{"id":3384,"date":"2026-05-01T10:42:15","date_gmt":"2026-05-01T17:42:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/?p=3384"},"modified":"2026-05-01T15:12:27","modified_gmt":"2026-05-01T22:12:27","slug":"2026-legislative-session-recap","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/2026\/05\/01\/2026-legislative-session-recap\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 legislative session recap"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dear friends and neighbors,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The 2026 legislative session officially came to a close in March. Due to election year restrictions, this will be my last newsletter before election results are certified near the end of the year. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">However, my office is still hard at work serving our district! You can always reach out to us\u00a0at 360-786-7694 or\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"mailto:Vandana.Slatter@leg.wa.gov\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Vandana.Slatter@leg.wa.gov<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This year, Washington faced significant challenges, including a\u00a0roughly $2 billion\u00a0budget and revenue shortfall. Combined with ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, this\u00a0required\u00a0hard financial decisions.\u00a0I\u2019ve\u00a0heard from across our community about concerns over rising costs and making ends meet. Affordability\u00a0remains\u00a0a top priority in our state, and this session,\u00a0we worked to help Washingtonians meet their basic needs, passed a difficult but balanced budget, and worked to protect our state from the chaos coming from the other Washington.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3385 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-300x169.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"650\" height=\"366\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage-847x477.jpg 847w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-Collage.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/span><\/b><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Defending our values and\u00a0our communities:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">What\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0seeing at the federal level is alarming and unprecedented.\u00a0I\u2019ve\u00a0heard\u00a0your calls, emails, and texts, and I share your concern. This session, my priority has been reducing harm to our communities\u00a0\u2014\u00a0particularly to our health\u00a0care safety net, critical scientific\u00a0research, and the rising cost of living.\u00a0The Legislature is also working closely with Attorney General Nick Brown to push back against efforts to undermine civil liberties, due process, and Washington\u2019s values. The years ahead will be challenging, but Washington has never backed down from doing\u00a0what\u2019s\u00a0right\u00a0\u2014\u00a0and we\u00a0won\u2019t\u00a0start now.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This session, we passed legislation to defend our values, protect privacy (including voter data), and strengthen community safety. Here are some key measures we passed:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"10\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5855&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5855<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0prohibits local, state, and federal law enforcement officers \u2014 including ICE agents \u2014 from wearing face coverings while interacting with the public.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"10\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=2165&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill 2165<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0bans individuals who are not law enforcement from wearing,\u00a0displaying,\u00a0or\u00a0possessing\u00a0badges or other law enforcement insignias.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"10\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5892&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5892<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0protects sensitive voter information by\u00a0designating\u00a0certain information (full birthdate, SSN, driver\u2019s license number) as confidential. An election officer or designee who\u00a0discloses\u00a0confidential voter information will be guilty of a class C felony.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"10\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=2105&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill 2105<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0requires employers to notify workers about federal I-9 form audits, protects against retaliation, limits federal access to employment records, and\u00a0establishes\u00a0enforcement mechanisms and penalties to ensure that workers\u2019 rights are respected.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"10\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5105&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5105<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0a<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">ddresses the use of generative AI to create obscene images of children. It expands offenses prohibiting dealing in, sending or bringing into the state, possessing, or viewing depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct to include circumstances involving visual or printed matter that has been digitally created or altered and is obscene, regardless of whether the depicted minor is identifiable.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3393 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"650\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20190518_123941ab-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Investments in\u00a0the 48th Legislative\u00a0District:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This session, I worked to secure our fair share of funding for projects at home in the 48th. The capital budget funds local community projects such as parks, housing, and other infrastructure. It is financed through bond sales, dedicated state funds, and federal funds.\u00a0The capital budget invests over $3 million in the 48th.\u00a0You\u00a0can view more about the projects funded in\u00a0our community\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/fiscal.wa.gov\/statebudgets\/CapitalProjectListDistrictSupp\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">by\u00a0clicking here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. Under \u201cdistrict\u201d select the 48th\u00a0Legislative\u00a0District.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Here\u00a0are some highlights\u00a0from the capital budget:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"8\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">$1 million for Plymouth Housing to support 100 units of permanent housing and commercial space for community organizations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"8\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">$109,000 for\u00a0the\u00a0Kindering\u00a0Campus Safety and Security Package to support infants, children, and families, including those with disabilities, developmental delays, and other needs.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"8\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">$1.5 million for the Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS) Redmond Youth Center to support youth development, community safety, and access to programs and services. This investment leverages\u00a0additional\u00a0funding and partnerships across local, state, and federal levels. The center will provide a safe, welcoming space for young people from across the community to connect and access resources beyond home and school.