Dear friends and neighbors, 

We’re officially on day 37 of the 2025 session, meaning we’re over a third of the way done. While time has flown by, our team has spent each minute here in Olympia working to deliver for our district and state. I want to thank you for your engagement so far and hope you will continue to participate in the process. 

EDUCATION ACCESS FOR ALL 

Education should be accessible at every stage of life. This session, I’m sponsoring legislation to break down barriers, expand opportunities for Native students, and ensure Washington schools reflect the histories and voices of our state’s 29 federally recognized Tribes. 

Senate Bill 5110 makes higher education more accessible for Tribal elders aged 55+ by waiving tuition and fees at community and technical colleges. Elders are the knowledge keepers of their communities, and this bill honors their leadership by creating new opportunities for lifelong learning. 

Senate Bill 5304 extends the Students Experiencing Homelessness and Foster Youth Program to accredited Tribal colleges, ensuring Native students facing housing and food insecurity can access essential services like meal support, housing assistance, and case management. 

Senate Bill 5570 strengthens public school instruction on Tribal sovereignty by requiring districts to incorporate curriculum on the nearest federally recognized Tribes. Understanding Tribal history and governance benefits all students, and this bill ensures Native voices shape those lessons. 

By expanding education access and elevating Tribal voices, we’re investing in a stronger, more inclusive future. I’m proud to work alongside Tribal leaders, educators, and advocates to ensure Washington’s education system reflects and supports the diverse communities it serves. 

SENATE MEMBERS OF COLOR CAUCUS 

In addition to the roles I mentioned in my last e-newsletter, I also serve as co-vice chair of the Senate Members of Color Caucus. As a caucus, our mission is to build a more inclusive, representative government that truly serves every Washingtonian. We do this by uplifting underrepresented voices and advancing policies that promote equity, justice, and opportunity for all. I am so proud to be part of this work and will continue advocating for meaningful change. 

APPLY TO BE A PAGE 

Do you know a young person interested in state government? The Senate Page Program is still accepting applications for 2025!  

Open to students 14-16 years old, this fun, week-long experience includes page school, assisting senators, and learning about the legislative process — all while getting paid. Scholarships and host family housing are available too.  

The deadline is March 27, and our office has a few sponsorship spots left. So, get your application in today! 

STAY IN TOUCH 

Again, please continue to reach out and share any questions, concerns, and issues you have. Your engagement helps me better represent the 47th Legislative District and is essential to this work. Contact my office at Claudia.Kauffman@leg.wa.gov or 360-786-7692. You can also follow my official Facebook and Instagram pages for regular updates. 

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Warm regards, 

Sen. Claudia Kauffman