Celebrating the 2023 Legislative Session!

Dear friends and neighbors, 

Thank you for your engagement during the 2023 legislative session. I am hopeful that many of the policies we passed this session will make a difference in the lives of Washingtonians. I am thrilled to share with you some of the remarkable achievements we have made together. 

Throughout the interim period, I will be sending out monthly updates about policy implementation, interim projects, and investments in our community. As always, feel free to reach out to me at David.Hackney@leg.wa.gov with any questions, concerns, advocacy, or feedback. You can also contact my legislative assistant at Leona.Wankowski@leg.wa.gov to schedule a meeting.  

Let’s take a moment to celebrate the passage of some of my bills that will shape our community for the better. 

House Bill 1187: Upholding Testimonial Privilege  

One of my top priorities was safeguarding the vital communication between employees and union representatives. HB 1187 establishes a testimonial privilege that protects these interactions, ensuring that honest and open dialogue can take place without fear of unnecessary disclosure. This measure reinforces our commitment to protecting workers’ rights and fostering strong labor relations within our district.

House Bill 1236: Advancing Green Energy Initiatives  

I recognize the urgency of addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices. HB 1236 empowers certain classes of public transportation agencies to produce, distribute, and utilize green electrolytic hydrogen and renewable hydrogen. By embracing these environmentally friendly alternatives, we are actively working towards a cleaner and more sustainable future for our district and beyond. 

House Bill 1257: Enhancing Collaboration for Port Districts  

Efficient coordination among port districts is crucial for seamless operations and economic growth. HB 1257 allows port districts engaged in marine operations to meet, coordinate, and take collaborative actions on matters related to cargo and passenger movement. By fostering collaboration and eliminating unnecessary liability under federal antitrust laws, we are promoting prosperity and synergy among our port districts. 

House Bill 1460: Managing Trust Land Transfer Program  

Our natural resources are invaluable treasures, and it is our duty to manage them responsibly. HB 1460 empowers the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create and manage a Trust Land Transfer (TLT) program, ensuring that land transfers are conducted with careful consideration of environmental impact and sustainable land management practices. This bill strengthens our commitment to protecting and preserving our state’s natural heritage for future generations. 

House Bill 1324: Championing Juvenile Justice Reform  

I firmly believe in the power of redemption and second chances. HB 1324 prohibits the inclusion of prior juvenile dispositions in adult offender scores, with exceptions for severe crimes. By reforming our sentencing practices, we are taking a significant step towards a more equitable and rehabilitative justice system that gives every individual the opportunity to rebuild their lives. 

House Bill 1420: Reinforcing Foreclosure Regulations  

Securing property rights and ensuring fair processes are essential for homeowners. HB 1420 reinforces the priority of mortgages and deeds of trust over other encumbrances, providing greater clarity and protection for homeowners during foreclosure proceedings. By upholding the first-in-time, first-in-right principle, we are safeguarding property ownership and promoting stability within our communities. 

The Huffington Post recently highlighted Anthony Covert in an article about criminal justice reforms: Covert had faced unjust sentencing due to Washington’s use of juvenile felony records to increase adult prison sentences. The article emphasizes the importance of retroactive criminal justice reform, which would address the discrepancies in sentencing between individuals convicted before and after reform measures were implemented.  

Many states have passed criminal justice reforms but applied them only prospectively, leading to unequal punishments based on arbitrary dates. This raises questions about the values and fairness of the justice system, as it fails to recognize the potential for redemption and denies the benefits of reform to those already incarcerated. We need for a more values-oriented approach that prioritizes justice and recognizes the worth and potential for change in every individual, regardless of their past offenses. 

My bill, House Bill 1324, aimed to end the automatic use of juvenile felony records to increase adult prison sentences. However, it was amended before passing, excluding those already sentenced, leaving individuals like Anthony Covert behind. While this bill was an important start, our work is not over: we must continue to promote ongoing efforts to reform criminal justice practices and address the inconsistencies and inequalities within the system, as this bill had originally intended. 

I’m deeply honored to have recently received several awards for my work:  

WA Ports (WPPA Compass Award): This recognition highlights my commitment to sustainable and equitable port development, aligning with my legislative efforts to drive economic growth while protecting our environment and promoting social responsibility. 

Children’s Campaign Fund Award: I am honored to receive the Children’s Campaign Fund Award, which recognizes my unwavering dedication to advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of our youth. This award reinforces my legislative commitment to championing education, healthcare, social services, and child welfare, ensuring a brighter future for our children. 

Green Hydrogen: This award acknowledges my legislative efforts to promote renewable energy sources, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and combat climate change. As Chair of the hydrogen caucus, I am proud to be part of the movement driving innovation and creating green jobs for a sustainable future. 

WA State Assn. of the UA Plumbers & Pipefitters: I am thrilled and honored to receive recognition from the Washington State Association of the UA Plumbers & Pipefitters. This award reflects our strong partnership in advocating for skilled trades and fair working conditions. It reinforces my legislative commitment to protecting workers’ rights and creating opportunities in the plumbing and pipefitting industry for the benefit of our communities. 

Upon the governor’s call for a special session on May 16th, we were tasked with crafting new legislation on this issue. I would like to express my appreciation for the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly on this matter and convey my strong endorsement of the governor’s decision. It is our responsibility to establish a new drug possession law that strikes a balance between accountability, treatment, public safety, and ensures consistent and equitable policies statewide. 

The Washington Supreme Court’s ruling invalidated the state’s felony drug possession law, which created a policy gap set to expire on July 1. Concerningly, several cities and counties had announced their intent to enact their own ordinances, potentially leading to a confusing array of policies, treatment options, and penalties. Recognizing the need for clarity and stability in our communities, it was imperative that we took swift action. 

I am delighted to announce that, during this special session, the Washington State Legislature successfully passed a new drug possession law. This achievement was made possible through bipartisan collaboration and received support from both chambers. It represents a significant stride in tackling the challenges posed by drug possession. The new law establishes a comprehensive framework that balances the imperative of accountability, treatment, and public safety. 

Throughout the special session, we engaged in thorough discussions to ensure that individuals grappling with substance use disorders receive the essential support and services they require. We understand the significance of providing treatment options to those in need while simultaneously addressing the public safety concerns associated with drug possession. Our collective efforts, spanning party lines, have culminated in a law that endeavors to strike this delicate equilibrium. 

Moreover, alongside the passage of the new drug possession law, I would like to remind our constituents that the Legislature has allocated over $600 million in fresh state funding for a diverse range of behavioral health services. These funds will facilitate the expansion of treatment facilities and services dedicated to assisting individuals with substance use disorders. Our unwavering commitment to supplying the necessary resources to combat this public health crisis remains steadfast. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to collaborate during this special session and shepherd the enactment of a new drug possession law that serves the best interests of our communities. By supporting those struggling with addiction and implementing effective policies, our aim is to foster a safer and healthier Washington for all residents. 

Thank you so much for your continued support. I look forward to connecting over the interim and working together to make positive changes in our community. 

Sincerely, 

Rep. David Hackney