Dear friends and neighbors,
As we approach sine die, (which is the Latin term for our last day of session) I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work that still needs to be done. It has been an honor to represent you and to work alongside my colleagues to pass meaningful legislation that will improve the lives of Washingtonians. I am proud of what we have accomplished so far and excited to see what else we can achieve. Thank you for your continued support and engagement in this important work.
Keeping Families Housed and Communities Strong: Celebrating Progress on ADU Access and Affordability
I wanted to take a moment to share with you some news from Olympia. While my own bill regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) did not move forward this session, I am happy to report that Senator Kuderer’s bill, Senate Bill 5045, was voted off the House Floor. This new policy builds on a current tax exemption opportunity for those thinking of remodeling to add a mother-in-law apartment or a detached ADU. The bill establishes a pilot program for King County whereby ADU property owners who rent to low-income families will be given a property tax exemption for the unit for as long as it is rented to those making 60% of area median income or less. This policy will help to keep working families housed while also giving owners a property tax break. It is an important step towards addressing the affordable housing crisis in our state.
As someone who has been advocating for more affordable housing options for years, I am pleased to see this legislation move forward. While there is still much work to be done, this bill is a step in the right direction towards providing housing stability for all Washingtonians.
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Bingo Bill Passes Legislature: One Step Closer to More Charitable Gaming in Washington
House bill 1707 is a small and simple bill that will have big impact on people in our district who engage with our fantastic Northshore Senior Center and other nonprofit organizations that utilize bingo to bring people together for fun and socialization. By eliminating the current requirement that bingo must be conducted only in the county where the organization is principally located, more organizations across the state will be able to participate and benefit from this fundraising activity. The bill also adds a requirement that the organization conducting bingo must be located in Washington and limits them to no more than three licenses to conduct bingo. This bill has passed in the State Legislature and only needs the governor’s signature to become law. Stay tuned for updates on its progress!
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Building Resilience: Highlights from the Washington State Operating Budget
Resilient Washington operating budget is proposing significant investments to support equity, improve access to vital services, protect the environment, reduce poverty and homelessness, promote public safety, and ensure that individuals and families have the support they need to thrive. Here’s a look at our 2023-2025 investments:
$991 million for public health and healthcare: these investments reflect the state’s commitment to equity, access to healthcare services, and the protection of public health during emergencies. By providing healthcare options for undocumented individuals, affordable healthcare for low-income families, and adequate compensation for healthcare providers, the state is working to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need. Additionally, funding for foundational public health and reproductive care grants shows the state’s dedication to preventive care and women’s health.
$1.8 billion for natural resource protection: we’re investing in the values of environmental sustainability and stewardship by protecting and preserving biodiversity, promoting forest health and wildfire protection, and controlling invasive species to ensure the ecological and economic well-being of the state’s natural resources.
$528 million for housing and homelessness: everyone needs a home. We’re providing comprehensive support to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or financial hardship through increased funding for homeless and housing service contracts, providing housing and essential needs, expanding encampment response, and supporting local government planning for housing, children, and youth homelessness.
$316 million for the Climate Commitment Act: this funding supports initiatives that promote sustainability, environmental justice, and renewable energy, which are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and promoting a healthy and sustainable future for all.
$1.9 billion for k-12 education: we’re providing fair and equal opportunities for all students, by ensuring educators are compensated and supported, supporting students with disabilities through special education funding, and providing free meals to help students focus and succeed.
$1.3 billion investment for behavioral health: we’re supporting access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment and recovery services, including increased rates for providers and investments in behavioral health beds. This investment also prioritizes care for vulnerable populations, such as children with complex needs, and supports the workers who provide these critical services.
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As we enter the final stretch of the legislative session, I want to remind you that your engagement and advocacy are critical to our success. We still have important work to do, and I remain committed to fighting for the issues that matter most to our community. I encourage you to stay tuned for updates on our progress and to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns.
Thank you again for your support, and let’s continue to work together to build a brighter future for all Washingtonians.
Sincerely,
Rep. Shelley Kloba