Dear Friends and Neighbors,
It’s week nine of the legislative session—and we’re over halfway through! We’ve been very busy on the House floor this week, running bills late into the night to push our priorities forward. I’m honored to share that we passed 328 bills, 60% of which were passed unanimously, and 78% of which were passed with 80 votes of more, to better support housing opportunity, workforce development, behavioral health support, education, and climate resiliency in Washington.
I sponsored House Bill 1425 to help community representation, public safety, and housing availability. Watch my video live from the wings, immediately after its unanimous passage on the House floor.
Building a better tax structure for Washington
As Chair of the House Finance Committee, I’ve been working alongside my colleagues on building a more equitable, stable, transparent, and just tax structure for the state. We understand that historically, voices of overburdened communities have been excluded from the legislative process and financial structures. It is our job in the Finance Committee, and the Legislature as a whole, to connect with these communities, amplify these voices, and prioritize policy and funding to address their needs, to build a healthier, happier, safer future for all in Washington.
Property tax relief for those who need it most
It is unacceptable for veterans, seniors, or people with disabilities pushed out of their homes—and inflation is having a devastating impact on vulnerable communities across our state. House Bill 1355 provides a property tax relief, expanding eligibility for veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities by increasing the calculation income tax thresholds. This bill accounts for the differences in property values and incomes and adjusts for inflation—it provides a support by protecting people from losing their benefits because of this year’s social security COLA. This bill passed in the House with unanimous support and is now advancing to the Senate for further consideration.
Prioritizing working families
Many working families in Washington are on the brink of catastrophe—far too many working people are just one missed paycheck or unexpected bill away from incredible economic hardship. House Bill 1477 will modify the Working Families Tax Credit, expanding assistance to more individuals in need. The Working Families Tax Credit is a new program that will provide payments of up to $1,200 to low-to-moderate income individuals and families. The amounts are based on income level and the number of qualifying children (if any). This program, which went live in February, is stimulating local economies, promoting racial equity, and providing the financial stability Washington families need right now. Black and Indigenous Washingtonians, as well as other communities of color, are disproportionately experiencing economic challenges. Expanding the Working Families Tax Credit will put money back in the pockets of Washingtonians who need it the most, hopefully granting some financial security.
Berg Bill Basics
This year, I’ve been working on a video series called Berg Bill Basics, walking you through the legislative process. The most important part of my job as a legislator is making myself and the legislative process accessible to you. Here’s a window into the process:
Berg Bill Basics Episode 1: Drafting a Bill
You’re invited to my upcoming town halls!
Mark your calendars—I have two upcoming town halls!
On Wednesday, March 15th, at 6:30pm, I will host a virtual Town Hall over Zoom, and on Saturday, March 18th at 10am, I’m hosting an in-person Town Hall at Woodside Elementary (17000 23rd Ave SE, Bothell, WA 9801). Please email my legislative assistant at Katharine.Gillen@leg.wa.gov if you have any questions.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read! Follow me on Facebook for the most current updates on our work in the House.
Hope to see you soon!
Sincerely,
Rep. April Berg