Dear friends and neighbors,

It’s been a while since we last connected, but it has been a pleasure seeing many of you at various community events. These interactions have provided valuable insights into the needs of our district as we prepare for the upcoming legislative session.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Nuestras Raices to learn about their multiple services supporting the economic and social well-being of the Spanish-speaking immigrant community of the greater Spokane area. One of their programs, Latinos Unidos en Acción y Alianza (L.U.N.A.A.), engages youth and young adults through mentorship, representation, academic scholarships, and internship placements to help students achieve their full potential.

The ALIANZA initiative offers a bilingual workshop on gender and sexuality for families to strengthen healthy family bonds. It also provides peer support for youth through partnerships with organizations like Odyssey Youth Movement. This visit highlighted the crucial role of community-based nonprofits, from the Inland Northwest to Yakima Valley to South Seattle, in ensuring that the laws we enact truly enhance the safety, self-esteem, and empowerment of our LGBTQ+ youth and our entire community.

Celebrating Pride with Progress

One of our key achievements this past session was the passage of my Senate Bill 6105, which improves working conditions for adult entertainment workers. The bill initially focused on rights within adult entertainment venues, but recent raids on LGBTQ+ establishments exposed broader issues of discrimination and outdated regulations targeting the LGBTQ+ community. This provided a crucial opportunity for LGBTQ+ leaders to partner with Strippers are Workers to ensure that both communities feel safer, heard, and respected. The solidarity resulted in cultural change within the Liquor and Cannabis Board. Seattle’s first strip club to responsibly serve alcohol in decades promises economic gains for adult entertainers. We will continue monitoring the full implementation of SB 6105 to ensure workplaces and social spaces are safe and respectful for all. As discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people continue to rise nationally, it’s essential to bolster policies promoting health, safety, and dignity for everyone.

Our WA State Legislature is now more representative and diverse—which is critical for a healthy democracy. Our LGBTQ Caucus helps highlight and promote legislation that supports our LGBTQ+ community. Here are some highlights from the 2024 legislative session:

  • House Bill 1954 updates language regarding reproductive health and gender-affirming care, ensuring inclusive and comprehensive medical services for LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Senate Bill 6127 increases access to HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, a vital measure for the health and safety of our community.
  • House Bill 2014 extends state benefits and services to veterans discharged solely due to discriminatory policies, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
  • House Bill 1905 expands workplace protections to include all protected classes, ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunities for every worker.
  • House Bill 1541 ensures diverse representation on task forces and advisory committees that address issues affecting underrepresented populations.
  • Senate Bill 5793, a bill I introduced, broadens the definition of “family member” in Washington’s Paid Sick Leave Law, acknowledging the diverse family structures within our community.
  • Senate Bill 5917 establishes penalties for bias-motivated property defacement, reinforcing our commitment to fighting hate crimes.
  • Senate Bill 5427 creates a hotline for victims of hate crimes, providing essential support and resources.
  • Senate Bill 6006 offers comprehensive support for victims of human trafficking and sexual abuse, addressing the needs of some of our most vulnerable community members.

Supporting Our Youth

The well-being of our young people is paramount, and we have focused on fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment:

  • House Bill 1239 simplifies the process for handling complaints in the education system, ensuring swift and fair resolutions.
  • Senate Bill 5462 mandates inclusive curricula in schools, highlighting the histories and contributions of marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ+ community.
  • House Bill 2331 prevents the banning of books and materials related to the contributions of protected classes, promoting a diverse and inclusive learning environment.

As we continue to work toward a more inclusive and equitable state, I am proud to represent a community that values justice and equality for all. Thank you for your continued support and engagement. I look forward to sharing more updates and achievements with you in the future.

Please feel free to reach out to me via email at rebecca.saldana@leg.wa.gov or by calling my office at (360) 786-7688. Stay informed about my activities by visiting my website or following me on Instagram and Facebook for regular updates. I hope to see you around the community enjoying the beautiful summer weather.

Warm regards,

 

 

Senator Rebecca Saldaña