Dear friends and neighbors, 

Like many of you, I have been watching the situation in Washington, D.C., with deep concern. The federal government shutdown has left millions of families uncertain about what comes next, and once again, it’s those most in need who stand to lose the most. 

Right now, Republicans in Congress are refusing to negotiate a deal to reopen the government, putting essential programs like food assistance at risk. In our state, this means billions in SNAP benefits lost — leaving thousands of families without help at the grocery store since Nov. 1. 

Here in Washington state, Democratic lawmakers have worked hard to put people first. During the 2025 legislative session, we passed a budget that invested $93 million to strengthen food security and assistance programs, ensuring families could access nutritious food and essential resources. But families depend on far more than what the state alone can provide. If the federal shutdown continues, those vital benefits could disappear, leaving many of our neighbors struggling to put food on the table. 

If you or someone you know needs food assistance, these local organizations can help provide meals and other essential resources: 

Food resources in and around the 46th District 

  • North Helpline – Lake City
    12736 33rd Ave. NE, Seattle, 98125
  • North Helpline – Bitter Lake
    13000 Linden Ave. N., Seattle, 98133
  • University District Food Bank
    5017 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, 98105
  • FamilyWorks Food Bank
    1501 N. 45th St., Seattle, 98103
  • Hopelink – Lake Forest Park
    17837 Aurora Ave. N., Shoreline, 98133 

You can also find a complete directory of local food programs and meal sites at seattlefoodcommittee.org. 

Protecting our immigrant communities 

The wave of uncertainty from the federal government has deeply affected immigrant and refugee families, LGBTQ+ communities, and people of color. From ICE raids and family separations to threats of mass deportations, these actions are not just political — they’re personal. They target our neighbors, coworkers, and loved ones. 

In Washington state, Democrats in the Legislature have taken strong steps to defend the values that define our state — fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all. Together with community advocates, we’ve passed laws that protect workers, defend civil rights, and expand access to health care, education, and child care, because everyone deserves safety and respect regardless of their background or immigration status. 

Recent progress includes: 

  • SB 5104 (2025): Prohibiting employers from using immigration status to threaten or retaliate against workers. 
  • HB 1131 (2025): Allowing courts to consider immigration consequences when reviewing sentences. 
  • HB 2331 (2024): Preventing book bans based on race, gender, or identity. 
  • SB 5225 (2023): Expanding access to Working Connections Child Care regardless of immigration status. 
  • HB 1072 (2021): Restoring access to civil legal aid for undocumented immigrants, including survivors of violence. 
  • SB 5497 (2019): Establishing the Keep Washington Working Act to limit local cooperation with ICE. 

These laws reflect what I believe at my core: Washington should always be a place that welcomes every person — no matter where they were born, what language they speak, or how they identify. 

What to do if you encounter ICE 

Many families across Washington are understandably worried about increased immigration enforcement. Everyone has rights — and knowing them can help keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Washington’s Keep Washington Working Act, passed by the Legislature in 2019, also limits local and state agencies from assisting in federal immigration enforcement. That ensures schools, courthouses, and health care facilities remain safe and accessible for all. 

For full guidance and resources, visit the Attorney General’s “Know Your Rights” page: https://www.atg.wa.gov/immigration-guidance 

Traffic update: Revive I-5 progress 

If you’ve been driving through Seattle lately, you’ve probably seen work happening on the Revive I-5: Ship Canal Bridge Preservation Project. Crews are halfway through six weekend-long southbound lane reductions, making important drainage improvements before major bridge deck repairs in the coming years. 

These improvements are essential to keep I-5 safe and reliable for everyone who travels through our region. 

Upcoming weekend closures: 

  • Nov. 21–24 
  • Dec. 5–8 
  • Jan. 9–12, 2026 

For the latest updates, visit WSDOT’s Revive I-5 page or check the WSDOT mobile app. 

Around the community 

During the interim, I’ve been spending time meeting with constituents, local leaders, and community organizations to stay connected and keep our work moving forward. These conversations and visits remind me every day why we do what we do — to build a stronger, more caring Washington for everyone. 

For example, I recently had the pleasure of joining the University District Food Bank for its open house. The work they do — feeding more than 2,500 households each week, growing fresh produce on their rooftop farm, and connecting families with vital resources — is truly inspiring. A big thank-you to the staff, volunteers, and community members who make this lifeline possible. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier 46th District. 

Stay connected 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with questions, ideas, or concerns. My team and I are here to help. 

You can contact me via email at javier.valdez@leg.wa.gov or by phone at (360) 786-7690. You can also stay informed about my work by visiting my website or following me on Facebook, X and Instagram for regular updates. 

Thank you for the opportunity to serve our community — and for standing together during these uncertain times. 

Sincerely, 

 

 

Sen. Javier Valdez
46th Legislative District