Dear friends and neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who joined Representative Debra Entenman, Sen. Claudia Kauffman, and myself for the 47th LD telephone town hall last week. I so appreciate each person who took the time to pick up the telephone or call in. You are democracy in action! I am in Olympia to represent you, and the best way I can do that is by hearing directly from the people whose lives are impacted every day by the laws we pass in the legislature.
There wasn’t enough time to get to all the great questions that came in during the call, but you can always send your questions directly to my office at Chris.Stearns@leg.wa.gov.
A balanced budget for Washington
This week, House Democrats introduced our 2025-2027 budget proposal—a plan that holds the line on essential services while making responsible adjustments to keep our state financially stable. We are looking at ways to grow revenue through progressive options like asking the wealthy to pay their fair share, while also combing the budget for ways we can scale back spending without hurting folks who depend on crucial services.
Progressive revenue
During our town hall, many of you asked about what kinds of progressive revenue options the House is proposing. Here’s a few items on the table:
✅ A Financial Intangible Assets Tax (FIT) – This applies a tax on stocks and bonds owned by ultra-wealthy individuals (exempting the first $50 million) to generate $2 billion per year for K-12 education. Homeowners already pay property taxes on their biggest asset—their home. This ensures that those whose wealth comes from financial assets contribute their fair share, too.
✅ School & Public Safety Funding Adjustments – Our proposal allows property tax growth to reflect inflation and population increases (capped at 3%) and ensures rural school districts receive fair funding. This brings in $50 million in 2026 and $150 million in 2027 for K-12 schools.
✅ Surcharge on High-Grossing Corporations – We’re asking the biggest corporations and financial institutions—those making over $250 million a year—to pay a modest surcharge, generating nearly $2 billion by 2027. Small businesses won’t be affected, but this will help protect public services that working families rely on.
Learn more about the budget here:
Members of Color Caucus priority bills for 2025 update
As your representative and Chair of the Members of Color Caucus, I am committed to ensuring that all voices—especially those of immigrants and refugees—are included in policymaking. Our budgets and laws must reflect our values of equity and inclusion. Earlier this session the MOCC identified 18 bills that advanced our caucus priorities. Out of the 18, there are 6 that are still alive.
Native voices taking action in Olympia
Last week I had the honor of welcoming the fine folks from Native Vote Washington, Native Action Network, and the NAYA Action Fund with Senator Claudia Kauffman. It was a privilege to listen to their stories and hear what legislation we need to pass this session to make the most positive impact in our tribal communities.
I feel very lucky to be part of an incredible indigenous caucus alongside Sen. Kauffman and Rep. Debra Lekanoff. Solidarity is important, and representation is how we make change. Because when you get here, you get to do the most amazing thing: fight for justice and save lives. That is the coolest thing we can do for each other as human beings.
Thank you to the wonderful members of Native Vote WA, to my colleagues Rep. Lekanoff and Sen. Kauffman, Lt. Gov Denny Heck, Tribal Liaison for the Attorney General’s Office Asa Washines, and Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs Executive Director Tim Reynon for your work on behalf of Washington’s tribes and native peoples.
Check out more photos from the event on my Facebook page!
ArtsWA now accepting applications for Tribal and business grants!
Supporting arts, heritage, and culture organizations is essential to keeping art alive in our communities and ensuring that it can be enjoyed by everyone at every income level. Mid- and large-sized organizations still have time to apply for general operating support grants through ArtsWA! The application window for mid & large businesses closes at 5PM on Monday, April 7 so don’t waste time submitting a request for your organization at: https://www.arts.wa.gov/.
Week in review
✅ Intense conversations on the House floor
✅ A visit from Congresswoman Patty Murray
✅ Springtime in Olympia!
✅ Meeting with tribal leaders and advocates including Billy Frank Jr.’s son, Willie Frank III
We’re facing tough times, no matter how you slice it, but our legislature and our state are ready to face the challenges coming our way and find solutions that work for everyone. The way we do that is through open conversation and inviting folks with different perspectives to have a seat at the table and share what they know. Send me a message anytime to share your perspective, ask a question, or get connected with services.
Best,
