to them by a congregant during confession. This is the third straight session that the issue will be debated. Past efforts failed when the two legislative chambers disagreed on whether to protect what’s heard in confessions. Sen. Noel Frame, D-Seattle, and Rep. Amy Walen, D-Kirkland, have introduced companion bills in the House and Senate to add clergy to the state’s roster of professions whose members must inform law enforcement if they believe a child has been harmed. The proposed legislation would close the controversial “clergy-penitent privilege” loophole.

The Washington State Catholic Conference opposes the legislation. The conference is the “public policy voice” of the Catholic Bishops of the Archdiocese of Seattle, the Diocese of Spokane, and the Diocese of Yakima. “We remain willing to have clergy as mandatory reporters but Catholic priests cannot reveal what is said in the confessional,” wrote Jean Welch Hill, the organization’s executive director. The WSCC welcomes narrowing the clergy-penitent privilege to sacramental confession only and they support mandatory reporting for situations outside of confession. Hill adds, “If they comply with the bill as it is written, the priest will be automatically excommunicated. To demand that a priest choose between compliance with the law or the loss of his lifelong vocation is exactly what the First Amendment is supposed to protect against.”

Abolishing the clergy-penitent privilege would likely prevent abusers from confessing and hinder priests’ efforts to instruct offenders to turn themselves in. The U.S. Constitution protects the clergy-penitent privilege. In addition, the Ninth Circuit, which includes Washington state, recognizes that no state or federal court has ever approved government invasion of the sacrament of confession. The United States Supreme Court has held that “suits cannot be maintained which would require a disclosure of the confidences of the confessional…” Totten v. United States, 92 U.S. 105, 107 (1875). Legally speaking, removing the clergy-penitent privilege would be an unconstitutional violation of civil liberties and would violate the First Amendment’s Free Exercise clause because it would threaten priests with legal sanctions unless they violate their religious vows. In effect, It would say that it’s good for lawyers to keep confessions secret for secular reasons, but it’s illegal for priests to keep confessions secret for religious reasons.

For three years, protection of what is said in the confessional has been the dividing line between the Senate and the House. Proponents of the bill insist that no religious law should be above state law. “It is traumatizing to have colleagues who I love and trust and have respect for tell me to my face that freedom of religion is more important than protecting children,” said Sen. Frame. Last year, Frame crafted what she described as a “delicate” and “very narrowly defined compromise” with the Washington State Catholic Conference. It preserved the clergy-penitent privilege. But, under the legislation, if a religious leader heard a child may be at imminent risk of harm in a confession and in another setting, when they were not carrying out their work as a religious leader, they had a responsibility to contact authorities. The Senate passed the bill but it lapsed in a House committee.

  • Life
Removing references to pregnancy from the model directive form under the natural death act.
Sponsor: Jamila Taylor, D
Co-Sponsor: Stonier, Ryu, Fitzgibbon, Macri, Wylie, Goodman

House Bill 1215 removes a specific provision related to pregnancy from the model directive form under Washington state’s Natural Death Act. Currently, the form includes language that would nullify the advance directive if the person is diagnosed as pregnant. The bill eliminates this clause, which means a person’s advance healthcare directive will remain valid regardless of pregnancy status. The bill modifies the existing health care directive form by removing the pregnancy-specific language that previously stated the directive would have no force or effect during pregnancy. Additionally, the bill makes some minor technical adjustments to the lettering of subsequent sections of the form (renumbering sections after removing the pregnancy clause). The changes ensure that individuals can maintain their previously stated healthcare wishes even if they become pregnant, potentially giving patients more control over their medical decisions across different life circumstances. Despite completely different DNA, this bill provides no legal rights for a baby in the womb, regardless of its development stage.

  • Housing
Improving housing stability for tenants subject to the residential landlord-tenant act and the manufactured/mobile home landlord-tenant act by limiting rent and fee increases, requiring notice of rent and fee increases, limiting fees and deposits, establishing a landlord resource center and associated services, authorizing tenant lease terminatio, creating parity between lease types, and providing attorney general enforcement.
Sponsor: Emily Alvarado, D
Co-Sponsor: Macri, Ramel, Peterson, Berry, Mena, Thai, Reed, Obras, Farivar, Parshley, Ortiz-Self, Cortes, Duerr, Street, Berg, Taylor

HB 1217, a rent control bill, will lead to limited housing supply, a downturn in housing development options and ultimately will lead to increased rental costs. Over any 12-month period, the billl limits rent and/or fee increases to a maximum of 7%. Furthermore, the bill prohibits rent and/or fee increases during the first year of rental, regardless of the length or type of lease. HB 1217 also provides other protections for tenants, including rent and/or fee increase notice requirements, lease termination provisions, and limits on security deposits, late fees and move-in fees. Historically, wherever rent control laws have been put in place, housing and rental costs have increased substantially. Please oppose this legislation.

  • Freedom
Concerning business development.
Sponsor: Travis Couture, R
Co-Sponsor: Walen, Fitzgibbon, Barkis, Nance, Eslick, Caldier, Timmons, Pollet

Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn has proposed the creation of the Office of Entrepreneurship in House Bill 1245. Under the bipartisan bill, the Office of Entrepreneurship would be created to promote policies and programs for startups, collaborate with other organizations to support education and technical support, and expand access to other resources for entrepreneurs across the state. The office would also serve as the point of contact to help businesses navigate their interactions with state agencies and identify government regulations and fees that stymie new business growth in Washington.

The bill would also require the state to start tracking whether it is using its power as a purchaser of private sector goods and services to benefit new and early-stage businesses. Centralizing responsibility for making it easier to start a business in the Office of Entrepreneurship will allow the public to hold government accountable for improvement in regulations affecting small business.

It is incredibly difficult to start a small business in Washington state and even more challenging to be successful if you do. According to the National Federation of Independent Business, Washington state ranked dead last for startup survivability based on 2022 data. Forbes ranked Washington 48th in the nation in a list of best states to start a business, behind only New York and Vermont. While several state agencies help those who want to start a business in Washington, our rankings make it clear that the current system is not enough.

“The goal here is not to grow government,” said Couture. “The goal is to boost our business startup success rates, grow jobs, and cut the red tape currently serving as a barrier to entrepreneurs. There are so many barriers to starting a new business here, including high taxes, cumbersome regulations, and more. The creation of this office will streamline all of the government bureaucracy and help expand small business across the state. An entrepreneurial economy is a win for all Washingtonians.”

  • Energy
Creating the commercial lift off for energy from advanced nuclear advisory commission.
Sponsor: Stephanie Barnard, R
Co-Sponsor: Stearns, Couture, Rude, Keaton

As Washington state’s energy demands grow, driven by population increases and the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has introduced bipartisan House Bill 1249 to establish the ‘Commercial Liftoff for Energy from the Advanced Nuclear Advisory Commission’. The proposed commission aims to build public confidence in nuclear energy by providing accurate, trusted information about its safety and reliability, ensuring Washingtonians have confidence in the additional electricity generation needed to meet the state’s clean energy goals. The advisory commission will consist of 13 members representing academia, industry, government, and tribal organizations. In addition to developing policy recommendations, planning for new facilities, and creating a skilled workforce, the commission will actively engage with the public through forums and outreach programs to ensure transparency and awareness.

The proposed commission will adhere to a clear reporting schedule. Its first recommendations would be due on October 1, 2026, with biennial updates to follow. These reports will outline detailed roadmaps with timelines and targets to support the siting and construction of additional nuclear facilities in Washington. Nuclear energy could also play a critical role in supporting Washington’s expanding technology sector, including the growth of data centers. These facilities are essential to powering cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies that drive the modern economy. Data centers are highly energy-intensive, requiring uninterrupted, reliable power to operate efficiently.

Washington state is home to numerous data centers essential to supporting local and global digital infrastructure. Nuclear energy’s ability to provide scalable, around-the-clock electricity positions it as a cornerstone for meeting the increasing energy demands of this important industry. According to a Bisconti Research report commissioned by Energy Northwest, 82% of Washingtonians believe nuclear energy is important for meeting the state’s future electricity needs. Growing public support underscores the importance of establishing a trusted source of information on nuclear energy.

“Energy security is fundamental,” Barnard added. “We are forecast to be short of energy by 2030. Without abundant, safe, clean, reliable nuclear energy, there is no credible path to a carbon-free or thriving economy. Nuclear energy provides the consistent, low-carbon power supply that data centers need,” said Barnard. “As we build the clean energy future, we must ensure that industries critical to our state’s economic growth, such as technology and data centers, have access to secure and sustainable energy sources.”

