Refugee Support & Public Safety

Dear friends and neighbors,  

Thank you for your engagement during the 2024 legislative session. I believe that the work we have done will make so much meaningful difference in the lives of Washingtonians. But our work doesn’t end here! Throughout the interim period, please feel free to reach out to me at David.Hackney@leg.wa.gov with any questions, concerns, advocacy, or feedback. 

I’m proud to share that my bill, House Bill 1185, passed in the Legislature and is on the Governor’s desk, waiting to be signed. Transitioning away from mercury-containing lights is crucial for environmental protection: this bill phases out such lights and extends recycling programs while regulating environmental handling charges. By promoting responsible disposal and incentivizing sustainable alternatives, the legislation advances environmental stewardship.  Check out Light Recycle Washington programs in your community to recycle your lights for free!  

Here’s a look at some of our other work this session:  

In light of the urgent humanitarian situation at the refugee camp hosted by Tukwila’s Riverton Park United Methodist Church, it’s imperative for our community to unite and address the pressing needs of those seeking sanctuary. Surpassing initial estimates, the camp currently shelters over 800 refugees, doubling the projected count by late 2023. The gravity of the situation looms large, with challenges ranging from uneven resource allocation to insufficient safety measures and ongoing health hazards. 

On the legislative front, Representative Gregerson’s House Bill 2368 underscores the urgency of addressing the refugee crisis by refining and bolstering the support infrastructure for immigrants and refugees across Washington—this bill passed in the Legislature and is funded in the state budget. Through improved coordination, service administration, and the crafting of a comprehensive State Plan, the bill aims to foster a more efficient and cohesive approach to refugee resettlement and immigrant assistance. 

Moreover, the State Legislature has stepped up funding for the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) and a dedicated grant program. An earmarked $8 million has been allocated to promote economic stability through multifaceted support initiatives. 

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the City of Tukwila declared a humanitarian crisis in October 2023. By December 6th, King County and Tukwila announced funding to secure up to 100 hotel rooms, offering immediate relief to individuals residing in or around the makeshift refugee camp. This initiative is part of broader endeavors to establish comprehensive support systems and services for the affected populace. 

Amidst this global turmoil, Washington reaffirms its unwavering commitment to aiding refugees. Our storied legacy of welcoming over 140,000 refugees in five decades underscores our belief in the transformative impact of assistance, providing solace and fresh starts to those in search of refuge. Let us, together, persist in building a more inclusive and supportive community for all. 

I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to vote yes on Initiative 2113, focusing on police pursuits. This initiative is crucial for restoring local decision-making authority regarding law enforcement policies, particularly in pursuit situations. 

In 2021, a well-intentioned pursuit law was passed, but unfortunately, it stripped local governments of their ability to tailor policies according to the unique needs of their communities. Since then, law enforcement agencies across the state have voiced their concerns, urging us to rectify this situation. Despite attempts to amend the law, feedback suggests that it still falls short of addressing their needs. 

Initiative 2113 strikes a balance by retaining many of the best practice requirements established in recent years while revising the criteria for police engagement in pursuits. This initiative acknowledges the importance of pursuing suspects while prioritizing public safety. Pursuits should always be approached with caution to minimize the risk of harm to innocent bystanders. 

However, it’s essential to recognize that what works for one community may not be suitable for another. Each locality has its unique challenges and considerations, and therefore, decisions regarding police tactics should be made at the local level. 

By supporting Initiative 2113, we affirm our commitment to empowering local authorities to implement measures that best serve their communities. Furthermore, this initiative addresses concerns about statewide policies inadvertently encouraging reckless behavior among drivers and ensuring that law enforcement agencies retain the necessary tools to maintain public safety effectively. 

Together, we can foster a safer and more responsive law enforcement environment for all Washingtonians. 

In closing, I want to express my gratitude to all who contributed to these legislative victories, from grassroots advocates to dedicated lawmakers. As we move forward, I encourage you to stay involved, stay informed, and continue advocating for the issues that matter to you.  

Together, we’re building a brighter future for Washington—one that is fair, safe, and inclusive for all. 

Sincerely,