33rd LD Update: Engaging our kids in the legislative process

April 7, 2025

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Before I get into the latest on what’s happening in Olympia, I want to quickly thank all of you who joined me, Rep. Mia Gregerson and Sen. Tina Orwall at our recent town hall. It was fantastic to see so many people turnout and to hear your concerns. I received many thoughtful questions that sparked important conversations about the issues that matter most to our community.

Your voices help shape my work in Olympia, and I look forward to continuing the conversation. If you couldn’t make it, my door is always open — learn more about how to get in touch with my office here.

Check Out my Latest Interview

I recently sat down with the House Democratic Caucus Podcast ‘Capitol Ideas.’ We talked about my journey to the legislature, what the past six months have been like, and the policies I’m pursuing and supporting. It’s a fun conversation and I hope you’ll take a listen – just click the image below.

Bill Update

Three of my bills are currently under consideration by the Senate – inching closer and closer to the governor’s desk. I’ve shared information about two of them before: HB 1332 which helps rideshare drivers gain better access to their rideshare data and have more control over their earning potential, and HB 1524 which expands and strengthens protections for isolated workers like janitors, housekeepers, and security guards.

One bill that I haven’t talked about as much is HB 1490. This bill makes some important changes to help ensure protections for elders, people with disabilities, and youth in our communities. It does this by clarifying and outlining who needs a federal background check in order to work in certain facilities and brings Washington into compliance with federal requirements. it also includes background check requirements for those working at the Lake Burien Transitional Care Facility for Youth. It’s critical that we update our laws to ensure that qualified and trusted people are hired to work with our most vulnerable populations. With less than four weeks left in the legislative session, I look forward to pushing this legislation over the finish line.

Getting Our Kids Involved

It’s always such a pleasure to see young people engaged in the legislative process. Recently, I had the privilege of sponsoring Arvin Minhas, a student at Choice Academy, as a page in the Washington State House of Representatives. Arvin, the child of Gurinder and Simarpreet Minhas of Burien, has a keen interest in history, politics, and business—making him a great fit for this unique experience!

During his time at the Capitol, Arvin took on important responsibilities, from presenting the flags to delivering messages on the House floor and assisting in the daily operations of the Legislature. He also had the opportunity to dive into civic education and participate in a mock committee hearing.

Thank you, Arvin, for your hard work and dedication! It was an honor to have you serve as a page. I look forward to seeing where your passion for learning takes you next!

Learn more about the page program and how to get involved here

LYAC Applications are Open!

Here is another opportunity for young people to get in on the action.

The Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) is the only nonpartisan youth-led committee, established by state law in 2005 to represent the official voice of Washington youth to the Legislature. It is entirely student-led and administered by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Washington State Leadership Board.

The deadline to submit application packets is April 30. Go to the applications site to see if you or someone you know meets the qualification requirements.

Teens ages 14-18 from a wide variety of geographic, political, and socioeconomic backgrounds get the chance, among other things, to:

  • Meet with legislators to advocate for issues relevant to Washington’s youth.
  • Testify before committee for or against a bill.
  • Advise government officials, policymakers, and leaders in various fields.
  • Collaborate with nearly 200 community organizations to promote statewide change.
  • Talk with media outlets about student voice.
  • Write bills.
  • Make sure youth are at the table when decisions are being made.

I hope you or someone you know is able to take advantage of these incredible and impactful opportunities to get to know how our laws are made and how leadership works in Washington.

That’s all for now. Stay tuned for my next legislative update!

Sincerely,

Rep. Edwin Obras