  • Safety
Concerning pretrial release.
Sponsor: Lauren Davis, D
Co-Sponsor: Griffey, Couture

House Bill 1252 modifies existing laws regarding pretrial release for both adults and juveniles, introducing new requirements for judicial officers when determining release conditions. The bill establishes that if a defendant has previously resisted arrest, attempted to elude police, or required substantial resources (multiple units, canine team, drones, air support) to apprehend, there is a rebuttable presumption against simple personal recognizance release. In such cases, judicial officers must now document in writing their rationale for releasing a defendant on personal recognizance, declining electronic monitoring, or setting bail lower than recommended by prosecutors.

The bill requires these written findings to explain how public safety and the defendant’s future court appearance will be ensured. Additionally, the Administrative Office of the Courts must maintain a public database of these orders and submit an annual report to the legislature and law enforcement associations detailing the number of such release orders. The bill applies these new provisions to both adult criminal cases and juvenile justice proceedings, with similar documentation and reporting requirements.

This legislation comes in the wake of the tragic murder of 13 y.o. Jayda Woods-Johnson at Alderwood Mall this past summer. The 16 y.o. suspect in Johnson’s case was initially permitted to post bond shortly after his arrest, leading to his immediate release from Jail. “I really want judges to have to pause, to be thoughtful in those decisions, show their work and to show the public and the community that they are serving how in their minds public safety is going to be maintained with this particular defendant out in the community” said Rep. Lauren Davis, D-Shoreline, the bill’s primary sponsor. Davis says her fellow Democrats need to address the bleeding now. “The number one issue that my constituents are concerned about is public safety. People don’t feel safe and they have every right not to feel safe,” said Davis.

  • Safety
Permitting early deployment of state fire service resources.
Sponsor: Greg Nance, D
Co-Sponsor: Dent, Marshall, Bronoske, Leavitt, Salahuddin, Ryu, Davis, Mena, Ramel, Dye, Barkis, Klicker, Reed, Ormsby, Scott, Eslick, Parshley, Taylor, Kloba, Timmons, Peterson, Richards, Simmons, Hunt, Hill

This bipartisan bill modifies the existing law regarding mobilization of fire service resources by clarifying the roles and responsibilities of various agencies in emergency response and expanding definitions related to emergency response. Specifically, the bill outlines conditions under which state resources will be deployed. It also updates the definition of “mobilization” to allow for resources to be deployed in preparation of, or in response to, an emergency situation that has or is predicted to exceed local capabilities. The bill maintains the existing prohibition on mobilizing fire resources for law enforcement activities during civil protests, while ensuring that fire departments can still provide medical care and firefighting services. The legislation defines key terms such as “all risk resources” (which include responses to events like wild land fires, landslides, earthquakes, floods, and contagious diseases), “fire chief,” and “jurisdiction.” The bill also specifies that when mobilization is declared, all fire protection authorities’ resources are considered mobilized, and non-host fire protection authorities providing resources will be eligible for expense reimbursement. Importantly, the bill does not reduce or suspend the Department of Natural Resources’ existing authority for fire-related responsibilities.

  • Safety
Concerning organized retail theft.
Sponsor: Mari Leavitt, D
Co-Sponsor: Griffey, Marshall, Couture, Bronoske, Nance, Caldier, Timmons, Pollet
Washington House Bill 1276 amends sentencing guidelines in Washington state, specifically addressing organized retail theft by adding new provisions to the standard sentence range. The bill introduces additional sentencing enhancements for organized retail theft based on the value of stolen property: 12 months added for property valued at $20,000 or more, and 24 months added for property valued at $50,000 or more. This addition aims to impose stricter penalties for significant thefts, reflecting the seriousness of organized retail crime.

The bill outlines enhancements to standard sentence ranges based on factors like use of firearms or deadly weapons, commission of crimes within correctional facilities, and the presence of aggravating circumstances such as sexual motivation or involvement of minors.The bill also includes a provision giving courts more discretion when sentencing individuals who committed crimes before turning 18, allowing judges to consider the defendant’s youth and circumstances when applying mandatory sentencing enhancements. These changes aim to provide more precise and potentially more flexible sentencing guidelines, with a specific focus on addressing organized retail theft as a criminal activity.
  • Education
Making financial education instruction a graduation requirement in public schools.
Sponsor: Skyler Rude, R
Co-Sponsor: Stonier, Lekanoff, Doglio, Couture, Connors, Berry, Bronoske, Leavitt, Ryu, Davis, Barkis, Orcutt, Jacobsen, Goodman, Walsh, Steele, Paul, Tharinger, Klicker, Nance, Eslick, Taylor, Caldier, Parshley, Keaton, Ley, Timmons, Pollet, Fey, Simmons, Hill

House Bill 1285 is a strong bi-partisan bill meant to ensure that graduating students have a basic grasp of financial literacy, including things like balancing a household budget and understanding the interest on a loan. This legislation mandates that school districts provide financial education instruction and ensure students meet state financial literacy standards to graduate.

A similar bill was on track for passage during the 2024 legislative session but got derailed. “This year, I removed the half-credit requirement,” Rude said “It maintains the graduation requirement, but doesn’t quantify it, in deference to the work the state board is doing.” This bill emphasizes flexibility for districts, allowing students to receive financial education through career and technical education courses, online programs, or integration into existing classes like math. “There is also a provision in law that allows professionals to come in and teach in schools, and the credit unions have already offered to help and the state treasurer has a financial education program for adults, so there are a lot of opportunities out there,” Rude continued.

“This has been a topic I’ve been hearing from the public on for a long time and students are asking for it, too,” said bill sponsor Rep. Skyler Rude, R-Walla Walla. “As they’re leaving high school, every one of these graduates is going to be making financial decisions, whether it’s continuing education or purchasing their first car and insurance, it’s something they need to understand,” Rude said. A bill passed in 2022 required Washington’s 295 public school districts to adopt one or more financial education goals by March 1, 2023. Rude’s bill goes further, requiring financial education for every student as a condition of graduation.

  • Education
Gathering survey information to improve the public school system.
Sponsor: Stephanie McClintock, R
Co-Sponsor: Santos, Schmidt, Timmons
House Bill 1289 is a bi-partisan proposal creating a voluntary online survey for parents of students leaving public schools. The survey’s goal is to gather data on reasons for transfers and withdrawals to improve the public school system. The bill mandates the Washington school information processing cooperative to establish, manage, and distribute this survey by September 1, 2025, with annual data summaries provided to relevant parties beginning December 1, 2026.
Most conservatives can identify many reasons why students are leaving the public school system, including DEI, CRT, and other woke policies. Additional issues include the abysmal failure in core competency subjects such as english, math and science. School violence and boys invading girls bathrooms, locker rooms and sports team are two more good reasons. Nonetheless, this survey would quantify the reasons for transfers and/or withdrawals and add substance to the concerns of conservatives.
  • Environment
Concerning litter.
Sponsor: Mark Klicker, R
Co-Sponsor: Dye, Connors, Barkis, Eslick, Caldier, Kloba

House Bill 1293 seeks to address and mitigate the problem of littering in Washington State. It does so by strengthening penalties for littering, ensuring restitution for cleanup costs, and requiring community restitution in specific cases. Additionally, the bill establishes a Littering Solutions Task Force to develop actionable policy recommendations aimed at reducing litter statewide. Key provisions of the bill include: Class 2 civil infraction for littering under one cubic foot, misdemeanor for littering between one cubic foot and 10 cubic yards, gross misdemeanor for littering over 10 cubic yards and mandatory restitution payments based on cleanup costs, with funds directed to landowners and law enforcement. In addition, littering violations in state parks require offenders to perform 24 hours of community service within the park. Representatives from state agencies, businesses, and environmental organizations will work together to craft solutions.

Litter pollutes public lands, waterways, and wildlife habitats. HB 1293 helps protect these areas, ensuring cleaner, more enjoyable spaces for residents and visitors. Leveraging the findings from the 2022 statewide litter study ensures that recommendations and actions are based on evidence and effectively target the most pressing issues. The bill creates stricter penalties for littering, incentivizing responsible disposal habits and discouraging behaviors that harm the environment. By requiring restitution payments and establishing a task force to reduce cleanup costs, the bill promotes efficient use of taxpayer dollars while addressing root causes. Finally, requiring litter offenders to clean up state parks foster community pride and involvement in maintaining public spaces.

  • Environment
Extending the pesticide application safety committee.
Sponsor: Tom Dent, R
Co-Sponsor: Reeves, Timmons, Hill

House Bill 1294 from the Washington State Legislature extends the life of the Pesticide Application Safety Committee to July 1, 2035. The bipartisan bill establishes the committee’s composition, responsibilities, and reporting requirements. The committee’s main tasks include researching pesticide data collection, exploring safety improvements, and recommending policy changes. An advisory work group will assist the committee, providing expertise on pesticide application. The bill also expands funding for pesticide applicator training programs.

