Last week, I was honored to join Tribal leaders, state officials, and community partners at the 2025 Centennial Accord — a cornerstone of Washington’s government-to-government relationship with sovereign Tribal Nations. 

Signed in 1989, the Centennial Accord established a framework for meaningful, respectful collaboration between Washington State and the 29 federally recognized Tribal Nations within our borders. Its principles were reaffirmed a decade later through the 1999 New Millennium Agreement, which strengthened our shared commitment to communication, consultation, and partnership. 

These agreements are not symbolic — they guide how we work together to protect our lands, waters, and communities. They ensure that Tribal sovereignty is honored, that consultation is real, and that our shared stewardship of Washington’s future continues to grow. 

Building on that legacy, Governor Ferguson recently issued Executive Order 25-10 on Tribal Relations, reaffirming the state’s commitment to robust government-to-government consultation and stronger partnerships with Tribal Nations.

Over the years, I’ve been proud to champion bills that help institutionalize the spirit of the Centennial Accord within the Legislature itself. Two of these efforts include: 

• HB 1640 (2022) – Creating the Joint Legislative Tribal–State Relations Committee, which provides a formal, bipartisan forum for dialogue and collaboration between Tribal Nations and the Legislature. 

• Legislative Office on Indian Affairs (2025 draft) – A proposal to establish a permanent legislative office dedicated to advancing cultural awareness, strengthening communication, and ensuring our policymaking reflects the government-to-government relationship. 

As I meet with Tribal Chairs and leaders this week, I’m listening closely to the calls to action coming from our Native Nations — calls to continue improving consultation, coordination, and shared governance. I’m excited to share that new legislation is being developed for the 2026 session, inspired directly by these conversations and the lessons of the 2025 Centennial Accord. 

As the federal government shutdown continues, many Washingtonians are feeling the effects — including federal employees, contractors, and families who rely on federal services. The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) is working to assist and protect consumers during this time. 

For Financial Institutions:

DFI’s Director, Charlie Clark, has issued guidance encouraging banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to work compassionately with customers who may be struggling due to missed paychecks or layoffs. You can read the full letter and guidance here:

👉 Guidance for Washington State Chartered and Licensed Entities Responding to the Federal Government Shutdown 

For Federal Workers and Families:

If you are a federal employee, contractor, or anyone facing financial hardship as a result of the shutdown, DFI has compiled a list of financial assistance resources and programs that may be available to you.

👉 Government Shutdown: Financial Resources for Federal Workers 

Stay Vigilant: Watch Out for Scams:

Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage of times like these. DFI warns that some may impersonate government agencies such as the Social Security Administration, Medicare, IRS, or the Department of Veterans Affairs — or claim to represent nonprofits offering financial aid. Please be cautious before sharing any personal or financial information.

👉DFI Warns Consumers to Beware of Government Shutdown Scammers 

October is Earthquake Preparedness Month in Washington, which means it’s time once again for the Great Washington ShakeOut! Each year, people across the state take part in this statewide drill to practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”—the best way to stay safe during an earthquake. 

Here in our district, we know that emergency preparedness isn’t just a statewide concern—it’s local. Being ready for natural disasters helps keep our families and communities safe. The ShakeOut is a great reminder to review your emergency kits, communication plans, and resources. 

You can find excellent tips, printable checklists, and preparedness guides at mil.wa.gov/personal. 

Together, these reforms help stabilize rent, reduce development costs, and open the door to more housing choices—so that families, seniors, and young people alike can afford to call Washington home. 

Cold and flu season is upon us! Every child deserves to start the school year healthy and protected. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to keep our classrooms safe, prevent outbreaks, and protect vulnerable kids. 

That’s why Washington has joined the Western States Pact for vaccines—a partnership with Oregon, California, and Hawai’i to secure a stable supply of safe, effective vaccines and to share science-based guidance across state lines. By working together, our states are pushing back against the dangerous spread of misinformation and making sure every family has access to the care they need. 

Here in Washington, we are standing firm: 

• Investing in public health infrastructure so vaccines and preventive care are available in every community. 

• Supporting schools and local clinics to ensure children can get the immunizations they need before stepping into the classroom. 

• Fighting disinformation and protecting science-based policy so families can trust the care they receive. 

As parents and neighbors, we each play a part. Check your child’s vaccination records and make sure they’re up to date before school activities and fall sports begin. You can find locations and guidance on the Washington State Department of Health’s vaccine resources page. 

By standing together, we protect not only our kids but the health and resilience of the entire community.