OLYMPIA – Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D-Seattle) has been elected to serve as chair of the Senate Labor and Commerce Committee, following a vote among Senate Democrats last week.
Saldaña succeeds Sen. Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines), who is retiring after more than two decades of service in the Legislature.
“It is an honor to follow in the footsteps of Sen. Keiser, whose legacy of leadership on labor issues has improved countless lives across Washington,” Saldaña said. “I look forward to continuing this critical work — advocating for workers’ rights, strengthening benefits and protections, and building an economy that benefits everyone.”
Saldaña represents the 37th Legislative District which includes South Seattle, Renton, Madrona, Central District, Leschi, Beacon Hill, Columbia City, Rainier Valley, and Bryn Mawr-Skyway. Known for her dedication to racial, social, and economic justice, she brings a wealth of experience to her new role, including previous work as an organizer with SEIU Local 6, the United Farm Workers, and Oregon’s farmworker union, PCUN.
As chair, Saldaña will oversee a committee responsible for matters central to workers and businesses in Washington, including unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, apprenticeships, the Washington Cares Act, and the Paid Family and Medical Leave program. The committee also handles consumer protection, labor standards, and regulation of industries such as cannabis, liquor, and tobacco.
During her tenure in the Senate, Saldaña has championed legislation promoting equity for historically oppressed communities, protecting workers’ rights, and advancing sustainable, equitable transportation solutions. Her deep roots in advocacy and organizing inform her work on behalf of the people of Washington.
Saldaña, a proud Chicana of Mexican and Germanic roots, grew up in Seattle’s Delridge neighborhood and resides in Rainier Beach/Skyway with her husband and two youngest children. She obtained a degree in Theology and Humanities from Seattle University.
In addition to chairing the Labor and Commerce Committee, Saldaña will serve on the Rules, Agriculture and Natural Resources, and Ways and Means committees during the 2025 legislative session. She is also a member of the Senate Members of Color Caucus and the Latino Democratic Caucus.
The 105-day 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 13.
Click here for: high resolution photo and Sen. Rebecca Saldaña’s website.
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