  • Parenting
Promoting a safe and supportive public education system.
Sponsor: Monica Stonier, D
Co-Sponsor: Macri, Lekanoff, Doglio, Berry, Salahuddin, Davis, Ramel, Obras, Reed, Ormsby, Scott, Nance, Bergquist, Fitgibbon, Parshley, Alvarado, Kloba, Pollet, Peterson, Fey, Simmons, Hill, Fosse

You may recall that I-2081 (Parent’s Bill of Rights) was drafted and overwhelmingly approved by legislators. The Democrats were aware of the popularity of this Initiative, so it passed with little opposition: an 82-15 vote in the House and a unanimous 49-0 vote in the Senate. Fast forward to 2025, and the same Democratic legislators are seeking to pass a bill that will erase your voice. House Bill 1296 (and its companion bill, SB 5181), guts the Parent’s Bill of Rights.

The Bill is clearly not aimed at providing a “safe and supportive public education system”. Rather, it’s a bill that will “protect” the few children who receive medical and mental-health services without their parents’ knowledge or consent. To be clear, the intent is clearly to ensure that these kids’ records do not end up in the hands of their parents.

The Bill also requires School districts to implement new policies and procedures, written by the Superintendent of Public Instruction, around “privacy rights of minors; and the licensure or other professional requirements for school district employment classifications, if any, related to protecting student privacy.” Schools that fail to meet these new policies and procedures will face OSPI-issued sanctions. Furthermore, each school district must designate a watch dog to ensure compliance of the “policies and procedures relating to gender inclusive schools.” In short, this Bill empowers OSPI to hammer any district that fails to conform to these new “inclusivity” standards.

The Bill’s sponsors seem to equate “discrimination” with children not receiving medical procedures and other medical/mental services by the school district related to their gender identity without their parents’ knowledge or consent. The Bill requires the schools to adopt – at the expense of your right to protect your children from materials – teaching and extracurricular activities that are in opposition to your own belief system. You will have access to your child’s classroom but not to curriculum, textbooks or supplemental materials.

You can only opt your child out of surveys, not assignments, questionnaires, role-playing activities, recordings of their child, or other student engagements that include questions about a very narrow set of topics. For example, the legislature is looking to remove the sentence that “allows” you to opt out of surveys about your “child’s sexual experiences or attractions.” This bill lays out protection from retaliation for the school district employees who implement the rules laid out.

This bill should be gravely concerning to all parents in Washington state, as these Representatives feel the need to keep parents out of the loop and “protect” certain ideologies and the services provided around those ideologies. More importantly, they’re simply writing parent’s out of the children’s lives and replacing them with the educational system. It is clear that these rules are not in the best interest of children or the family unit, as their aim is that parents are kept out of life-altering decisions and mind-altering instruction that may be in opposition to their beliefs about how their own child should be raised.

  • Taxes
Easing the financial burden on families by removing sales and use tax on diapers and essential child care products.
Sponsor: Caldier
Co-Sponsor: McClintock, Graham, Connors, Manjarrez, Barnard, Jacobsen, Dye, Schmidt, Eslick, Mendoza, Rude, Shavers, Couture, Waters, Klicker, Griffey, Orcutt, Nance, Barkis
Washington House Bill 1307 aims to reduce economic strain and improving the quality of life for families and caregivers by eliminating sales tax on diapers and other essential childcare items. The bill cites the significant financial burden these products place on families, particularly low-income and single-parent households. It argues that these items are necessities, not luxuries, impacting health and well-being. The proposed legislation defines “essential childcare products,” outlining a specific list of qualifying items, and sets an effective date of January 1, 2026.  
 
For all those who are frustrated by an inability to push through pro-life legislation in Olympia, this is a great example of legislation that supports mothers and young couples who are struggling with a crisis pregnancy. In every way that we can reduce the burden of carrying a pregnancy to full term, we should. Please support this terrific bill. 
  • Education
Concerning special education funding.
Sponsor: Gerry Pollet, D
Co-Sponsor: Couture, Reeves, Rude, Callan, Davis, Ryu, Rule, Klicker, Alvarado, Street, Waters, Simmons, Berry, Griffey, Reed, Paul, Salahuddin, Low, Macri, Bergquist, Nance, Doglio, Timmons, Scott

Washington State House Bill 1310 is a bipartisan bill that aims to improve special education funding. The bill addresses issues of inadequate funding, proposing to eliminate enrollment caps and increase funding multipliers. It emphasizes inclusion by incentivizing students’ placement in general education settings. The bill also streamlines the safety net application process for districts with exceptional needs and establishes mechanisms for monitoring and reducing disproportionality in special education identification. Finally, it mandates reporting on the impact of these changes.

  • Environment
Concerning the implementation of the recommendations of the department of fish and wildlife regarding the gray wolf.
Sponsor: Andrew Engell, R
Co-Sponsor: Dye, Rude, Waters, Abell, Schmick, Springer

House Bill 1311 addresses the management and protection of gray wolves in Washington state by implementing recommendations from the Department of Fish and Wildlife. The bill finds that the wolf population has grown steadily for 14 consecutive years since 2008, expanding across various regions of the state, and determines that the current “endangered” designation is no longer appropriate. Instead, the bill proposes changing the wolves’ status to “sensitive,” which would protect them from unlawful take, harassment, and hunting while still allowing for ongoing monitoring and cooperative management. The new classification would prohibit wolf hunting, maintain their listing as a priority species, and require the Department of Fish and Wildlife to prioritize wolf conservation. The sensitive species designation would be reviewed in two years and would only revert to endangered status if the wolf population is shown to be vulnerable or declining below the current population count. The bill amends existing wildlife classification laws to provide this new regulatory framework and requires the director of the Department of Fish and Wildlife to implement these changes as soon as practicable. The WDFW will manage wolves under the new classification, prioritizing conservation efforts and habitat protection.

  • Safety
Concerning the governor’s authority to limit outside militia activities within the state.
Sponsor: Sharlett Mena, D
Co-Sponsor: Ortiz-Self, Parshley, Berry, Reeves, Walen, Gregerson, Ryu, Alvarado, Street, Simmons, Reed, Ormsby, Macri, Ramel, Tharinger, Pollet, Nance, Cortes, Doglio, Scott

This is Gov. Ferguson’s “emergency” legislative act designed to prevent the arrest of illegal immigrants. The argument for a declared emergency measure is its “necessity” for “preserving public safety” and supporting state government. If state government was truly interested in preserving public safety they would have passed an emergency measure preventing illegal immigrants from entering our state. This Washington state legislative act restricts the entry of out-of-state militias into the state unless the governor provides written authorization or there’s a federal call to service. The governor retains the power to revoke such authorization at any time. The act mandates that a militia immediately cease operations and depart upon receiving notification of a denial or withdrawal of entry.

  • Safety
Making obstructing highways a crime.
Sponsor: Andrew Barkis, R
Co-Sponsor: Hackney, Schmidt, Jacobsen, Couture, Leavitt, Caldier, Barnard, Nance, Abell, Waters, Dent

House Bill 1323 proposes that individuals who intentionally block state highways without lawful authority, while acting in concert with three or more people, face gross misdemeanor charges. For those who organize or lead such activities, the bill introduces stricter consequences, elevating the offense to a Class C felony with mandatory penalties, including a minimum fine of $5,000 and at least 30 days in jail. Additionally, repeat offenders or those whose actions result in harm or delays to emergency services would face enhanced penalties, ensuring accountability for the significant risks imposed on public safety.

Last year, pro-Palestinian protesters successfully shut down highway traffic on two separate occasions. The first was in January, when protesters blocked all northbound lanes of I-5 in downtown Seattle for five hours. The second was in April, when protesters obstructed access to SeaTac Airport for three hours. While only six individuals were charged for the I-5 incident, 46 people faced charges following the SeaTac incident. However, charges against all 46 were dropped in August.

Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Yelm says that’s unacceptable. “This legislation is about protecting commuters and communities alike, ensuring those who put the public at risk through reckless and illegal behavior face appropriate consequences for their actions,” said Barkis. “Last year, highway blockades disrupted lives, delayed emergency services, and created unnecessary risks on our roads. By passing this bill, lawmakers can send a clear message that Washington will not tolerate these stunts going forward. It is critical we prioritize the needs of law-abiding Washingtonians over criminals who have no respect for their fellow citizens.”

