Rep. Andrew Barkis

Maddy summaryHB 2325 establishes a self-funded tourism assessment program where qualifying tourism businesses pay an annual fee based on gross revenue to support statewide tourism promotion. It directly affects businesses like hotels, restaurants (with $5M+ annual revenue), attractions, and recreation operators that derive significant revenue from tourism. The program requires business sector ratification before assessments begin, with a ratepayer oversight board - appointed by businesses - to manage funds, approve budgets, and report annually. The fee structure, revenue thresholds, and program design must be approved by affected businesses through a referendum process before implementation.

Maddy summaryHB 2114 changes Washington's license plate replacement policy for defective plates. It eliminates all fees and taxes for replacements within 24 months of original issuance when plates become illegible due to manufacturing defects (e.g., peeling paint or unreadable numbers). For replacements requested between 24 months and five years after issuance, only the cost of the plate itself is charged - not full fees or taxes. This directly affects Washington drivers who receive faulty plates that deteriorate faster than expected, ensuring they aren't charged for the same fees paid at initial purchase.

Maddy summaryHB 1376 would allow Washington taxpayers with capital gains tax liabilities to pay their taxes up to six months before the regular due date. This applies specifically to taxes owed under Chapter 82.87 RCW, affecting individuals or entities with capital gains tax obligations. The bill specifies that payments must follow standard department procedures, and no interest would be charged if the taxpayer overpays and qualifies for a refund. This is a procedural change to tax payment timing, not a tax rate adjustment.

Maddy summaryHB 2664 modifies how eviction notices (unlawful detainer notices) and similar legal notices must be delivered in Washington state. It clarifies service methods when tenants are absent or untraceable, allowing notices to be left on the property and mailed to the last known address, with a mandatory 5-day waiting period after mail delivery before eviction actions can begin. The bill directly affects tenants facing eviction, landlords seeking possession, and property management companies (including corporate owners). Key provisions specify acceptable service locations, required mailing procedures, and define how subtenants are handled in lodging situations.

Maddy summaryHB 2452 requires landlords in manufactured and mobile home communities to provide tenants with a standardized notice for rent increases, detailing the exact percentage and dollar amount of the increase. The notice must also explain if the increase exceeds Washington’s 5% annual limit and include supporting documentation for any claimed exemptions (such as community purchases or public housing programs). This applies specifically to tenants in manufactured/mobile home communities, not all rental properties. The bill amends existing laws to ensure transparency and compliance with rent increase rules.

Maddy summaryHB 2604 simplifies the process for transferring vehicle ownership to an insurer after a total loss or destruction, directly affecting vehicle owners, insurers, and the Washington State Department of Licensing. The bill requires owners and insurers to report destruction/total loss within 15 days using electronic systems, simplified documents (like an affidavit marked "DESTROYED"), or a standard settlement form, eliminating the need for notarized signatures on related paperwork. It establishes a $6,790 market value threshold for six-year-old or older vehicles (adjusted annually based on regional used car prices) to determine if a value statement is required. The law streamlines administrative steps for insurers and owners while ensuring clear documentation standards for title transfers.

Maddy summaryHB 2467 updates Washington State's vehicle length limits to specifically address fifth-wheel travel trailers used for recreation. It sets two key length limits for these trailers (hitched to pickup trucks): 38 feet for single-axle models and 40 feet for multi-axle models, measured from the kingpin to the rearmost axle. The bill directly affects recreational vehicle owners who use fifth-wheel trailers, replacing a previous general 46-foot limit for "travel trailer" under the same section. These changes clarify permissible sizes for this common type of travel trailer on state highways.

Maddy summaryHB 2410 establishes a Washington State Commercial Truck Safety and Education Council within the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. The council, composed of state agency representatives (including the State Patrol and Transportation departments), trucking industry leaders, and public members, will develop safety programs to address rising truck collision rates and improve driver training. It will use existing funds from the commercial vehicle safety account to coordinate industry initiatives, analyze crash trends, and provide grants for safety education - without creating new taxes or fees. The council must report annually to the legislature starting in 2028 on its activities and recommendations.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally recognizes Representative Virginia "Jenny" Graham for her public service in the Washington State House of Representatives. It highlights her eight-year tenure, her advocacy for public safety, and her work on community safety and veterans' issues. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as an official acknowledgment of her contributions and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House resolution that formally honors John Michael Sattgast for his 35 years of dedicated service as a communications professional for the House Republican Caucus in the Washington State Legislature. It recognizes his work producing over 4,000 radio stories and coordinating media coverage for state representatives, as well as his leadership roles with the National Conference of State Legislatures. The resolution acknowledges his contributions to sharing legislative history and public information, noting his receipt of the 2023 Legislative Staff Achievement Award. This measure serves as a commemorative tribute rather than establishing new policy or affecting government operations.