Rep. Monica Stonier

Maddy summaryHB 2402 bans the use of DEHP (a phthalate chemical) in intravenous (IV) medical equipment in Washington state. Starting January 1, 2030, it prohibits manufacturing, selling, or distributing IV bags containing intentionally or unintentionally added DEHP above 0.1% weight per weight, with IV tubing restrictions beginning January 1, 2035. The law also forbids replacing DEHP with other phthalates and exempts certain blood collection products. It directly affects medical device manufacturers, distributors, and healthcare facilities in Washington, requiring them to transition to DEHP-free alternatives by the specified deadlines. The bill aims to reduce exposure to DEHP, linked to health risks including endocrine disruption and potential cancer concerns, through concrete phase-out timelines.

Maddy summaryHB 2007 expands Washington state high school graduation options by adding competency-based assessments as a valid pathway for students to demonstrate college and career readiness in English language arts and math. It directly affects public high school students, allowing them to meet graduation requirements through assessments that measure mastery rather than just test scores or course completion. Key provisions include establishing new rules for competency-based assessments under section (2)(d), creating a performance-based learning option (2)(f) where students showcase skills via projects or portfolios, and requiring schools to provide annual information about all pathways to students and families. The bill does not mandate specific assessments but gives schools flexibility to adopt them while aligning with state learning standards.

Maddy summaryHB 2658 requires health insurance carriers in Washington to annually report detailed data on mental health and substance use coverage, including in-network provider availability, reimbursement rates, out-of-network utilization, and service access by type (youth/adult, in-person/telehealth). This affects all health insurers operating in the state, mandating them to submit standardized data to the state commissioner by July 1st each year. The commissioner must then publish all raw data and create an interactive public dashboard showing comparisons across insurers, focusing on mental health, substance use, and medical/surgical services. The goal is to increase transparency about coverage gaps, as documented by studies showing Washington residents face significantly greater barriers accessing behavioral health care than medical care.

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.

Maddy summaryHB 2291 establishes Washington state regulations for kratom products, requiring retailers and processors to obtain licenses and comply with safety standards. It mandates background checks for license applicants, prohibits packaging that resembles candy to prevent child access, and requires independent lab testing to ensure products contain no dangerous substances or excessive solvents. The law defines "kratom" and "kratom products" (including edibles like powders and beverages) and prohibits sales to minors or through deceptive packaging. Violating licensing rules is a class C felony, and enforcement officers can inspect business locations to verify compliance.

Maddy summaryHB 2536 allows Washington wineries to operate restaurants that serve spirits, beer, and wine on their own premises or on adjacent property they own or lease. This bill amends state licensing rules to let domestic wineries hold "spirits, beer, and wine restaurant" licenses at their primary manufacturing sites or authorized additional locations. Previously, wineries could only sell wine at their facilities, but this change permits them to serve all three beverage types in a full-service restaurant setting. The policy directly affects Washington wineries, particularly those with multiple locations seeking to expand on-site dining options.

Maddy summaryHB 2038 creates a "youth behavioral health account" funded by a 0.4% tax on the gross income of social media platforms operating in Washington, starting January 2026. The tax applies to platforms defined as services allowing social interaction (like Facebook or TikTok), excluding email, gaming, or review sites. Funds will support telebehavioral health services for school-aged youth, a state coordinator for youth behavioral health, and implementation of a statewide strategic plan for prenatal through age 25 care. The bill explicitly states the tax does not apply to 501(c)(3) non-profits.

Maddy summaryHB 1607 establishes a statewide recycling refund program for glass, plastic, and metal beverage containers in Washington. Under this program, consumers pay a deposit, referred to as an "applicable refund value," when purchasing covered beverages. They can then return the empty containers to designated express or full-service redemption sites to receive their refund back. The bill implements an extended producer responsibility framework, making brand owners responsible for compliance, with the goal of increasing recycling rates, reducing litter, and supporting a circular economy.

Maddy summaryHB 2691 adjusts Washington state's monthly school funding schedule to improve cash flow for public school districts. It increases early-year payments (e.g., raising March from 9% to 10% of annual funds) and reduces later payments (e.g., lowering July from 12.5% to 10%), distributing more funds earlier in the school year. This change directly affects all public school districts receiving state apportionment funds under RCW 28A.510.250. The bill maintains the total annual funding amount but shifts timing to help schools manage expenses throughout the year, with the new schedule effective September 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHouse Resolution 4675, adopted on January 28, 2026, is a ceremonial resolution expressing the Washington State House of Representatives' gratitude to the Washington National Guard for their service. It specifically acknowledges the Guard's roles in emergency response (including flood operations and search-and-rescue missions), disaster recovery efforts (like adapting from the Oso landslide), and national defense support (such as aerial refueling capabilities). The resolution directs copies to the Adjutant General, Governor, and other officials but does not create new laws or alter policies. It directly honors National Guard members, their families, and employers without imposing any financial or operational requirements.