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The\u00a0transportation\u00a0budget pays for transportation activities, such as designing and\u00a0maintaining\u00a0roads and public transit.\u00a0To review the transportation budget,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/fiscal.wa.gov\/statebudgets\/TransportationBudgetMain\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">click here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The\u00a0operating\u00a0budget\u00a0pays for the day-to-day operations of state agencies, colleges and universities, and public schools (including federal funds and dedicated funds).\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To review the operating\u00a0budget\u00a0we passed this session,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/fiscal.wa.gov\/statebudgets\/OperatingBudgetMain\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">click here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3388 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-300x129.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"649\" height=\"279\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-300x129.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-1024x439.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-768x329.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-1536x659.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_857169858-2048x878.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 649px) 100vw, 649px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Reforming our upside-down tax code and supporting\u00a0working\u00a0families:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This session, we passed the Millionaires Tax to begin addressing Washington\u2019s regressive tax structure and reduce the burden on working families. Washington\u2019s upside-down tax code, combined with federal cuts to key services, continues to strain household budgets.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In simple terms, the Millionaires Tax is a 9.9% tax on annual household income above $1 million. It is estimated to affect about 2,300 households in the 48th Legislative District and\u00a0roughly 20,000\u201330,000 households statewide, out of Washington\u2019s 8 million residents. The tax is expected to face legal challenges and could be subject to voter action before generating revenue, which is\u00a0anticipated\u00a0no earlier than 2029.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Revenue from this measure is intended to support essential services and allow the state to reduce costs for families and small businesses by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"18\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eliminating\u00a0sales tax on personal care products, diapers, and most over-the-counter medicines.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"18\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Eliminating\u00a0the Business &amp; Occupation tax for more than 65% of small businesses.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"18\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Expanding eligibility for the Working Families Tax Credit to 460,000\u00a0additional\u00a0households.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"18\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Setting aside 5% of annual revenue to expand access to early learning programs and\u00a0child care.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"18\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Providing free school breakfast and lunch for all\u00a0public school\u00a0students.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Our office has received many questions about the Millionaires Tax and how it would work. One common question is whether it applies to the sale of a home. It does not. The tax does not apply to home or small business sales. In addition, a credit is provided for the state capital gains tax to prevent double taxation on income from the sale of stocks, bonds, and other financial assets.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For more information on the Millionaires Tax and answers to common questions,\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/millionaires-tax-faq\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">please click here<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This session, we also\u00a0rolled back prior increases in the estate tax and repealed retail sales and use taxes on certain services for schools and libraries, and we repealed the retail and use tax on live presentations offered by nonprofits. We\u00a0passed legislation expanding property tax relief for seniors, people with disabilities, and disabled veterans. We also passed legislation to provide energy bill\u00a0assistance\u00a0to low-income households.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fbillsummary%2F%3FBillNumber%3D6162%26Year%3D2025%26Initiative%3Dfalse&amp;data=05%7C02%7CAaron.Wasser%40leg.wa.gov%7C820ddd3cb6184c1f124008de69d2224b%7C848b0e6c94894d83b31e4fde99732b09%7C0%7C0%7C639064548419172126%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=knVgBdhUenjo5smSeRTYECykCz8p9FpR61lQJmSVa14%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a06162<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0expands the senior citizen property tax relief program, creates a standard $7,500 deduction for those who qualify, and\u00a0consolidates\u00a0the state property tax into one part. This is an opportunity to help keep seniors, those with disabilities, and disabled veterans in their homes and streamline property taxes statewide.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=1903&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a01903<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0establishes a statewide program within the Department of Commerce to provide ongoing energy bill\u00a0assistance\u00a0to eligible low-income households, helping reduce the share of income families spend on utilities. The program will work in partnership with gas and electric utilities to ensure\u00a0assistance\u00a0is reflected directly on customers\u2019 monthly bills.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3392 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"651\" height=\"434\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180715_145705ab-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 651px) 100vw, 651px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Improving our education system and supporting learners:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">As noted above, this year we faced significant budget challenges driven by federal shortfalls, rising costs, and growing community needs. I worked with school districts and colleges to protect last session\u2019s funding, but some reductions were necessary to balance the budget, including in early learning programs and Running Start.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Expanding pathways and opportunity through investments in higher education and workforce development remains a key priority for me. This session, we passed <a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/billsummary?BillNumber=5963&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\">Senate Bill 5963<\/a>,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0which automatically qualifies individuals eligible for Passport to Careers for the Washington College Grant and makes related administrative improvements. I will continue advocating for stronger investments in postsecondary education and workforce development.