Dear Neighbors,
The 2026 legislative session began on Monday, January 12th, with opening ceremonies led by Speaker of the House Laurie Jinkins. In her opening address, Speaker Jinkins outlined the work ahead of us this session, reminding us of recent federal actions that are driving up costs while threatening health care, food assistance, climate progress, and civil rights for Washingtonians.
Despite these difficulties, my colleagues and I remain committed to protecting access to health care, food, housing, and public safety, while continuing to make progress on affordability, climate action, and a fairer tax system. Over the next sixty days, Washington will stand firm against federal overreach and remain focused on solutions that reflect our shared values. Click here to watch the opening ceremonies and remarks.
On Tuesday, Governor Ferguson provided a State of the State speech previewing his agenda, budget proposals, and key issues for the 2026 session. As we review the governor’s budget, finding solutions that align with Washington values will be our guiding light.
If there are bills you care about before the state legislature, consider getting involved! You can testify on bills in person or remotely, sign in for or against bills in committee, or submit testimony as part of the official legislative record.
Washington For All
Last year, the Office of Equity launched Washington for All, a one-stop hub connecting Washingtonians to essential resources across state government, philanthropy, and community organizations. The site makes it easier to find support for healthcare, housing, employment, legal aid, and food and nutrition, helping people access what they need to thrive. Washington for All also includes a feedback form where residents can share concerns with the Office of Equity, which are relayed to the Governor’s Office to help inform state action. Community members can also suggest additional resources for inclusion, ensuring the site continues to reflect the real needs of Washingtonians.
Priorities for 2026
This session, I am introducing a broad set of bills focused on public safety, worker protections, data privacy, and good governance. Legislation includes measures to regulate firearm manufacturing and require safeguards on 3D printers to prevent the production of illegal weapons, allow shared leave for workers impacted by immigration enforcement actions, strengthen privacy protections for residents, and improve access to workers’ compensation benefits. You can view all of the bills I am sponsoring and co-sponsoring here.
My office is here as a resource for you and your family. Often, we can help you directly, but if for some reason, we don’t have all the answers, we can connect with others who can help. Please continue to reach out, follow me on Facebook for the latest updates, and share your priorities by completing this survey. Your voice directly shapes the work being done this session.
In Service,
Representative Osman Salahuddin
48th Legislative District
P.S. It’s Blue Friday – Go Seahawks!
Happy Blue Friday, everyone! I am proud to be a co-sponsor of House Bill 1759, which would designate December 12th as the Day of the 12s. Hopefully this bill will make it to the Governor’s desk this year. Blitz and I are rooting for it and for the Seahawks tomorrow!