Dear friends and neighbors,  

Thank you for your engagement during the 2024 legislative session. I believe that the work we have done will make meaningful differences in the lives of Washingtonians. But our work doesn’t end here! Throughout the interim period, please feel free to reach out to me at Beth.Doglio@leg.wa.gov with any questions, concerns, advocacy, or feedback.  

HB 1589, a bill I prime sponsored, will help pave the way to decarbonizing PSE’s gas system. The bill establishes a streamlined process through the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) to integrate planning requirements for PSE’s gas and electric utilities into a single, comprehensive system.  It also allows utilities to pursue necessary certifications for new facilities and investments, all while ensuring labor standards and equitable distribution of costs, particularly benefiting low-income households. As we tackle climate change and prioritize clean energy initiatives, this bill continues our work toward a greener, more efficient Washington. 

Gun violence remains a pressing issue affecting communities across our state, and I’m proud to have championed legislation aimed at curbing this epidemic. Our efforts have resulted in the passage of several responsible gun laws, including: 

• Responsible Gun Legislation (HB 2021): This bill ensures the safe disposal of firearms seized by law enforcement, preventing their potential use in criminal activities or suicides. 
• Lost or Stolen Reporting (HB 1903): Mandating the reporting of lost or stolen firearms within 24 hours, this law aims to prevent the illegal circulation of firearms and aid law enforcement in investigations. 
• Firearm Dealer Code of Conduct (HB 2118): Establishing standards for licensed gun dealers, including inventory security and liability insurance requirements, to prevent firearms from falling into the wrong hands.

These measures are a testament to the tireless advocacy of passionate individuals, including many young people deeply affected by gun violence. By prioritizing community safety and responsible gun ownership, we’re taking significant steps towards building safer communities for generations to come. 

These initiatives reflect our collective commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations while promoting equity and environmental justice for all Washingtonians. 

Upholding workers’ rights is essential for building a fair and equitable society, and I’m proud to have supported legislation that strengthens protections for our labor force, including: 

• Protecting Workers’ Rights (SB 5778): Safeguarding employees’ autonomy and freedom of conscience in the workplace. 
• Increasing Vacation Accrual Cap (HB 2246): Recognizing the dedication of state employees by raising the annual vacation accrual cap. 
• Expanding Paid Sick Leave (SB 5793): Extending paid sick leave benefits to gig economy workers and caregivers, ensuring workers can prioritize their health and well-being without fear of financial repercussions. 
• Strippers’ Bill of Rights (SB 6105): Improves workplace standards in strip clubs by mandating security staffing, limiting fees, and providing training. It also aims to legalize liquor sales in strip clubs and remove lewd conduct regulations, addressing concerns of stigmatization and safeguarding workers’ rights and dignity.

Education is a cornerstone of our society, and I’m thrilled to have supported legislation that promotes inclusivity and diversity in our schools, including: 

• HB 1228: Supporting multilingual and multicultural education to empower students and celebrate linguistic diversity. 
• HB 2331: Establishing a process for removing books from schools to ensure LGBTQ+ and diverse voices are represented in our curriculum and libraries. 

These measures reflect our commitment to creating inclusive learning environments where all students feel valued, represented, and empowered to succeed. 

Last year, we embarked on an ambitious journey with the passage of an unprecedented biennial budget, aimed at bolstering our investments in the wake of the pandemic. This supplemental budget, shaped by the voices of our communities and the priorities of House Democrats, continues our commitment to strengthening Washington’s families and providing them with the necessary tools to thrive and succeed.  

Supporting Mental Health and Wellness 

One of our foremost priorities is addressing behavioral health concerns, with a significant allocation of $270 million. This funding will enhance state inpatient behavioral health capacity, provide support for long-term civil commitments in the community, and ensure access to essential services for youth behavioral health needs. 

Combatting the Opioid Crisis 

Furthermore, our budget allocates $200 million to combat the fentanyl and opioid crisis, focusing on increased access to treatment, supporting families and children’s safety, and enhancing public health awareness and outreach, including support for Tribal communities. 

Ensuring Access to Healthcare 

Healthcare and public health remain paramount, with $785 million allocated to continue the Medicaid Transformation Project, expand health equity initiatives for uninsured adults, and improve provider rates and reimbursements, among other critical measures. 

Empowering Our Children and Youth 

I am particularly proud of our investment in children, youth, and families, with $150 million dedicated to increasing childcare slots and expanding eligibility, as well as boosting provider rates and reimbursements, ensuring that our youngest residents receive the care and support they deserve. It is important to note that a significant portion of this childcare funding is sourced from the capital gains tax, demonstrating our commitment to strategic and equitable fiscal policies. 

Strengthening Education at All Levels 

Education continues to be a top priority, with $260 million allocated to K-12 education, including provisions for special education, student transportation, and free student meals, among others. Additionally, $140 million is allocated to higher education and workforce development, supporting institutions like UW Hospital and expanding training opportunities for our workforce. 

Caring for Our Most Vulnerable 

Our budget also addresses long-term care and developmental disabilities, homelessness and housing, human services and poverty reduction, climate, clean energy, and natural resources, as well as public safety, legal aid, and corrections, with significant investments in each of these critical areas. 

Building a Sustainable Future 

Our budget prioritizes environmental initiatives with $310 million dedicated to clean energy, forest health, water quality, and salmon recovery efforts. We’re committed to protecting our natural resources for future generations. 

Promoting Public Safety and Justice 

Ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities, we’re investing $105 million in programs to support reentry, victims of crime, and gender-affirming approaches within our criminal justice system. 

In closing, I want to express my gratitude to all who contributed to these legislative victories, from grassroots advocates to dedicated lawmakers. As we move forward, I encourage you to stay involved, stay informed, and continue advocating for the issues that matter to you.  

Together, we’re building a brighter future for Washington—one that is fair, safe, and inclusive for all. 

Sincerely, 

Rep. Beth Doglio