Week 1 Legislative Session Recap: Building Momentum for Budget Solutions and Advocacy
The 2025 Washington State Legislative Session began on January 13th, marking the start of a critical 105-day "long session." Held during odd-numbered years, long sessions provide the time needed for lawmakers to develop and approve the state's biennial Operating, Capital, and Transportation budgets while addressing significant policy issues. This year’s session is particularly urgent, as legislators must navigate a projected $10-12 billion budget shortfall over the next four years.
Washington is legally required to maintain a balanced budget, adding to the complexity of this session. With pressing decisions on funding essential services and infrastructure, the legislature faces the challenge of prioritizing investments in areas such as housing, behavioral health, and education while advocating for progressive revenue solutions to safeguard vulnerable communities from harmful cuts.
Political Landscape
Democrats strengthened their majority in both chambers, achieving a 30-19 advantage in the Senate and a 59-39 majority in the House. This 60% "bonding supermajority" grants the ability to pass bonding bills without Republican support. The Senate welcomed eight new Democratic members, with Senator Jamie Pedersen (43rd Legislative District) assuming the role of Senate Majority Leader after serving in the Senate since 2013. In the House, the addition of 21 new members reflects a shift toward a younger, more progressive direction, driven by retirements, departures, and a significant Democratic victory in the 18th Legislative District.
The November election results underscored strong public support for progressive revenue measures, with 64% of Washingtonians voting to uphold the capital gains tax legislation. This outcome marked one of the most pro-tax statewide votes in recent history, signaling a mandate for lawmakers to consider equitable revenue solutions in addressing the state’s budget challenges.
Speaker Jinkins’ Opening Ceremony Speech
On Monday January 13, House Speaker Laurie Jinkins set the tone for the session with a call to tackle Washington’s budget deficit while prioritizing the well-being of working families. She emphasized the need for "balanced, fair" revenue solutions to address the state's regressive tax system and protect critical investments in housing, childcare, and healthcare. Jinkins also highlighted workforce development and public safety as key priorities. “We will govern during these uncertain times as we always do: leading with courage, compassion, and hope,” she said, urging lawmakers to focus on those most impacted by legislative decisions.
Governor Inslee’s Final State of the State Address
On Tuesday January 14, Governor Jay Inslee delivered his final State of the State address, reflecting on the progress Washington has made during his 12-year tenure. He highlighted achievements such as legalizing same-sex marriage, abolishing the death penalty, implementing an assault weapons ban, and investing in climate action, which he described as making Washington “a beacon of progress” and “a light to the world.”
Amid a projected $10-12 billion budget shortfall, Inslee urged lawmakers to avoid the painful cuts of the Great Recession, emphasizing that budget reductions translate to "concrete, personal pain" for Washingtonians. He called for progressive revenue measures, including a 1% wealth tax and business tax increases, to ensure vital investments in behavioral health, housing, and climate initiatives continue. “In this moment, our moment, I see a state that is evergreen and ever going forward,” he concluded, expressing hope for Washington's future.
Governor Ferguson’s Inaugural Address and Ball
On Wednesday January 15, Governor Bob Ferguson was sworn in as Washington’s 24th governor. In his inaugural address, Ferguson outlined a vision focused on public safety, housing, and childcare affordability, while aiming to save $4.4 billion through a 6% reduction in state agency spending. He underscored his commitment to avoiding new taxes and emphasized fostering collaboration to achieve fiscal responsibility while protecting essential services.
Later that evening, the Governor's Inaugural Ball transformed the Washington State Capitol into a vibrant celebration, marking the first such event in many years. Thousands of attendees, including elected officials, community leaders, and members of the public, donned formal attire adorned with sequins, feathers, glitter, and beads, filling the Capitol building and surrounding areas with energy and excitement.
Budget Priorities: Governor Inslee vs. Governor Ferguson
In his final budget, Governor Inslee emphasized progressive revenue measures, proposing a 1% wealth tax and increased business taxes to generate $10.4 billion over four years. These funds are allocated to housing, behavioral health, and climate investments.
Governor Ferguson’s plan, however, prioritizes public safety, housing, and childcare affordability while aiming for $4.4 billion in savings through a 6% reduction in state agency budgets. Ferguson’s approach avoids new taxes, focusing instead on spending reductions, marking a significant departure from Inslee’s emphasis on revenue generation.
Advocates’ Role in the First Week
The Senate Ways & Means and House Appropriations Committees began hearings on Governor Inslee’s budget, offering advocates an early platform to shape budget priorities. FAN advocacy efforts have focused on urging lawmakers to prioritize progressive revenue measures, such as the wealth tax, to prevent harmful cuts to essential services. Key areas of emphasis include housing, behavioral health, and support for immigrants and refugees, along with universal free school meals, expanded senior nutrition programs, and investments in homelessness prevention.
As budget discussions unfold, it remains critical for advocates to amplify the need for equitable revenue solutions and sustained funding for programs that support Washington’s most vulnerable communities. These efforts reflect a shared commitment to protecting vital services and advancing justice, equity, and compassion across the state.
Key Legislative Hearings in Week 1
HB 1217: Rent Stabilization: Introduced by Rep. Emily Alvarado, HB 1217 seeks to address housing instability by capping annual rent increases at 7%, requiring 180-day notices for increases over 3%, and limiting fees and deposits to one month’s rent. The bill also includes exemptions for public housing, nonprofit housing, and newly constructed buildings less than 10 years old. This legislation reflects an effort to provide tenants with predictability and protection from sudden and unaffordable rent increases, ensuring housing stability for many Washington residents.
SB 5082: Housing Assistance for Youth in Extended Foster Care. Sponsored by Sen. Claire Wilson, SB 5082 focuses on providing housing support for youth transitioning out of foster care, a group disproportionately affected by homelessness. This bill reflects the state’s commitment to supporting vulnerable youth during critical periods of transition, helping them achieve stability and independence.
SB 5131: Religious Food Accommodations in Correctional Facilities. This legislation mandates that correctional facilities provide food options that accommodate inmates’ religious dietary requirements. It reflects the principle of respecting religious expression and maintaining dignity for incarcerated individuals, ensuring their dietary needs are met in alignment with their beliefs.
HB 1147: Act for Civic Engagement for Incarcerated Individuals (ACE). HB 1147 seeks to promote civic engagement by allowing incarcerated individuals to form political organizations, communicate with community groups, and register to vote. This bill reflects a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, emphasizing the importance of community connections and civic participation in reducing recidivism.
As the 2025 legislative session progresses, FAN remains committed to advocating for a budget that reflects our shared values of justice, equity, and compassion. We will continue to monitor legislative developments, support policies that uplift marginalized communities, and oppose measures that threaten the well-being of Washington's residents.
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