Opening ceremonies in Olympia included an inaugural ball at which Policy Engagement Director Kristin Ang represented FAN. Kristin is pictured here with Chair of Finance Rep. April Berg and WA Conservation Action Chief Executive Officer Alyssa Macy(left) and outside of the Capitol steps with water defenders advocating for improved environmental policies(right). Many of you were virtually present in Olympia as well, as you signed on to the Rent Stabilization bill!

Take Action for next week’s hearings

Next week includes several important hearings on legislation addressing gun safety, environmental justice and recycling reform, rent stabilization, and the Judicial Discretion Act. Be sure to sign in at least one hour before the hearing.

Strengthen Climate Justice and Environmental Stewardship

HB 1150 Recycling Reform Act – Hold packaging and paper product companies accountable for funding recycling programs. Ensure consistent, accessible recycling for all residents while reducing plastic pollution and waste. January 21 @4:00pm in House Committee on Environment & Energy. 

HB 1303 Cumulative Risk Burden (CURB) Pollution Act: Prioritize environmental justice by considering cumulative pollution impacts in permitting processes. January 23 @8:00am in House Committee on Environment & Energy. 

Increase Safe Affordable Housing and Prevent Homelessness

SB 5222 Rent Stabilization – Protect tenants from excessive rent increases by implementing a 7% limit on annual rent increases for existing tenants and manufactured homeowners. January 22 @1:30pm in Senate Housing Committee. 

Reform Our Incarceration System

HB 1125 Judicial Discretion Act -Allow judges greater flexibility in sentencing when the original sentence no longer serves the interests of justice. January 23 @8:00am in House Committee on Community Safety. 

Foster Community Safety, Democracy and Civil Rights

HB 1163 Enhancing requirements relating to the purchase, transfer, and possession of firearms. January 21 @10:30am in House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary.*

*To sign on to additional gun violence bills, check the same hearing as HB 1163.

Kristin’s Policy Updates

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.

Recordings of FAN Trainings and Links You’ll Need

We were grateful for those who attended our Legislative Preview and want to make available this Legislative Preview recording for those who may have missed it, or for you to share in your faith communities as you prepare to advocate during the legislative session. We are also glad that so many of you were able to join our Advocacy 101 session earlier this month to boost your advocacy skills. The recording of Advocacy 101 sessions is also available to share with your communities. The recording on Engaging Your Faith Community in Advocacy will be available next week.

FAN’s 2025 Legislative Agenda is now on our website; it is still being updated with bill numbers as session continues. Our Issue Fact Sheets for each bill will continue to be updated as well as our Bill Tracker beginning next week as legislation moves through committee hearings. And everything else you need can be found at the Democracy Award-winning Washington State Legislature website.

Register for Interfaith Advocacy Day

Registration is open for Interfaith Advocacy Day in Olympia on Thursday February 20! We have a space limit of 200 this year, so please don’t delay—registration closes January 29, or before if filled. The sooner we know you’re coming, FAN staff will be able to arrange legislative meetings for you.

You’ll have a chance to hear plenary and workshop presentations, caucus with people from your district, and meet with your legislators or their aides. We are intending to have an online opportunity in late January to meet others in your legislative district before IFAD to strategize your day in Olympia—more information will be shared with those who register.

Eastern WA Legislative Conference January 25

FAN would like to invite you to the Fig Tree’s Eastern Washington Legislative Conference on Saturday, January 25, 8:30 am -3:00 pm. We are pleased to help plan this event with the Fig Tree, Spokane NAACP, Earth Ministry/WAIPL, and Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington. This year’s theme is “What does it mean to be prophetic?” Register here

Event highlights:

  • Keynote Panel with Indigenous leaders on river health and salmon restoration.
  • Youth Advocate Panel
  • Policy briefings from FAN’s Policy Engagement Director, Kristin Ang, Earth Ministry/WAIPL, and Washington State Catholic Conference.
  • Issue workshops, including an Advocacy 101 workshop from FAN Eastern Washington Regional Organizer, Brianna Dilts, and AC Churchill of Earth Ministry/WAIPL

Lobby Days with our Coalition Partners

Look for more days to be listed as the session progresses!

Monday, January 20, 8:30am-5:30pm, in-person. Washington Community Action Network MLK Lobby Day.

Thursday, February 6, in-person. Environmental Lobby Day.

Monday, February 10, 9:00am-5:00pm, in-person. Civil Survival, Advocacy Day

Thursday, February 20, 9:00am-3:00pm, in-person. Interfaith Advocacy Day 2025.

Friday, March 14, 10:00am-4:00pm, in-person. WLIHA Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day.

Dr. MLK Jr Days of Action and Celebration

Eastern Washington

Sunday, January 19, 3-5pm, MLK Commemoration Service and Celebration, in-person. Holy Temple Church of God in Christ, 806 W Indiana Ave, Spokane, WA 99205. Celebrate the life, legacy, and work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in this annual commemorative service in partnership with the MLK Family Center and the Black Minister Alliance.

Monday, January 20, 10-1:30pm, MLK Day Annual Unity Rally, March, and Resource Fair, in-person. Spokane Convention Center, 334 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201. The Annual MLK Day Unity Rally will begin at 10am followed by the march at 10:45 and the resource fair from 11am-1:30pm.

Western Washington

Join our friends at Woodland Park Presbyterian Church and FAN’s Executive Director Dr. Joyce del Rosario at the Seattle MLK Jr. March at 12:15 on January 20th beginning at the Garfield high school parking lot. Learn more about other events related to the march and bring your faith communities to look for the two signs that say, Be The Beloved Community and our Faith Action Network banner. You can e-mail todd.peterson@mortenson.com if you have further questions.

Fluent Spanish-English speaking volunteers still needed for large asylum clinic on January 20!

The Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW, Riverton Park United Methodist Church legal team, Colectiva Legal del Pueblo, and the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project are coordinating a Big Pro Se Asylum Clinic in SeaTac from 8:30am-6:00pm this Monday, January 20th. The goal of this free clinic is to serve around 200 asylum seekers, and fluent English/Spanish speakers are still needed. Further details and volunteer signup form can be found here. (Feel free to share this link with your family and friends, but please don’t share on social media.)