Essential information on each bill is below. For more details, click on the bill number – e.g., “SB 5000.” 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.
Bill Summary
Senate Bill 5643 aims to expand the scope of child fatality and near fatality reviews to include children, youth, and individuals in the care or custody of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). It establishes that the DCYF must conduct fatality reviews for any child, youth, or individual placed in its care, as well as for those in juvenile rehabilitation facilities. The bill also mandates that the office of the family and children’s ombuds has the authority to communicate privately with these individuals and access relevant information for investigations. Additionally, it clarifies the definition of “near fatality” and outlines the procedures for conducting reviews, including the requirement for a report to be issued within 180 days of a fatality.
Key amendments include the insertion of terms such as “youth” and “individual” throughout the existing laws, broadening the definition of those protected under the reviews. The bill also specifies that the DCYF must conduct reviews for fatalities and near fatalities suspected to be caused by abuse or neglect, including those occurring in juvenile rehabilitation facilities. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of having an independent review team and ensures that the findings of these reviews are made public while protecting confidential information as required by law. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the safety and oversight of vulnerable populations under the state’s care.
Bill Summary
Senate Bill 5649 proposes the creation of a Washington State Supply Chain Competitiveness Infrastructure Program, working to strengthen the state’s infrastructure for the benefit of public ports and federally recognized tribes involved in port operations. The Department of Transportation (DOT) would lead this initiative, collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Department of Commerce, the Washington Public Ports Association, and the Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (FMSIB). This bill aims to establish a dedicated grant and loan program to boost the competitiveness of the state’s ports, a vital part of Washington’s $60 billion export economy.
By developing a program through the Supply Chain Competitiveness Infrastructure Program Account, the bill directly addresses Washington’s status as a top export state. Providing financial support to public ports and tribes will support job creation, greater access to international markets, and improvements in the supply chain, all crucial to support ongoing global trade. By creating a program focused on these regions specifically, SB 5649 ensures equity in the distribution of resources, empowering tribal communities to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy. Additional benefits include transparency, with clear performance goals and metrics set collaboratively, ensuring accountability. This initiative also has no direct appropriation costs, utilizing existing transportation accounts to fund the grants and loans. Supporting SB 5649 will be an investment leading to improved port infrastructure, enhanced trade opportunities, and a more robust state economy, making it an effective and strategic choice for Washington.
Bill Summary
Washington State Senate Bill 5655 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 and there is a significant need for more child care centers in Washington at this time.
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Housing
An act relating to eliminating each local government’s proportional share of Washington’s housing shortage.
Bill Summary
SB 5659 is a needed step toward addressing Washington’s housing crisis by holding local governments accountable for their role in increasing housing supply. The bill ensures that each city, county, and town takes responsibility for approving enough new homes to meet its fair share of the state’s housing shortage by 2035. By requiring the Department of Commerce to calculate and report these housing targets, the bill provides transparency and clear goals for local governments. This legislation also mandates that local governments regularly review their regulations to remove unnecessary barriers to housing development. Sponsor Keith Goehner states: “We’re facing an urgent housing affordability crisis, and the density issue continues to drive the crisis. … This isn’t about government mandates – it’s about reducing bureaucracy and opening the door for new opportunities in housing development.”
If local governments fail to meet their housing obligations, they risk losing certain real estate tax revenue, creating a strong incentive to streamline approval processes. The bill further promotes accountability by tracking building permit approvals and requiring local governments to address high denial rates. If state policies are identified as obstacles to housing development, the bill ensures they are reported to lawmakers for potential reform. With skyrocketing housing costs and a growing population, SB 5659 is a proactive solution that balances local control with statewide responsibility. Supporting this bill means supporting more housing opportunities, lower costs for families, and a stronger economy.
Bill Summary
Senate Bill 5669 amends Washington State irrigation district election laws to improve the voting process and accessibility for qualified electors. Key provisions include the introduction of mail-in ballots as an alternative to traditional polling places, allowing the board of directors to opt for this method. It mandates that ballots be provided to qualified electors based on district records, and those who believe they are eligible but have not received a ballot can present documentation to obtain one. The bill also updates absentee ballot requirements to ensure they are securely sealed and accompanied by a certificate of qualifications. Additionally, it clarifies voting rights for landowners and establishes new notice requirements to keep qualified electors informed about the election process.
Further amendments focus on election security and transparency, particularly for districts with their own treasurer. The bill outlines strict protocols for ballot handling, securing ballot boxes, and ensuring public observation during the canvassing process. It also introduces a written challenge process for voters contesting ballots and classifies violations of these provisions as gross misdemeanors, with specific penalties for actions such as unauthorized ballot removal or misleading voters. Overall, the bill aims to modernize and secure the election process within irrigation districts, making it more efficient and accessible while enhancing integrity and transparency. The bill has complete bipartisan support.