Dear friends and neighbors,
As we move through October, I’m reflecting on how much we accomplish when we come together as a community – whether that’s standing up for public education, preparing for emergencies, or ensuring every family has access to safe, stable housing and healthcare. This month’s updates highlight how we’re working together to protect and strengthen Washington’s future – from classrooms to neighborhoods to local clinics.
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Chat with Cindy and Gerry: Standing Up for Public Education
Thank you to everyone who joined Rep. Gerry Pollet and I for our recent Chat with Cindy & Gerry! We had a great discussion with community members about protecting and strengthening our public education system — a value we both hold dear. Your questions, ideas, and advocacy help us ensure every child in Washington has access to a high-quality education.
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Guidance and Resources During the Federal Government Shutdown
As the federal government shutdown continues, many Washingtonians are feeling the effects — including federal employees, contractors, and families who rely on federal services. The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) is working to assist and protect consumers during this time.
For Financial Institutions: DFI’s Director, Charlie Clark, has issued guidance encouraging banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions to work compassionately with customers who may be struggling due to missed paychecks or layoffs. You can read the full letter and guidance here:
For Federal Workers and Families: If you are a federal employee, contractor, or anyone facing financial hardship as a result of the shutdown, DFI has compiled a list of financial assistance resources and programs that may be available to you.
👉 Government Shutdown: Financial Resources for Federal Workers
Stay Vigilant: Watch Out for Scams Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage of times like these. DFI warns that some may impersonate government agencies such as the Social Security Administration, Medicare, IRS, or the Department of Veterans Affairs — or claim to represent nonprofits offering financial aid. Please be cautious before sharing any personal or financial information.
👉DFI Warns Consumers to Beware of Government Shutdown Scammers
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Great ShakeOut: Building Resilience Together
October is Earthquake Preparedness Month in Washington, which means it’s time once again for the Great Washington ShakeOut! Each year, people across the state take part in this statewide drill to practice how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”—the best way to stay safe during an earthquake.
Here in our district, we know that emergency preparedness isn’t just a statewide concern—it’s local. Being ready for natural disasters helps keep our families and communities safe. The ShakeOut is a great reminder to review your emergency kits, communication plans, and resources.
You can find excellent tips, printable checklists, and preparedness guides at mil.wa.gov/personal.
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🏡 Housing Affordability: New Laws You Should Know
This year we passed some of the strongest housing reforms in Washington’s history—designed to keep renters in their homes and make it easier to build the housing we need. Here’s what’s now in effect and how you can learn more:
Rent Stabilization – HB 1217
Effective May 7, 2025
- Caps most rent increases at no more than 7% plus inflation (max 10%) each year.
- Requires 90 days’ written notice before any increase.
- Bans rent hikes in the first 12 months of a lease.
- Gives tenants the right to challenge unlawful increases or end a lease early if an illegal hike is imposed.
📄 Know Your Rights flyer (Attorney General)
More Housing, Lower Costs – effective July 27, 2025
- SB 5184 – Parking Reform: Cities can no longer force large amounts of off-street parking, cutting a hidden cost that drives up rent and home prices.
- HB 1353 – Faster ADU Permits: Lets architects self-certify plans for backyard cottages and other accessory dwelling units, speeding up approvals.
- HB 1096 – Lot Splitting: Makes it easier for property owners to divide a lot and add a second home.
- SB 5471 – Middle Housing: Allows duplexes, triplexes, and other small “missing-middle” homes in more unincorporated growth areas.
📎 Learn more: Washington Legislature Bill Info (search by bill number)
Together, these reforms help stabilize rent, reduce development costs, and open the door to more housing choices—so that families, seniors, and young people alike can afford to call Washington home.
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💉 Expanding Access to Vaccines: Protecting Kids & Our Community
Cold and flu season is upon us! Every child deserves to start the school year healthy and protected. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to keep our classrooms safe, prevent outbreaks, and protect vulnerable kids.
That’s why Washington has joined the Western States Pact for vaccines—a partnership with Oregon, California, and Hawai’i to secure a stable supply of safe, effective vaccines and to share science-based guidance across state lines. By working together, our states are pushing back against the dangerous spread of misinformation and making sure every family has access to the care they need.
Here in Washington, we are standing firm:
- Investing in public health infrastructure so vaccines and preventive care are available in every community.
- Supporting schools and local clinics to ensure children can get the immunizations they need before stepping into the classroom.
- Fighting disinformation and protecting science-based policy so families can trust the care they receive.
As parents and neighbors, we each play a part. Check your child’s vaccination records and make sure they’re up to date before school activities and fall sports begin. You can find locations and guidance on the Washington State Department of Health’s vaccine resources page.
By standing together, we protect not only our kids but the health and resilience of the entire community.
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Thank you, as always, for staying informed and engaged. Your voices, stories, and advocacy guide the work we do in Olympia and here at home. Whether we’re tackling affordability, expanding access to healthcare, or preparing our communities for the unexpected, I’m continually inspired by your commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Washington.
In service,
Rep. Cindy Ryu
