Hello neighbors,
You deserve to feel safe anywhere you go in Washington. That’s why I’ve been fighting this session to increase public safety for every community in our state. Last week, I proudly voted for bills to do just that by investing in community safety services and supporting responsible gun ownership.
Investing in community safety services
Washington faces a severe police officer shortage. Compared to other states, we have the fewest officers per capita, and that impacts response times and the resources our local police agencies have to prevent crime and bring justice to victims.
A House bill addresses that by creating a statewide grant program to help local agencies hire, retain, and train officers. But we know community safety involves more than just law enforcement — it’s a collaborative effort requiring a careful co-response. That’s why the grant program also focuses on hiring, retaining, and training peer counselors and behavioral health professionals. Gov. Ferguson has requested that this program be funded as a part of our budget this year.
The bill also alleviates some of the burden our cities and counties feel when it comes to funding criminal justice programs. Local revenue structures are not designed to sustain these programs, yet they represent a large portion of city and county budgets. The bill also gives cities and counties new revenue options specifically for criminal justice purposes, which they can invest in services like additional officers or important services like domestic violence programs.
This is a holistic approach to our criminal justice system that supports long-term community safety not just in Snohomish County but statewide.
Keeping firearms out of the wrong hands
Washington has a robust and strong background check system for firearm purchases, but there’s more we can do to ensure guns are kept out of the wrong hands.
Last week, the Senate passed a measure requiring people to get a permit to purchase a firearm in Washington. Twelve states have enacted similar laws — and the results are clear. These states see 11% fewer firearm homicides in urban counties, 56% fewer fatal mass shootings, and fewer law enforcement officers shot with handguns. This measure also reduces illegal firearms trafficking, keeping weapons out of the hands of criminal gangs. When we enact commonsense measures like this, we reduce gun violence and increase community safety.
As the son, grandson, nephew, and cousin of responsible gun owners, I know how much Washingtonians cherish the Second Amendment. But I also know gun owners statewide are united in their desire to make sure only those legally authorized to have firearms can access them. This is a policy shown to save lives, curb illegal gun trafficking, and ensure firearms stay in the hands of responsible owners.
Are you REAL ID compliant?
Starting May 7, anyone boarding a domestic flight in the U.S. must have an ID that complies with the federal REAL ID Act. Anyone with a valid passport, permanent resident card, a Washington enhanced driver’s license (EDL), or similar document is already REAL ID compliant.
If you need a Washington EDL to meet the REAL ID requirement, here are a few tips:
- Book an appointment online. If there aren’t any available, be prepared to wait.
- Verify you have all the correct documents before heading to the licensing office.
- Be patient with office staff. They’re working quickly to process applications during this time of demand.
To learn more about the REAL ID requirements, including the documents needed to apply for an EDL, visit the Department of Licensing’s website or ID2025.
The end of session is here
It’s hard to believe, but Sunday is the end of session. As I wrap up my work in Olympia, you can expect a few final reports from me about this year’s legislative accomplishments, including our solution to the budget challenges we face.
Talk soon!
Marko
