Dr. Joyce del Rosario, Blake Alford, Chloe Guillot and Rev. Caleb Encinas Cortés rally in Olympia at the WAISN Immigrant Rights Advocacy Day (left). Kristin Ang and Brianna Dilts represent at the Eastern Washington Legislative Conference this past weekend (right).


Take Action for Next Week Hearings

HB 1217 Rent Stabilization to improve Housing Stability for Tenants.

Washington renters face rising rents and excessive fees that threaten their ability to maintain stable housing. HB 1217 aims to limit rent and fee increases, require advance notice for rent hikes, and cap security deposits and fees. This bill also establishes a landlord resource center and provides Attorney General enforcement to protect tenants from predatory practices. This bill passed out of the House Housing Committee and will have a hearing in the Appropriations Committee on February 3 at 4:00 pm. 

HB 1404/SB 5352 Increasing Student Access to Free School Meals.

No child should have to learn on an empty stomach. These bills expand access to free meals in public schools, ensuring that every student, regardless of income, has the nutrition they need to succeed. HB 1404 will have a hearing in the House Appropriations Committee on February 3 at 4:00 pm. SB 5352 will have a hearing in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education, February 4 at 8:00 am.

HB 1214 Expanding the Working Families’ Tax Credit (WFTC).

The Working Families’ Tax Credit helps low- and moderate-income households keep more of their earnings. HB 1214 expands eligibility to everyone aged 18 and older, ensuring that more working people can access this critical financial relief. House Committee on Finance on February 4 at 8:00 am.

SB 5436 Prohibiting Interference at Houses of Worship

Bars approach by any person within a radius of 50 feet of a place of worship with intent to harass, threaten, or intimidate any person or group because of a belief or perception regarding the race, color, religion, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, or mental, physical, or sensory disability. Senate Committee on Law & Justice on February 4 at 8:00 am.

SB 5626  Wage Replacement for Excluded Workers

Seeks to provide financial support to undocumented workers who are currently excluded from unemployment insurance due to federal restrictions. These workers are an essential part of Washington’s economy, yet when they lose their jobs, they have no safety net to support their families. This bill creates a state-funded wage replacement program to ensure that all workers—regardless of immigration status—have economic stability during periods of unemployment. Excluding these workers increases poverty, harms families, and weakens local economies. SB 5626 is a necessary step toward economic fairness, recognizing the dignity and contributions of all workers in Washington. Senate Committee on Labor & Commerce, February 4 at 10:30 am. 

Take Action on any of FAN’s Bills on our Legislative Agenda by Writing to Your Legislators

Go to our Bill Tracker and click on a bill you care about. It will take you to the legislative website where you can click “Send a comment on this bill to your legislators.”

Personalize and Sign a Letter on Rent Stabilization

Find this letters on our TAKE ACTION page in the Advocacy menu of the FAN website

Say Thank You

As we seek to expand relationships with our legislators and their staff, try saying “thank you!” Many of FAN’s priority bills have been cosponsored by multiple legislators, so we already know their positions. For example, the bill to increase student access to free meals served at public schools, HB (1404/SB 5352) includes 33 cosponsoring Representatives and 28 cosponsoring Senators, from both sides of the aisle.

While our materials identify the prime sponsor of each bill, it is easy to go to your legislators’ websites at leg.wa.gov. Most legislators have a dropdown menu called “My Bills,” where you can find the bills they have sponsored (primary) and cosponsored (secondary). Look for FAN’s priority bills that you care about. Even if it isn’t your own priority bill, you can thank them for cosponsoring a bill that promotes justice, compassion, or sustainability. If your legislator doesn’t have a dropdown menu, contact Elizabeth dickinson@fanwa.org for her independent tracking of cosponsors. Note that some legislators may be less active in sponsoring or cosponsoring bills if they have a leadership role in the House or Senate. This is also great preparation for Interfaith Advocacy Day!

And thank you!


Take Action Website Page Now Updated

Take Action on Any of FAN’s Bills on Our Legislative Agenda by Writing Your Legislators

Go to our Bill Tracker and click on a bill you care about. It will take you to the legislative website where you can click “Send a comment on this bill to your legislators.”

