Maddy summarySB 6276 protects dedicated funding for workforce education by requiring all revenues from the workforce investment surcharge (under RCW 82.04.299) and specified sources (RCW 82.04.290(2)(c)) to be deposited directly into a state treasury account. Funds in this account may only be spent on higher education programs, operations, student aid, and workforce development activities like career-connected learning. The bill explicitly prohibits using these funds to replace or reduce existing state, federal, or local education funding - requiring them to "supplement, not supplant" other resources. This amendment to RCW 43.79.195 ensures dedicated support for education and workforce programs without shifting existing budget responsibilities.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 6272 requires Washington buildings to turn off nonessential lighting during April, May, September, and October - peak bird migration months - to reduce collisions caused by light pollution. It also establishes incentives within the state's LEED building certification program to promote bird-safe features like specialized glass that prevents collisions. The law aims to protect Washington's over 500 bird species, which support ecosystems through pollination and habitat engineering, while simultaneously reducing energy consumption. These provisions apply to both new and existing buildings and are designed to balance wildlife conservation with energy efficiency.
Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8667 is a formal tribute honoring Monica Alexander upon her retirement as Executive Director of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission. The resolution recognizes her 20+ years of service with the Washington State Patrol - including being the first Black woman promoted to sergeant, lieutenant, and captain - and her leadership in expanding training facilities, reducing officer training wait times, and advancing policy initiatives like sexual assault kit funding. It does not create new laws or policies but celebrates her legacy in transforming law enforcement culture and increasing community representation. The Senate adopted this resolution on January 21, 2026, to acknowledge her contributions to Washington state.
Maddy summarySB 5902 amends Washington state election laws to clarify and standardize voter registration and address update deadlines. It requires voters to submit registration or address changes by eight days before an election (or in person until 8:00 p.m. on election day), and expands methods for updates - including mail, phone, email, DMV, health exchange, or designated agencies. The bill mandates counties to send acknowledgment notices within 60 days for new registrations and handle incomplete applications by requiring missing information within 45 days. It directly affects all Washington voters needing to register or update their address for elections.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 8661) is a ceremonial recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by the Washington State Senate. It affirms Dr. King's legacy and calls on all Washingtonians to continue working toward justice, emphasizing persistence and collective action. The resolution does not create new laws, policies, or funding; it is purely symbolic and non-binding. It was adopted by the Senate on January 19, 2026.
Maddy summaryWashington's SB 5821 directs the Department of Commerce to develop a nuclear power strategic framework by December 2026, assessing how advanced nuclear energy could support the state's clean energy goals. The framework must evaluate state objectives, development processes (including permitting and tribal consultation), challenges, and policy recommendations - such as streamlining site approvals at previously used nuclear or fossil fuel sites. This bill affects state agencies, utilities, and stakeholders involved in energy planning, aiming to integrate nuclear power as a reliable, clean energy source to meet Washington's 2045 emissions targets and growing electricity demand.
Maddy summarySB 6156 requires minimum levels of postconsumer recycled content (PCRC) in specific plastic products: trash bags, household cleaning and personal care product containers, and beverage containers. It directly affects manufacturers of these products, with exemptions for items like food-contact packaging, medical products, and hazardous material containers. The bill includes a small business exemption for producers with under $5 million in annual revenue (adjusted for inflation) and aims to reduce plastic waste while strengthening the recycled plastics market. Key provisions set environmental goals by decreasing virgin plastic use and supporting recycling infrastructure, without specifying exact recycled content percentages.
Maddy summarySB 6169 makes it a gross misdemeanor to sell, distribute, or give away nitrous oxide in canisters, devices, or flavored containers (like "whip-its"), directly affecting retailers and distributors of these products. Key exceptions include medical/dental use by licensed professionals, nitrous oxide in food propellants, manufacturing processes, and automotive applications. The bill defines "nitrous oxide" to include common terms like "laughing gas" but excludes these specified uses from the prohibition. It does not apply to sales for legitimate medical, food, industrial, or automotive purposes. The law aims to restrict recreational nitrous oxide access while preserving established commercial and medical uses.
Maddy summarySB 6108 designates the bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus), also called the cow shark, as Washington's official state shark. The bill cites this species' unique features - like having six gill slits instead of five - and its presence in Puget Sound waters, where it's regularly observed near Des Moines (called the "sixgill capital of the world"). The designation is purely symbolic, aiming to raise public awareness about marine ecosystems and encourage educational efforts for this deep-water species. It does not create new regulations or affect any policies. The bill is procedural, with no enforcement mechanisms, and focuses solely on naming a state symbol.
Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 8662) honors Roman Rogalski for his decades of community service in Seattle, including his journey as a refugee from Poland, U.S. Army military service, and dedication to the Polish Home Association. It specifically recognizes his restoration and donation of a home to the Polish Home Association - the largest single donation in its 107-year history - to create a community gathering space. The resolution commends Rogalski as a refugee who contributed significantly to Seattle after arriving in 1964. This is a ceremonial resolution with no policy impact, solely expressing legislative appreciation for his personal contributions.