Rep. Dave Paul

Maddy summaryThis bill restructures Washington's workforce education investment oversight board by clarifying its membership, leadership, and accountability processes. It specifies that the 18-member board includes legislative chairs (ex officio), business representatives, labor and education leaders, students, and other stakeholders, with two co-chairs appointed biennially. The board must annually report to the legislature by December 31 on funding priorities and track program effectiveness using data from the education data center and student achievement council, focusing on metrics like completion rates and job placement. These changes aim to improve transparency and results in how workforce education funds are allocated and monitored.

Maddy summaryHB 2401 establishes the Washington State Boys and Men Commission to address systemic challenges faced by boys and men, particularly those who are boys of color, in rural areas, identifying as LGBTQ+, or socioeconomically disadvantaged. The commission will identify needs, recommend policy changes, and coordinate with state agencies on issues like mental health access, education pathways, and vocational opportunities. Crucially, the commission’s creation is contingent on securing non-state funding (grants or private contributions) sufficient to cover operational costs through December 2029, with the Office of Financial Management required to identify funding needs by June 2026. It will consist of nine appointed members (including tribal representation and a majority identifying as male) and operate under an executive director appointed by the governor. The commission’s duties include serving as a policy information hub and producing biennial reports with recommendations to the legislature and governor.

Maddy summaryHB 1834 requires businesses providing online services likely accessed by minors (under 18 in Washington) to estimate users' ages with reasonable accuracy or apply full minor protections to all users. It prohibits using collected personal information for age estimation beyond that purpose and bans retaining such data longer than needed. The bill defines "addictive feeds" (algorithm-driven content streams) and "dark patterns" (manipulative interfaces) to restrict how platforms design features targeting minors. It also sets standards for determining if a service is "likely accessed by minors," including audience composition and design elements appealing to children. These provisions aim to limit data collection and addictive features on platforms used by Washington's youth.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 4677) declares the Washington State House of Representatives' recognition of the elevated behavioral health challenges faced by construction workers, including higher suicide rates, substance use disorders, and stress linked to job demands. It does not create new rules or funding but formally acknowledges these issues through a series of "WHEREAS" statements highlighting the industry's unique risks. The resolution calls for reducing stigma and promoting collaboration to improve access to behavioral health resources tailored for construction workers. It directly affects construction workers across Washington by affirming their health needs without implementing concrete policy changes.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution (HR 4691) adopted by the Washington State House of Representatives on February 16, 2026. It formally commends the contributions of U.S. presidents, specifically highlighting George Washington and Abraham Lincoln's roles in establishing freedom and ending slavery, and recognizes the third Monday in February as Presidents' Day. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any individuals or policies; it solely expresses the House's symbolic honor for presidential legacies. It directly affects no one but serves as a formal statement of recognition by the state legislature.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not substantive legislation) passed by the Washington state House of Representatives. It formally congratulates the Seattle Seahawks football team for winning the 2025 NFL regular season, NFC West Division championship, and Super Bowl 60. The resolution specifically recognizes their 14-3 record, defensive dominance, key player achievements (including MVP Kenneth Walker III), and community contributions. It has no legal effect beyond expressing the House's recognition and appreciation to the team organization.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic resolution (not a law), introduced by Washington state House representatives. It recognizes the domestic maritime industry's role in disaster response - citing examples like evacuations after 9/11 and aid delivery during Maui wildfires - and highlights its economic impact (22,500 jobs, $1.5B in labor income). The resolution states the industry's value in supporting community resilience during natural disasters but contains no new laws, funding, or binding requirements. It directs the resolution to be sent to U.S. Congress members as a statement of support.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 4674) is a ceremonial gesture by the Washington State House of Representatives to celebrate the 15th anniversary of WGU Washington, the state's partnership with Western Governors University. It recognizes WGU Washington's role in providing affordable, online degree programs to over 13,000 Washington students and nearly 50,000 graduates, particularly serving adult learners, veterans, and underserved communities. The resolution highlights the partnership's contribution to Washington's goal of increasing postsecondary credentials for adults and addressing workforce needs in key sectors like healthcare and technology. As a purely congratulatory measure with no new policy or funding, it does not alter laws or directly affect any group beyond expressing legislative appreciation for WGU Washington's achievements.

Maddy summaryHB 2135 extends and modifies a tax exemption for disabled veterans who use federal grants to adapt their homes. It raises the maximum tax refund per project from $2,500 to $5,000 and increases the annual state funding cap from $125,000 to $250,000, with future adjustments tied to Seattle-area inflation starting in 2028. The bill applies exclusively to veterans who received U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs grants for specially adapted housing or special housing adaptations. It expires on January 1, 2039, and requires the state to track usage to ensure funds stay within annual limits.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1622 allows public sector employees in Washington state to collectively bargain with their employers over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. The bill amends existing state law to remove the "use of technology" from a list of management rights that are typically not subject to negotiation for employees in higher education and other state agencies. It defines artificial intelligence as machine learning and related technologies that enable computer systems to perform tasks like computer vision or natural language processing. This change empowers unions and public employers to negotiate agreements on the implementation and utilization of AI technologies.