Dear Neighbors,

What an incredible start to the 2018 legislative session!

I’m proud to say that in our first weeks back in the majority, Senate Democrats have taken significant early action on a broad range of issues. Already we’ve passed legislation to:

  • Expand access to our democracy with a new voting rights act
  • Allow same-day voter registration
  • Shine light on the secret money in our elections
  • Ensure a healthy breakfast for every student
  • Expand college access for DREAMers
  • Ban bump stock trigger modifications

And perhaps most critically, we managed to pass the long-delayed capital budget, which includes the largest-ever investment in K-12 school construction – about $1 billion. With the budget passed, projects for environmental cleanup, housing and infrastructure will finally begin around our state, supporting 19,000 jobs.

Of course, last week was of special significance for the work I’ve been doing in the Legislature for the past five years to expand protections for LGBTQ youth in Washington. I’m proud to report that two of my bills, SB 5722 to ban so-called ‘conversion therapy’ and SB 5766 to prevent bullying of transgender students, both passed through the Senate with significant bipartisan majorities.

For years in person and in testimony, I’ve heard from countless families about the need to make our communities and schools safer for their children. This legislation puts our shared values forward, recognizing the value that LGBTQ youth bring to our society and that we will take every step we can to make Washington inclusive for all.

I cannot thank enough those that bravely shared their stories over the years and my colleagues for their support in this hard won victory. This is what I came to Olympia to fight for.

But as always, many remain ahead and as fast-paced as this session has been, much more awaits as Senate Democrats continue to put people first with our legislative action.

Upcoming Town Halls

As we are quickly approaching the halfway point of this short 60-day legislative session, it’s time for your 21st LD delegation to connect with you back home!

First, on Thursday, February 15th, Rep. Ortiz-Self, Rep. Peterson and I will be conducting a telephone town hall beginning at 6:05 p.m. You can RSVP by going to https://vekeo.com/whdc21/

If you do not receive a call, you can dial in at 877-229-8493 and use the pin number: 116357.

Then, on Saturday, February 17th, we will be hosting an in-person town hall from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The town hall will be in the Great Hall at Meadowdale High School, located at 6002 168th St SW, Lynnwood, WA 98037.

We will continue to share details as the dates draw nearer, but we hope you’ll get it on the calendar and we will see you there!

All my best,

Sen. Marko Liias