Video Update: Priority bills, protecting animals, and addressing the housing crisis

February 28, 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

At this point in the legislative session, bills are making their way through the relevant fiscal committees. By next week, we will have a clearer idea of which bills will be debated on the House Floor.

Soon, we’ll be receiving a slate of bills from our colleagues in the Senate and starting the process of committee review and debate all over again.

In my latest video update, I explain a bit more about our deadline structure and highlight some of the interesting priority bills that are moving through the process, including efforts to expand scholarship opportunities, creating a guaranteed admissions program, and making it easier to repair electronic devices. You can watch that here:

 

 

 

Make Sure Your ID is REAL ID Compliant – 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 and click here to see if you’re ready for this change.

REAL ID is a federal law, though Washington state has worked hard to help people get the ID they need to comply and fly.

Of course, you still need a passport to fly overseas. That hasn’t changed. These new requirements are for flying domestically. The days of showing your driver’s license and getting through security are over.

Here’s what you can use:

Before you buy a plane ticket, please make sure your passport is current—or that you have another form of acceptable identification.

For more information, visit the state Department of Licensing page about REAL ID or the federal Homeland Security FAQ.

 

Preventing Animal Cruelty in Washington

I believe we have a responsibility to protect the most vulnerable among us—including animals. This session, the legislature is taking important steps to prevent cruelty, improve protections, and ensure Washington remains a leader in promoting animal welfare.

HB 1149  – Preventing Cruelty to Animals: This bill strengthens our animal cruelty laws by increasing penalties for abuse and ensuring those convicted of harming animals cannot own them again. Too often, we see cases where individuals mistreat animals and face minimal consequences. This bill ensures accountability and justice.

HB 1046 – Rescue of Domestic Animals from Vehicles: This bill allows Good Samaritans to rescue animals from dangerously hot cars without fear of legal repercussions, ensuring that quick action can save lives.

SB 5065 – Banning Use of Certain Animals in Traveling Acts: This bill aims to prohibit the use of specific animals, such as elephants, bears, big cats, and primates, in traveling performances and circuses. These animals endure cruel training practices and live in conditions that fail to meet their needs.

HB 1201 – Co-Sheltering in Emergencies and Extreme Weather Events: This bill focuses on identifying accommodations that allow pets to stay with their owners during emergencies or extreme weather events, ensuring the safety and well-being of both.

Each of these bills reflects our commitment to treating animals with compassion and respect and advocating for stronger protections for these important members of our families.

 

A Three-Pronged Approach to the Housing Crisis

This year, the legislature is continuing to make progress on its three-pronged approach to the housing crisis – building up our housing supply, stabilizing housing costs, and supporting people who need help. Here are a few bills that are supporting this work:

House Bill 1859 – expanding opportunities for affordable housing developments on properties owned by religious organizations.

House Bill 1808 – creating the Affordable Homeownership Revolving Loan Fund Program to provide loans for the construction of permanently affordable homes for low-income households.

House Bill 1927 – creating a voluntary pilot program to help renters build their credit history by paying their rent on time.

Creative and cost-effective proposals will be key to making progress on this critical issue. State lawmakers will continue to address this crisis from every possible direction.

It’s important that we hear from you about the issues that you care most about. There is still plenty of time to share your thoughts. Please reach out to my office if you have questions, comments or ideas, and keep an eye out for another legislative update from me soon!

All best wishes,

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Rep. Roger Goodman