Dear neighbors,
The 2025 legislative session has ended, and it was one of the most challenging budget years in recent memory. Despite this, I’m proud to report that we passed balanced and responsible budgets which reflect the values of the 10th District and the needs of working Washingtonians.
As your representative, I fought to preserve essential services. This year brought budget shortfalls in both operating and transportation accounts, but we stood firm protecting investments in schools, housing, healthcare, ferries, and jobs. We rejected shortsighted rollbacks and prioritized long-term progress. It was also a session of profound loss. We mourned the passing of former Speaker Frank Chopp and Senator Bill Ramos – leaders whose legacies live on in our collective work for equity, opportunity, and community.
Investing in Education & Workforce Pathways
As Chair of the House Postsecondary Education & Workforce Committee, I advanced legislation that removes barriers and builds economic mobility. From expanding College Bound Scholarships (SB 5543) to improving career and technical education (CTE) credit transfers (HB 1273), we’re making higher education and job training more accessible and more affordable for all. Read more about our work on education in my recent article to the South Whidbey Record.
A Sustainable, Reliable Ferry System
Our ferries are lifelines. This year’s transportation budget invests heavily in vessel construction, hybrid-electric upgrades, and workforce stability (SB 5161, HB 1264). Thanks to new revenue tools (SB 5801), we’re safeguarding long-term service and maritime jobs. As Co-Chair of the Ferry Caucus, I will continue to lead efforts to improve our ferry system in the 2026 session.
Tackling the Housing Crisis
We passed major housing reforms, including rent stabilization (HB 1217), middle housing expansion (SB 5471), and transit-oriented development (HB 1491). I’m especially proud of my bill, HB 1791, which gives cities new flexibility to fund affordable housing and homelessness services using existing REET funds. This means no new taxes, just better tools.
Local Wins
This year’s capital and transportation budgets brought significant funding for communities across our district:
These investments strengthen infrastructure, protect our environment, and improve lives across Island, Skagit, and Snohomish counties.
Healthcare Affordability & Access
Healthcare costs remain a top concern for our community. That’s why I championed HB 1979 in 2024 to cap inhaler and EpiPen costs at $35. We also improved crisis response (HB 1811), strengthened behavioral health coverage (HB 1432), and promoted transparency in healthcare mergers (HB 1686).
A Safer, Healthier Community
Through HB 2015, we invested over $200 million into community reinvestment, law enforcement training, reentry services, and youth diversion programs. I believe by focusing on prevention and restorative justice, we can put community needs first and keep our district a safe place to thrive.
Keep In Touch
Thank you to everyone who reached out, came to a town hall, or shared your story. Please continue to reach out to me to share your priorities, concerns, and ideas on how we can continue to improve our community!
As always, it’s an honor to serve as your state representative.
Sincerely,
