A Major Loss for Washingtonians; Advancing Road Safety; New Housing Laws Now in Effect

Dear neighbors, 

From campus conversations on hazing prevention to community partnerships delivering new housing, this season has been filled with meaningful moments and progress for the 28th District. I’m excited to share a few highlights with you. 

Advancing Road Safety: National Workshop on Super Speeders

I was honored to join survivors, advocates, and lawmakers from across the country for the Stop Super Speeders workshop, hosted by Families for Safe Streets. I shared the story behind Washington’s new BEAM Act, which uses Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) to stop the most dangerous repeat speeders before more lives are lost. 

Listening to survivors turn their heartbreak into action was a powerful reminder: Stories change policy. Together, we’re making our roads safer—for every family, every neighborhood, every traveler. 

• Watch a short video from the event
• Learn more: familiesforsafestreets.org 

Standing Up Against Hazing: UW Anti-Hazing Summit

As a legislator, educator, and parent, I’ve seen how devastating hazing can be. That’s why I’ve worked with students and families to pass some of the strongest anti-hazing laws in the country—laws that promote transparency, accountability, and student safety. 

The University of Washington recently hosted a powerful summit with students, campus leaders, and national experts. Together, we’re building a culture where every student is safe and respected. Hazing has no place in our schools, on our campuses, or in our communities. 

• Learn more: https://www.washington.edu/hazingprevention/2025-pnw-anti-hazing-summit/  

Pathways to Postsecondary Success (FAFSA, Financial Aid, and Graduations)

This summer, I’ve had the joy of celebrating with students across our district—from kindergarten grads to Tacoma Community College students crossing the stage with pride and purpose. I’m so proud of every single one of you. 

But we know a diploma is just one part of the journey. That’s why we’ve been working hard to expand access to financial aid, apprenticeships, and career-connected learning so every student in the 28th has a path forward. 

The Washington College Grant now permanently covers up to 60% of median family income, helping more students afford not just college—but also apprenticeships, technical training, and workforce certificates. 

Don’t forget to file your FAFSA or WASFA! Many families don’t think they qualify for aid—but most do. 

Apply and learn more: wsac.wa.gov 

Together, we’re breaking down barriers to postsecondary success—and building a future where every student has a chance to thrive. 

New Housing Laws Now in Effect; Affordable Housing in Lakewood

Washington’s newest housing reforms have gone into effect to increase affordability and support smarter development. In addition, to make historic investments in the Housing Trust Fund, here are some bill highlights that got done: 

I also joined local partners in Lakewood to celebrate a brand-new affordable housing project—proof that when we work together, we can build the kind of communities where people of all incomes can live with dignity. 

We’re delivering millions in housing grants to Pierce County, ensuring new projects reflect our shared priorities. 

Spotlight: Supporting Washington’s Maritime Industry

This summer, I had the opportunity to join my colleagues in the Maritime Caucus for a tour of Nordlund, a key player in Washington’s shipbuilding industry. Seeing their operations up close was a powerful reminder of how vital maritime jobs are to our state’s economy and workforce. 

 Washington is home to one-quarter of all U.S. shipyards, making shipbuilding, ferries, fishing, and trade essential to keeping our communities connected and our economy thriving. 

I’ll continue engaging with our maritime partners to better understand their needs and to champion policies that strengthen this critical industry for years to come.