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.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 5210 establishes a permanent state grant program to fund "ninth grade success teams" in Washington public schools. These teams identify students at risk of falling behind by tracking attendance, behavior, and grades, then provide targeted academic and social support to improve their chances of graduating on time. The program prioritizes schools with low ninth-grade on-track rates (passing all classes) or below-average graduation rates, using grant funds for staff stipends, professional development, substitute teachers, and student supports. Schools receiving grants must report annually on participation, student demographics, and improvements in on-track rates and graduation data through 2030.
Maddy summarySB 5411 reenacts and amends Washington's definition of "sale at retail" (RCW 82.04.050) to clarify tax treatment for various services, including those provided by fitness facilities. The bill does not create new tax exemptions for pilates studios or gymnastics facilities; instead, it updates existing definitions of taxable retail sales to include services like installing or improving fitness equipment. Key provisions specify that charges for labor/services related to tangible personal property (e.g., facility maintenance, equipment installation) are taxable under current retail sales rules. This bill affects all businesses subject to Washington's retail sales tax, not just fitness studios, by refining how certain services are classified for tax purposes. The title misleadingly suggests specific treatment for fitness facilities, but the actual text modifies general tax definitions without targeting those businesses.
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 5567 expands existing youth training programs in natural resource and conservation careers for Washington students aged 14-17, particularly targeting schools in disadvantaged communities. The bill requires the state to fund a nonprofit partner to run after-school or summer programs (minimum 90 hours, two-thirds work-based) that provide high school credits, dual college credit opportunities, or industry credentials in fields like forest management and water resource conservation. It mandates partnerships with employers to identify workforce needs and prioritize historically marginalized students, using state standards including Indigenous curriculum and environmental education. The program must track outcomes like graduation rates and report annually to the legislature on its effectiveness and funding use.
Maddy summarySB 5259 exempts commercial fishing businesses from paying sales and use tax on bait purchased for their operations in Washington State. To qualify, businesses must provide a valid exemption certificate to sellers and apply for certification through the Department of Revenue. The exemption specifically applies to licensed commercial fishing businesses (excluding recreational fishing charters) and expires on January 1, 2037. This policy aims to provide equitable tax treatment for the commercial fishing industry, aligning it with similar sectors like commercial farming.
Maddy summarySB 5233 would create a new Washington Health Trust, a unified nonprofit entity to provide universal health coverage to all Washington residents without premiums, deductibles, or copayments. The bill establishes a single financing system replacing the current patchwork of private and public plans, guaranteeing comprehensive coverage for essential health benefits including primary care, dental, vision, prescription drugs, mental health services, and maternity care. It prohibits discrimination based on race, gender, immigration status, or other protected characteristics and requires all qualified providers to accept the trust’s reimbursement rates as payment in full. The trust would administer coverage for all residents, including nonresidents employed or studying in Washington, while preserving tribal health funding under existing law.
Maddy summaryThis bill updates Washington state rules for charitable nonprofits hosting fundraising events. It raises the maximum ticket price for raffles from $100 to $250 and increases the annual raffle revenue cap from $5,000 to $20,000. Organizations must now limit bingo/amusement game revenue to $10,000 yearly, require all participants to be bona fide members (not paid staff), and maintain detailed records for one year. These changes apply to nonprofits conducting raffles, bingo, or similar events without a license, ensuring funds directly support their charitable purposes.
Maddy summarySB 5402 modifies Washington State's college financial aid program by expanding eligibility for the maximum Washington College Grant to students with family incomes up to 70% of the state median family income (up from 55%), with temporary adjustments during 2022-2025. It adds a new $500 annual "bridge grant" for students receiving the maximum Washington College Grant but not the College Bound Scholarship, to cover non-tuition expenses like books, housing, and child care. The bridge grant applies after other gift aid is awarded and requires at least half-time enrollment. This bill directly affects low-income Washington students pursuing higher education, particularly those who qualify for the maximum grant but lack additional scholarship support. The changes take effect for the 2025-26 academic year.