Dear friends and neighbors,
The session is well underway, and my colleagues and I are working hard to address the challenges and opportunities facing our state. From responsible budgeting to advancing policies that support Washingtonians, we’re making thoughtful decisions to keep us moving forward.
FIGHTING FOR AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE
Ensuring access to quality, affordable health care has long been one of my top priorities. Over the years, I’ve worked to pass policies that lower costs, expand coverage, and improve patient care — but there’s still more to do. This session, I’m building on that work with two critical bills aiming to put people first in our health care system.
Senate Bill 5083 is about fairness in health care pricing and prioritizing high-quality care. Right now, too many people face unpredictable, sky-high hospital bills. This bill helps rein in those costs by capping reimbursement rates for hospital services our public and school employees receive. At the same time, it increases funding for primary care and behavioral health, areas too often underfunded but critical to keeping people healthy. By focusing on fair pricing and stronger investments in upstream care, we can make health services more affordable and accessible for public and school employees and their families.
Senate Bill 5387 takes on a growing problem: corporate interference in medical decision making, particularly from private equity companies. Too often, business interests — not doctors — have the final say in how care is provided, pressuring providers to make choices based on profits rather than patient needs. This bill strengthens existing safeguards in our state to ensure that only licensed medical professionals can make decisions about your care. By preventing corporate influence in our medical industry, we protect the integrity of care and ensure patients get the treatment they need and deserve.
THE BUDGETING PROCESS
As I’ve shared in past updates, crafting a sustainable state budget requires balancing many competing priorities, and this year, the challenge is even greater due to the budget shortfall. Right now, the Ways & Means Committee is carefully reviewing every line item to determine where we can make reductions.
This is not a process we take lightly. We know that every dollar represents programs and services that Washingtonians depend on, and we’re focused on protecting the essential services — like education, health care, and public safety — people rely on every day. Our approach is thoughtful and strategic, aiming to minimize disruptions while ensuring our budget is balanced and our state remains on solid financial footing.
These are difficult decisions, but they’re necessary ones. As chair, I will continue working to keep Washington’s budget responsible, sustainable, and reflective of our shared values, even in challenging times. I’ll keep you updated as this process moves forward.
WHAT WE’RE HEARING FROM YOU
This session, I introduced a bill to merge the assets, liabilities, and memberships of existing retirement systems. We’ve heard from many constituents with questions, and I want to provide clarity.
Senate Bill 5085 would merge the retirement systems of the Law Enforcement Officers’ and Firefighters’ Retirement System Plan 1 (LEOFF 1), the Public Employees’ Retirement System Plan 1 (PERS 1), and the Teachers’ Retirement System Plan 1 (TRS 1). All public employees deserve a secure retirement. This bill would ensure ongoing Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) for PERS 1 and TRS 1 members, helping retirees keep up with rising costs.
I also want to reassure constituents that LEOFF 1 benefits remain fully protected under state and federal law. This bill does not — and cannot — jeopardize those benefits. LEOFF 1 and LEOFF 2 employers and employees will not be responsible for funding any shortfall in the combined plan. The goal is to strengthen the retirement system and ensure long-term stability.
HOW WE CAN HELP
If you need help navigating state services — whether it’s applying for unemployment benefits, finding housing or health care resources, or resolving an issue with a state agency — my office is here to assist. We can connect you with the right programs, answer questions about legislation, and help ensure you’re getting the support you need. Engaging with state government can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Please don’t hesitate to contact us — my team and I are here to help in any way we can.
PAGE PROGRAM
The Senate Page Program is still accepting applications for 2025!
Open to students 14-16 years old, this fun, week-long experience includes page school, assisting senators, and learning about the legislative process — all while getting paid. Scholarships and host family housing are available too. The deadline is March 27.
Click here to learn more and apply!
STAY IN TOUCH
Staying connected with the people I represent is one of the most important parts of this job. Your insights and feedback help shape the work we do in Olympia, and I value the conversations we have — whether it’s over email, on the phone, or in person. I encourage you to reach out, follow along for updates, and stay engaged in the legislative process.
Sincerely,
June Robinson