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">While the 2026 supplemental budget includes some reductions in K\u201312 funding, the\u00a0nearly $1 billion\u00a0in new basic education investments made in 2025 is\u00a0maintained\u00a0in the 2026 supplemental budget. Any reductions were carefully targeted to minimize classroom impact and include\u00a0additional\u00a0investments for students with the highest needs.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This session,\u00a0we\u00a0protected\u00a0student health and safety through legislation and provided educators the tools needed to create safer and more impactful learning environments.\u00a0Here are some impactful bills we passed related to education:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=1795&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a01795<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0clearly establishes a set of comprehensive definitions around the use of all types of restraint and isolation in schools in order to both provide educators with better understanding of the options they have to maintain healthy, safe learning environments for all students while also protecting the rights of students to be free from unsafe and harmful practices.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5346&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a05346<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0will help districts make informed decisions as they develop their own cell phone use policies at their schools.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6268%20&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a06268<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0provides parents with more tools to understand how to support their students with disabilities and creates a more transparent and\u00a0equitable\u00a0system of support.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=2557&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a02557<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0ensures that parents of students with disabilities\u00a0have the ability to\u00a0participate\u00a0in a more meaningful,\u00a0collaborative,\u00a0and informed\u00a0discussions for\u00a0establishing\u00a0the educational needs of their child.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"11\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"5\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6065&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a06065<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0will provide districts in financial distress an\u00a0additional\u00a0tool as they build back to financial solvency.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">In addition, we partnered with the Ballmer Group to\u00a0pass\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5872&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5872<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0to\u00a0expand\u00a0access to early learning programs, helping more children start kindergarten ready to succeed.\u00a0Supporting students from pre-K through college and into the workforce is critical to Washington\u2019s future.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why I introduced legislation to better align our preschool-to-workforce system. Overall, given limited resources, we focused on preserving basic education, but more work\u00a0remains\u00a0to keep schools open and sustainably fund educational pathways.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3394 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-300x77.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"670\" height=\"172\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-300x77.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-1024x261.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-768x196.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-1536x392.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_628190582-1-2048x523.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 670px) 100vw, 670px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Expanding access to health care and supporting hospitals and providers:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We are paying for federal tax cuts\u00a0for the wealthy\u00a0on the backs of our health care safety net, and\u00a0I\u2019m\u00a0committed to finding ways we can\u00a0ensure access to affordable health care without increasing premiums. I worked on legislation to help keep hospitals open, support providers, hold insurers accountable, and expand access to high-quality and affordable care.\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This year, the Legislature focused on streamlining processes to address workforce challenges and protecting health care providers in the face of federal funding cuts. Here are some key bills we passed related to health care.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=2242&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill 2242<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0allows the State Department of Health to propose recommendations for vaccines based on medical and scientific evidence versus relying solely on federal recommendations, unsupported by credible science.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6183&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 6183<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">ensures that HIV prevention and treatment medications are available without prior authorization and step therapy for enrollees in state-regulated plans and PEBB\/SEBB.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5917&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5917<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0improves abortion access and reproductive rights with legislation expanding the availability of mifepristone pills, which are essential to both medicinal abortions and miscarriage care.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"13\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6182&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 6182<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0sets up a permanent funding source for abortion clinics like Planned Parenthood.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">We also passed\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5845&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 5845<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, which I sponsored\u00a0and\u00a0will ensure hospitals receive payments from health carriers\u00a0in a timely manner,\u00a0so they can focus on providing care to Washingtonians.\u00a0In addition, I introduced Senate Bills\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=5924&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">5924<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6210&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">6210<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0to expand access to health care.\u00a0Due to the 2026 legislative session only being 60 days long, these bills did not pass, but I\u00a0anticipate\u00a0working to move them forward next session.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3390 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"650\" height=\"433\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/20180714_190936ab-150x100.