Dear friends and neighbors,  

When we talk about the future of Washington, we have to start with our students. As your representative, I’m committed to ensuring every child—no matter their background or zip code—has access to the resources they need to succeed. From making sure no child goes hungry at school to expanding educational opportunities, we’re making real progress. But there’s still work to do, and I won’t stop fighting until every student has the opportunity to thrive. 

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect on the profound contributions Black Americans have made to our nation’s history, culture, and progress. Education plays a key role in preserving and sharing these stories, ensuring that future generations understand the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our society. 

This month, I encourage all of us to celebrate the achievements of Black leaders, educators, and activists who have fought for justice and equality. From the classroom to the Capitol, their legacies inspire the work we do today to create a more equitable and inclusive future. Let’s honor Black history not just in February, but every day, by committing to policies that advance racial equity and uplift all communities. 

Economic development in tribal communities strengthens our entire state. That’s why I’m proud to champion House Bill 1355, which updates retail tax compacts between Washington state and federally recognized tribes. This bill increases the revenue-sharing percentages when a compacting tribe completes a qualified capital investment—allowing tribal governments to reinvest in their communities, create jobs, and foster economic growth. 

For years, we’ve promised to honor tribal sovereignty and recognize the vital contributions of tribal nations to our economy and culture. HB 1355 delivers on that promise. By strengthening these agreements, we’re not only upholding our commitments but also driving local economic development and supporting essential government services. This is a win for tribal communities and for Washington as a whole. 

No child in Washington should ever have to sit in a classroom with an empty stomach, struggling to focus because they can’t afford a meal. Yet, thousands of students face this reality every day. That’s unacceptable. 

I’m so proud to be sponsoring House Bill 1404 to make breakfasts and lunches free for all K-12 students in Washington.

Let’s be clear—providing school meals isn’t a privilege; it’s a necessity. A well-fed child is a child ready to learn, grow, and succeed. Some claim that expanding school meal programs comes at the cost of other priorities. But here’s the truth: there is no greater priority than the well-being of our kids. 

Investing in school meals is investing in Washington’s future. It’s a choice between setting students up for success or forcing them to learn while hungry. And for me, that choice couldn’t be more obvious. I will always fight to ensure that no child in our state goes without the food they need to thrive. 

The work doesn’t stop here. There’s still more to do, and I’m honored to keep fighting for the students and families of Washington. Thank you for staying engaged, for your advocacy, and for believing in a future where every child has the opportunity to succeed. Stay tuned for more updates, and as always, my office is here to hear your thoughts, concerns, and ideas. Let’s keep pushing for progress—together. 

With gratitude, 

Rep. April Berg