Sen. Sharon Shewmake

Maddy summarySB 5281 modifies the requirements for nonresident vessel permits in Washington state. The bill changes the maximum vessel length allowed for certain nonresident vessels to qualify for a permit, increasing it from 200 feet to 300 feet. This applies to nonresident vessel owners that are not natural persons, or natural persons who intend to charter their vessel with a captain or crew. Until May 1, 2026, vessels over 200 feet will be processed as if they were 200 feet in length for permit applications.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5262 updates various state laws administered by the Insurance Commissioner to remove obsolete references and improve consistency. The bill repeals defunct statutes, makes technical corrections, and aligns existing insurance policies with current federal law and interpretations. It adjusts timelines for requesting refunds of insurance taxes and modifies provisions regarding the public disclosure of certain insurance-related information. Additionally, the bill includes measures to protect patient data by ensuring that specific identifying information collected by the Commissioner remains confidential.

Maddy summarySB 5419 modifies how authorized insurers report fire losses in Washington state. It requires insurers to report fire loss information to the Insurance Commissioner, rather than the Chief of the Washington State Patrol, within 90 days of closing a claim or any significant adjustment. The reported information must include the property address, date of loss, amount paid, and the known origin and cause of the fire, noting if it was due to criminal activity or undetermined causes. Additionally, the bill makes this information, when obtained by the Insurance Commissioner, exempt from public disclosure.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5184 limits the minimum parking requirements that cities and code cities in Washington state can impose on new construction projects. It caps required parking at 0.5 spaces per multifamily dwelling unit, one space per single-family home, and two spaces per 1,000 square feet of commercial space. The bill also eliminates all minimum parking requirements for specific categories, such as affordable housing, senior housing, child care centers, and smaller residential or commercial spaces. These changes directly affect developers, residents, and local governments, though cities with populations of 30,000 or less are exempt, and exceptions can be made for safety concerns or areas near major airports.

Maddy summarySenate Bill 5245 authorizes county legislative authorities, such as county commissioners, to administer oaths of office to state legislators. This bill amends an existing state law (RCW 36.32.120) that enumerates the powers of these county bodies. The change adds the specific ability for them to perform this duty for state elected officials, providing an additional option for legislators to fulfill this requirement.

Maddy summarySB 5110 allows Washington's community and technical colleges to waive tuition and certain fees for tribal elders. Specifically, it permits colleges to waive all or a portion of tuition and service and activity fees for tribal elders over 55 years old from eligible Indian tribes. This bill directly affects these tribal elders who may seek to enroll in community or technical colleges. The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges is authorized to adopt rules to implement this provision.

Maddy summarySB 5494 strengthens Washington's program to protect communities from lead-based paint hazards, particularly children. It designates the Department of Commerce to administer and enforce a state program for training, certifying, and accrediting individuals and firms involved in lead-based paint activities. This includes establishing a renovation, repair, and painting program that requires certified professionals to follow specific work standards for renovations in pre-1978 homes and child-occupied facilities. The bill aims to ensure a qualified workforce performs lead-based paint abatement and renovation activities safely, reducing public exposure to lead.

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 Resolution 8657 expresses the Senate's support for improving assistance and health outcomes for people experiencing menopause. It specifically calls for efforts to provide tools and treatment to enhance the quality of life for those affected, and directs copies of the resolution to the Washington State Department of Health and the Governor.