Signing Off (For Now!) — Session Recap & What’s Next

Dear friends and neighbors,  

As spring blossoms across our beautiful state, my first legislative session has come to a close. Just like the season itself, these final weeks were full of energy, growth, and a sense of renewal. Here in Olympia, we wrapped up the last day of session (Sine Die) on Sunday with critical votes on the budget and finalized bills that will shape our communities. While our session work is done, there is work that continues after the gavel falls. 

In this newsletter, I’ll share updates on the key legislation we’ve passed, the progress we’ve made on issues that matter to you, and what you can expect from my office during the interim months ahead.  

As I wrap up my very first legislative session, I’m so proud that the four bills I shared in my last newsletter have all officially passed. The Senate companions to two of my other bills also passed. Each of these legislations reflects my commitment to building a more equitable, efficient, and compassionate Washington.  

✅ SB 5244 – companion to my HB 1693 increased access and efficiency for women, infants and children to get simple screening for iron deficiency. 

✅ HB 1296 – included SB 5123 which was a companion to my HB 1855 that expanded definitions and protections in our public schools, for students based on ethnicity, gender identity, homelessness, immigration status or neurodiversity. 

This preliminary Summary of Legislation report gives a brief description of every bill that passed the Legislature during the 2025 Regular Session.  A final report will be sent after gubernatorial action is completed.  The final report will include veto and budget information.

✅ As a member of the Capital Budget Committee, I advocated for project investments to support the financial needs of our cities. Here are the wins: 

• Bellevue: Orchards Garden affordable housing $2.5mil, Downtown Integration $250k, Bellevue Family YMCA and Housing $250k, Eastside Terrace Club Kitchen Renovation $74k 

• Issaquah: Bomb cyclone recovery $1.4mil 

• Mercer Island: Water supply pipeline $1.2mil 

• Newcastle: Lake Boren Park $355k 

• Sammamish: Bomb cyclone recovery $330k 

✅ I delivered for the 41st LD with regional investments that connect our transportation system, to improve mobility and safety for cars, transit, pedestrian and bicycles. I was honored to join the Transportation Committee for this session and helped ensure that investments and financing tools that benefit our cities and community are in the transportation budget: 

• Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Authorization that supports Bellevue’s Grand Connection bridge 

• Electric fire engine funding for Bellevue 

• Mountains to Sound Greenway trail at Eastgate gap funding  

• I-405 Renton to Bellevue funding  

• Transportation Demand Management Program and Commute Trip Reduction funding 

• Eastrail Multi-Use Corridor through Bellevue  

 I’m honored to have improved government efficiency with practical, community-focused legislation in my first year—and this is just the beginning. 

As your representative, I’m proud to be part of a team that’s fighting for strong, resilient communities, economic opportunity, and a better future for everyone in Washington. This session, we advanced bold legislation that reflects our shared values—housing for all, justice and safety in every community, and a stronger economy powered by innovation and care. 

🏡 Strong Communities & Affordable Housing 

We made historic progress this year to expand access to affordable homes, support families, and keep our communities safe. From rent stabilization to streamlined ADU construction, we tackled the housing crisis from all angles. We also protected vulnerable residents—including survivors of violence, isolated workers, and those impacted by discrimination—and made smart investments in community safety. 

💼 Jobs, Economic Growth & a Secure Future 

Our economy is strongest when everyone has access and can participate. That’s why we passed legislation to strengthen workforce pipelines in maritime and teaching careers, support military families, and reduce barriers for healthcare professionals. We invested in clean energy innovation and expanded college access—especially for students from underserved communities. 

🎓 Supporting Students & Schools 

Every student deserves a supportive environment to learn, grow, and thrive – and we’ve enshrined that in law. This year’s work included increasing funding for school construction, strengthening dual credit and career training opportunities, and ensuring students in online or justice-involved settings are set up for success. 

💸 Lowering Costs & Building Economic Security 

From reducing prescription costs to giving families the right to repair their devices, we passed legislation that puts money back in your pocket and gives consumers more power. We also took steps to improve transparency in healthcare and utility systems, all while standing up for workers’ rights and retirement security. 

This is the kind of progress that’s possible when we lead with compassion, data, and community-driven values. I’m grateful to work alongside colleagues who share my commitment to building a Washington that works for all of us. 

📸 Jing Mei Elementary students visit the Capitol 

Bills signed into law: 3 

Bills passed House & Senate: 1 

Companion to my bills that passed House & Senate: 2 

Floor sessions: 63 

Committee meetings: 100 

Constituency meetings: 205 

Legislative meetings: 77 

Events: 60 

Trainings: 8 

Chat with Janice: 9 

Town Halls: 1 

Sine Die: 1 

Starting May 5, due to Washington state’s election year activity (EYA) restrictions, I will be limited in how I can communicate with you using state resources. These restrictions are in place to ensure that public resources are not used for campaign purposes. 

During this period, which lasts until the general election on November 4, I will not be able to send newsletters, update my official website, or post on official social media accounts.  

These rules help maintain transparency and fairness during the election season. While I won’t be able to provide updates through official channels, I remain committed to serving our community and am always available to assist with any state-related matters. Please feel free to reach out to my office directly with any questions or concerns. I appreciate your understanding and continued engagement. 

Although the session is ending, the work doesn’t stop. During the interim, I’ll be back in district—meeting with constituents, visiting local businesses and schools, and preparing for next year’s legislative agenda. It’s a time to reflect on what we’ve accomplished and to listen deeply so we can continue building a stronger, more vibrant Washington. 

Thank you for staying engaged, sharing your thoughts, and being part of our democratic process. It’s been my greatest honor to represent you. I look forward to our conversations and explore areas of collaboration ahead. 

Enjoy the sunshine, and I’ll see you around the district!