Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we move through the legislative session, I want to take a moment to connect with you, share updates on recent progress, and ensure you have important resources at your fingertips.
Upcoming Town Hall – Join the Conversation!
I invite you to join me for an upcoming Town Hall Meeting where I’ll provide updates on legislative priorities, answer your questions, and hear about the issues most important to you.
⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Call In Number: 855-756-7520, Ext. 120782
Your voice matters, and I look forward to the discussion!
I’m excited to share that my bill, HB 1024, has successfully passed in the House with unanimous bipartisan support (97-0)! This legislation extends the maximum lease length for Saint Edward State Park from 62 years to 80 years, aligning it with other state park properties and making it more attractive for long-term investment.
Saint Edward State Park is a cherished community landmark with rich history and natural beauty. This bill ensures continued investment in the park’s preservation and development, supporting projects like the existing lodge, art gallery, and potential future amenities such as a Nordic spa. By extending the lease term, without changing the specified areas of the park that the lease is confined to, we can encourage responsible stewardship and economic growth while maintaining public access to this beloved space.
I appreciate the strong support from local leaders, including the City of Kenmore, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this legislation will have on our community.
For most people, gambling is a form of entertainment, but for some, it can become a serious problem that impacts relationships, finances, employment, and mental health. As we recognize Problem Gambling Awareness Month, I want to highlight the resources available to those who may be struggling and share the work I’ve done to address this issue.
One of my priorities in the Legislature has been to ensure that those affected by problem gambling have access to support and treatment. I’ve championed legislation to enhance funding for gambling addiction services, raise public awareness about gambling risks, and expand access to treatment programs. Notably, one of my bills led to the creation of a self-exclusion program—a valuable tool for treatment and recovery—allowing individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities statewide.
Additionally, I advocate for policies that hold gaming operators accountable for promoting responsible gambling and ensuring prevention efforts reach those most at risk.
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
- Washington State Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-547-6133 (available 24/7 via call, text, or chat)
- Treatment Services: Covered by Medicaid for Apple Health members
- More Resources: Visit the Washington State Health Care Authority website for additional support and information
As gambling opportunities continue to expand, it’s more important than ever to ensure that protections and support systems are in place. I remain committed to working with experts, community organizations, and state agencies to address problem gambling and protect those affected.
The deadline to comply with REAL ID requirements for air travel is fast approaching. Make sure you have the necessary documents to ensure smooth travel. You may already have one of these in your possession.
Accepted forms of ID include:
✔️ Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
✔️ U.S. Passport or Passport Card
✔️ Permanent Resident Card
For more details and to check if your ID meets the requirements, visit: REAL ID Information
Washington has long been a leader in protecting immigrant rights, ensuring our communities remain safe, inclusive, and supported. Thanks to the work of House Democrats, we continue to expand protections and resources for immigrants and their families.
New Action to Support Families
📢 Governor Ferguson recently signed an executive order creating a rapid response team to support children facing family separation. This critical step reinforces our state’s commitment to keeping families together and protecting vulnerable children.
🏛️ The Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs has also launched a rapid response hub to assist undocumented immigrants. This online resource provides essential legal, financial, and social service information to help families navigate these uncertain times.
Protecting Immigrant Students’ Rights
Every child in Washington deserves access to a safe, high-quality education, regardless of immigration status. As Superintendent Chris Reykdal recently reaffirmed, public schools have both a constitutional and moral obligation to serve all students.
✔️ Schools cannot deny admission based on immigration status or require Social Security numbers.
✔️ If federal authorities present a warrant, schools must notify families in advance unless legally prohibited.
📌 Know someone impacted by immigration policy changes? Share this DSHS resource link to help them access critical information.
Additional Legal Facts
You have the right to remain silent when questioned by immigration officials.
You do not have to open the door for ICE unless they present a warrant signed by a judge.
Reminder: Local police and schools are not immigration enforcement. Reach out if you need clarification or help regarding your rights.
The law prohibits local law enforcement agencies from using public funds or personnel to enforce federal immigration laws.
Law enforcement cannot ask about immigration status, detain individuals solely based on immigration status, or share non-public personal information with immigration authorities without a warrant.
As always, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or ideas.
Rep. Shelley Kloba
|
