Friends and neighbors,
Thank you for joining Senator Robinson, Representative Fosse, and I for our recent town hall meeting. It was heartening to see such strong community engagement as we discussed issues impacting our community and reflected on the achievements of the 2024 legislative session.
For those unable to attend, I hope the legislative review below and on my website is informative and brings you up to speed on my work during the last four months.
Session Recap
Here’s a brief overview of some significant bills I was proud to introduce and pass during last session:
HB 1530 expands the pool of qualified candidates for law enforcement and prosecutorial positions to include lawful permanent residents, promoting diversity in public safety roles.
HB 1929 establishes the Post-Inpatient Housing Program to support young adults transitioning from inpatient treatment to stable housing. This program offers vital services such as behavioral health support, peer mentorship, and assistance with long-term housing, education, and employment plans.
HB 2217 marks a significant shift in our approach to juvenile justice, emphasizing rehabilitation and fairness by expanding juvenile court jurisdiction and parole options.
HB 2415 increases the maximum Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA) benefit to $2,000, offering crucial support during times of job transitions or emergencies.
SB 5908 provides extended foster care services to youth aged 18 to 21, we ensure essential support to those transitioning out of foster care.
Community Investments
How the legislature directs funding has a giant impact on the resiliency and vibrancy of our community. My litmus test for supporting a budget is simple: Does it create good paying jobs and support small business? Will it improve our schools and help children? Does it provide meaningful infrastructure like safe roads to connect our community? Below are some investments that passed my litmus test that I’m proud to have supported:
- $3.8 million for the Latino Educational Training Institute for Family Success, empowering Latino families in Snohomish County with essential services like language acquisition, job training, and financial literacy programs. Learn more here.
- $1 million in tourism marketing grants to help local businesses engage with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- $300,000 to support the Community Health Center of Snohomish County’s Dental Clinic.
- $488,000 to support school-based health centers at Cascade High School and Everett high School.
- $4 million in grants to the Public Stadium Authority to improve operational infrastructure, attract mega events, and support local business.
- $309,000 in support of a Marysville Riverwalk Sports Complex providing a year-round space for community athletic events.
- $10 million for upgrades to Lumen Field and soccer facilities at the University of Washington and Seattle university to ensure Washington maintains six World Cup games.
- $274,000 for the Everett Museum of History elevator installation.
- $122.8 million to address peak congestion along I-5/NB Marine View Dr. and the SR 529 corridor and interchange.
- $68.7 million for an interchange improvement project at I-5/116th St. NE, 88th St. NE and SR 528/Marine Dr.
- $210.5 million for planning, design, right-of-way acquisition, and initial construction related to the rebuild of the US 2 trestle.
- $47.1 million to improve mobility along the SR 526 corridor.
Immigrant Healthcare Waiver & Apple Health Expansion
Ensuring equitable healthcare access for all Washingtonians remained a central focus this year. In the 2024 supplemental budgets, $28.4 million has been strategically allocated towards essential healthcare services for undocumented individuals, reinforcing our commitment to honoring the dignity of every community member. Moreover, through a federally approved waiver, immigrants can now enroll in private health and dental insurance plans, extending critical coverage and care to around 100,000 undocumented individuals statewide. Dive deeper into the legislature’s efforts to dismantle barriers to healthcare insurance and discover if you qualify for Apple Health’s recent expansion by clicking here!
Stay In Touch
As we navigate through the 2024 legislative interim, I wanted to inform you about some changes regarding my communication channels. Between May 6th and the certification of the 2024 election results, there will be a temporary freeze on most communication through my legislative website and Facebook. This means that I won’t be posting any new content with state resources, including email updates. However, please rest assured that I am still fully committed to serving you and our community.
My office remains open and available to assist you with any legislative inquiries, connecting you with state agencies and services, or scheduling meetings with me, so please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Despite the restrictions on public communication during this time, I am dedicated to continuing our dialogue and improving our community by addressing the issues that matter most to you. For more information on election year restrictions, please click here or watch the video above.
Thank you for your understanding and continued partnership in improving the 38th legislative district.
Sincerely/Atentamente,
State Representative Julio Cortes
Representante Estatal Julio Cortés