  • Taxes
Modifying the annual regular property tax revenue growth limit.
Sponsor: Gerry Pollet, D
Co-Sponsor: Duerr, Fitzgibbon, Ryu, Berry, Ormsby, Ramel, Macri, Reed, Hill, Doglio, Alvarado, Callan, Fosse

Washington State House Bill 1334 modifies the way inflation is calculated and, as a result, allows for up to 3% annual increases on property taxes. As explained by the Washington Policy Center, the inflation calculation would change from the ‘implicit price deflator’ to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI typically results in a higher inflation percentage – which would increase the maximum ceiling to which a municipality could increase taxes. The result could potentially result in 3% raises in property tax for several years in a row. Additionally, the “limit factor” is adjusted to include population change and inflation, with a cap of 103 percent. A new definition for “population change” is introduced, detailing how it is calculated based on official population estimates.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new timelines for the Department of Revenue and county assessors to determine and communicate limit factors for property tax assessments. Specifically, the Department of Revenue is required to provide necessary limit factors by September 1 each year, while county assessors must notify taxing districts of their determinations by October 1. The bill also repeals the previous authorization for taxing districts to use a limit factor of 101 percent or less, streamlining the process for property tax revenue growth. The provisions of this act will apply
to taxes levied for collection in 2026 and beyond.

Currently, annual property tax increases are capped at 1%. For the past several years, Democrats have attempted to increase the cap limit from 1% to 3% and this year is no different. They just refuse to take ’no’ for an answer.

  • Elections
Shifting general elections for local governments to even-numbered years to increase voter participation.
Sponsor: Mia Gregerson, D
Co-Sponsor: Farivar, Mena, Nance, Stonier, Parshley, Thai, Scott, Goodman, Fey, Street, Doglio, Ramel, Simmons, Alvarado, Berg, Reed, Springer, Macri, Ryu, Peterson, Callan, Salahuddin, Duerr, Reeves, Berry, Ormsby, Hill, Pollet, Cortes, Fosse

Every November, Washington holds a statewide general election. In years that end in an even number, the election includes general elections for federal, state, and county officers, as well as state or local ballot measures such as initiatives, referenda, and constitutional amendments. In years that end in an odd number, general elections are held for city, town, and special purpose district officers and school board members. In addition, odd-year elections may include elections for: filling the remainder of unexpired terms for state legislators, supreme court justices, superior court judges, and federal, state, and county officers; county officers in a county governed by a charter that provides for odd-year elections; and state ballot measures. State ballot measures must appear on the ballot at the next regular general election, and therefore they may appear in either even- or odd-numbered years. Special elections and recall elections also may occur in either even- or odd-numbered years.

While purporting to increase voter participation, HB 1339 would likely result in a decrease in voter participation. City and county councils and school board elections will end up at the bottom of lengthy ballots and voters will often choose just to vote for federal and county officers. Furthermore, these same local candidates will be forced to compete against federal and state officials for campaign contributions, advertising opportunities and civic presentations. Lastly, the overwhelming number of federal, state, county, city and school board candidates will potentially lead to even greater “political burnout” for voters.

  • Elections
Shifting general elections for local governments to even-numbered years to increase voter participation.
Sponsor: Mia Gregerson, D
Co-Sponsor: Farivar, Mena, Nance, Stonier, Parshley, Thai, Scott, Goodman, Fey, Street, Doglio, Ramel, Simmons, Alvarado, Berg, Reed, Springer, Macri, Ryu, Peterson, Callan, Salahuddin, Duerr, Reeves, Berry, Ormsby, Hill, Pollet, Cortes, Fosse

Every November, Washington holds a statewide general election. In years that end in an even number, the election includes general elections for federal, state, and county officers, as well as state or local ballot measures such as initiatives, referenda, and constitutional amendments. In years that end in an odd number, general elections are held for city, town, and special purpose district officers and school board members. In addition, odd-year elections may include elections for: • filling the remainder of unexpired terms for state legislators, supreme court justices, superior court judges, and federal, state, and county officers; • county officers in a county governed by a charter that provides for odd-year elections; and • state ballot measures. State ballot measures must appear on the ballot at the next regular general election, and therefore they may appear in either even- or odd-numbered years. Special elections and recall elections also may occur in either even- or odd-numbered years.

While purporting to increase voter participation, HB 1339 would likely result in a decrease in voter participation. City and county councils and school board elections will end up at the bottom of lengthy ballots and voters will often choose just to vote for federal and county officers. Furthermore, these same local candidates will be forced to compete against federal and state officials for campaign contributions, advertising opportunities and civic presentations. Lastly, the overwhelming number of federal, state, county, city and school board candidates will potentially lead to even greater “political burnout” for voters.

  • Taxes
Exempting prepared food from sales tax.
Sponsor: Deb Manjarrez, R
Co-Sponsor: Connors, Jacobsen, Couture, Klicker, Shavers, Barkis, Barnard, Schmidt

With Washingtonians facing an affordability crisis, Rep. Deb Manjarrez has introduced legislation, House Bill 1340 that would exempt prepared food from sales and use tax. Some examples of places that have prepared food include restaurants, cafes, caterers, coffee shops, drive-in restaurants, snack bars, bakeries, and some grocery stores.

“Washington is the fourth-most expensive state for residents compared to the national average. More than one-third of families in our state live paycheck to paycheck,” said Manjarrez, R-Wapato. “Washingtonians struggling with the affordability crisis in our state need help. This would provide much-needed relief to individuals and families who eat meals on the go. It would also help our state’s hospitality businesses.”

Washington ranks behind only California, Nevada, and Mississippi for the average weekly cost of grocery spending. Washington residents went to food banks 13.3 million times during the 2024 fiscal year, a 22% increase from 2023.

“Low-income earners have been hit hard by the spike in the cost of food in our state – both groceries and prepared food. This relief would help their budgets,” said Manjarrez. “The Legislature has had opportunities to provide meaningful tax relief over the last few years like other states have. Now is the time. This is the right thing to do.”

House Bill 1340 is the first bill Manjarrez has introduced as a legislator. It has been referred to the House Finance Committee.

  • Education
Adjusting age requirements for accessing the early childhood education and assistance program.
Sponsor: Adam Bernbaum, D
Co-Sponsor: Eslick, Springer, Ormsby, Salahuddin, Parshley, Hill, Doglio, Hunt, Pollet, Cortes, Nance

In an ideal world, parents would be able to provide the early childhood training required for children to be successful students when they reach school age. However, when both parents work full-time, or when a child is dealing with homelessness, that is not always the case.  House Bill 1351 amends existing law regarding eligibility for the early childhood education and assistance program. The bill expands access by increasing income thresholds and including children who meet specific risk factors, such as homelessness or developmental delays. These changes aim to improve kindergarten readiness and school performance for at-risk children. Funding for the expanded program is addressed, with stipulations on enrollment limits based on available funds. The bill also clarifies that these additions do not impact existing state-funded entitlements.

  • Education
Modifying licensing requirements for child care and early learning providers.
Sponsor: Michelle Caldier, R
Co-Sponsor: Manjarrez, Barnard, Connors, Eslick, McClintock, Dye, Schmidt, Jacobsen, Graham, Mendoza, Couture, Corry, Waters, Engell

Washington State House Bill 1363 modifies licensing requirements for child care and early learning providers in Washington state, making several key changes to existing regulations. The bill updates the Secretary of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families’ duties regarding licensing, including the development of separate requirements for different types of child care facilities. Notably, the bill introduces new standards for child care centers, specifying maximum group sizes and staff-to-child ratios: for preschoolers (30 months to 6 years), a maximum of 21 children with a ratio of at least 1 staff member to 11 children, and for school-age children (5-12 years), a maximum of 31 children with a ratio of at least 1 staff member to 16 children.

The bill also mandates that licensed indoor early learning spaces must provide a minimum of 34 square feet per child. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that providers are not required to obtain early childhood education certification as part of staff qualification requirements, and it removes the requirement for community-based training pathways. The bill continues to emphasize professional development supports for child care providers, including trainings, scholarships, and support for nonprofit organizations that assist providers in developing their businesses and improving care quality.

  • Transportation
Concerning parking privileges for veterans.
Sponsor: Ed Orcutt, R
Co-Sponsor: Klicker, Couture, Jacobsen, Leavitt, Ley, Simmons, Shavers, Dufault

House Bill 1371 is a bipartisan bill that modifies Washington state law regarding disability parking permits. Amendments clarify eligibility criteria, including adding veterans with a 70% disability rating and a service animal. The bill details requirements for applications, permit types (temporary and permanent), and renewal processes. It also addresses verification procedures and penalties for providing false information. Finally, the bill updates the definition of “veteran” for eligibility purposes.

  • Homeless
Allowing objectively reasonable regulation of the utilization of public property.
Sponsor: Mia Gregerson, D
Co-Sponsor: Peterson, Parshley, Simmons, Alvarado, Pollet, Macri, Hill, Ormsby

Washington House Bill 1380 aims to address the growing homelessness crisis by aiming to create ‘statewide guidelines’ for managing public property. The bill seeks to balance public safety concerns with the need for humane treatment of the homeless by establishing an “objective reasonableness” standard for local ordinances restricting activities like sitting, lying, sleeping outdoors, keeping dry or staying warm in public spaces.
It also protects local governments from litigation if their ordinances are deemed objectively reasonable, while allowing individuals to challenge the reasonableness of such laws in court. In other words, this standard will allow a homeless person to sue a municipality that restricts the use of public land for a homeless camp.

