Dear Friends and Neighbors,
We are just days away from the start of a new legislative session. In this newsletter I have a few updates for you as well as a look ahead to what the next session has in store.
But first, as we continue to navigate extreme weather across Washington and within our district, I want to share with you some resources you may find useful.
Flood Recovery Information
Many of our neighbors are still managing the historic flooding we saw earlier this month. The legislature, the Governor’s office, as well as local leaders and emergency responders are doing everything we can to ensure people are safe and have the resources they need to recover.
Please continue to stay alert, avoid flooded areas, and follow guidance from emergency officials.
If you or someone you know is looking for help, please go to https://kcemergency.com/ for the most up to date information on things like road closures, and helpful resources.
For even more detailed information on specific topics, go to kingcounty.gov/FloodRecovery.
There you will find the application for cash assistance, information on how to properly clean up and rid of debris, and help with filing insurance claims.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office if you need help. We can get you pointed in the right direction.
Session Priorities
Looking ahead, I am preparing for the upcoming legislative session. It will be a challenge no doubt, especially when it comes to our budget. But my colleagues and I have been working throughout the interim to stay engaged on that issue and many others that you care about.
Several of my bills are still alive and I will continue to push them through the legislature this session. Proposals like creating a robust recycling program for electric vehicle batteries (HB 1550) and implementing new strategies to limit racial disparities in traffic stops (HB 1512) are important policies that can help ensure we maintain clean environments and community members can travel safely on our roadways. Affordability is still a major issue in Washington that I am laser-focused on getting our state’s tax code right side up and improving housing affordability and stability for every Washingtonian.
This is why it’s critical we hear from you and get your thoughts and opinions on the issues. The 2026 session is considered a “short” session, which means we have just 60 days to complete our work. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever for you to participate. You can always contact my office by email or call (360) 786-7878. More importantly, committees are always looking for robust testimony. We have written, remote, and in-person options for testimony.
I look forward to bringing you more updates when we’re back in Olympia. I hope you have a restful holiday.
In solidarity,
Rep. Chipalo Street