Dear Friends and Neighbors,
You may start hearing about bills that “died,” during the session. That’s likely referring to our First deadline of the session that’s happening this week, it’s called “policy cutoff” and it’s happening on Feb. 21 this year. This is important because any bill that changes state policy must pass out of committee. Any idea that doesn’t pass by Feb. 21 can’t get a vote on the House floor. The only exceptions are bills that raise or spend money. You can keep track of my bills here, but of course I’ll always update you on our progress.
Preparing for Policy Cutoff
I’m excited to share with you some of my bills that have recently been passed out of committee and made it past policy cutoff. They will now move to new committees for further consideration and potentially debate by the entire House.
✅Protecting Rideshare Drivers
First, I want to talk about HB 1332. Many rideshare drivers invest in vehicle upgrades, often taking out significant loans, in order take advantage of higher paying opportunities such as offering luxury rides for rideshare companies. I’ve heard of folks taking out as much as $70,000 to do this. However, many drivers have noticed that after they’ve made these investments, the companies will change their policies and drivers suddenly find that their vehicles no longer qualify for those higher paying opportunities. Not only do drivers have their earning potential cut, but they’re also left holding the note having to repay those costly loans.
Many of you, my constituents, explained to me how these sudden policy changes have impacted you and made it harder for you to make ends meet. My bill, HB 1332, will protect rideshare drivers from these practices that devalue the investments made in their businesses by requiring companies to be transparent in their policies, and that once vehicles have earned eligibility, they retain it regardless of policy changes.
✅Protecting Tipped Workers
Second, HB 1623 will prohibit employers from using any portion of a tip, gratuity, or service charge to cover the cost of credit card processing fees. It’s becoming more and more common for employers to pay for these fees by deducting the costs from workers’ tips, effectively creating a pay cut for tipped workers. Workers’ should not have to pay for the cost of doing business. This bill will help protect tipped workers by helping them keep the tips they’ve worked hard for, and help them maintain their ability to make ends meet.
✅Protecting Isolated Workers
Finally, I want to talk about HB 1524. This bill will enforce protections for housekeepers, security guards and janitors. It expands the definition of an ‘isolated employee’ to include additional types of work environments and establishes an enforcement mechanism to ensure previously enacted protections are followed. You can learn more about this bill in my latest video below.
I am honored to sponsor these bills, to elevate the experiences of our neighbors, and fight to get you the protections you deserve.
Designating 12/12 the Day of the 12s
Washington boasts some of the most passionate and dedicated sports fans in the world. We are known as the “12s,” and we bring an unmatched energy to the game, making our presence feel like an extra player on the field. We’ve been filling the stands since 1976, creating an electrifying atmosphere in support of our team. On December 15, 1984, the Seahawks made history as the first NFL team to retire a jersey number in honor of their fans. Since then, the number 12 belongs to us forever.
We are the proud, loud 12s who have twice set the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at a sporting event. But beyond the roar in the stadium, we, as the 12s, have forged deep connections within the Washington community. When we wear the iconic blue and green, we stand together regardless of where we live, what language we speak, or where we were born. We are proof that collective passion can create a powerful impact.
I am a proud co-sponsor of House Bill 1759, with which the legislature designates December 12th the Day of the 12s as a tribute to this dedicated fanbase, celebrating the passionate community that comes together during football season to cheer on the Seattle Seahawks. Go Hawks!
Celebrating Black History Month
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge Black History Month and the work that is being done to ensure all Washington residents, regardless of their race or ethnicity, have access to the rights and privileges of living in this great state.
Some of the most impactful legislation in our state has been brought forth by Black legislators. The first Black legislator, Rep. William Owen Bush (Thurston County), who served in Washington’s first legislative session in 1889, is most known for establishing an agricultural college in Eastern Washington that would later lead to the founding of Washington State University. Rep. Peggy Joan Maxie (D-Seattle) was the prime sponsor of the Landlord Tenant Act of 1973 which is arguably one of the most important pieces of housing legislation to pass in our state. Black legislators led the charge to make Martin Luther King Jr. Day a holiday in Washington.
I am inspired by the legacy and the contributions of these great legislators and the examples they have set for all of us. You can learn more about how House Democrats are acknowledging Black History Month here.
I am having a great time meeting with constituents and learning about the issues that matter most to you. As always do not hesitate to reach out to my office with your thoughts and opinions. Keep an eye out for my next legislative update!
Sincerely,
Rep. Edwin Obras