Dear friends and neighbors, 

Today marks the start of the fifth week of this year’s legislative session, and I’m excited to provide an update on the progress we’ve made so far. While we’ve made great strides, we know there are still challenges ahead — challenges that require our continued vigilance and action. 

The national political climate has taken a troubling turn, marked by escalating fear, chaos, mass deportations, and attacks on immigrants and communities of color. These policies do not reflect our values. They sow fear and division, leaving families uncertain about their futures. I want to be clear: We stand with you. We will not back down in the fight for justice, safety, and dignity for all Washingtonians. 

Washington has long been a leader in protecting immigrant and refugee communities. Through the Keep Washington Working Act, we’ve ensured that local law enforcement does not become an arm of federal immigration enforcement. And we will continue fighting for policies that uplift and protect our communities — not tear them apart. 

Building a Washington that works for everyone
Even in the face of national challenges, we are making real progress here in this Washington. This session, my colleagues and I in the Senate Democratic Caucus are focused on important policies for Washingtonians, including reproductive rights and expanding access to housing. 

Strengthening reproductive rights
Access to reproductive healthcare is a fundamental right. We are working to ensure that it is available to all Washingtonians, no matter where they live. 

  • SB 5321 — Expands access to medication abortion services at public colleges and universities by the 2026–27 academic year, ensuring students can access essential reproductive care without unnecessary barriers or travel. 
  • SB 5632 — Strengthens Washington’s Shield Law to protect providers, patients, and helpers from criminalization when seeking or providing abortion and gender-affirming care, reinforcing Washington’s commitment to reproductive rights.  

Addressing the housing crisis
Too many Washingtonians are struggling to find affordable, stable places to live. We are taking bold steps to address this challenge and ensure everyone has access to the housing they need. 

  • SB 5604 — Creates tax incentives for property owners to convert underutilized commercial buildings or build new affordable housing near transit hubs. The bill incentivizes development in urban areas, particularly for low-income households, while promoting sustainable growth and reducing traffic. 
  • SB 5587 — Requires counties to track and report progress in closing the gap between housing supply and demand. If the gap persists, counties must approve affordable housing developments unless specific conditions are met. The bill prioritizes these projects for faster permit processing and mandates long-term affordability.  

(Meeting with the Refugee Artisan Initiative, a non-profit in Lake City supporting immigrant and refugee women as they build economic independence through artisan skills and micro-business development.)

Updates on my bills
As your senator, I’m proud to lead efforts to make Washington a better place. Here are a few bills I’m working on this session and their current status: 

  • SB 5098 — Bans dangerous weapons in certain public locations, reducing the risk of violence in spaces where families, children, and communities gather. The bill passed out of the Senate Law & Justice Committee and has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for further action. 
  • SB 5077 — Helps more eligible Washingtonians get registered to vote, making it easier for people to participate in our democracy. This bill passed out of the Rules Committee and is awaiting a vote on the Senate floor. 
  • SB 5118 — Washington state still faces a shortage of doctors. This bill removes the sunset provision on a key licensing policy, ensuring we can continue bringing more qualified doctors to communities that need them. The bill had a public hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care and is awaiting further action. 

(Meeting with Futurewise volunteers to discuss key issues like rent stabilization, transit-oriented development, and rural housing solutions.) 

Let’s stay connected
As always, I encourage you to stay engaged and share your thoughts. Please feel free to reach out to me via email at javier.valdez@leg.wa.gov or by calling my office at (360) 786-7690. You can also stay informed about my activities by visiting my  website or following me on Facebook,  X and Instagram for regular updates.     

Sincerely,  

 

 

Senator Javier Valdez