According to the Washington Policy Center, the legislation would redefine how a city or town may create rules and regulations for the use of public land with a vague, indefensible definition. The definition states that municipalities are encouraged to “enact objectively reasonable time, place and manner regulations to manage public spaces effectively and preserve public peace, health, and safety for the befit of the entire community.” This definition is so vague that any relation a municipality could place on the use of public land would open the doors to a lawsuit. Attorney fees will be awarded, in addition to the plaintiff relief, should a lawsuit succeed. The taxpayers of the municipality would be responsible for the cost of the lawsuit, which ultimately would result in higher property and sales taxes. Finally, the act is declared an emergency measure and takes effect immediately.

  • Homeless
Allowing objectively reasonable regulation of the utilization of public property.
Sponsor: Mia Gregerson, D
Co-Sponsor: Peterson, Parshley, Simmons, Alvarado, Pollet, Macri, Hill, Ormsby

Washington House Bill 1380 aims to address the growing homelessness crisis by aiming to create ‘statewide guidelines’ for managing public property. The bill seeks to balance public safety concerns with the need for humane treatment of the homeless by establishing an “objective reasonableness” standard for local ordinances restricting activities like sitting, lying, sleeping outdoors, keeping dry or staying warm in public spaces.

It also protects local governments from litigation if their ordinances are deemed objectively reasonable, while allowing individuals to challenge the reasonableness of such laws in court. In other words, this standard will allow a homeless person to sue a municipality that restricts the use of public land for a homeless camp.

According to the Washington Policy Center, the legislation would redefine how a city or town may create rules and regulations for the use of public land with a vague, indefensible definition. The definition states that municipalities are encouraged to “enact objectively reasonable time, place and manner regulations to manage public spaces effectively and preserve public peace, health, and safety for the befit of the entire community.” This definition is so vague that any relation a municipality could place on the use of public land would open the doors to a lawsuit. Attorney fees will be awarded, in addition to the plaintiff relief, should a lawsuit succeed. The taxpayers of the municipality would be responsible for the cost of the lawsuit, which ultimately would result in higher property and sales taxes. Finally, the act is declared an emergency measure and takes effect immediately.

  • Taxes
Providing tax exemptions for the first 20,000 gallons of wine sold by a winery in Washington.
Sponsor: Sharon Wylie, D
Co-Sponsor: Waters, Timmons

The proposed bill aims to provide a tax exemption for the first 20,000 gallons of wine sold by wineries in Washington state. It amends RCW 66.24.210 to introduce a new tax structure for wineries that sell less than 20,000 gallons of table wine or cider in a calendar year. Specifically, these wineries will be subject to a reduced tax rate of $0.0528 per liter for their sales, and they will not be liable for any other taxes under this section on the first 20,000 gallons sold, except for taxes imposed for the Washington wine commission. Additionally, the bill stipulates that taxes collected from this exemption will be deposited into the liquor revolving fund.
Furthermore, the bill includes a tax preference performance statement that outlines the legislature’s intent to support small wineries, which face unique challenges compared to larger operations. The performance statement emphasizes the goal of promoting the growth and stability of small wineries, particularly in light of recent economic hardships and environmental challenges. If a review finds that the tax preference successfully promotes small wineries, the legislature intends to consider extending the expiration date of this tax preference.

  • Safety
Concerning fingerprint background check on applicants.
Sponsor: Jamila Taylor, D
Co-Sponsor: Burnett, Leavitt, Ley, Davis, Reeves, Obras, Salahuddin, Wylie

House Bill 1385 aims to enhance child protection while ensuring due process for individuals undergoing background checks. This legislation amends existing law and introduces a new section focusing on the fingerprint background check process for individuals involved in the care of children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. Key definitions are updated, including the terms “applicant,” “covered individual,” and “qualified entity,” which now encompass a broader range of individuals, including volunteers and contractors who may have unsupervised access to vulnerable populations. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of qualified entities and federally recognized tribes in conducting background checks, including notifying individuals of their rights regarding their criminal history records.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Washington State Patrol as the repository for criminal history records and outlines the procedures for conducting state and national fingerprint-based criminal history checks. It mandates that qualified entities and tribes must inform applicants of their rights to access and appeal their criminal history records and ensures that the information is used solely for screening purposes. The bill also includes provisions for fees associated with processing these checks and limits liability for qualified entities regarding the failure to obtain information.

  • Taxes
Imposing local property tax levies wholly credited against the state property tax to provide support and services for veterans assistance and for persons with developmental disabilities or mental health needs.
Sponsor: Ed Orcutt, R
Co-Sponsor: Leavitt, Schmick, Jacobsen, Reeves

House Bill 1397l proposes amendments to existing law regarding local property tax levies. The legislation aims to enhance funding for veterans’ assistance and services for individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health needs by allowing counties to impose local property tax levies. Specifically, it amends existing laws to establish a tax rate of 2.5 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for community services related to developmental disabilities and mental health, with the provision that this levy will be deducted from the state property tax amount owed by the county. Additionally, the bill modifies the tax rate for the veterans’ assistance fund to a minimum of 1.8 cents and a maximum of 27 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, also ensuring that this levy is deducted from the state tax obligations.

The bill includes several key insertions, such as the requirement for the levies to be deducted from state tax obligations at no cost to the counties, and it establishes specific uses for the funds collected, including veterans’ assistance programs and the lawful disposition of remains for indigent veterans. The legislation declares an emergency clause and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

  • Housing
Simplifying condominium construction statutes.
Sponsor: Taylor, D
Co-Sponsor: Connors, Duerr, Jacobsen, Peterson, Reed, Barkis, Rule, Doglio, Tharinger, Salahuddin, Ormsby, Ryu, Entenman, Street, Hill

Bill 1403 is a bipartisan bill that seeks to improve homeownership opportunities in Washington State by revising the laws governing condominium construction. It introduces implied warranties for both existing and newly constructed condominium units, ensuring they meet quality standards. For units created before the bill’s effective date, the declarant and dealers must guarantee that the units and common elements are suitable for ordinary use and free from defects. For units created after the effective date, similar warranties apply, with added requirements for compliance with approved plans and building codes. The bill also clarifies the definition of “workmanlike manner” and establishes criteria for proving breaches of warranty.

In addition to warranty provisions, the bill modifies the dispute resolution process by mandating arbitration for certain claims related to condominiums created after the effective date, particularly for monetary judgments not exceeding $500,000. It allows condominium associations to incur expenses for preparing and serving notices of claim without restrictions from governing documents. The bill also permits courts or arbitrators to assess costs and reasonable attorneys’ fees against parties who refuse to accept offers to remedy defects. Furthermore, it specifies that certain provisions do not apply to accessory dwelling units organized as condominiums and outlines conditions for excluding or modifying implied warranties. A sunset provision is included, stating that specific sections will expire on January 1, 2028.

  • Safety
Concerning offenses involving graffiti or other damage to property.
Sponsor: Andrew Barkis, R
Co-Sponsor: Hackney, Ley, Jacobsen, Caldier

House Bill 1407 includes several provisions aimed at curbing the explosion of graffiti in areas across the state. If passed, the bill would require individuals convicted of graffiti-related offenses or malicious mischief to complete at least 40 hours of community restitution. Repeat offenders would face stricter penalties, with a second or subsequent conviction for graffiti classified as a Class C felony.

To further deter organized graffiti crimes, an additional 12 months would be added to the standard prison sentence for offenders involved in large-scale or coordinated graffiti. For juveniles convicted of malicious mischief, the bill would mandate community restitution as a constructive alternative to traditional punishments, ensuring accountability and opportunities for rehabilitation. Additionally, the bill would allocate state funding from 2025-27 to assist law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting graffiti on Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) property, with detailed reporting required to track outcomes.

Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Yelm, attempted to pass a community restitution bill last year, and while it was approved 97-0 in the House, it died in the Senate Law and Justice Committee. He says the goal of his bill is to strike a proper balance between accountability and rehabilitation. “Graffiti vandalism is a growing problem—along I-5 through Tacoma, in the streets of Seattle and Spokane, and in many other places across Washington. It is clear we need a stronger, more effective approach that disincentivizes further defacement of public and private property,” said Barkis. “I am confident law enforcement will continue exploring innovative ways to catch taggers, but once they do, we must ensure there is a system in place that holds offenders accountable for their actions. We cannot have a system that slaps offenders on the wrist, emboldening them to go out and commit the same crime.”

