Dear friends and neighbors,
I do this work because I care deeply about our communities and believe in the power of partnership. Every time I hear from you, every time we connect, it reinforces why this role matters. Your engagement helps shape the policies we pursue and reminds me that real progress happens when we work together.
Thank you to everyone who joined our recent town hall! I am grateful to my seatmates, Reps. Debra Entenman and Chris Stearns, and even more grateful to all of you who took time out of your weekend to ask questions, share your ideas, and speak from the heart.
Here is a quick recap of some of the topics we discussed:
HOUSING FOR ALL
Access to safe, affordable housing is one of the most urgent challenges we face — and a top priority for me. I’m committed to making sure every Washingtonian has a stable place to call home while we continue to protect our environment and build sustainable communities.
This year, the Legislature passed new rent stabilization protections, expanded housing near transit, increased down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers from disadvantaged backgrounds, and made reforms that strengthen accountability for cities to meet local housing targets, including requirements for planning, permitting, and zoning that align with housing growth goals. These policies reflect a shared commitment to housing that is affordable, equitable, and resilient.
PUBLIC SAFETY FUNDING
Public safety was another important topic of discussion at the town hall. This year, the Legislature took action to support communities with new investments focused on prevention, accountability, and local flexibility.
We approved $100 million to help cities and counties hire new law enforcement officers and give local leaders the flexibility to invest in the strategies that best meet their community’s needs. That includes options like crisis response, trauma-informed care, and updated training and hiring practices.
This approach reflects a broader commitment to building safer, more resilient communities — not through outdated punitive systems, but by investing in prevention, accountability, and community trust.
THANK YOU
I am so thankful for your engagement at the town hall and throughout the year. Hearing directly from you helps shape the work I do in Olympia, and I am always appreciative of the opportunity to listen, learn, and lead in partnership with our community.
STAY IN TOUCH
Please do not hesitate to reach out to 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 throughout the interim.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
Warmly,
Sen. Claudia Kauffman
