Maddy summarySB 5326 creates a Washington State program to provide one emergency 30-day insulin supply per year for $10 out-of-pocket to eligible residents. It directly affects Washington residents who lack insurance coverage that already limits insulin costs to $35 or less per 30-day supply, have a valid prescription, and have less than a seven-day supply available. The program uses electronic vouchers redeemable at contracted pharmacies, with pharmacies submitting claims for reimbursement from the state's prescription drug consortium. The consortium then invoices insulin manufacturers for reimbursement within 30 days, with fines for nonpayment. This is a direct policy change to improve short-term insulin access for uninsured or underinsured Washington residents.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 5373 would allow Washington local governments (cities, towns, and special districts) to choose holding general elections in even-numbered years instead of the current odd-numbered years, aiming to boost voter turnout. The bill amends election statutes to permit this shift through local ordinances, charter amendments, or voter initiatives, requiring public hearings and specifying transition rules for election terms. It directly affects all local jurisdictions that opt to change their election timing, with the stated goal of increasing participation - particularly among younger voters, working families, and people with disabilities - by aligning local elections with higher-turnout even-year state/federal cycles. The bill does not mandate the change but provides a structured process for local governments to adopt it.
Maddy summaryThis bill, SB 5296, aims to improve outcomes for juveniles adjudicated of offenses by expanding community placement options. It requires courts to make an independent finding, supported by clear evidence, that commitment to a state facility is necessary to protect the community before sentencing a juvenile to over 30 days of confinement. If this finding is not made, courts may impose local sanctions, electronic monitoring, or suspended dispositions. The bill also specifies factors for courts to consider, such as the juvenile's history, treatment needs, and personal characteristics, when determining the need for confinement.
Maddy summarySB 5753 establishes a 12-member task force to study how Washington State could expand public housing as a solution to the housing crisis. The task force will examine funding options, public land use, UN housing standards, and governance changes needed to develop mixed-income housing, with a focus on affordability for low-income residents and communities of color. It must submit preliminary and final reports to the legislature by July and November 2026, respectively, including recommendations for creating publicly owned housing that meets international adequacy standards. This bill does not fund or build housing but creates a study group to develop a strategy for future action.
Maddy summarySB 5044 allows public employers in Washington to negotiate with employee unions over contributions for supplemental retirement benefits (such as medical plans) that are administered by or on behalf of employee organizations. This bill amends state law to explicitly permit bargaining on contribution levels for these supplemental benefits, while still keeping core retirement plans and benefits administered by the Department of Retirement Systems off-limits to negotiation. The change directly affects public employees covered under Washington's retirement systems who participate in supplemental benefit programs. The policy shift clarifies that contributions for these specific supplemental benefits - distinct from basic pension plans - are subject to collective bargaining.
Maddy summarySB 5042 requires that autonomous vehicles transporting passengers or goods in Washington must have a human safety operator physically present to monitor and intervene if needed, meeting all standard driving requirements. It mandates that companies testing autonomous vehicles must provide law enforcement with advance notice (14-60 days), report collisions and moving violations, and display vehicle details like make and license plate. The bill also sets federal compliance standards for autonomous vehicles and requires testers to submit annual safety reports to the state legislature. These rules directly affect autonomous vehicle testing companies, safety operators, and law enforcement agencies.
Maddy summarySB 5075 prohibits most health plans from charging copays, deductibles, or other cost-sharing fees for specific prenatal and postnatal services starting in 2026. It covers in-network office visits, ultrasounds, vitamins, and follow-up care like cesarean recovery during the pregnancy period (from first pregnancy-related claim until delivery) and for 12 weeks after birth (up to one year for complications). Prescription drugs for pregnancy-related conditions are also exempt from cost-sharing starting in 2027. The bill applies to nongrandfathered health plans in Washington, directly affecting pregnant and postpartum individuals by eliminating out-of-pocket costs for these essential services.
Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment allowing Washington's legislature to create a property tax exemption for primary residences. If approved by voters, it would enable future legislation to establish this exemption, with the legislature determining eligibility and specific conditions. The amendment requires voter approval at the next general election and does not create the exemption itself, only authorizes its potential future implementation.
Maddy summarySB 5617 creates a new court process for juveniles in detention or exiting detention who are deemed "in need of services." It requires courts to consider alternatives to detention and mandates family reconciliation services (like counseling, crisis support, and referrals) to help stabilize families before release. The bill directly affects juveniles aged 18 or younger in detention or transitioning from custody, ensuring they have access to necessary services and a safe placement upon release. Key provisions include defining "child in need of services" to include those lacking stable housing after detention and requiring courts to prioritize family reunification or community-based support over continued detention.
Maddy summarySB 5031 creates a new council within Washington's Department of Health to improve coordination of health care for people in correctional facilities, jails, juvenile detention centers, and other confinement settings. The council, composed of state agency representatives, tribal leaders, county officials, and individuals with lived experience, will review current health information systems and make recommendations to streamline communication and reduce duplication. It must meet quarterly and submit annual reports to the legislature starting in 2025. This bill directly affects individuals in confinement, state health and corrections agencies, and tribal governments by establishing a formal process for better health care coordination.