Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This session is packed with opportunities to advance innovative policies, support our communities, and make meaningful change for Washingtonians. I want to share updates from Olympia and the important work happening in the Technology, Economic Development, and Veterans (TEDV) Committee. Here’s what we’ve been up to so far!
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FIFA World Cup Tickets: Be Aware of Scams!
Excitement is building for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and as a host city, Seattle is ready to shine on the world stage. However, I must warn you: tickets are not yet available for purchase. If you see any advertisements or offers online claiming to sell tickets, these are scams. Please do not buy anything until FIFA officially announces ticket sales. Let’s stay vigilant and ensure our community doesn’t fall victim to fraud.
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Protecting Immigrant Students
Our state continues to lead with compassion and inclusivity, and Superintendent Chris Reykdal’s recent message highlights this commitment. Public schools have a constitutional and moral obligation to provide a free, high-quality public education to all students residing within their boundaries. Washington state is protecting immigrant students, regardless of their citizenship status, ensuring all children feel safe, supported, and welcome. I’m proud to live in a state that values equity and opportunity for all.
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Celebrating Culture and Community
Kimchi Day
One of my favorite parts of this session is seeing the ways we celebrate our diverse communities. I introduced a bill to establish November 22 as Kimchi Day in Washington State! Kimchi is a beloved Korean dish with a long, rich history that represents resilience, tradition, and health. It’s wonderful to see how this recognition honors not only Korean Americans but the broader multicultural fabric of our state. Let’s come together to celebrate and embrace the richness of our shared heritage.
Happy Lunar New Year!
Today, we come together to celebrate the Year of the Snake for Lunar New Year, a cherished tradition in our diverse Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. The snake symbolizes wisdom, calmness, and transformation. This year, let us embrace these qualities and take January 29th as an opportunity to learn more about the invaluable contributions of AANHPI communities while participating in local celebrations.
Last year, Rep. Thai introduced House Bill 2209, which the Governor enacted, making Lunar New Year a legislatively recognized holiday. To honor the first Lunar New Year since its passage, she is hosting a celebration at the state capitol on February 4th!
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Big Changes in the TEDV Committee
This year, we’re making history by consolidating all technology-related issues into my committee—TEDV! This streamlining means we’ll have a more focused and coordinated approach to tackling critical topics like artificial intelligence, data privacy, and innovative economic development. Technology is advancing rapidly, and I’m committed to ensuring we lead in ways that prioritize transparency, accountability, and equity.
What We’re Working On
The legislative session is off to a productive start. Here’s what we’re currently working on in committee:
Regulating Artificial Intelligence (AI):
- Empowering Washington with transparency about artificial intelligence tools, ensuring public understanding of this rapidly evolving technology (HB 1168).
- Protecting consumers with clear notifications when AI-generated content is in use, fostering trust and transparency (HB 1170).
Emergency Response:
- Supporting families by requiring emergency shelters to accommodate pets during crises, keeping loved ones together (HB 1201).
- Enhancing state fire services for rapid deployment, improving safety during emergencies (HB 1271).
Strengthening Our Economy
- Investing in innovative business development strategies (HB 1245).
- Positioning Washington as a leader in quantum technology through strategic economic development (HB 1360).
- Partnering with local organizations to spur economic growth and development in our communities (HB 1406).
- Securing sustainable funding for community projects to improve local infrastructure and services (HB 1408).
- Boosting Washington’s tourism industry with programs to attract visitors and support local businesses (HB 1437).
- Crafting a forward-thinking economic development plan to ensure Washington’s continued prosperity (HB 1595).
- Helping Washington access federal funding opportunities to maximize resources for sta te programs (SHB 1057).
Empowering Consumers and Community
- Expanding the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee to better meet the needs of our service members and their families (HB 1541).
- Expanding critical services for veterans and their families, honoring their sacrifices with real support (SHB 1102).
- Supporting National Guard retention programs to strengthen our state’s emergency response capabilities (HB 1073).
Join or View Our Work Sessions
Want to see your government in action? Our committee has held work sessions on critical topics like artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. These sessions are open to the public, and I encourage you to tune in and stay informed:
- Coming up on 2/5: Agencies and Technology – watch on TVW
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Cryptocurrency ATMs and Consumer Protection
A concerning trend has emerged involving cryptocurrency ATMs, which are often unregulated and vulnerable to scams. Seniors, in particular, have been targeted by bad actors exploiting these machines. Without FDIC insurance or accountability measures, users are at significant risk. This session, I’m keeping a close eye on legislation to address these gaps and protect Washingtonians from financial harm.
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It’s an honor to serve as your representative, and I’m committed to keeping you informed and engaged. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with your questions, concerns, or ideas. Together, we can make our communities and state stronger.
Warm regards,
