Dear Neighbors,
As we move forward in this legislative session, I want to update you on the work I’m doing to ensure fairness in our economy, protect our communities, and continue Washington’s leadership in immigrant protections.
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Clarifying Alcohol Regulations for Caterers
I am sponsoring a bill to bring clarity and fairness to alcohol-related regulations for caterers. Under current law, the rules around alcohol service for catering businesses are inconsistent, creating unnecessary barriers and inequities. This legislation will level the playing field, ensuring that caterers can sell alcohol under a fair and equitable tax policy. I look forward to discussing this further in an upcoming video update.
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Natural Resource Management
Reforming the Fish and Wildlife Commission
Washington’s Fish and Wildlife Commission plays a crucial role in overseeing our state’s natural resources, but concerns have been raised about transparency, accountability, and balanced representation in decision-making. HB 1685 aims to modernize the commission by improving its governance structure, ensuring diverse stakeholder representation, and increasing public accountability. By reforming appointment processes and decision-making procedures, this bill seeks to create a more effective and responsive commission that better serves both conservation efforts and the interests of Washingtonians who rely on our natural resources.
Considering Grizzly Bear Reintroduction in the Cascades
I’m sponsoring HB 1825 to reintroduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades. This proposal has sparked conversations about conservation, ecosystem balance, and public safety. While no decision has been made, I am carefully weighing all perspectives to ensure that any action taken reflects the best interests of our environment and our communities.
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Washington Continues to Lead in Immigrant Protections
Washington has long been a leader in protecting immigrant rights, ensuring our communities remain safe, inclusive, and supported. House Democrats remain committed to expanding protections and resources for immigrants and their families.
New Actions to Support Families
Governor Ferguson recently signed an executive order creating a rapid response team to support children facing family separation. This critical step reinforces our state’s commitment to keeping families together and protecting vulnerable children.
The Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs has also launched a rapid response hub to assist undocumented immigrants. This online resource provides essential legal, financial, and social service information to help families navigate these uncertain times.
Protecting Immigrant Students’ Rights
Every child in Washington deserves access to a safe, high-quality education, regardless of immigration status. As Superintendent Chris Reykdal recently reaffirmed, public schools have both a constitutional and moral obligation to serve all students.
- Undocumented children have the legal right to attend public school under Plyler v. Doe (1982).
- ️ Schools cannot deny admission based on immigration status or require Social Security numbers.
- If federal authorities present a warrant, schools must notify families in advance unless legally prohibited.
Expanded Resources for Immigrants & Refugees
Washington remains a welcoming state for immigrants and refugees. The Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) at DSHS provides vital services, including:
Need help? Use ORIA’s resource tool to find services or visit a DSHS Community Service Office by searching your zip code, city, or county here.
Know someone impacted by immigration policy changes? Share this DSHS resource link to help them access critical information.
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Thank you for staying engaged. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback.
Best wishes,
State Representative Larry Springer
45th Legislative District