Rep. Amy Walen

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1046 grants civil immunity to individuals who damage a motor vehicle while rescuing a vulnerable person or domestic animal from imminent harm inside. To qualify for this protection, the rescuer must determine the vehicle is locked, have a good faith belief of imminent danger, notify law enforcement before entry, use only necessary force, and remain with the rescued individual until first responders arrive. A "vulnerable person" includes anyone under 18 or impaired by disability or aging, and "domestic animal" refers to household pets such as dogs and cats. This bill aims to encourage intervention in situations where vulnerable individuals or pets are at risk in locked vehicles.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 4650 is a commemorative resolution recognizing Representative Bruce Q. Chandler for his 26 years of distinguished service to the 15th Legislative District and the State of Washington. It honors his contributions in areas such as agriculture, business, early learning, and state budgeting.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1494 modifies existing property tax exemptions for new and rehabilitated multiple-unit dwellings in urban centers. The bill clarifies definitions related to "affordable housing" and the population requirements for cities to qualify for these exemptions. A key provision expands the definition of "rehabilitation improvements" to include modifications to occupied buildings that increase the number of multi-family housing units. These changes do not extend the duration of the exemptions or expand them to include conversions of market-rate buildings to affordable housing. The bill primarily affects property owners, developers, and residents involved with multi-unit housing projects in designated urban areas.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 4664 is a commemorative bill that honors the life and legacy of former Speaker Frank Chopp. It recognizes his extensive public service, advocacy for social justice and housing, and his record as the longest-serving Speaker in Washington state history.

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Washington's covenant homeownership program, which provides down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers from historically marginalized communities. It raises the household income eligibility threshold for participants from 100% to 140% of the area median income. The bill also introduces a provision allowing for full loan forgiveness after five years for participants whose household income is at or below 80% of the area median income at the time of the loan. Additionally, it adjusts the membership of the program's oversight committee.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1321 grants the Governor of Washington new authority regarding armed military forces from outside the state. It prohibits any armed military force from another state, territory, or district from entering Washington to perform military duty without the Governor's explicit permission. An exception is made if such a force is called into active U.S. service under the authority of the President. This bill aims to regulate the presence of external armed groups within the state and took effect immediately upon signing.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 1636 eliminates the per-transaction volume limit for spirits sales made by certain licensed retailers in Washington State. Specifically, it removes the previous cap of 24 liters per single sale when combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees sell spirits to other retailers for resale. This change aims to simplify the administration of wine and spirit sales. The bill directly affects retailers holding a combination spirits, beer, and wine license and other licensed establishments purchasing spirits from them.

Maddy summaryHB 1075 amends Washington state law to give public housing authorities more tools to finance affordable housing developments. It allows authorities to form partnerships with nonprofits, include wage requirements in contracts, and manage commercial space within housing projects, while requiring that at least 50% of units in new developments serve low-income residents. The bill directly affects public housing authorities and the low-income renters they serve by streamlining their ability to build and maintain affordable housing. The law, effective July 27, 2025, updates existing authority powers under RCW 35.82.070 to support expanded housing supply.

Maddy summaryHB 1007 amends Washington state law (RCW 12.40.060) to standardize notice requirements for defendants in small claims actions. The bill mandates that all notices must include: (1) the plaintiff's name and address, (2) a clear statement of the claim's nature and amount, (3) a specific appearance time at least five days after notice is served, and (4) a warning that failure to appear may result in a default judgment. This affects plaintiffs filing small claims and defendants receiving notice, ensuring clearer communication about court obligations. The law became effective July 27, 2025, after being signed by the Governor on April 11, 2025.

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.