Dear neighbors,
The 2025 legislative session was one of the most challenging we’ve faced in years—but also one of the most important.
Despite a significant budget shortfall and growing uncertainty at the federal level, I remained focused on doing what I’ve always believed in: delivering for Washington families, protecting what matters most, and making smart, people-first policy decisions. As Chair of the House Technology, Economic Development, and Veterans (TEDV) Committee, I was proud to help lead that work.
We’re now in the interim, the period between legislative sessions. Although we’re not actively voting on bills during this time, my work as your State Representative continues—meeting with constituents, preparing future legislation, visiting local programs and businesses, and responding to federal policies that affect our state. If you’d like to connect or share an issue you’re facing, my office is always available to help. You’ll find my contact information at the end of this newsletter.
Here’s a look at some of what we accomplished this year:
💰 A Carefully Balanced Budget
Crafting this year’s budget required extraordinary care and collaboration. With limited revenue and increased needs across our communities, we approached the process with diligence, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose. Every dollar in the final budget reflects thoughtful balancing—protecting vital services like housing, health care, and education while preparing for an uncertain fiscal future. It’s a budget rooted in values, not austerity—and has now been signed into law by the Governor.
🔧 Innovation, Economic Development & Sustainability
As Chair of the TEDV Committee, I focused on making Washington a better place to live and work, with strong support for consumers, veterans, and local communities.
Some highlights from our committee this year:
- HB 1483 – Right to Repair: Gives consumers the ability to repair their digital devices—saving money, reducing e-waste, and limiting corporate overreach.
- HB 1102 – Supporting Veterans: Expands resources to help veterans access health care, transition to civilian life, and find good-paying jobs.
- HB 1271 – Strengthening Fire Services: Improves emergency coordination so our fire departments have the tools and support they need.
🏠 Big Wins for Renters and Housing Justice
The cost of housing remains one of the biggest issues facing working families. That’s why one of our very first votes this session was on rent stabilization—and after years of grassroots advocacy and near misses, we got it done. The final bill will bring real relief to renters and manufactured homeowners across the state.
We also passed:
- HB 1491 – Transit-Oriented Development: More homes near transit, more sustainable communities.
- Continued historic investments in affordable housing, building on years of progress in expanding supply and keeping people housed.
🌍 Protecting Our Climate, Health, and Rights
Washington has long been a national leader in climate action—and this year, we defended that legacy and expanded it.
- Clean Fuels & Climate Commitment Act updates ensure we stay on track to reduce emissions and protect our air and water.
- As mentioned above, we passed a Right to Repair bill to fight waste and corporate overreach while helping consumers save money and reduce e-waste.
- And we beat back dangerous Republican attempts to roll back gun safety laws, restrict reproductive freedom, and attack the rights of trans and immigrant communities.
🧒 Investing in Kids, Schools, and Economic Security
We fought hard for a budget that reflected our priorities, not austerity. The final operating budget prioritized food, shelter, health care, and education—especially for our most vulnerable neighbors.
- We eliminated the cap on special education funding, so all kids can get the support they deserve.
- We protected our progress in early learning and childcare, even in tough fiscal conditions.
- We honored our promises to state workers and made smart investments in community safety and local law enforcement—without turning our backs on equity or accountability.
🚍 Sustainable Transportation for the Future
In memory of our late colleague Sen. Bill Ramos, a transportation champion, we passed a $15.45 billion transportation budget focused on:
- Maintenance and preservation
- Ferry system improvements
- Climate-smart investments in long-term decarbonization
We kept the wheels turning—literally—while staying rooted in our climate goals and equity values.
🛑 Stopping Harmful Policies in Their Tracks
Not all wins are bills passed—some are bad ideas prevented. This session, House Democrats stopped attempts to:
- Freeze the minimum wage
- Ban gender-affirming care
- Defund public schools and eliminate the Office of Equity
- Repeal climate protections and workers’ rights
- Replace real government with gimmicks like a “DOGE” department modeled after Elon Musk’s failed federal experiment
Without Democratic majorities, many of these dangerous ideas might have moved forward. We stood firm.
📊 By the Numbers
✅ 421 bills passed
✅ 65% received 80%+ bipartisan support
✅ Zero tolerance for cuts that hurt people—our budgets reflect our values
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💬 Interim: Let’s Keep in Touch
Although we’re not in Olympia, I’m working year-round to represent you. This interim is when I:
- Meet with individuals, community leaders, and stakeholders
- Review current and consider new policy ideas to prepare for the 2026 session
- Monitor how recently passed laws are being implemented
- Stay responsive to changes at the federal level
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s an issue I can help with, or if your organization would like to meet. I want to hear from you.
📧 Email me
📞 Phone: (360) 786-7880
I’m looking forward to seeing many of you in the district over the summer and fall. Thank you for your continued engagement, and for trusting me to serve our vibrant and diverse community.
Warm regards,
Rep. Cindy Ryu
