Dear Neighbors of the 26th, 

It’s hard to believe we’re already a third of the way through the session. The pace has been fast, but it’s been an incredibly productive time. I’ve continued to focus on affordability, accountability, and strong support for our youth and education. Read on for legislative updates, weekly highlights, and news from my office. 

UPDATE ON MY BILLS 

  • SB 5968: Improving regulatory efficiency  
    • Awaiting date for a vote in the Senate!  
  • SB 5992: Creating the youth development fund account to increase access to positive youth development programs 
    • Scheduled for executive session next Tuesday, February 3rd. 
  • SB 6130: Celebrating National Voter Registration Day.  
    • Scheduled for executive session next Wednesday, February 4th.  
  • SB 6160: Improving government efficiency related to reports by state agencies. 
    • Scheduled for executive session next Tuesday, February 3rd.  
  • SB 6162:  Expanding property tax relief program for senior citizens and disabled persons. 
    • Heard in Ways and Means. More on this below! 

You can see the current status of all the bills I’ve introduced here.  

More on property tax relief program 

Last week, there was a public hearing on SB 6162, my bill to expand property tax relief for seniors, people with disabilities, and disabled veterans. This legislation is long overdue, and I’m honored to serve as its prime sponsor.  

Under current law, the Senior Property Tax Relief Program exempts qualified individuals from excess levies, the state school levy, and certain regular levies. 

SB 6162 builds on that foundation. The bill would expand eligibility by increasing the income threshold by 10%, allowing an estimated 30,000 additional households to be eligible for relief. It also simplifies deductions by allowing individuals to claim a $7,500 standard deduction and households to claim up to $15,000, eliminating the need to itemize. In addition, seniors who rent out part of their primary residence would be able to deduct up to $6,000 in rental income when determining eligibility. 

Most importantly, this bill helps more of our neighbors who are on fixed incomes stay in their homes. I’ve heard far too many stories from constituents who are being priced out of the homes they’ve lived in for decades or forced to make impossible choices just to pay their property taxes. SB 6162 is about providing real, meaningful relief, giving people the security and dignity they deserve. You can watch the full hearing here. 

National Voter Registration Day for our Students: On Tuesday, I testified on SB 6130, which would reinforce the importance of voting by directing public high schools to observe National Voter Registration Day each September. This effort connects students to local, state, and national civic conversations at a moment when voting is most relevant. Washington students are enthusiastic, engaged, and eager to participate in our democracy. SB 6130 gives them a meaningful opportunity to put their civics education into action and encourages lifelong civic engagement and a commitment to voting in every election. 

Improving Access to Technology after Graduation:  On Wednesday, the Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee heard one of my co-sponsored bills, SB 6222. This legislation would allow public schools to sell surplus technology and expand the program to allow school districts to provide surplus devices at no cost to low-income students after graduation. Peninsula High School has successfully run a similar program for years, with an estimated 70% of students opting in. 

By allowing students to purchase the device they used in high school at a reduced cost—or receive one at no cost—SB 6222 helps remove a major financial barrier as students move on to college, the workforce, or training programs. The bill expands opportunity, reduces waste, and ensures students have the tools they need to succeed.  

Honoring our Washington National Guard: On Wednesday, I brought Senate Resolution 8668, honoring the Washington State National Guard, to the Senate floor. The soldiers and airmen of the Guard have been serving our State for more than 150 years. Most recently, their work saved lives, homes and businesses during the floods this past December. The Senate also took a moment to honor the families and employers of these Guard members who make their service possible. 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK 

Last week was PTA Advocacy Day in Olympia, and it was great to meet with so many education champions. I also had the opportunity to meet with individuals and groups from in and out of our district, including SEIU 1948, Catalyst Bremerton, the Kitsap & Pierce Aging Advisory Council, Kitsap Strong, Kitsap Regional Library, the Washington Voting Justice Coalition, Melissa Super-Greene- South Kitsap High School Principal, leaders from CHI and MultiCare, and members of the Quinault Tribal Council, elected city leaders from across our district—along with many others. If you are able, come visit me in Olympia! 

Back in district, I was able to tour a new Habitat for Humanity of Kitsap County home that’s all ready for a new family. Habitat does amazing work that truly changes lives in our community.  

  

NOTES FROM MY OFFICE 

Childcare facilities   

Childcare continues to be a challenge for many families, both in affordability and accessibility. I’m proud to have sponsored SB 5655, which brings more childcare centers to our district. I will continue working to expand access to quality, affordable childcare for our community.  

Recently, I participated in a work session with the Senate Early Learning & K–12 Education Committee focused on childcare facilities in Washington. It was a valuable opportunity to learn more about the rigorous oversight and auditing processes in place at the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). 

DCYF upholds high standards for childcare through comprehensive eligibility checks, strong program integrity measures, and regular audits. These measures help ensure that childcare programs remain safe, healthy, and reliable for families across our state. I hope this information reassures families and highlights the important work DCYF is doing. 

Pages  

I’ve hosted two pages already this session. Mya and Audrey were both outstanding and represented the district well in the halls of the Capitol!  

When asked about her page experience, Audrey said, “Being in the page program has not only given me lifelong memories, but a community. If I were given the chance to page again, I would in a heartbeat.”  

Contact 

We’re in the final weeks of hearing Senate bills in committee. If you have any thoughts on pending legislation or any other issue, please let me know. I always appreciate your input! My office is here to serve you and all our neighbors in the district. 

Phone: 360.786.7650 

Email: Deborah.Krishnadasan@leg.wa.gov 

Follow me on Facebook and Instagram 

 

Thank you for reading!  

All the best,  

Deb