News Releases

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Senate passed a bipartisan bill Thursday to modernize the state's excavation safety laws to better protect workers and underground utilities and ensure efficient infrastructure work.  Senate Bill 5627, sponsored by Sen. Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah), strengthens Washington’s "Call Before You Dig" requirements to help prevent damage to critical services, like ...

OLYMPIA — A bill to modernize Washington’s Adopt-A-Highway program and reduce roadside litter passed the Senate 49-0 Monday.  Senate Bill 5556, sponsored by Sen. Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah), revamps the Adopt-A-Highway program by improving accountability, aligning funding with transportation goals, and making it easier for local businesses and volunteers to get involved.   “Nobody likes seeing trash ...

OLYMPIA — Legislation to ensure the long-term sustainability of Washington state’s transportation infrastructure will be heard in the Senate Transportation Committee 4 p.m. Tuesday.  Senate Bill 5726, sponsored by Sen. Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah), would replace the state’s shrinking gas tax revenue with a road usage charge (RUC) based on vehicle mileage. This approach aims to provide ...

OLYMPIA — Legislation to reduce litter on Washington’s roadways and better protect the environment was introduced in the state Senate Tuesday.  Senate Bill 5556, sponsored by Sen. Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah), would modernize the state’s Adopt-A-Highway program. The bill updates the program by enhancing accountability, aligning funding with transportation goals, and expanding ...

OLYMPIA – Bill Ramos (D-Issaquah) was sworn in Monday as the 5th Legislative District’s new senator following his November election victory. Ramos succeeds former Sen. Mark Mullet and brings extensive experience to the role.  “I’m excited and honored to continue serving the 5th Legislative District and advocating for policies that support working families, improve transportation, and protect ...

OLYMPIA – The Senate Democratic Caucus voted Thursday to confirm committee leadership and membership positions for the 2025 legislative session. The 2025 session will bring eight new members to the Senate Democratic Caucus. Seven senators decided to retire or run for another office following the 2024 legislative session, and Democrats added a 30th member — Sen.-elect Adrian Cortes from the 18th ...