Sen. Claudia Kauffman

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Washington state law governing trainee real estate appraisers. It extends their registration period to a maximum of seven years (including two renewals), with exceptions for illness or military service documented by a healthcare provider. Trainees must now work exclusively under the direct supervision of a certified general or residential appraiser. The changes take effect May 1, 2027, and directly affect individuals seeking to become licensed appraisers in Washington.

Maddy summarySB 6250 increases Washington State's maximum small loan amount from $700 to $1,200 (adjusted for inflation annually using the Seattle-area consumer price index), while also capping loans at 30% of a borrower's monthly income - whichever is lower. It limits borrowers to no more than eight small loans in any 12-month period and requires lenders to set due dates based on the borrower's pay schedule. The bill also restricts interest and fees to 15% on the first $500 of principal and 10% on amounts over $500, and prohibits lenders from charging additional fees for loan extensions. These changes directly affect small loan borrowers and licensed lenders operating under Washington's small loan regulations.

Maddy summarySenate Joint Memorial 8000 requests the Washington State Transportation Commission and Department of Transportation to extend the official naming of Martin Luther King, Jr. Way. This extension would apply to specific sections of State Route 900 and State Route 515, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s contributions to civil rights.

Maddy summarySB 5574 requires Washington public schools to teach Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander history as part of social studies curriculum. Starting in the 2029-30 school year, all K-12 schools must include this history when aligned with state standards, covering topics like community contributions to civil rights, local/regional history, and economic/cultural impacts. The bill mandates the state superintendent to develop learning standards and approved curricula by September 2028, with school districts reporting on implementation annually beginning in 2030. This applies to all public school students in Washington, directly affecting curriculum content and instructional practices across the state.

Maddy summarySB 5046 designates November 22nd as "Kimchi Day" in Washington State, adding it to a list of recognized observances in state law. The bill acknowledges kimchi’s cultural significance (including its UN-recognized preparation process, "kimjang") and health benefits, noting similar observances in California, Virginia, Hawaii, and South Korea. It does not create a paid holiday or alter work schedules; "Kimchi Day" is purely symbolic recognition, listed alongside other non-holiday observances like Korean-American Day and Cesar Chavez Day. This bill has no direct policy impact on residents or employees, as it only formalizes a cultural observance.

Maddy summarySB 5609 requires local governments (cities and counties) to follow specific cultural resource protections when approving certain land use projects that normally skip full environmental reviews under Washington’s SEPA law. To qualify for this exemption, local governments must have a data-sharing agreement with the state archaeology department, a local ordinance protecting historic sites (or a tribe-approved cultural plan), and written consultation agreements with affected tribes. The bill applies to projects exempt under existing laws or future rules, ensuring cultural resources are considered even for smaller developments. This changes how local governments handle approvals for activities like minor construction or renovations without requiring full environmental impact studies. The law aims to balance development with preserving cultural heritage through standardized local and tribal collaboration.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 8665) formally recognizes February as Black History Month in Washington State. It honors the history, contributions, and resilience of Black Americans in Washington and across the nation, acknowledging their enduring impact on civic life, culture, and democracy. The resolution serves as a symbolic gesture of recognition by the Washington State Senate, with no new policies or direct effects on constituents or programs. It was adopted by the Senate on February 16, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 8672) honoring Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting, a Washington State Patrol officer who died in the line of duty on December 19, 2025. The resolution expresses the Senate's condolences to her family, commends her service and embodiment of the Patrol's motto ("Service with Humility"), and extends gratitude to all Washington State Patrol members. It has no policy impact - it is purely symbolic recognition of her life and service, with copies sent to her family and Patrol leadership.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (SR 8684) celebrates nine Washington state athletes who will compete for Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Italy. It specifically recognizes Western Washington University alumni Breezy Johnson, Katie Hensien, Eunice Lee, Erin Martin, Novie McCabe, Cooper McLeod, Ben Richardson, Corrine Stoddard, and Luc Violette. The resolution expresses the Washington State Senate's admiration for these athletes' dedication and accomplishments in sports like alpine skiing and curling. As a symbolic gesture, it does not create new policies or affect any laws or individuals.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 8683), not a legislative bill with policy changes. It formally honors the Seattle Seahawks for winning the 2025 NFL season, including their regular-season record, NFC West championship, and Super Bowl 60 victory. The resolution expresses the Washington State Senate's appreciation for the team's on-field success and community contributions, with no legal effect or impact on constituents. It was adopted on February 10, 2026, and serves solely as a symbolic gesture of recognition.