Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We have completed several crucial deadlines as we get closer to the end of the 2026 Legislative Session on March 12.
Affordability is a top priority this year. While we cannot control the impact of the federal government’s tariffs and inflation costs, we can pass good policy in Washington state that helps families with everyday costs, such as food, health care, and job security. The following affordability bills are still moving forward after the Policy Committee Cutoff deadline:
- SB 5993: Limits interest charges on all new and unpaid medical debt.
- HB 2294: Removes restrictions on what types of stores can take over a vacant space, creating opportunities for new grocery stores and pharmacies to move into locations where communities are underserved.
- SB 5496: Limits investors from buying more than 100 single-family residential properties, a necessary cap to leave housing inventory for the rest of us.
- HB 2242: Preserves access to preventive services, ensuring access to crucial health services without out-of-pocket costs for patients. This bill was voted off the Senate floor!
- HB 1155: Bans noncompete agreements, which deny workers the chance at improving their financial status and happiness at work. Whether it’s taking a new job with better pay or leaving employment to start your own company, opportunities to pursue your passion shouldn’t be blocked by your old job.
- HB 2479: Speeds up wage recovery efforts for workers, by helping workers get the pay they’re owed by strengthening how the state investigates wage theft and creating a new wage recovery program, so workers aren’t left waiting months or years for relief.
Town Hall Success!
Thanks for coming to our town hall last weekend at the Boys & Girls Club in Ballard! We enjoyed spending time with you all and answering your questions.
Tackling Plastic Pollution
Heading to college? It is time to apply for financial aid
If you or a student you know is getting ready to go to college or attend a certificated program, now is the time to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). Applying for financial aid takes about 30 minutes but can mean thousands of dollars in aid. You only need to fill out one of the applications to qualify for financial aid, like the Washington College Grant, so apply today! Learn more about how to apply on the Washington Student Achievement Council website.
The legislative session is nearly over, and I hope you’ll continue to reach out to me if you have any thoughts on the work we are doing in Olympia. The next few weeks include finalizing our decisions on operating, capital, and transportation budgets, the Millionaire’s Tax, and bills to address affordability and protect Washingtonians.
As always, keep in touch,
State Representative Liz Berry
36th Legislative District