Friends,

After a historic Legislative session this winter, lawmakers are now settling into the interim and preparing for the next time we convene. While things are now a bit slower than the busy session pace, there is still plenty happening to work towards a better Washington for all residents.

Keep in touch with my office to make sure you hear about all things happening at the legislature by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and as always you can reach out to me via email with questions!

 

Federal Child Tax Credit

On top of funding the Working Families Tax Credit in Washington this session to get more assistance to families, monumental action is happening at the federal level.

Payments for families with children have started to rollout this month thanks to the passage of the American Rescue Plan. This crucial federal legislation will help to reduce child poverty and lift families up during a time of great need. Click the image below to learn more about the Child Tax Credit![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Reflecting on Pride Month

Pride Month may be over, but I still spend every day being proud to be LGBTQ and proud of the progress that Washington state has made in ensuring all LGBTQ folks are welcome and supported in our state. Ensuring everyone can live lives with dignity and respect is one of the core missions that brought me to the legislature.

In the last few years, we have passed legislation to ban conversion therapy in Washington, end the use of the “panic defense” by passing the Nikki Kuhnhausen Act, expanded protections and made schools safer for trans students, created a statewide LGBTQ+ Commission, and much more.

It was so great to be with our community and celebrate last month, even if some events remained virtual. The crucial work of protecting all our neighbors continues year-round, which brings me to the next exciting piece of news…

 

Important bills going into effect this month

Pride Month may be over, but we still have plenty to celebrate – Senate Bill 5313, the Gender Affirming Treatment Act, was signed into law! This means that healthcare providers will be required to cover gender affirming healthcare – breaking down a huge barrier for trans and gender nonconforming Washingtonians.

Many other key pieces of legislation that were passed during the 2021 session will go into effect on July 25, including a few of the other bills that I was proud to sponsor.

Senate Bill 5194, the Our Colleges Our Futures Act, will soon be state law! This legislation will provide community and technical colleges across the state with the framework to address racial equity and economic justice through diversity, equity, and inclusion training, along with additional funding to hire more full-time faculty on campuses. As a community college professor, I know that these students deserve more resources, and this investment will be crucial for schools across the state.

Senate Bill 5235 will also go into effect, opening opportunities for accessory dwelling units across the state. This is an important step to create more affordable and accessible housing.

Plenty of other incredible bills passed by my colleagues have also been going into effect, including expanded childcare coverage, rental protections, and much more.

COVID-19 updates

People who are 12 and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, and there are still appointments throughout our community. Click any of the links below to find out more information.

Thanks to everyone who has received their vaccine, Washington has officially reached 70% of our population initiating their vaccination process! COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, according to the CDC. In Washington state, people can return to their normal pre-pandemic activities once they are fully vaccinated. Schedule yours today!

-Marko