Sen. John Braun

Maddy summarySB 5009 modifies the student transportation allocation system for school districts in Washington state. It encourages districts to use various vehicle types, including school buses and other vehicles like district-owned passenger cars, for student transportation if deemed safe and cost-effective. The bill updates reporting requirements for districts to include miles driven per vehicle type and directs the superintendent of public instruction (SPI) to calculate transportation allocations based on all vehicle types used. Additionally, the SPI will establish minimum categories and competitive specifications for all student transportation vehicles to guide reimbursement.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5263 modifies how special education programs are funded in Washington state, directly affecting local school districts and students with disabilities. The bill increases the state's funding multipliers used to calculate excess costs for special education students, including a higher multiplier for younger students and a new single multiplier for older students, while also removing a previous enrollment cap on these allocations. Additionally, it revises the criteria for "safety net" funding, removing a provision that considered extraordinary costs related to community demographics, and continues to focus on high-cost needs for individual students. This bill was signed by the Governor on May 19, 2025, and becomes effective on July 27, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 5323 increases the penalties for stealing or possessing stolen property that belongs to firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) providers. It expands the definitions of first-degree theft and first-degree possession of stolen property to include essential equipment taken from fire stations, EMS buildings, or their vehicles. These actions become a Class B felony if the equipment is critical to emergency work and its loss significantly delayed a response, or if the equipment is valued over $1,000. This bill aims to protect the vital tools first responders use by applying stricter penalties to those who steal or possess their equipment under these specific circumstances.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5455 updates the administrative structure of the Andy Hill Cancer Research Endowment, which supports cancer research, prevention, and care in Washington state. The bill modifies the definition of "program administrator" to allow for one or more private nonprofit corporations to manage the endowment's activities, rather than a single entity. It also revises the specific organizations that nominate members to the endowment's governing board and grants the board greater flexibility in establishing or contracting with tax-exempt nonprofit corporations for administrative functions.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8659 is a commemorative resolution adopted by the Washington State Senate to honor the life and legacy of Senator Bill Ramos following his unexpected passing. It expresses gratitude for his service and acknowledges his contributions to the state, particularly in transportation equity, tribal sovereignty, and environmental stewardship.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8656 is a commemorative resolution honoring the late Speaker Frank Chopp for his extensive dedication and service to the citizens of Washington State. It acknowledges his significant legislative legacy and public service career, and extends condolences to his family.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5358 addresses career and technical education (CTE) for sixth-grade students. The bill modifies existing state law concerning the allocation of funding for basic education, specifically related to CTE programs. It aims to integrate sixth grade into the scope of CTE provisions, allowing school districts to offer these programs to younger students. This change could expand early exposure to career-focused learning for sixth-grade students.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8655 honors and commemorates the life and legacy of Ralph Munro, a former five-term Secretary of State for Washington. It recognizes his extensive contributions to the state, including his work in disability rights, environmental protection, and social services.

Maddy summarySJR 8201 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the state to invest moneys from the fund dedicated to long-term care services and supports. This change would directly affect eligible seniors and people with disabilities who receive these services by potentially enhancing the fund's resources. The bill amends Article XXIX, section 1 of the state Constitution to permit the investment of these funds, similar to other public trust funds. Any investment income generated would be specifically dedicated to long-term services and supports for program beneficiaries. This proposed amendment will be submitted to the state's qualified voters for their approval or rejection at the next general election.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8653 is a commemorative resolution passed by the Washington State Senate. It honors and reaffirms the strong bilateral relationship between Washington state and Taiwan, encompassing trade, education, and cultural exchanges. The resolution expresses the Senate's commitment to strengthening this relationship, recognizing Taiwan's participation in international organizations, and supporting a closer economic and trade partnership.