  • Safety
Creating a civil protection order to prevent impaired driving.
Sponsor: Lauren Davis, D
Co-Sponsor: Jacobsen, Walen, Griffey, Fitzgibbon, Berg, Ryu, Duerr, Goodman, Doglio, Salahuddin, Fosse, Leavitt

House Bill 1426 proposes amendments to existing law and creates new sections regarding civil protection orders, specifically focusing on impaired driving. The bill defines various terms related to abuse, neglect, and harassment, establishing criteria for different types of protection orders. It outlines procedures for petitioning, issuing, renewing, modifying, and enforcing these orders, including provisions for ex parte orders and full hearings. Furthermore, it details specific relief the court can grant, such as restrictions on firearm possession and alcohol consumption, and sets penalties for violations. Finally, the bill mandates training for law enforcement on impaired driving protection orders.

  • Religion
Establishing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays.
Sponsor: Osman Salahuddin, D
Co-Sponsor: Mena, Farivar, Taylor, Cortes, Scott, Obras, Bernbaum, Stearns, Simmons, Berry, Duerr, Parshley, Peterson, Reed, Ramel, Walen, Gregerson, Doglio, Fosse, Ormsby, Ryu, Street, Hill, Macri, Donaghy, Santos

House Bill 1434 proposes amending Washington state law to officially recognize Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays. Under the current draft of the legislation, the bill would list both the existing and proposed state holidays, explain how each holiday is observed, and clarify procedures for observing holidays that fall on weekends. It also details paid and unpaid leave for state employees, allowing additional leave for religious reasons, and recognizes various commemorative days without granting them official holiday status.

Other states, including New York and Michigan, have sponsored similar legislation. In recent years, some school districts on the East Coast have expanded school calendars to include Muslim and Hindu holidays. For example, New York added Diwali (the Hindu “Festival of Lights”) as a school holiday last year. It is worth noting that Muslims comprise less than 1% of both Washington State’s population and the U.S. population, yet there is ongoing discussion about officially recognizing certain Muslim holidays at both state and local levels.

As a Christian organization existing within what we consider a Christian nation, we cannot support the proposed legislation for several reasons. First, Easter—arguably the most prominent Christian observance—does not have federal or state holiday status. Christmas, historically celebrated as the birth of Jesus Christ, is increasingly referred to as a “winter holiday” by schools and federal organizations to avoid offending non-Christians. In similar fashion, we believe designating Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays would offend Christians and other religious groups in Washington State.

While House Bill 1434 aims to acknowledge and accommodate the diversity of religious observances, our organization maintains that creating additional state holidays for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha is unnecessary. If this bill were to pass, how many other religious groups will press to have their unique celebrations recognized as state holidays?

  • Safety
Creating a law enforcement hiring grant program.
Sponsor: Hunter Abell, R
Co-Sponsor: Richards

House Bill 1435 proposes a Washington state law creating a grant program to aid local and tribal law enforcement agencies in hiring new officers. This bipartisan legislation allocates $100 million to the Criminal Justice Training Commission to fund up to 75% of entry-level officer salaries and benefits for up to 36 months, requiring a 25% local match. The program aims to increase community policing and public safety, with strict reporting requirements on application numbers, funding amounts, and hiring outcomes. The bill outlines specific grant application processes and criteria, including reporting requirements for grant recipients. Finally, the commission must annually report to the legislature on the program’s progress and effectiveness. Governor Ferguson has stated that funding law enforcement is a high priority.

  • Safety
Incentivizing cities and counties to increase employment of commissioned law enforcement officers.
Sponsor: Hunter Abell, R
Co-Sponsor: Richards, Corry, Schmidt, Klicker, Connors, Caldier, Jacobsen, Barkis, Springer, Nance, Engell

Violent crime in Washington State has reached 25-year highs and the state ranks last in the nation for law enforcement officers per capita.  House Bill 1436 aims to incentivize cities and counties in Washington to increase the number of commissioned law enforcement officers by creating a new sales and use tax mechanism. This legislation allows counties and cities to impose a 0.10 percent sales and use tax specifically dedicated to hiring additional commissioned law enforcement officers.

The tax is in addition to existing taxes and will be collected by the state Department of Revenue at no cost to local jurisdictions. Importantly, if a local jurisdiction already has more law enforcement officers per 1,000 residents than the national average, they can use the generated funds for broader criminal justice purposes, which can include activities like domestic violence services and programs aimed at reducing interactions with the criminal justice system. The bill also includes provisions to expand basic law enforcement training, requiring the commission to provide at least 27 training classes in fiscal year 2026 and 28 classes in fiscal year 2027, with the legislature expected to appropriate sufficient funding to support these efforts.

  • Housing
Ensuring efficient approval of certain housing permit applications.
Sponsor: April Connors, R
Co-Sponsor: Klicker, Schmidt, Rude, Caldier, Jacobsen, Reed, Barkis, Eslick, Manjarrez, Engell, Dufault

Under current law, local governments must adhere to specific deadlines for processing housing permits. If these deadlines are missed, a portion of the permit fee is refunded to the applicant. However, no mechanism exists to ensure applicants receive their permits in a timely manner. In a bid to tackle Washington’s severe housing shortage, Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick, has introduced legislation to expedite housing permit approvals and streamline the development process.

House Bill 1438 directly addresses this problem by requiring automatic approval of housing projects and the issuance of building permits on the next business day after a missed deadline, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include the project being located within an urban growth area, containing at least one residential dwelling unit, and having plans prepared, stamped, and signed by a licensed professional engineer or architect. Automatic approval would not apply if the local government identifies serious public health or safety concerns that prevent the project from moving forward.

Permit delays in Washington average 6.5 months, according to the Building Industry Association of Washington, adding an average of $31,375 to the cost of a home. With home prices having already surged 129% over the past decade, the third-largest increase in the nation, Connors says the Legislature must act to alleviate the growing burden on homebuyers.

“Washington’s housing crisis demands bold action. Every day, more families are being priced out of the market, with nearly three-quarters of Washington households unable to afford a median-priced home,” said Connors. “House Bill 1438 is a practical solution to cut through red tape, reduce permitting delays, and deliver the housing units our state desperately needs. This bill is an important part of our effort as House Republicans to fix Washington and ensure every resident has access to affordable housing.”

  • Safety
Requiring electronic monitoring of sexually violent predators granted conditional release.
Sponsor: Dan Griffey, R
Co-Sponsor: Courture, Burnett, Graham, Leavitt, Davis, Caldier, Jacobsen, Klicker, Eslick, Simmons

Rep. Dan Griffey, R-Allyn has filed legislation to reform Washington state’s sexually violent predator (SVP) system. The goal is to balance protecting Washington residents from SVPs with the Constitutional rights of SVPs, who the courts have ruled cannot be held indefinitely under civil commitment at McNeil Island and must be given a path to unconditional release. “These proposals are the starting point to fixing this system,” said Griffey. “While not every stakeholder we have met with agrees on how to fix Washington’s SVP system, they all agree that it is broken.”

Washington State House Bill 1457 modifies existing law concerning the conditional release of sexually violent predators. The bill mandates technologically advanced ankle monitors that are virtually tamper-proof and provide real-time GPS data for those conditionally released to less restrictive environments. It also establishes guidelines for placement, prioritizing fair distribution across counties while considering victim safety and the availability of resources. The legislation includes provisions for individualized treatment plans, regular reporting, and annual court reviews to ensure community safety and the individual’s compliance. Finally, it outlines the roles and responsibilities of various agencies involved in the release and monitoring process.

  • Health Care
Supporting caregivers who provide complex care services to children with heightened medical needs.
Sponsor: Rule, D
Co-Sponsor: Callan, Taylor, Hunt, Davis, Reed, Simmons, Springer, Hill, Thai, Timmons

House Bill 1521 aims to support caregivers and establishes new requirements for payment to those who provide complex care services to children under 18 with heightened medical needs. The bill seeks to improve access to care and reduce the financial burden on families. Starting September 1, 2026, the bill mandates that the health authority must either require or provide payment to home health agencies for complex care services as part of the private duty nursing benefit. The caregivers eligible for this payment must be parents, guardians, family members, or close associates of the child, have completed at least 75 hours of training from an accredited home care agency, and be employed by a licensed home health agency. The services must be delegated by a registered nurse.

Additionally, the bill also stipulates that the authority will recognize specific accrediting organizations for training standards and allows caregivers to change employers without repeating training. The proposed legislation outlines that the home health agency must cover all training costs for caregivers and cannot require reimbursement. The definition of “complex care services” is also provided, detailing the types of care that may be included under this designation. When assessing eligibility for complex care services, only the child’s income will be considered, excluding the income of other household members. The authority is tasked with seeking necessary federal approvals to implement the program and must submit a report by September 1, 2029, evaluating the program’s effectiveness.

