State Budget Updates + Good News for Wildfire Mitigation

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent town hall. I truly appreciate you taking the time to come out, ask thoughtful questions, and share your concerns. 

We covered a wide range of issues, from health care access and school funding to how Washington state is responding to actions by the federal government that are creating uncertainty for families, small businesses, and local communities. I heard clearly that people are worried about affordability, stability, and whether essential services will be there when they’re needed. 

Those concerns are front and center as we finalize our supplemental budgets. 

This year’s supplemental operating budget reflects a challenging reality. Revenue growth has slowed, costs for services are rising, and federal decisions, including new tariffs and the impacts of H.R. 1, are shifting additional financial burdens onto states. 

The House Democratic proposal largely maintains core services Washingtonians rely on: 

• Apple Health and behavioral health services 

• Child care and early learning programs 

• Food assistance, even as costs rise due to federal changes 

• Housing and homelessness programs 

• The Washington College Grant 

While difficult reductions are necessary to balance the budget, we have worked hard to protect basic needs — food, shelter, health care, and education — especially as federal support becomes less reliable. Where possible, we are stepping in to backfill gaps and prevent harm to working families and vulnerable residents. 

I’m especially pleased that the House budget restores funding for my wildfire mitigation legislation, House Bill 1168 (2021-2022 biennium). 

This funding will help communities like Duvall, Carnation, North Bend, Leavenworth, Roslyn, and Cle Elum strengthen wildfire resilience. Smaller communities often lack the resources to proactively reduce risk, harden infrastructure, and prepare emergency response systems. These investments help protect homes, businesses, forests, and lives. 

Importantly, this funding is also reflected in the Senate proposal: a strong sign that this critical work will move forward this year. 

I’m also proud to be leading on House Bill 2736, which modifies changes made to the estate tax last session. 

This bill reduces certain increases that were adopted previously and provides additional clarity and balance in how the estate tax applies. As always, my goal is to ensure Washington’s tax system is fair, sustainable, and mindful of the impacts on families and small businesses. 

Its Senate companion is moving ahead – read more here! 

Beyond the operating budget, the supplemental capital budget invests in: 

• Housing and homelessness projects 

• Public school construction 

• Habitat restoration and clean energy projects 

• Community-based infrastructure improvements 

The House transportation budget focuses on preservation and maintenance (keeping roads, bridges, and ferries safe and reliable) while planning responsibly for long-term revenue challenges. 

We are in the final stretch of session, and negotiations with the Senate are underway. While this is a tough budget year, I remain committed to protecting essential services, supporting local communities, and preparing Washington for the future. 

Thank you again to everyone who participated in the town hall. Your engagement makes our work better and keeps us accountable. Please continue reaching out – your voice matters. 

Sincerely,