Friends and neighbors,
Washington’s 2024 legislative session hit its midpoint on February 6th, and it’s been a busy one! We’ve seen meaningful progress on critical issues and the gears keep turning. To learn more about the issues you care most about and share an update on the legislature’s work to address those issues, please join Rep. Fosse and I for an upcoming community townhall at the Everett Labor Temple on Friday, February 16th, from 5:30-6:30 pm.
Committee Update
As a member of the House Transportation Committee, Human Services, Youth, & Early Learning, and Innovation Committee, and Community & Economic Development, & Veterans Committee, I am beyond proud of the progress we’ve made in these policy areas. To learn more about my committee assignments and the issues we’re working on, click here or on the image below!
House Origin Cutoff is nearly upon us, meaning bills need to pass their starting chamber by early next week. Over the coming days, my colleagues and I will be hitting the floor running, debating, and refining legislation to make sure it delivers real results for everyone in our state. Below is an update on a few pieces of legislation that I’ll be focused on in the coming weeks.
Bill Update
Last week, the House unanimously passed one of my bills, HB 1530, to the Senate. The bill will boost recruitment efforts for law enforcement and the judicial system by expanding the applicant pool to qualified citizens and legal permanent residents. HB 1530 demonstrates Washington’s commitment to strengthening public safety and ensuring equal opportunity for all. To learn more, click here, or on the video below to watch a recent update about the bill. I’m also proud to share that HB 1530 has already received a public hearing in the Senate Committee on Law and Justice.
Other bills that remain in play this legislative session, thanks to the dedicated work of our community partners include HB 1913, HB 1929, HB 2217, and HB 2415.
I remain hopeful, with these bills making it through the legislative process, we can make meaningful progress to support Washington businesses, support young adults with inpatient treatment, breaking barriers for juveniles as they enter adulthood, and expand economic assistance programs for needy families.
Just last week and this week, both the Seattle Times and Everett Herald ran articles about HB 1929, a bill with huge potential and bipartisan support that will curb homelessness among young adults.
Addressing Housing and Rent Affordability
Building more housing is crucial to addressing house affordability, but it won’t be enough to address the immediate struggle of Washington renters, especially with half of renter’s spending over 30% of their income on rent. Unpredictable rent increases force impossible choices, pushing people towards homelessness.
That’s why I’m pushing for House Bill 2114 to bring stability and predictability through rent stabilization. This lifeline is essential for low-income families, seniors, and communities of color disproportionately affected by the crisis. I am also co-sponsoring House Bill 2276. This bill increases affordable housing for vulnerable groups by taxing high-value property sales, ensuring everyone has the dignity of a safe place to call home.
Stay In Touch
While much work remains, the progress achieved so far this session gives me hope for positive change. As your representative, I remain dedicated to collaborating across the aisle and advocating for legislation that delivers real results for our community.
Remember, your voice matters! Stay informed, share your concerns, and actively participate in shaping our state’s future. Together, we can ensure this momentum carries through, creating a brighter and more equitable Washington for all.
Sincerely/Atentamente,
State Representative Julio Cortes
Representante Estatal Julio Cortés