Personalize and Sign a Letter on Rent Stabilization

Find this letters on our Take Action page in the Advocacy menu of the FAN website

Say Thank You!

As we seek to expand relationships with our legislators and their staff, try saying “thank you!” Many of FAN’s priority bills have been cosponsored by multiple legislators, so we already know their positions. For example, the bill to increase student access to free meals served at public schools, HB (1404/SB 5352) includes 33 cosponsoring Representatives and 28 cosponsoring Senators, from both sides of the aisle.

While our materials identify the prime sponsor of each bill, it is easy to go to your legislators’ websites at leg.wa.gov. Most legislators have a dropdown menu called “My Bills,” where you can find the bills they have sponsored (primary) and cosponsored (secondary). Look for FAN’s priority bills that you care about. Even if it isn’t your own priority bill, you can thank them for cosponsoring a bill that promotes justice, compassion, or sustainability. If your legislator doesn’t have a dropdown menu, contact Elizabeth dickinson@fanwa.org for her independent tracking of cosponsors. Note that some legislators may be less active in sponsoring or cosponsoring bills if they have a leadership role in the House or Senate. This is also great preparation for Interfaith Advocacy Day!

And thank you!


Strategizing for IFAD

Join our FAN Staff as we take time to strategize before IFAD on Tuesday, February 11th from 7:00-8:00pm on Zoom. We will review key aspects of how to make an advocacy plan with your district in preparation for your legislative meetings on IFAD.


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 February 3rd, or before if filled. The sooner we know you’re coming, FAN staff will be able to arrange legislative meetings for you.

We hope to have representation from as many legislative districts as possible, and at least a group of three for each so you can support each other in advocating together.

We would love additional people to register in the following Legislative Districts where there are only 1 or 2 attendees signed up: 1,3,7, 11, 19, 20, 24, 29, 30, 33, 39, 41, 43, 44, 45, 47, and 48. If you are signed up from one of these districts, please consider inviting a friend to join us on this invigorating and inspiring day!

You’ll have a chance to hear legislators and policy briefing panels, caucus with people from your district, and meet with your legislators or their aides. We will have an online opportunity on February 11 (7-8 pm) to meet others in your legislative district before IFAD to strategize your day in Olympia—more information will be shared with those who register.

As always, our voices are needed for civil rights, progressive revenue, immigrant support, low-income housing investments, recycling and environmental justice, youth mental health, police accountability and enabling the participation of incarcerated and institutionalized people in the political process.

New IFAD Opportunity:

Use our Google form to suggest songs to add to our IFAD 2025 Spotify Day of Playlist that we will play throughout the event.


Kristin’s Policy Updates

Week 3 Legislative Recap

Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day at the Capitol.

As the federal administration ramps up anti-immigrant rhetoric and intensifies efforts to criminalize and deport undocumented individuals, immigrant and refugee communities in Washington State are pushing back with a powerful message: we belong here, and we will not be silenced. Washington leaders, activists, and advocates gathered at the State Capitol on January 30, 2025, for WAISN’s Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day, showing solidarity and demanding state-level protections in the face of federal hostility.

Over 200 community members and allies rallied in Olympia, standing shoulder to shoulder in defense of immigrant rights. State legislators joined the call to action, emphasizing the urgent need for economic justice, healthcare access, and worker protections. Sen. Rebecca Saldaña and Rep. Julio Cortes presented their Wage Replacement for Undocumented Workers Bill (SB 5626 & HB 1773), a measure aimed at ensuring economic security for workers excluded from unemployment insurance simply because of their immigration status. Rep. My-Linh Thai, the first refugee to be sworn into the Washington state Legislature, also championed HB 1482 Health Equity for Immigrants so that immigration status is not a barrier to accessing essential healthcare.

The large crowd chanted in unison: “Say it loud, say it clear: Immigrants are welcome here!” “Up, up with liberation! Down, down with deportation!” “Money for jobs and education, not for mass deportation!” Their voices echoed through the Capitol, reinforcing a powerful statement of solidarity and resistance. The rally made it clear—while Washington, D.C. escalates attacks on immigrant and refugee communities, Washington State will continue to stand firm in defending their dignity, safety, and rights.

