Dear friends and neighbors, 

I hope this message finds you well. The 60-day legislative session convened at the beginning of January and is flying by! I’m excited to share some positive news about our ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and accountability here in Washington State, and an invite to an upcoming 11th LD Virtual Town Hall! 

House Bill 2219 in Washington is a vital move towards making affordable housing development more feasible for nonprofits. By establishing a sales and use tax exemption, the bill aims to reduce the financial burden on organizations constructing and maintaining affordable housing. This not only incentivizes the creation of more affordable housing units across the state. The legislation is crucial for fostering a supportive environment for nonprofits dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions. 

House Bill 2388 establishes the Clean Energy Fund Program, aiming to boost innovative clean energy projects. It’s all about supporting research and development that aligns with the state’s clean energy goals. The focus is on fairness, helping communities, and creating jobs. The bill encourages projects that reduce energy costs and emissions, with a spotlight on benefiting vulnerable communities. In a nutshell, it’s an investment in clean energy, support for communities, and a greener future. 

House Bill 2253 in Washington makes solar energy fairer and more accessible. It increases the size of solar projects, ensures everyone benefits, especially those with lower incomes, and sets up rules to keep things transparent. The bill aims to give people credits on their electricity bills, making clean energy a reality for more Washingtonians and creating a greener future for all. 

I’m pleased to announce the co-founding of the Public Safety Caucus alongside Representative Alicia Rule. Our goal is clear: to champion legislation that strengthens the rule of law, ensures accountability, and fosters a safer environment for everyone in our great state. 

In these challenging times, it’s more important than ever to address issues related to public safety head-on. The Public Safety Caucus will serve as a platform to support bills that uphold justice, protect our communities, and hold those who violate the law accountable for their actions. 

We believe in the power of collaboration, and through this caucus, we aim to bring together legislators, experts, and community leaders to create meaningful change. Your input and feedback are invaluable as we work towards a safer, more accountable Washington. 

House Bill 2222 toughens penalties for those who expose children to dangerous drugs. We have seen a substantial uptick in the death of children due to fentanyl. By updating the endangerment with a controlled substance statute, the bill specifically targets substances like fentanyl and synthetic opioids, holding individuals accountable for knowingly allowing exposure. I sponsored this bill to send a strong message that endangering the well-being of children with dangerous substances will be met with significant legal consequences, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting its citizens. 

House Bill 2231 focuses on empowering local law enforcement. The bill allows cities and counties to impose a sales tax, credited against the state tax, with the aim of attracting and retaining law enforcement officers. The funding structure is designed to ensure that over 50% of the generated revenue goes directly towards hiring and retaining officers. The remaining portion contributes to broader criminal justice efforts, supporting activities that significantly assist the criminal justice system. 

House Bill 2220 provides clearer guidelines for the justice system. The bill addresses various aspects, including criminal history, domestic violence definitions, and drug offenses. Overall, it aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding violent offenses and improve the state’s ability to address criminal activities effectively. 

House Bill 2390 focuses on penalties related to eluding police vehicles and resisting arrest. The bill establishes procedures for the seizure, impoundment, redemption, and forfeiture of vehicles used in the crime of Attempting to Elude a Police Vehicle. The bill gives the court discretion on electronic monitoring requirements and aims to strike a balance between public safety and individual rights. The legislation contributes to building trust between communities and law enforcement, addressing a critical aspect of overall public safety. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement–please don’t hesitate to reach out.  

Sincerely,