  • Health Care
Preserving the ability of public officials to address communicable diseases.
Sponsor: Bronoske, D
Co-Sponsor: Berry, Ramel, Reed, Duerr, Kloba, Macri, Parshley, Peterson, Ormsby, Pollet, Scott, Doglio, Hill, Simmons

Democrats in Washington State just can’t seem to learn that citizens of Washington State don’t want to be told how to care for themselves. Furthermore, after the farce of face masking and the vaccine boondoggle that came with CoVid, Washingtonians don’t trust the ‘science’ of our public health officials at the state or federal level.

House Bill 1531 mandates that public health responses to communicable diseases must be guided by science-based evidence, prioritizing proven measures like immunizations. The bill explicitly prohibits any conflicting laws or policies and declares existing ones null and void. It emphasizes the state’s commitment to using the best available science to control disease spread and declares an immediate effective date for reasons of public health.

Unless you want the state to direct your medical care and dictate what vaccines you must take, in addition to what immunizations your children must have, please oppose this scary legislation.

  • Health Care
Enhancing the regulation of tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, and vapor products.
Sponsor: Santos, D
Co-Sponsor: Wylie, Parshley, Scott, Leavitt, Reeves, Doglio, Tharinger, Nance, Corry, Ybarra, Couture, McClintock, Hackney, Berry, Davis, Dufault, Ramel, Reed, Mendoza, Obras, Gregerson, Kloba, Callan, Shavers, Peterson, Zahn, Ormsby, Pollet, Hill

House Bill 1534 is a Washington state legislative bill amending and enhancing existing laws regarding the regulation of tobacco products, alternative nicotine products and vapor products. The bill aims to improve public health by ensuring more rigorous oversight of nicotine-containing products, particularly focusing on preventing sales to minors and regulating the manufacturing and distribution of these products. It establishes a comprehensive certification and directory system for vapor products containing nicotine, requiring manufacturers to submit annual certifications to the state liquor and cannabis board detailing their products and providing documentation of FDA approval or pending applications.

The bill increases penalties for selling these products to minors, Starting January 1, 2026, only vapor products included in a publicly available directory will be legally sellable in the state. The bill introduces significant penalties for non-compliance, including civil fines ranging from $500 to $10,000 per violation and potential license suspensions or revocations for retailers and manufacturers. Additionally, the legislation expands reporting and record-keeping requirements for distributors, and creates a new vapor product nicotine directory account to fund enforcement efforts.

  • Health Care
Ensuring patient choice and access to care by prohibiting unfair and deceptive dental insurance practices.
Sponsor: Thai, D
Co-Sponsor: Marshall, Parshley, Caldier, Nance, Richards, Walen, Connors, Davis, Rule, Reeves, Morgan, Ramel, Abbarno, Stonier, Doglio, Tharinger, Lekanoff, Leavitt, Reed, Gregerson, Kloba, Salahuddin, Zahn, Ormsby, Scott, Hill, Simmons

House Bill 1535 aims to reform Washington State’s dental insurance system by increasing patient protections and transparency. The bill seeks to improve access to care, reduce out-of-pocket costs, and prevent insurers from prioritizing profits over patient needs. Key provisions include mandating minimum medical loss ratios, allowing patients to choose their dentists, and ensuring fair reimbursement rates for providers. The bill also addresses regulatory requirements for insurers, including reporting and rate review processes. Ultimately, the legislation seeks to create a more equitable and fair dental insurance market in Washington.

  • Education
Providing capital financial assistance to small school districts with demonstrated funding challenges.
Sponsor: McEntire
Co-Sponsor: Couture, Rude, Leavitt, Doglio

House Bill 1538 establishes a new grant program in Washington State to provide capital financial assistance to small school districts – with 1,000 students or fewer – that are financially distressed and have aging school facilities. The program aims to help these districts modernize or replace school buildings that are at least 30 years old and in poor condition. Eligible projects must address critical physical deficiencies such as seismic vulnerabilities, failing building systems, infrastructure problems, accessibility barriers, and deteriorated conditions. To apply, school districts must submit detailed information about their facility conditions, including a seismic assessment and building inventory.

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction will propose a prioritized list of grants every two years, with points awarded based on the district’s remaining debt capacity, facility condition, and enrollment size. School districts must contribute a share of project costs, typically at least 50% of their remaining debt capacity, but this can be reduced if it would cause property tax rates to exceed $1.75 per $1,000 of assessed property value.

The bill also allows districts to use federal funding, grants, or private donations to meet their cost share. The program is designed to help small, financially constrained districts improve their school facilities and potentially enhance student health, safety, and academic performance. The new grant program will take effect on January 1, 2028.

  • Environment
Addressing wildfire protection and mitigation.
Sponsor: Kristine Reeves, D
Co-Sponsor: Dent, Springer, Walen, Ryu, Ramel, Bernbaum, Salahuddin

House Bill 1539 establishes a work group tasked with studying and recommending wildfire mitigation and resiliency standards in Washington State. The work group will be co-chaired by the insurance commissioner and the commissioner of public lands, and will include representatives from the property and casualty insurance industry, local emergency management, the Washington fire chiefs association, and legislative members from both the House and Senate. The group is responsible for developing recommendations that align state wildfire property mitigation standards with nationally recognized, science-based standards, enhancing community-level wildfire mitigation, improving data sharing between state agencies and the insurance industry, increasing consumer transparency regarding wildfire risks, and establishing a grant program to assist homeowners in retrofitting properties to resist wildfire damage.

The work group is required to submit a report of its recommendations to the legislature and relevant agencies by December 1, 2025, and will receive staff support from the office of the insurance commissioner. The section of the bill creating the work group will expire on December 31, 2025.

  • Health Care
Improving cardiac and stroke outcomes.
Sponsor: Lisa Passhley, D
Co-Sponsor: Schmick, Davis, Ortiz-Self, Ryu, Macri, Ormsby, Scott, Hill, Doglio
Washington State House Bill 1545 is another bill that perfectly demonstrates Washington governments overreach. The bill’s aim is to improve cardiac and stroke care outcomes. The bill mandates the creation of a statewide registry to collect data on heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest, and stroke treatment. This data will be used to evaluate system performance, identify areas for improvement, and inform policy changes. The bill also outlines the Department of Health’s role in coordinating this system, providing technical assistance, and conducting public education campaigns.
 
Why is the state involving itself in the field of medicine? With all the issues to address in this state, they do not need to concern themselves with the treatment of cardiac and stroke patients. Let’s let our doctors and medical community figure these things out rather than having the government mandate more programs for our medical professionals to adhere to. Please oppose this legislation.
  • Parenting
Establishing a statewide network for student mental and behavioral health.
Sponsor: Santos, D
Co-Sponsor: Berry, Davis, Callan, Paul, Ortiz-Self, Kloba, Shavers, Zahn, Ormsby, Pollet, Scott, Doglio, Hill, Simmons

This bill was introduced last Session and returns again. This bill aims to establish a comprehensive statewide network for student mental and behavioral health in Washington. The primary issue is parents in Washington do not have access to their student’s mental health or medical records in schools. The legislation intends to enhance coordination among the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), local education agencies, and other relevant state agencies to create a more integrated approach to mental health support in schools. What does this mean? They can link students to legal services and alternative medical interventions without a parent’s knowledge.

Public schools across Washington are failing miserably in regards to core subjects. Let’s force schools to return their focus to teaching rather than addressing our children’s mental health. Washington now has 69 school-based health centers. It is not a surprise that we are facing a mental health crisis in our schools (depression, suicide, transgenderism). Do we really want to expand mental health services in our schools? Please oppose this terrible bill.

  • Environment
Improving the end-of-life management of electric vehicle batteries.
Sponsor: Chipalo Street, D
Co-Sponsor: Doglio, Mena, Hunt, Ramel, Berry, Reed, Duerr, Gregerson, Kloba, Paul, Parshley, Callan, Taylor, Ormsby, Pollet, Santos, Scott, Macri, Hill

House Bill 1550, Washington State’s Electric Vehicle Battery Management Act, is modeled after the New Jersey EV batter bill and  establishes a producer responsibility program for ensuring safe recycling ore repurposing of electric vehicle batteries. The bill mandates producers to create and implement battery management plans for collection, recycling, and disposal. These plans must detail environmentally sound practices and include consumer education initiatives. The act also outlines registration requirements for producers, fee structures to fund the program, and penalties for non-compliance. Finally, it amends existing law to incorporate the new regulations and clarifies definitions related to battery types and recycling processes.

