Dear friends and neighbors, 

During the interim, my focus has remained on the work that strengthens our communities — protecting immigrant and refugee families, supporting local businesses, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Every conversation and visit is a reminder of what drives this work: building a Washington rooted in fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all.

PROTECTING OUR IMMIGRANT COMMUNITIES 

The current administration’s renewed wave of uncertainty has deeply affected immigrant and refugee families, LGBTQ+ communities, and people of color. From ICE raids and family separations to mass deportations, these actions are not just political — they’re personal. They target our neighbors, coworkers, and families. 

In Washington, we have taken action in the Legislature to uphold our values and protect those most affected. Together, we have passed laws to strengthen worker protections, defend civil rights, and expand access to health care, education, and childcare, because everyone deserves safety, dignity, and opportunity. 

Recent progress includes: 

  • SB 5104 (2025): Prohibiting employers from using immigration status to threaten or retaliate against workers. 
  • HB 1131 (2025): Allowing courts to consider immigration consequences when reviewing sentences. 
  • HB 2331 (2024): Preventing book bans based on race, gender, or identity. 
  • SB 5225 (2023): Expanding access to Working Connections Child Care regardless of immigration status. 
  • HB 1072 (2021): Restoring access to civil legal aid for undocumented immigrants, including survivors of violence. 
  • SB 5497 (2019): Establishing the Keep Washington Working Act to limit local cooperation with ICE.

These laws reflect what I believe at my core: Washington should always be a place that welcomes every person — no matter where they were born, what language they speak, or how they identify. 

 

INTERIM WORK 

I was honored to join business and community leaders at the Association of Washington Business 2025 Policy Summit in Spokane. The panels on Washington’s economic future, navigating uncertainty, and supporting businesses offered valuable insights for my work as chair of the Senate Business, Financial Services & Trade Committee. These conversations will help guide efforts to strengthen local economies and expand opportunities for people and businesses across our state. 

For more information on support and resources for businesses, please visit my last e-newsletter here!  

BECOME A LEGISLATIVE INTERN 

Applications are open for the 2026 Legislative Internship Program. This program offers college juniors and seniors a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the Legislature, learn about the policymaking process, and contribute to the work we do for Washingtonians. 

The priority deadline to apply is Oct. 22, and the final deadline is Oct. 29.  

Learn more and apply here. 

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. 

Sincerely, 

Sen. Claudia Kauffman