Hello friends and neighbors,
I’m so glad to be back with you as the 2026 legislative session gets underway! Every January, I’m reminded how grateful I am to represent our community and to bring your voices, concerns, and ideas with me to Olympia. This session is already off to a busy start, and I’m excited to share what I’m working on and how you can stay involved along the way.
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Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Every year, as we begin the session, we also honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His legacy reminds us that progress is made when we listen deeply, act courageously, and work together toward justice and dignity for all. That spirit of service and community-centered leadership continues to guide my work this session.
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Bills I’ve Introduced – Grounded in Community
Several of the bills I’ve introduced this year came directly from conversations with constituents, local leaders, and community partners. I’m especially proud of that collaboration, because the best policy starts with listening.
- HB 2401 – Establishing a Boys and Men Commission This bill responds directly to concerns raised by educators, parents, and community advocates about the unique challenges facing boys and men today – particularly around education, mental health, and workforce outcomes. The commission would bring together experts and community voices to better understand these issues and recommend solutions that help everyone thrive.
- HB 2442 – Local Government Fund Use This proposal came from conversations with local governments about the need for more flexibility and clarity in how local funds can be used. It’s a practical, community-informed bill aimed at helping cities and counties better meet local needs without unnecessary red tape.
- HB 2334 – Cash Transactions and Pennies This bill responds to recent federal changes that will phase out the use of pennies. Based directly on feedback from constituents and small businesses, HB 2334 provides clear, consistent guidance at the state level so cash transactions aren’t left to chance or handled differently from one business to the next. It ensures everyday purchases are rounded fairly and transparently, giving both consumers and businesses certainty as we move away from pennies.
I’ll continue to keep you updated as these bills move through the legislative process!
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Berg Bill Basics: How a Bill Becomes a Law
One question I hear often is: how does a bill actually become a law? To help demystify the process, I’ve launched Berg Bill Basics, a short video series breaking down how legislation moves through committees, the budget process, floor action, and more. We’ll be sharing these videos throughout session, along with written explainers, so you can follow along and feel confident engaging at every step.
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Stay Connected & Get Involved
Your voice matters, now more than ever. Here are a few ways to stay engaged this session:
- Sign up for future e-newsletters and bill updates (forward this to a friend so they can too!)
My office is always here to help, whether you need assistance with a state agency, want to share feedback on legislation, or just want to learn more about what’s happening in Olympia.
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Thank you for the trust you place in me and for being such an engaged, thoughtful community. I’m looking forward to a productive session ahead and to continuing this work together.
With gratitude,
Rep. April Berg