Dear Friends and Neighbors,
In less than a month, we’ve been witness to Trump Administration actions to completely upend the lives of Washington residents. Executive orders have targeted immigrants, programs designed to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and LGBTQ+ communities. Trump has even jeopardized Washington’s role as an international leader in global trade, proposing tariffs that would hurt farmers, businesses and consumers across our state. It’s unacceptable, unconscionable and unconstitutional.
I’m proud to stand with my fellow House Democrats and statewide elected officials in opposing these executive orders and federal overreach into our way of life. We have already been successful in pushing back and will continue to fight for every Washingtonian.
I also fully support these bills being considered by the legislature this session:
✅Protect Washington workers and entrepreneurs by banning non-compete agreements (My bill HB 1155)
✅Hold private detention facilities to humane standards (HB 1232)
✅Increase access to prescription hormone therapy by requiring a 12-month refill (HB 1971)
The Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs created the rapid response hub to support undocumented Washingtonians with legal and financial information. There’s also important immigration-related information available from the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA). The Washington State LGBTQ Commission has a list of resources with a wide range of support options.
Government at Your Grocery Store – Thank You!
Noel, Julia and I enjoyed talking to our neighbors who came by to say hi and ask questions at our Government at Your Grocery Store event at Ken’s Market in Phinney Ridge. Stay tuned for our next one in March!
February is Black History Month
I’m honored to be a member of the Washington State Legislature which now has the largest number of Black members on the west coast! Our state has greatly benefited from our Black leaders who have transformed our communities and strengthened our state to build a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
Black History Month is also a time to acknowledge the profound role Black workers had in our labor movement and fighting for workers. Our nation was founded through the exploitation of labor, most notably the shameful scourge of slavery. Dignity in the workplace, equality, a fair wage and working conditions: these are all possible thanks to the past and present work of Black workers.
Your input is invaluable to our work in Olympia. Keep in touch!
Hope to see you soon,
State Representative Liz Berry
36th Legislative District