Howdy Friends and Neighbors,
Whew! The first three weeks of session have just flown by. I’ve been busy meeting with constituents, working in my committees, and advocating for policies that I know will benefit so many of us in district and across Washington. In the midst of all of that hoopla, I got the chance to help raise the “12” flag right before the Seahawks played in the playoffs (and now we’re headed to the SUPERBOWL baby!). I also met with Governor Ferguson and other legislative leaders to discuss our hopes for the session. 
Honoring MLK’s dream and the dream of my ancestors
Most recently, I was honored to be selected to speak on behalf of the House Democrat Caucus and the Legislative Black Caucus to recognize Martin Luther King Day.
It was nerve-wracking to share some of the difficult experiences I’ve had on and near campus as a Black woman since joining the legislature a little over a year ago. But it was also empowering to be able to bring my perspective, to share the dreams of my family, and speak to issues and concerns of our community on the House floor. Take a listen to my full speech here.
Know your rights when it comes to ICE
I know there is a lot of fear in our community right now because of the way our federal government is behaving, and particularly how ICE agents are terrorizing and killing people across the country. Here, we are doing everything within our authority to protect Washingtonians. It’s important to know what you can and cannot do when engaging with federal agents. Here’s a handy handout from our state 
Attorney General’s Office.
If you, a loved one, or anyone you witness is confronted by, or sees suspected ICE activity, you can call the statewide rapid-response number 1-844-724-3737, operated by the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network — WAISN.
Pushing policy change
I have introduced several bills to the legislature this year. You can see all of them and follow their progress here. Here are a few that I’d like to highlight in this newsletter.
Domestic worker’s bill of rights (HB 2355): As a child of a domestic worker, and as someone who has done that work, I am honored to sponsor this bill. It will ensure clear, enforceable protections for people who work as house cleaners, nannies, personal cooks, gardeners, or do other domestic labor. Read more.
Increasing access to abortion medication (HB 2182): Remember that giant stockpile of abortion medication the state purchased back in 2023? Well, it turns out the state is having trouble distributing it and getting it to where it needs to go. This bill is going to remove some logistical and financial barriers so the Department of Corrections (the state’s largest pharmacy) can actually get the medication to the people who need it the most.
Microchipping bill (HB 2303): I know this one sounds a little wild, but I just don’t think your employer should be allowed to require or pressure you into having a microchip inserted into your body as a condition of employment. Employees are human beings, not equipment. This bill will protect your privacy and bodily autonomy. If you want to upload your consciousness to the cloud, be my guest! You make that decision, not your employer.
Overall, my goal for this session is harm reduction. As we look ahead to another challenging budget process where we will have to make difficult decisions, I am committed to advocating for a budget that does the least amount harm to our communities. I want to make sure we are making critical investments that keep people housed and fed, and protects our health.
I talk more about my priorities this session in this video. Check it out!
So much has already happened but there’s even more to come. Thank you for your engagement! It’s an honor to represent you. Keep an eye out for my next update.
Rep. Thomas out,
Rep. Brianna Thomas