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Combatting\u00a0climate\u00a0change:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">I\u2019m\u00a0committed to supporting legislation that protects our environment and keeps Washington a leader in clean energy and climate action, while also addressing rising energy demand and gas prices. With the Trump administration abandoning decades of science- and data-driven climate policy, it is more important than ever that we continue reducing emissions and expanding affordable, reliable energy options.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud we passed <a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/billsummary?Year=2025&amp;BillNumber=6246\">Senate Bill 6246<\/a>, <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">which I sponsored. This bill\u00a0establishes\u00a0new reporting requirements for Emissions-Intensive, Trade-Exposed (EITE) industries to support meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. EITEs include major sectors such as steel, cement, pulp and paper, and aerospace manufacturing\u00a0\u2014\u00a0some of our largest emitters. Supporting these industries in reducing emissions is critical to meeting our climate goals while protecting jobs and our state economy.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">I also supported <a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6355&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\">Senate Bill 6355<\/a>,<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0which improves the affordability and reliability of our electric system and expands access to clean energy by enabling new investments in the grid. The bill\u00a0facilitates\u00a0public-private partnerships to strengthen existing infrastructure and build new capacity, allowing more renewable energy\u00a0\u2014\u00a0like wind and solar\u00a0\u2014\u00a0to come online and be transmitted across the system.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">A key\u00a0focus\u00a0this session was balancing the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and data centers with affordability, reliability, and sustainability. I supported legislation to address this rapid expansion, but it did not pass this session. I will continue engaging on this critical issue.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3387 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-300x168.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"648\" height=\"363\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-300x168.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-1024x574.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-768x430.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-1536x861.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/AdobeStock_1484139448-2048x1148.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 648px) 100vw, 648px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Expanding\u00a0affordable\u00a0housing:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">I have heard from seniors on fixed incomes, renters, young families, and people across our community who are concerned about the rising cost of housing.\u00a0That\u2019s\u00a0why this session I introduced legislation to help ensure affordable housing properties that are owned by nonprofits are exempt from property taxes.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This session,\u00a0we\u00a0cut red tape to streamline permitting for local development,\u00a0supported\u00a0affordable housing projects on land owned by religious organizations, and committed over $200 million to build and preserve affordable housing.\u00a0We also passed\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6200&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill 6200<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">, allowing renters to use safe, portable air conditioners while protecting property owners from liability. I was proud to sponsor this bill because renters need ways to stay cool as extreme heat becomes an increasingly serious public health risk.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Here are\u00a0more\u00a0legislative highlights from this session related to housing:\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559685&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6026&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a06026<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0unlocks underutilized commercial land by rezoning many of these areas to residential and allowing local governments to\u00a0determine\u00a0where ground-floor retail requirements should apply.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=6027&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Senate Bill\u00a06027<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0preserves existing permanent and supportive housing by expanding allowable uses of local housing-related sales tax programs to support operations, maintenance, and rehabilitation instead of primarily new construction. It also updates a Department of Commerce program that helps cover operating costs for housing serving Washingtonians with the highest level of need.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/billsummary\/?BillNumber=2266&amp;Chamber=House&amp;Year=2025\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a02266<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0helps ensure shelters, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing can be built more predictably by requiring cities and counties within urban growth areas to allow these housing types wherever residential housing or hotels are allowed, subject to the same zoning standards.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=1687&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a01687<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0allows local governments to streamline and waive red tape and requirements for mixed-income and affordable housing projects being built by a social housing developer.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\u00b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\u00b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.leg.wa.gov\/BillSummary\/?BillNumber=1859&amp;Year=2025&amp;Initiative=false\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">House Bill\u00a01859<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0supports religious organizations that want to build affordable housing for low- and very low-income families on their land by allowing mixed-income projects to qualify for a density bonus while\u00a0maintaining\u00a0long-term affordability requirements.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s\u00a0critical residents of the 48th district have access to the resources and services they need. Here\u00a0are\u00a0some helpful resources:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Resources for Seniors:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">General resources:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/wa.gov\/seniors\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/wa.gov\/seniors<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Support for caregivers:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/altsa\/home-and-community-services\/agencies-help#FCSP\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/altsa\/home-and-community-services\/agencies-help#FCSP<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"14\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Long term care housing:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/altsa\/residential-care-services\/long-term-care-residential-options\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/altsa\/residential-care-services\/long-term-care-residential-options<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Resources for Children and Families:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"15\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Family community resources from Help Me Grow WA:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/helpmegrowwa.org\/\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u00a0https:\/\/helpmegrowwa.org\/<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"15\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Family Separation Response Task Force:\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dcyf.wa.gov\/EOTaskForce\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/dcyf.wa.gov\/EOTaskForce<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"15\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dial the number 211 to connect with community resources statewide.