Dear friends and neighbors,
As we enter April, I want to share updates on our ongoing work to improve housing affordability, protect immigrant rights, and honor the legacy of those who paved the way for progress.
Putting Keys into More Hands
Housing costs continue to rise, straining families, businesses, and our entire economy. While the Legislature has made significant investments, including $14.6 million to the Washington State Department of Commerce to support the construction of over 1,800 affordable homes across ten counties, there is still more work to do.
This year, we have passed bills to bring stability, expand homeownership opportunities, and increase housing supply. HB 1217 helps keep rent fair and predictable. HB 1403 makes it easier for first-time buyers to purchase a condo. HB 1696 broadens access to the Covenant Homeownership Program. And HB 1757 allows commercial buildings to be converted into homes. These are real solutions that will continue supporting tenants and families, reverse harmful racist policies of the past and reduce the wealth gap.
Protecting Immigrant Communities
Protecting immigrant and LGBTQ communities remains a top priority, especially in the face of ongoing attacks. Washington remains committed to protecting all communities and ensuring every voice is heard. Here’s a look at our progress and ongoing work to build a more equitable future.
Washington has also led the way in expanding voting access through the Washington Voting Rights Act, same-day registration, and youth pre-registration, but we must do more. This session, we are working to expand Automatic Voter Registration, strengthen protections against voter suppression, and increase voter participation by shifting local elections to even-numbered years. A strong democracy requires that every voice is heard and every vote counts.
Trans Day of Visibility
On Monday, we recognized the Trans Day of Visibility and reaffirmed our commitment to supporting trans and gender-expansive communities. New legislation (HB 1296 & HB 1971) will help ensure schools remain safe and inclusive for trans youth while expanding access to trans healthcare such as hormone replacement therapy. These efforts build on the progress we’ve made in making Washington a safer and more equitable place for all.
Remembering Speaker Chopp
I want to take time to honor the life and legacy of Speaker Frank Chopp, a leader who spent his career fighting for working families and championing the idea of One Washington. His unwavering dedication to putting people first has left a lasting impact on our state, and we are grateful for his decades of service.
Read the full release, including quotes from many of Speaker Chopp’s colleagues and mentees here. Listen to a special episode of the ‘Capitol Ideas’ Podcast with Speaker Chopp here.
Video Update
In my recent video update, I sit down with Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self to open-up about what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and resilience. Rep. Ortiz-Self has spent her career fighting for equity, immigrant rights, and access to opportunity—especially for communities that have been historically left out. Our conversation is filled with wisdom, laughter, and a shared commitment to making government work for everyone.
Stay In Touch
Congolese Integration Network visits with Rep. Gregerson on March 14th
With just four weeks left in the legislative session, I remain focused on addressing affordability, community safety, and economic opportunity. I encourage you to stay engaged, reach out to my office, and share your thoughts. It is an honor to represent the 33rd District, and I look forward to continuing this important work together.
In Service,
Representative Mia Gregerson