Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we approach the end of the 2025 legislative session, I want to take a moment and thank all of you who joined our recent 45th District Town Hall meeting with my colleagues, Rep. Larry Springer and Sen. Manka Dhingra. Town halls like this are an invaluable way to hear directly from you and I look forward to continuing these conversations.
Many of you were concerned about two topics in particular: how we may be adversely affected by actions taking place at the federal level; and concern over insufficient funding for our public schools.
We are working hard to protect and maintain stability in our communities, to preserve local investments, to maintain our high quality of life – and to prepare for potential challenges ahead.
I’m sure you’ve heard about Washington’s budget challenge, and you may have seen recent news reporting about the various proposals for solving it.
My focus is to ensure that our budget minimizes harm and maximizes our state’s potential by investing in people. We have to find the right balance—protecting vital services while also being fiscally responsible. We are working to identify cost savings and revenue options, and I will continue to support policies that ensure every child has access to a high-quality education.
I welcome your input as we continue to prioritize investments that help make our communities safer, stronger, and more resilient. Your feedback is vital in helping us make decisions that truly serve our neighbors. As always you can contact my office here.
Strengthening Washington’s Workforce for the Future
Washington faces workforce shortages in critical industries like healthcare, trades, and public service. While progress has been made in expanding financial aid and career pathways, more must be done to ensure workers can access training, secure good-paying jobs, and stay in our state.
This year, we’re focusing on streamlining licensing and training, expanding educational opportunities, and ensuring fair wages and job security. Key bills include HB 1142, which simplifies certification for long-term care workers, and HB 1273, which helps students apply dual credits toward postsecondary credentials, and I supported HB 1587, supporting local government partner promise scholarships.
By reducing barriers and investing in workforce development, we can create a stronger, more resilient economy for all.
LYAC Applications are Open!
The Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is the only nonpartisan youth-led committee established by state law in 2005 to represent the official voice of Washington youth to the Legislature. It is entirely student-led and administered by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Washington State Leadership Board.
The deadline to submit application packets is April 30. Go to the applications site to see if you or someone you know meets the qualification requirements.
Teens ages 14-18 from a wide variety of geographic, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds get the chance, among other things, to:
- Meet with legislators to advocate for issues relevant to Washington’s youth.
- Testify before committee for or against a bill.
- Advise government officials, policymakers, and leaders in various fields.
- Collaborate with nearly 200 community organizations to promote statewide change.
- Talk with media outlets about student voice.
- Write bills.
- Make sure youth are at the table when decisions are being made.
All best wishes,
Rep. Roger Goodman