Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We’re one third of the way through this year’s legislative session, so here’s an update on what’s happening down in Olympia.
Policy Cutoff is Coming
You may start hearing about bills that “died,” during the session. That’s likely referring to our first deadline of the session that’s happening this week, it’s called “policy cutoff” and it’s happening on Feb. 21 this year. This is important because any bill that changes state policy must pass out of committee. Any idea that doesn’t pass by Feb. 21 can’t get a vote on the House Floor. The only exceptions are bills that raise or spend money. You can keep track of my bills here, but of course I’ll always update you on our progress.
Bill Update
Here’s an update on a few of my bills making their way through the legislature.
HB 1125 – This bill would provide defense counsel with an opportunity to petition for a sentence review on behalf of their clients under certain circumstances. They must meet a number of eligibility requirements. This is an option that prosecutors already have, so this bill will simply establish a process for the other party to do the same. This bill has passed out of policy committee and is being considered in the House Appropriations committee on Saturday, February 22nd. . You can read more about this bill and how it can improve our criminal justice system in this article in the Seattle Times.
HB 1196 – This bill would define an “infamous crime” as a crime punishable by death. Currently, people convicted of infamous crimes have their right to vote revoked, however there is no definition of what constitutes an “infamous crime” so virtually everyone in prison in Washington has their right to vote taken away. By defining an “infamous crime” as only one that is punishable by death, many people convicted of crimes could retain their right to vote and maintain a critical connection to their communities that supports their rehabilitation. This bill has passed out of policy committee and is under consideration for further debate on the House floor.
HB 1743 – This bill would create opportunities for community-based health care providers to provide health care inside jails, instead of relying solely on large third-party providers. It will do this by providing a state funded medical malpractice claim reimbursement program for these organizations, making them more attractive options as contractors for correctional facilities. This bill is a top priority for Kitsap County because of the rising costs of our jail healthcare. It has been wonderful working with leaders from our district, including Commissioner Christine Rolfes, to keep this bill moving through the process.
Supporting Rent Stabilization
I want to thank my constituent, Sarah Eubank, for coming down to Olympia to share her story and advocate on behalf of rent stabilization. I am committed to supporting policies that make Washington a more affordable place to live, and your stories are critical to making that happen. Listen to Sarah’s story here.
Recognizing Day of the 12s – Go Hawks!
Recently, I was excited to co-sponsor House Bill 1759, to designate December 12th the Day of the 12s as a tribute to our dedicated Seahawks fanbase, celebrating the passionate community that comes together during football season to cheer on the Seattle Seahawks.
Washington boasts some of the most passionate and dedicated sports fans in the world. We are known as the “12s,” and we bring an unmatched energy to the game, making our presence feel like an extra player on the field. We’ve been filling the stands since 1976, creating an electrifying atmosphere in support of our team. On December 15, 1984, the Seahawks made history as the first NFL team to retire a jersey number in honor of their fans. Since then, the number 12 belongs to us forever.
We are the proud, loud 12s who have twice set the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at a sporting event. But beyond the roar in the stadium, we, as the 12s, have forged deep connections within the Washington community. When we wear the iconic blue and green, we stand together regardless of where we live, what language we speak, or where we were born. We are proof that collective passion can create a powerful impact. This bill is now on its way to the Senate for consideration. Go Hawks!
As the session continues, I look forward to updating you on these bills and others.
Sincerely,
Rep. Tarra Simmons