Dear Neighbors, 

Happy New Year! As the 2025 legislative session gets underway, I want to take a moment to thank you for the privilege of serving as your state representative. This year brings new opportunities to address the challenges our community faces while continuing to focus on the issues that matter most to families across the 44th District. 

The legislative session began on January 13 and will run for 105 days, wrapping up on April 27. This “long” session is when we craft the state’s biennial budget, which provides funding for education, public safety, transportation, and other critical programs. 

Your voice is an essential part of the legislative process. I encourage you to share your thoughts and priorities with me throughout the session:  

• Send me an email 

• Follow me on Facebook 

• Subscribe to my E-Newsletter   

• Legislative Website: housedemocrats.wa.gov/berg  

I’ll also be hosting regular virtual town halls to hear directly from you—stay tuned for details! 

Engagement is at the heart of our democracy, and I’m committed to making it as easy as possible for you to participate in the legislative process. Here are some ways to stay connected: 

• Watch: Join me on TVW.org for live broadcasts of committee meetings, debates, and votes. 

• Testify: Share your voice on legislation—virtually or in writing—during the committee process. Personal stories make a powerful impact. 

• Contact: To schedule a meeting, reach out to my Legislative Assistant, Katharine Gillen, at Katharine.Gillen@leg.wa.gov.  

Despite the benefits, only about half of Washington’s high school seniors file a FAFSA. High school seniors and others can now apply for financial aid for the 2025-26 academic year, a crucial step toward college and career training. In Washington, U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can use the FAFSA for federal and state aid, while others can apply for state aid through the WASFA. The FAFSA opened in late November, and the WASFA is now available. 

For 2025-26, families of four earning up to $131,000 may qualify for state aid through the Washington College Grant (WA Grant), which supports low- and middle-income residents, including undocumented students. Grant amounts vary by income, family size, and program. Completing the FAFSA or WASFA automatically considers applicants for WA Grant.  

I’m honored to represent the 44th District and to be your voice in Olympia. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant community. 

Warm regards,