On Tuesday, January 28th, SB 5284 Recycling Reform Act was heard in the Senate Committee on Environment & Energy. This bill requires packaging and paper product companies to fund Washington’s recycling programs, ensuring a consistent, accessible system while reducing plastic pollution and waste.

The bill is backed by the Environmental Priorities Coalition, which includes 27 environmental organizations such as Earth Ministry. Representatives from Redmond, Bellevue, Kent, and Spokane testified in support, emphasizing the high costs cities face in sorting and managing recyclable materials. They argued that it is not sustainable for cities to bear the burden alone—manufacturers must take greater responsibility. Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility also highlighted the health risks of microplastics, underscoring the need for action. The House version, HB 1150 Recycling Reform Act, was heard on Wednesday in the House Committee on Environment & Energy.

HB 1429 Housing Assistance for Youth in Extended Foster Care was heard in the House Committee on Early Learning & Human Services. Youth aging out of foster care are at a higher risk of housing instability and homelessness. This bill establishes a housing assistance program to provide direct financial support for these young adults, ensuring they have stable housing as they transition to independence. Support for the bill was overwhelming—nearly 400 people signed in PRO, and all who testified spoke in favor of the legislation, highlighting the urgent need for housing security for foster youth.

On Wednesday, January 29th, several key healthcare bills were heard in committee, focusing on expanding mental health and substance use services across Washington. These bills are critical steps toward ensuring equitable, comprehensive mental health care for Washington students and families.

  • SB 5639 Enhancing Youth Mental Health and Well-Being  With youth mental health challenges at an all-time high, this bill expands the school-based mental health workforce and strengthens training programs to ensure students receive timely, appropriate support.
  • HB 1432 Expanding Mental Health & Substance Use Services
    This bill updates mental health parity laws, requiring health plans to cover mental health and substance use treatments on equal terms with medical care. It also strengthens enforcement to prevent insurers from restricting access to care.
  • SB 5126 Statewide Student Mental & Behavioral Health Network
    This bill creates a statewide network to expand mental and behavioral health services in schools, develop evidence-based intervention strategies, and establish regional student assistance programs to support communities with limited access.

On Thursday, January 30th, SB 5066 AG Investigations & Law Enforcement Reform was heard in the Senate Committee on Law & Justice. This bill authorizes the Attorney General to investigate systemic misconduct in law enforcement and corrections agencies. Accountability measures like this help restore public trust and ensure that police and corrections agencies operate justly and fairly. This is a good governance measure which would help address the growing concerns about costly lawsuits and compliance with state policies like Keep Washington Working.

The second week of the legislative session began with floor action honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Reflecting on his enduring wisdom, King once said, “The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where they stand at times of challenge and controversy,” a reminder of the transformative power of resilience and moral courage in the face of adversity.

On Monday, HB 1217 Rent Stabilization advanced out of the House Housing Committee along party lines. Its Senate companion bill, SB 5222, was heard in the Senate Housing Committee on Wednesday. A remarkable 185 individuals signed up to testify, and there were 4,965 PRO sign-ins for SB 5222. Both HB 1217 and SB 5222 aim to cap annual rent increases at 7%, limit move-in fees, and restrict late fees. The bills also mandate written notices for rent hikes, grant tenants the right to terminate leases without penalty for unauthorized increases, and empower the Attorney General to enforce these provisions. Additionally, the bills propose creating a landlord resource center, requiring model lease provisions in multiple languages, and commissioning a study on the social impacts of these measures to enhance housing stability and affordability.

On Tuesday morning, the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee reviewed a variety of bills designed to reduce gun violence in Washington State. These included HB 1132 (Rep. Farivar) to limit bulk purchases of firearms and ammunition, HB 1152 (Rep. Doglio) to establish secure storage requirements for firearms in vehicles and residences, and HB 1163 Firearm Permits. HB 1163 proposes stricter regulations for firearm transactions by requiring individuals to obtain a valid permit to purchase firearms, with detailed application, issuance, and revocation processes. The bill also mandates certified firearm safety training programs as a prerequisite for permits and concealed pistol licenses. Furthermore, HB 1163 aims to standardize background checks, particularly in cases involving outstanding warrants or pending legal proceedings, and extend application and recordkeeping requirements to cover all firearm transfers.

