Dear Neighbors of the 26th,
We’re in the final weeks of the session, and deadlines are approaching quickly. This has once again been a challenging session as we work to balance budgets amid declining revenues, increased needs, and federal actions that are directly impacting our state.
Throughout it all, I have listened carefully and worked to keep my votes balanced to best represent the 26th. I have also done what most people have asked of me — to lead with common sense and civility while working with all parties.
Please keep reading for legislative updates, weekly highlights, and news from my office!
UPDATE ON MY BILLS
Three of my bills are continuing to advance through House committees and the appropriations process, bringing them one step closer to consideration on the House floor—and ultimately, the Governor’s desk.
SB 6160 will improve government efficiencies across state agencies by eliminating outdated and duplicative state agency reports.
SB 5968 is another government efficiency bill that will streamline state agency licensing and permitting processes, enabling workers and businesses to obtain credentials or project permits in a predictable and timely manner.
SB 6162 was heard in committee today. This is my bill expanding the Senior Citizen Property Tax Relief Program and simplifying property taxes statewide. The legislation will help an estimated 30,000 households stay in their homes, and I couldn’t be prouder of it.
Transportation Budget
As Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I was proud to help craft this year’s transportation supplemental budget alongside Sens. Marko Liias, Curtis King, and Keith Goehner. Our work reflects strong bipartisan collaboration, and I am grateful for the partnership that made these critical investments possible.
Our top priority this year is clear: preservation and maintenance.
The budget invests $1.7 billion in preservation efforts, including $1.2 billion dedicated specifically to roads and highways. Nearly 45% of our state highways need repaving, and 210 bridges statewide are currently rated in poor condition. For the 26th District, this is especially concerning as we continue to experience unexpected and unplanned bridge lane closures that disrupt daily travel.
This proposal is a long-overdue investment in the infrastructure we rely on every day. Delaying repairs only increases costs and risks more closures. By acting now, we improve safety, reduce long-term expenses, ensure reliable transportation, and support thousands of local construction jobs.
The budget also takes a significant step toward restoring and maintaining full ferry service. I am particularly excited about the third electric ferry authorized for purchase. Adding a total of three new vessels to the fleet will improve service reliability for our district and communities across the Puget Sound region.
Over the next week, the House and Senate transportation leadership will negotiate and reconcile a single budget for both chambers to consider before sending it to the Governor’s office for signature.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Many more amazing groups came to speak with me about their legislative priorities.
Moms Demand Action – I met with Moms Demand Action for Gun Safety. These constituents are committed to safe schools, streets, and communities for our kids. I left our meeting feeling hopeful and grateful that our kids have amazing people advocating for them.
Building Industry Association of Washington – I recently met with members of the Kitsap and Pierce County organizations affiliated with the Building Industry Association of Washington to discuss key issues impacting the housing industry. Our conversation focused on strategies to build homes more quickly and affordably to meet the growing demand in our communities. I look forward to continuing this important dialogue during the interim.
Habitat for Humanity – I also had the pleasure of meeting with representatives from Habitat for Humanity, who visited my office to share more about their inspiring work. We discussed their efforts to help families achieve the dream of homeownership and the positive impact they are making in communities across our region.
Washington Highway Users Federation – This week, I had the honor of joining Sen. Keith Goehner as a panelist for the Washington Highway Users Federation (WHUF) to discuss the Senate’s transportation budget proposal. WHUF brings together leaders from across the transportation sector to advocate for stronger highways and infrastructure across our state. I appreciated the opportunity to answer thoughtful questions and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of Washington’s transportation system and the investments needed to keep our state moving forward.
NOTES FROM MY OFFICE
I’m sending my deepest sympathies to those in Key Peninsula and to everyone impacted by this week’s events. I’m grateful for the first responders who are on the scene, working to keep people safe and provide support during this difficult time.
This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of why continued investment in behavioral health care and strong law enforcement resources is so vital to our communities. I will remain in close contact with local leaders as we learn more and continue responding to this situation.
Town Halls – I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who joined one of my four town halls last weekend in Bremerton, Port Orchard, the Key Peninsula, and Gig Harbor. It was wonderful to see so many of you, hear your questions, and discuss how I can best serve you in Olympia.
Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming community connection events — I look forward to continuing these conversations and staying connected with all of you!
Page – Angelica Mosby joined us as a Page this week. She shares my passion for funding education. Her “mock bill” topic was funding childcare – and her bill passed. Congrats Angelica and thank you for your hard work!
End of Session – Over the next two weeks leading up to sine die, the last day of the legislative session, we will be negotiating and finalizing budgets, as well as reconciling differences between House and Senate bills. It’s a busy and unpredictable time, with deadlines just days apart.
Check out the Sine Die 2026 shirts—this year’s design proudly represents the 26th District!
Contact
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
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Thank you for reading!
All the best,
Deb