Sen. Jamie Pedersen

Maddy summarySB 5129 updates and clarifies laws governing common interest communities, such as condominiums and homeowners' associations. It primarily affects communities created before July 1, 2018, by applying specific provisions of the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA) to them. This means certain modern governance and operational rules from WUCIOA will take precedence over older, conflicting statutes for these communities. The bill also revises definitions within WUCIOA, such as for "affiliate of a declarant" and "assessment," and clarifies which laws control in cases of conflict.

Maddy summarySB 5037 enacts the Uniform Custodial Trust Act in Washington, establishing a legal framework for creating and managing custodial trusts. This act allows individuals to transfer property to a "custodial trustee" for the benefit of a "beneficiary," who may also be the person creating the trust. The trust is established through a written transfer or declaration, with the custodial trustee managing the property for the beneficiary's use. A custodial trust can be terminated by the beneficiary if they are not incapacitated, or upon the beneficiary's death.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the law concerning contraceptive coverage for individuals enrolled in health benefit plans in Washington State. It mandates that health plans issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, must cover a 12-month supply of contraceptive drugs obtained at one time. This provision applies unless the enrollee requests a smaller supply or their prescribing provider instructs otherwise. The bill also allows enrollees to receive these drugs on-site at the provider's office if available and defines "contraceptive drugs" as all FDA-approved drugs used to prevent pregnancy.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8655 honors and commemorates the life and legacy of Ralph Munro, a former five-term Secretary of State for Washington. It recognizes his extensive contributions to the state, including his work in disability rights, environmental protection, and social services.

Maddy summarySJR 8201 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the state to invest moneys from the fund dedicated to long-term care services and supports. This change would directly affect eligible seniors and people with disabilities who receive these services by potentially enhancing the fund's resources. The bill amends Article XXIX, section 1 of the state Constitution to permit the investment of these funds, similar to other public trust funds. Any investment income generated would be specifically dedicated to long-term services and supports for program beneficiaries. This proposed amendment will be submitted to the state's qualified voters for their approval or rejection at the next general election.

Maddy summarySenate Joint Memorial 8008 officially withdraws all prior applications made by the Washington State Legislature to the United States Congress for a constitutional convention. The memorial explicitly rescinds, repeals, and cancels any and all such past requests, regardless of their original scope (limited or general) or the completeness of their historical records. This action ensures that Washington's previous calls for a convention are nullified. The state communicates this decision to federal officials, requesting that Washington no longer be counted among the states seeking a constitutional convention until a future legislature passes a new application. It primarily affects the State of Washington's official position regarding the process for amending the U.S. Constitution under Article V.

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 summarySenate Resolution 8654 amends Rule 45 of the Senate Permanent Rules, which governs the operational procedures for all Senate committees. The changes outline requirements for public hearing notices, ensure committee deliberations are open to the public, and specify rules for quorum and voting on measures. It establishes procedures for committee reports, including a 24-hour hold period for signature sheets after executive action, and prohibits secret ballots in committee votes. Additionally, the resolution mandates the use of an Electronic Bill Book for committee materials and an online system for public sign-in.

Maddy summaryThis is a symbolic Senate Resolution (not a law) honoring the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people in Washington state. It recognizes the disproportionate violence they face, acknowledges Washington's high rate of such cases, and expresses the Senate's solidarity with affected families, tribal nations, and advocates. The resolution does not create new legal requirements or funding but aims to raise awareness and support ongoing efforts to address this crisis. It was adopted by the Senate on April 14, 2025.

Maddy summarySenate Resolution 8646 (adopted April 10, 2025) is a ceremonial resolution honoring Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney, a former Washington state legislator and longtime advocate for migrant communities, education, and economic equity. It recognizes her foundational work co-founding organizations like The Latino Association (later Inspire) and the Yakima Valley Farmworkers Health Centers, her 16-year service in the House of Representatives (1997-2013), and her advocacy for policies including in-state tuition for undocumented students and the REAL Hope Act (Dream Act). The resolution formally celebrates her legacy of public service and commitment to underserved communities across Washington State.