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"15\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Dial 988 to connect with crisis support lifeline for mental and behavioral health challenges.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Immigration and Refugee related resources:<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"16\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Rapid Response Hub:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cha.wa.gov%2Frapid-response-hub&amp;data=05%7C02%7CBridget.DoyleWilliams%40leg.wa.gov%7C89aa0d80de554b7caf9b08dd512eb1d4%7C848b0e6c94894d83b31e4fde99732b09%7C0%7C0%7C638755983189938725%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=wLBJydbtIkQvSZw6Kvg9U3zvV%2BpDY2m8qLPk95WMftw%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.cha.wa.gov\/rapid-response-hub<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"16\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Civil Immigration Enforcement in Washington:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.atg.wa.gov%2Fknow-your-rights-civil-immigration-enforcement-washington&amp;data=05%7C02%7CBridget.DoyleWilliams%40leg.wa.gov%7C89aa0d80de554b7caf9b08dd512eb1d4%7C848b0e6c94894d83b31e4fde99732b09%7C0%7C0%7C638755983189952299%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=iI9j88Nm3%2FqQh%2BxP37hVBjEu6nDD3at179jGsMyRAVo%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.atg.wa.gov\/know-your-rights-civil-immigration-enforcement-washington<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"16\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Immigration resources from the Attorney\u00a0Generals\u00a0Office (scroll to bottom):\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.atg.wa.gov%2Fpublications-reports&amp;data=05%7C02%7CBridget.DoyleWilliams%40leg.wa.gov%7C89aa0d80de554b7caf9b08dd512eb1d4%7C848b0e6c94894d83b31e4fde99732b09%7C0%7C0%7C638755983189965284%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=%2BiADhvEIop6Qz3eKQDP%2B4hVXGEPMqr%2Bo01SU2Vpkzz4%3D&amp;reserved=0\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.atg.wa.gov\/publications-reports<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"16\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance:\u00a0<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/esa\/office-refugee-and-immigrant-assistance\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">https:\/\/www.dshs.wa.gov\/esa\/office-refugee-and-immigrant-assistance<\/span><\/a><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Thank you for the opportunity to serve the 48th Legislative District.\u00a0I\u2019m\u00a0grateful to everyone who took the time to visit our office in Olympia, join a coffee chat, or call our office. Your questions, input, and feedback are essential to our work.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As always, it is a privilege to serve the 48th.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Thank you for all you do,<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-3131\" src=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/02\/Slatter-sig-300x87.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"87\" srcset=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/02\/Slatter-sig-300x87.png 300w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/02\/Slatter-sig-1024x298.png 1024w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/02\/Slatter-sig-768x224.png 768w, https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2025\/02\/Slatter-sig.png 1287w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Sen. Vandana Slatter<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dear friends and neighbors,\u00a0 The 2026 legislative session officially came to a close in March. Due to election year restrictions, this will be my last newsletter before election results are certified near the end of the year. However, my office is still hard at work serving our district! You can always reach out to us\u00a0at 360-786-7694 or\u00a0Vandana.Slatter@leg.wa.gov.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This year, Washington faced significant challenges, including a\u00a0roughly $2 billion\u00a0budget and revenue shortfall. Combined with ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, this\u00a0required\u00a0hard financial decisions.\u00a0I\u2019ve\u00a0heard from across our community about concerns over rising costs and making ends meet. Affordability\u00a0remains\u00a0a top priority in our state,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":57,"featured_media":3386,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"disable_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3384","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-e-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>2026 legislative session recap - Sen. Vandana Slatter<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/2026\/05\/01\/2026-legislative-session-recap\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"2026 legislative session recap - Sen. Vandana Slatter\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dear friends and neighbors,\u00a0 The 2026 legislative session officially came to a close in March. Due to election year restrictions, this will be my last newsletter before election results are certified near the end of the year. However, my office is still hard at work serving our district! You can always reach out to us\u00a0at 360-786-7694 or\u00a0Vandana.Slatter@leg.wa.gov.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This year, Washington faced significant challenges, including a\u00a0roughly $2 billion\u00a0budget and revenue shortfall. Combined with ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, this\u00a0required\u00a0hard financial decisions.\u00a0I\u2019ve\u00a0heard from across our community about concerns over rising costs and making ends meet. Affordability\u00a0remains\u00a0a top priority in our state,...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/2026\/05\/01\/2026-legislative-session-recap\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Sen. Vandana Slatter\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-01T17:42:15+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-01T22:12:27+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/19\/2026\/05\/Slatter-EYA-1.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"bwilliams\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"bwilliams\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/2026\/05\/01\/2026-legislative-session-recap\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/senatedemocrats.wa.gov\/slatter\/2026\/05\/01\/2026-legislative-session-recap\/\",\"name\":\"2026 legislative session recap - Sen. 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