On Thursday, the same committee heard HB 1303, the Cumulative Risk Burden (CURB) Pollution Act, sponsored by Rep. Sharlett Mena of the 29th Legislative District—one of the regions most affected by health disparities. Front and Centered, a coalition of frontline communities, strongly advocated for the bill, stating, “Communities that have historically borne the worst effects of pollution due to redlining and institutional racism shouldn’t continue to bear the ongoing harm being inflicted on their health, well-being, and even life expectancy today.” They underscored the entrenched health disparities, shorter life expectancies, and higher rates of asthma and cardiovascular disease in overburdened communities caused by decades of harmful environmental policies.

The bill would require permit applicants to consider cumulative impacts on these communities and center the lived experiences of frontline populations. Earthjustice, the Duwamish River Community Coalition, and WA Physicians for Social Responsibility also testified in favor of the measure. Elizabeth Dickinson, Faith Action Network’s Partnership Coordinator and advocate, expressed support for HB 1303. She highlighted the moral imperative to address disproportionate suffering caused by pollution and climate change, stating, “Our spiritual traditions call us to seek equity and care for those who are most vulnerable. The voices of those who have been impacted for decades need to be heard.”

The House Committee on Community Safety heard testimony on HB 1125 Judicial Discretion Act, which seeks to grant judges greater flexibility in modifying sentences when the original sentence no longer serves the interests of justice. Sponsored by Rep. Tarra Simmons, the bill centers on equity, justice, and public safety while prioritizing rehabilitation and addressing victims’ needs. Rep. Simmons explained, “This legislation acknowledges that people can change and that our justice system should reflect the potential for rehabilitation. By granting judges the authority to reassess sentences, we aim to ensure that justice is served not only at the time of sentencing but throughout an individual’s rehabilitation journey.”

The bill incorporates voices from currently and formerly incarcerated individuals, emphasizing the importance of second chances and reducing recidivism. Allowing judicial discretion could lead to significant cost savings by reducing prolonged incarceration expenses and redirecting resources toward community programs that enhance public safety, support reintegration, and reduce the likelihood of re-offense.

HB 1125 also demonstrates a strong commitment to victims. It requires the Office of Crime Victims Advocacy to establish a flexible fund for affected individuals, contract with prosecuting attorney’s offices for victim advocacy services, and collaborate with experts to provide specialized training for victim advocates. This comprehensive approach ensures the justice system balances accountability, rehabilitation, and the voices of victims, fostering a safer, more equitable, and fiscally responsible community.

Finally, just this morning, HB1147, ACE, the Act for Civic Engagement passed out of executive session. We are grateful for this progress and what the hopeful passage of this bill could mean for those incarcerated in regard to civic engagement.


Standing Together for Immigrant Rights

We know that the mass deportation of immigrants without legal status would have a devastating effect on our families, neighborhoods, schools, faith communities, cities, state, and country.

It will cost billions of dollars to execute President Trump’s mass deportation plans, and this cannot be done without funding from Congress. As our neighbors’ rights, relationships, and lives are at risk, join FAN in sending a clear message to our U.S. Senators and Representatives that they must hold the line and allow NO FUNDING for mass deportations.

Sign FAN’s “No Funding for Mass Deportations” Letter


Lobby Days with our Coalition Partners

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

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

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

Monday, February 17, in-person. APRI, Annual Charles Roland African American Legislative 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,


Upcoming Eastern WA Events

Saturday, February 1, 2025, 10am-12pm, Eco-Anxiety Café, in-person. Manito United Methodist Church, (3320 S. Grand Blvd. Spokane, WA 99203). Are you worried about climate change? Join with other Spokane community members to share your feelings and thoughts, find or share resources, and connect with others who share your concerns. Eco-anxiety cafes are on the first Saturday of the month through April 2025. Free to Attend!

Saturday, March 8, 2025, 7pm, Decolonization in Action: Creating a Posture of Repair, in-person. Westminster Congregational United Church of Christ, 411 S Washington St., Spokane, WA 99204. Join Sarah Augustine, Executive Director of the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery and author of The Land is Not Empty for this presentation cosponsored by Westminster UCC and the Spokane Alliance. Decolonization is climate justice and climate justice requires decolonization. This presentation will focus on concrete actions our community can embody as we assume a posture of decolonization.