Dear friends and neighbors, 

We’re just a few days away from wrapping up the 2025 legislative session, which ends Sunday, April 27. This session has been challenging, but my commitment to serving you and the 46th Legislative District with integrity has stayed strong every step of the way. I know this newsletter is shorter, but I still want to check in and keep you updated. I’ll send a more detailed recap once we officially adjourn, so stay tuned. 

Legislative Wins 

  • I’m proud to share Senate Bill 5118 was signed into law. It removes outdated barriers for internationally trained medical graduates, allowing qualified doctors to practice in Washington. Since 2021, over 40 internationally trained physicians have cared for more than 35,000 patients — many in rural or underserved areas. SB 5118 opens the door for more doctors to serve our communities while upholding strong medical standards. The law takes effect July 27.
  • Senate Bill 5077 passed both chambers and will soon be signed by the governor. It expands Washington’s automatic voter registration by allowing more state agencies to offer it and makes online registration more accessible through state and college websites.
  • Senate Bill 5101 also passed the Legislature and awaits the governor’s signature. It provides stronger leave and safety protections for workers who experience hate crimes or bias incidents. The bill ensures victims can take time off for legal, medical, or safety-related needs and protects them from discrimination or retaliation.
  • Senate Bill 5503 passed both chambers and is on its way to the governor’s desk too. It updates public employees’ collective bargaining rules — streamlining dispute resolution, supporting bargaining unit mergers, and ensuring workers aren’t forced to waive legal rights when settling grievances.
  • House Bill 1837, for which I sponsored the Senate companion bill (Senate Bill 5667), also passed the Legislature and is expected to be signed into law soon. It aims to make Amtrak Cascades faster, more frequent, and more reliable by 2035, especially between Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver, B.C. The bill includes clear goals for more daily trips, better on-time performance, and cleaner travel, building a more efficient, sustainable transportation system that benefits everyone. 

We advanced several other important policies this session as well — from expanding behavioral health services to investing in education and transportation. I’ll share a full list of legislative accomplishments once session concludes. 

Budget Work Continues 

Budget negotiations are still underway. The Senate and House are working to finalize our state’s operating, capital, and transportation budgets before adjournment. Once passed, the final budgets will head to Gov. Bob Ferguson for his signature. 

Throughout this process, we’ve focused on building a budget that centers equity, pursues progressive revenue options, and makes responsible investments in our future. Our goal is a sustainable, values-driven budget that serves all Washingtonians, not just a wealthy few. 

And yes, there are some exciting investments in the 46th! I’ll share more in our full post-session update. 

Strengthening International Partnerships 

Last week, I had the honor of meeting with Consul General Prakash Gupta, who heads the Consulate of India in Seattle and represents the Government of India in the Pacific Northwest. We discussed ways to strengthen the growing partnership between India and Washington, particularly in areas like trade, technology, education, and cultural exchange. Our Indian and South Asian communities are a vital part of our district. I’m committed to fostering deeper connections and mutual respect between our regions. 

TVW Legislator Profile 

TVW recently featured me in a short legislator profile video. It’s a quick look at our district, what drives me and my work in Olympia. Watch the video here.  

Stay in Touch 

Thank you for your ongoing engagement — it’s truly an honor to represent you. If you have any questions, ideas, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Feel free to contact me via email at javier.valdez@leg.wa.gov or phone 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.     

We’re almost across the finish line, and I’m excited to return home and reconnect with you all in the district. I’ll be back in your inbox with a full session recap soon — stay tuned! 

Sincerely, 

 

 

Sen. Javier Valdez
46th Legislative District