Sen. Jess Bateman

Maddy summarySB 5221 simplifies processes and timelines for county treasurers collecting delinquent personal property taxes, primarily affecting owners of personal property, including mobile and manufactured homes. The bill modifies rules for distraint sales, including how excess funds are distributed and clarifying the timeline for distraining certain mobile homes. It also allows county treasurers to waive outstanding interest and penalties on delinquent taxes for income-qualified mobile or manufactured home owners who meet specific conditions. Additionally, it permits electronic public auctions for distraint sales and clarifies when taxes may be canceled as uncollectible.

Maddy summarySenate Joint Memorial 8004 is a petition from the Washington State Legislature to the federal government regarding universal health care. It requests that the federal government either establish a national universal health care program for all U.S. residents, or partner with Washington state to reduce barriers for the state to implement its own universal health system. Failing those, the memorial asks the federal government to grant Washington state the necessary waivers to create its own universal health care system.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8640 is a commemorative resolution that honors Senator Karen Lynn Keiser for her nearly 30 years of service in the Washington State Legislature. It commends her for her work on health care reform, establishing the Washington Health Benefit Exchange and Paid Family and Medical Leave program, and championing policies for working families.

Maddy summarySB 5106 amends Washington state law to formally recognize Eid al-Fitr (first day of the tenth Islamic month) and Eid al-Adha (tenth day of the twelfth Islamic month) as designated days of cultural observance. The bill adds these dates to the list of recognized days in RCW 1.16.050, which are not automatically paid holidays but may be requested as unpaid religious holidays under existing provisions. State employees who observe these days can request them as unpaid days off for religious reasons, following the same process as other faith-based requests under RCW 1.16.050(3). The law does not change the paid holiday structure but ensures these dates are formally acknowledged in state statutes. It became effective July 27, 2025, after Governor approval.

Maddy summarySB 5244 amends Washington state law to exempt WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program staff from standard licensing requirements when performing specific blood tests. It allows WIC clinic staff to conduct hematological screening tests - using heel-stick, toe-stick, or finger-stick methods - without additional licensure, directly affecting WIC program employees statewide. The bill adds this exemption to existing provisions in RCW 18.360.090, limiting the tests to basic hematological evaluations only. This change streamlines WIC staff capabilities for routine screenings within their program, effective July 27, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 5051 consolidates Washington's nursing assistant regulatory oversight by merging the separate Board of Nursing and Board of Practical Nursing into a single 17-member "Board of Nursing." The bill directly affects certified nursing assistants (CNAs) by requiring two CNA members on the board who must be currently employed with at least two years of experience. Key provisions include updated membership requirements - such as mandating at least one CNA member, specific faculty representation for nursing programs, and restrictions on public members with healthcare financial ties - and repealing outdated sections. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, streamlining oversight for nursing assistants under one unified board structure.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution, not a bill with policy changes. It formally honors Transgender Day of Visibility in Washington State, recognizing transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals' contributions to the state's communities, history, and culture. The resolution affirms the Senate's commitment to equity and inclusion but does not create new laws, alter policies, or affect any specific group through legal mechanisms. It serves as a symbolic gesture of support and celebration.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 8630) is a ceremonial statement adopted by the Washington State Senate on March 14, 2025. It formally honors the historical and ongoing contributions of Sikh Americans to Washington state's cultural, economic, and social development. The resolution specifically references the 1907 Bellingham Riots as a historical example of anti-Sikh discrimination and commits the Senate to combating discrimination against Sikhs and all marginalized communities. It does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic recognition of Sikh contributions and a reaffirmation of values like inclusion and equality.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (not a law) honoring students in Washington state youth programs. It specifically recognizes participants in the Legislative Youth Advisory Council (LYAC), Washington State Leadership Board, and related programs (like Boundless Washington and Compassion Scholars) for their civic engagement and leadership. The resolution celebrates LYAC's 20th anniversary and acknowledges these students' contributions to community service and shaping policy. It has no legal effect or direct impact on any individuals or policies - it is solely a formal expression of Senate appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution formally recognizes Ramadan as a significant religious observance for Washington's Muslim community, expressing the Senate's support and well-wishes for a meaningful observance. It acknowledges Ramadan's spiritual importance in Islam, highlights the contributions of American Muslims (including in Washington state), and marks the start of the holy month. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it is purely a symbolic gesture of recognition.