Maddy summaryHB 1324 redirects revenues from Washington's Climate Commitment Act (CCA) auction system to fund major state transportation projects, including the I-5 Columbia River bridge replacement and the US 395 North Spokane corridor. The bill amends existing law to require that CCA auction proceeds - previously restricted from road projects - be allocated specifically to highway and bridge infrastructure, rather than solely to climate or environmental programs. Key provisions mandate that funds support projects improving freight movement (like the Gateway freight project) and reducing congestion, which the bill states contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions. This reallocation changes how CCA revenue is spent but does not alter the underlying auction system or funding amounts.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 1087 expands Washington's "endangerment with a controlled substance" law to include fentanyl and other high-potency synthetic opioids, in addition to methamphetamine. It directly affects individuals who knowingly expose dependent children or adults to these substances. The bill amends the law to specifically list fentanyl (and its salts/isomers) and other defined high-potency synthetic opioids as covered substances, making such exposure a class B felony. This change explicitly excludes cases where substances are administered under a valid prescription, as outlined in chapter 69.50 RCW.
Maddy summaryHB 1911 creates a new special license plate option titled "Washington state honey bees and pollinators" (plate #36) for Washington vehicle owners. This plate, costing $40 for initial registration and $30 annually, would join existing special plates like "Washington apples" and "Seattle Mariners" in the state's license plate program. The bill amends state code to add this plate type and specifies that fees support pollinator research and education efforts. It does not create new funding or policy changes beyond the plate designation and associated fees.
Maddy summaryHB 1969 establishes a law enforcement aviation support grant program to provide financial assistance to local law enforcement rotary wing aviation support units. The Department will implement this program, identifying eligible units that offer aviation support to any jurisdiction in the state without charging them. Fifty percent of appropriated funds will be equally distributed to these recognized units for maintenance and operational costs, including pilot, crew, and aircraft expenses. Remaining funds will reimburse these units for search and rescue mission costs, with any final leftover amounts going to the Washington State Patrol's aviation section. These funds are intended to supplement, not replace, existing local funding.
Maddy summaryHB 1307 would remove Washington state sales and use tax on diapers and essential child care products starting January 1, 2026. The bill specifically exempts items like car seats, baby clothing (size 5T and smaller), incontinence products for infants and adults, baby monitors, strollers, and other products designed for children under five. It defines "essential child care products" to include items commonly recognized as necessary for infant and toddler care, as well as products for adults needing incontinence supplies. This tax exemption directly affects families with young children and caregivers of vulnerable adults who face high costs for these essentials. The policy aims to reduce financial strain without altering existing tax rates for other goods.
Maddy summaryHB 1835 requires Washington's Liquor and Cannabis Board to deny or not renew cannabis licenses for properties where local governments (cities, counties, tribes, or port authorities) provide written objections stating that zoning laws prohibit cannabis operations there. This directly affects cannabis businesses seeking new licenses or renewals, as local zoning decisions now override the board's discretion. The bill amends state law to mandate that the board consider these written objections before approving any license application. It ensures state cannabis licensing aligns with local land-use regulations, preventing licenses for properties that conflict with community zoning rules. The policy change applies to all cannabis business types, including cultivation, retail, and processing.
Maddy summaryHB 1799 prohibits individuals convicted of violent offenses involving a firearm from earning early release credits toward their prison sentences. Specifically, it amends Washington state law to deny all "good time credits" or "earned release time" for sentences resulting from violent crimes where a firearm was used as a deadly weapon. This directly affects people sentenced for violent felonies with firearm enhancements under existing law (RCW 9.94A.533), preventing them from reducing their sentences through behavior-based credits. The bill does not change sentencing lengths but restricts a key mechanism for early release for this specific group of offenders.
Maddy summaryHB 1699 (Defending equity in interscholastic sports) requires Washington public school districts to verify a student’s biological sex through a healthcare provider’s statement (based on reproductive anatomy, genetics, or testosterone levels) before allowing biologically male students to participate in female-identified sports. It permits schools to prohibit biologically male students from competing in sports with separate male/female classifications, while mandating equal resources (equipment, facilities, coaching, etc.) for all gender-segregated teams. The bill amends existing laws (RCW 28A.600.200 and 28A.640.020) to align with these provisions and requires the superintendent to develop guidelines eliminating sex discrimination in school activities. It directly affects public school students, athletic programs, and district policies governing interscholastic sports participation.
Maddy summaryHCR 4402 is a symbolic resolution (not a law) passed by Washington's legislature. It expresses the state's intent to work with the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) to strengthen regional supply chain security for critical minerals used in clean energy, defense, and technology. The resolution encourages PNWER to develop long-term strategies for sustainable mineral sourcing and research into alternatives, while urging Washington legislators attending PNWER meetings to support these efforts. It does not create new programs or funding but serves as a statement of policy direction.
Maddy summaryHB 1849 expands Washington's unexpired prescription drug donation program by removing the requirement that donated drugs must have more than six months until expiration. This change allows pharmacies to accept a wider range of eligible drugs, directly affecting donors (like patients or healthcare providers), pharmacies participating in the program, and individuals receiving donated medications. Key provisions include updated safety checks by pharmacists, mandatory recall notifications for all parties involved, a prohibition on reselling donated drugs, and clarification that donated drugs cannot be reimbursed by health insurers. The bill aims to increase access to unused medications while maintaining safety standards through revised expiration timing and enhanced recall protocols.