Rep. Alex Ramel

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 4658) expresses the Washington State House of Representatives' appreciation for existing ties between Washington and Denmark. It acknowledges strong economic partnerships (including Maersk shipping and 3,000 Danish jobs), educational exchanges (University of Washington collaborations), cultural connections (Danish artists and festivals), and scientific research (Arctic climate studies). The resolution does not create new laws or obligations but formally reiterates support for strengthening these ongoing relationships. It was adopted unanimously on April 8, 2025, as a symbolic gesture of endorsement.

Maddy summaryHR 4659 is a symbolic House resolution that reaffirms Washington state's relationship with Canada. It highlights the strong economic ties, including $2.7 billion in daily trade across sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, and notes shared challenges like disaster response (e.g., Nooksack floods, wildfires) and cross-border cooperation in places like Point Roberts. The resolution emphasizes collaboration on climate change, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and mutual respect for Indigenous partnerships. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or funding but formally expresses support for the longstanding partnership.

Maddy summaryHB 1511 clarifies that Washington state ferry captains are the ultimate authority for vessel operations and safety. The bill requires captains in the current "masters, mates, and pilots" bargaining unit to vote by August 31, 2025, on whether to join a new combined union representing all three roles. If a majority votes yes, a unified bargaining unit will take effect on July 1, 2026, replacing the separate captain-only unit. This change directly affects ferry captains and their union representation, with no impact on existing safety or operational responsibilities.

Maddy summaryHB 1353 creates a program allowing cities in Washington to let registered architects self-certify that accessory dwelling unit (ADU) projects meet building code requirements, instead of requiring full city review. This directly affects homeowners building ADUs, architects who can self-certify, and cities that choose to adopt the program. Key provisions include mandatory random audits (at least 20% of applications yearly), penalties for failed audits (temporary suspension for first failure, permanent ban for second within 5 years), and requirements for architects to maintain insurance. Cities must also track and share audit results with a state database to prevent problematic architects from participating in other cities. The law aims to streamline ADU permitting while maintaining safety through oversight.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 4635) is a ceremonial House measure celebrating Nowruz, the Persian New Year, and recognizing its cultural significance to communities in Washington state and globally. It acknowledges the holiday's 3,000-year history, its celebration by over 1 million Americans - including tens of thousands in Washington - and the contributions of Middle Eastern and Central Asian communities. The resolution formally urges the House to celebrate Nowruz, recognize its values of renewal and community, and stand with those who observe it. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryHR 4619 is a commemorative resolution adopted by the Washington State House of Representatives on February 19, 2025. It formally acknowledges the 83rd anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which led to the forced removal and internment of over 120,000 Japanese-Americans during World War II, including 12,000 from Washington State. The resolution specifically recognizes Japanese-American veterans, incarcerees, and civil rights activists from Washington who endured this injustice and served in the military while incarcerated. It directs copies to organizations like the Nisei Veterans Committee and the Wing Luke Museum, reflecting on the principle of "liberty and justice for all."

Maddy summaryHR 4617 is a ceremonial House Resolution, not a law, adopted by the Washington State House of Representatives on February 17, 2025. It formally encourages all Washington residents to celebrate Children's Day and support children's well-being through community actions. The resolution expresses the House's commitment to prioritizing children's health, safety, and education, referencing student interns and pages working in the legislature. It does not create new policies, funding, or legal requirements - only a symbolic call for public recognition of children's rights.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial House resolution (not a law) that honors Presidents' Day. It expresses the House's recognition of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln's leadership, including Washington's precedent for peaceful power transitions and Lincoln's role in preserving the Union. The resolution has no policy impact or effect on citizens - it simply commemorates presidential legacies through symbolic language. It was introduced and adopted by the House on February 17, 2025, as a routine observance.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution formally expresses appreciation to the Washington National Guard for their service in emergencies, disaster response (like 2022 floods and 2023 wildfires), election security, and community programs such as the Youth ChalleNGe Academy. It sends copies to military leaders, the Governor, and federal officials as a symbolic gesture of recognition, with no new legal requirements or policy changes. The resolution acknowledges the Guard’s role in protecting lives, infrastructure, and community well-being across Washington state.

Maddy summaryHR 4604 is a symbolic House resolution (not a law) adopted by the Washington State House of Representatives on January 28, 2025. It formally recognizes and celebrates Lunar New Year, highlighting the cultural contributions and historical experiences of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in Washington. The resolution affirms the value of these communities, acknowledges past discrimination like the Chinese Exclusion Act, and emphasizes unity and inclusion. It does not create new legal obligations or change existing holidays, but serves as a ceremonial statement of support.