  • Taxes
Extending the dairy inspection program until June 30, 2031.
Sponsor: Adison Richards, D
Co-Sponsor: Dent, Hackney, Bernbaum, Kloba, Springer

House Bill 1553 extends Washington state’s dairy inspection program from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2031. The bill maintains the current assessment mechanism where milk processors pay a small fee to fund dairy inspections, with an exemption for processing plants whose monthly assessment is less than $20. The small assessment funds will continue to be collected by the director, deposited into the dairy inspection account within the agricultural local fund, and used exclusively for dairy industry inspection services. The assessment is capped and processors with low monthly assessments are exempt. If a milk processing plant fails to pay the assessment, the unpaid amount can become a lien on the plant’s property and will be collected similar to delinquent taxes. The bill also includes an emergency clause, indicating its immediate importance for public health and safety, with the new provisions taking effect on June 30, 2025.

  • Taxes
Supporting employers providing child care assistance to employees by establishing a business and occupation and public utility tax credit.
Sponsor: Penner
Co-Sponsor: Hill, Bernbaum, Nance, Dent, Schmidt, Barkis, Abbarno, Couture, Springer, Ormsby

Washington state ranks as the seventh least affordable for infant care and median child care costs surpassing $20,000 annually—more than tuition at many universities. Nearly 40% of parents have reported quitting their jobs or being fired due to child care challenges, costing families $2.9 billion annually in lost income. This legislation aims to ease these challenges by encouraging a solution that makes child care more affordable and accessible for working families while supporting businesses and strengthening the economy.

House Bill 1564 establishes a 100% tax credit for businesses that provide child care assistance to employees, covering expenses such as direct contributions to child care costs and in-house child care facilities. Starting Jan. 1, 2026, the program allows businesses to reduce their business and occupation or public utilities taxes by the amount they spend on providing child care for employees. They can apply the remaining amount to the following year if they don’t use the full tax benefit in one year. Administered by the Department of Revenue, the program is set to run through Jan. 1, 2037, with a potential extension based on its success in increasing employer-provided child care support.

Josh Penner, R-Orting, the bill’s primary sponsor, states: “This legislation is a significant step forward in tackling the affordability and accessibility challenges that working families face daily. Employers who invest in child care solutions for their workers deserve our support, and this bill provides a clear pathway for businesses to be part of the solution.” He continues, “This bill is a meaningful step toward creating a more family-friendly state where parents can thrive at work, children have access to safe and supportive care, and communities are stronger. I’m proud to make this my first legislative priority and look forward to the bipartisan work to see it through.”

  • Property
Concerning child care centers operated in existing buildings.
Sponsor: Michelle Caldier, R
Co-Sponsor: Richards, Eslick, Nance

Washington State House Bill 1582 addresses occupancy load calculations in child care centers operating within multi-use buildings, particularly churches. Currently, child care center occupancy load calculations consider the entire building’s use, even if the center only occupies a portion. The bill proposes that occupancy load calculations only consider the space used for child care services, not the entire building. This change would affect building code compliance, particularly regarding fire safety and egress requirements. The bill also notes the role of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) and the Washington State Patrol Director of Fire Protection in licensing and inspection processes. This bill would ultimately lead to the availability of more child care space. There is a significant need for more child care centers in Washington at this time. 

  • Safety
Concerning accountability for persons for speeding.
Sponsor: Mari Leavitt, D
Co-Sponsor: Goodman, Ryu, Berry

House Bill 1596 aims to improve road safety in Washington State by addressing speeding. The bill proposes a new “intelligent speed restricted driver’s license” for drivers with multiple speeding violations or reckless driving convictions. This license requires drivers to use an intelligent speed assistance device in their vehicles. The bill also defines “excessive speeding,” outlines the eligibility criteria for the restricted license, and establishes penalties for tampering with the device. Finally, it allocates funds for program administration and sets effective and expiration dates.

  • Taxes
Prohibiting deductions for credit card transaction processing fees from employee tips.
Sponsor: Obras, D
Co-Sponsor: Fosse, Ortiz-Self, Parshley, Goodman, Macri, Donaghy, Hill, Stonier, Taylor, Berry, Santos, Peterson, Ramel, Gregerson, Reed, Farivar, Reeves, Bergquist, Kloba, Duerr, Ryu, Simmons, Cortes, Thomas, Street, Davis, Salhuddin

Bill 1623 sets minimum wage regulations under the age of 18 and the requirement that employers who allow credit card tips may not deduct any portion of an employee’s tips or gratuities to pay for credit card processing fees, thereby protecting employee earnings. The bill also clarifies that tips and service charges are in addition to the minimum wage and cannot be counted towards it. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance wage protections for employees and ensure they receive the full benefit of customer gratuities.

  • Safety
Concerning restrictions on the placement of inmates of different biological sexes in correctional facilities.
Sponsor: Michelle Caldier, R
Co-Sponsor: NA

House Bill 1629, sponsored by Michelle Caldier, R-Gig Harbor, specifically reads, “An inmate being housed in a correctional facility shall not be assigned to share a room or cell with any other person of a different biological sex than that of the inmate if the inmate has a history of sexual or physical violence against a victim whose biological sex is the same as the other person assigned to the room or cell. For purposes of this section, “a history of sexual or physical violence” means one or more current charges or prior convictions for a sex offense, violent offense, or an offense that constitutes domestic violence as those terms are defined.

It is unbelievable that males are even allowed to be placed in a female prison. FPIW fought against that wicked law several years ago. Given the Democrats majority in the House and Senate, Rep. Caldier did not feel that a bill restricting the assignment of a delusional male to the room or cell of a female would ‘pass’. Only by restricting a delusional male with a history of sexual or physical violence against a woman does this bill have a chance to make it out of committee. This is an indication of just how much KoolAid the Democrats have drank.

  • Education
Modifying child care provider qualifications.
Sponsor: Tom Dent, R
Co-Sponsor: Eslick, Burnett, Penner, Jacobsen, Graham

Washington House Bill 1648 aims to delay child care provider certification requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the industry. The bill proposes a community-based training pathway as an alternative to traditional college coursework, offering flexibility and accessibility. It also introduces a work equivalency option, recognizing the experience of existing providers. The deadline for meeting certification requirements is extended, providing more time for providers to complete training or demonstrate competency through work experience. Ultimately, the bill addresses current workforce shortages and improves access to affordable, quality child care.

  • Environment
Authorizing electrical companies to securitize certain wildfire-related costs to lower costs to customers.
Sponsor: Peter Abbarno, R
Co-Sponsor: Doglio, Steele, Fey, Dye, Mena, Barnard, Klicker, Ley, Stuebe, Ybarra, Volz, Springer, Scott, Parshley, Graham

Washington House Bill 1656, a bipartisan piece of legislation, modifies existing law to allow electrical, gas, and water companies to use securitization to finance costs from emergencies and conservation measures. The bill establishes a process for the Utilities and Transportation Commission to approve these financing orders, ensuring ratepayer protection and defining the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. It clarifies how these rate recovery bonds will be structured and repaid, protecting the financial interests of investors while limiting the state’s financial liability. The act also addresses the treatment of existing bonds under the previous law and aims to lower overall customer costs. Finally, the bill declares an emergency clause making it effective immediately.

  • Health Care
Providing sufficient funding for the Washington state long-term care ombuds program.
Sponsor: Zahn, D
Co-Sponsor: Gregerson, Street, Reed, Eslick, Ormsby, Scott, Macri, Thai, Simmons

House Bill 1664 addresses funding for Washington state’s long-term care ombuds program, which provides advocacy and protection for residents in licensed long-term care facilities. The bill first acknowledges that residents have specific rights under state law, are classified as vulnerable adults, and are entitled to ombuds services that help investigate and resolve complaints affecting their health, safety, and welfare.

The LTC Ombuds Program advocates for residents of nursing homes, adult family homes, and assisted living facilities. Its purpose is to protect and promote the resident rights guaranteed to residents under federal and state law and regulations. Program staff and certified volunteers are trained to receive complaints and resolve problems in situations involving quality of care, use of restraints, transfer and discharge, abuse, and other aspects of resident dignity and rights. The are on the front line of being advocates for residents.

The program needs additional funding to respond to the increase in the number of people who rely on long term care facilities. Recognizing that a 2020 report found insufficient funding to meet recommended staffing levels, the bill requires the long-term care ombuds program to develop annual funding recommendations by September 1, 2025. These recommendations must ensure adequate resources to maintain a ratio of one full-time ombuds for every 2,000 residents, as suggested by the Institute of Medicine. The funding recommendations must also account for projected growth in long-term care facilities, inflation factors from the consumer price index, and administrative needs. The department of commerce must then submit these recommendations to the office of financial management and legislative fiscal committees for budget consideration, with the ultimate goal of ensuring robust support for protecting the rights and well-being of long-term care facility residents.

  • Safety
Concerning community custody
Sponsor: Lauren Davis, D
Co-Sponsor: Griffey, Richards, Nance