Dear Friends and Neighbors,
You may start hearing about bills that “died,” during the session. That’s likely referring to our first deadline of the session that’s happening this week called “policy cutoff.” It’s happening on Feb. 21 this year. This is important because any bill that changes state policy must pass out of committee. Any idea that doesn’t pass by Feb. 21 can’t get a vote on the House floor. The only exceptions are bills that raise or spend money. Several of my bills have passed the policy cutoff. You can keep track of my bills here.
Below are a few bills I’d like to highlight.
Some of my bills that passed cutoff
HB 1080: Lodging fee disclosures – When you go to book a hotel stay or other lodging, you should have an idea of what the final cost of your reservation is before you go to checkout. This bill requires all fees charged by lodging accommodations to be disclosed in the advertised, displayed, or offered room rate, except for taxes and government fees, which must be included in the total price before a guest reserves a stay. Federal action on this issue has already been taken, but this will help further protect residents in our state from surprise taxes and fees.
HB 1653: Paying tow truck drivers – Many tow truck drivers in our state are obligated to tow and store abandoned vehicles. But too often, these drivers are not being compensated for their storage and services, making it difficult for them to run their businesses. This bill will require the Department of Licensing create a program to pay these businesses for the cost of towing, storing and other related services. It also requires the DOL to create a form that allows people to get their vehicles released prior to payment if they are eligible. This bill protects these important businesses and helps those who need their vehicles.
HB 1081: Ensuring an appraisal for your home – if someone offers to buy your house, this bill ensures that you as the seller have the right to an appraisal and can cancel the contract up to 10 days after it has been signed. This is an important protection so that those who are being asked to sell their homes know exactly what they are getting into.
Each of these bills have passed out of committee, clearing the first hurdle in the legislative process. Now, they are being considered for further debate.
It’s time to get your REAL ID!! You can’t fly without it!
On May 7, 2025, the federal REAL ID Act goes into effect nationwide. Beginning on that date, if you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, you won’t be able to fly in the U.S. or enter a restricted federal facility. Click here to learn more or click here to see if you’re ready for this change.
Celebrating Black History Month
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge Black History Month and the work that is being done to ensure all Washington residents, regardless of their race or ethnicity, have access to the rights and privileges of living in this great state.
Some of the most impactful legislation in our state has been brought forth by Black legislators including the Landlord Tenant Act of 1973, which is arguably one of the most important pieces of housing legislation to pass in our state, and legislation making Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. day a state holiday.
My colleagues continue to make history today. Rep. Natasha Hill (D-Spokane) became the first Black woman represent her district with her election this year. And with Hill’s election as well as the election of Shaun Scott (D-Seattle) and the appointment of Brianna Thomas (D-West Seattle), Washington’s Legislative Black Caucus is the largest on the West Coast. Our caucus has a new newsletter that talks more about our priorities and how we’re working to support and uplift Black communities in Washington. Learn more here.
This year, I was honored to sponsor a House Resolution encouraging the celebration of Black History Month across Washington. You can read that resolution here.
As a Vice Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, and a member of one of the only all Black legislative delegations in the state, serving in this position is incredibly meaningful to me. I am inspired by the legacy and the contributions of the great legislators who have come before me and the examples they have set for all of us. And I am honored to have been elected to fight for everyone in our district and work on your behalf.
You can learn more about how House Democrats are acknowledging Black History Month here.
I look forward to updating you on how my bills are moving through the legislature.
Sincerely,
Rep. Brandy Donaghy