Endorsed Proposals of the
38th Legislative District Democrats
Here you will find proposed local, state, and federal legislation that the 38th Legislative Democrats have endorsed for the current legislative session.
If you have a resolution or bill that you would like for us to review and consider for endorsement, please email us.
Approve SB 5041
Unemployment Insurance for Striking Workers
Current Status:
Had Public Hearing in the House on March 18
Washington State Senate Bill 5041 (SB 5041) concerns unemployment insurance benefits for workers who are on strike or locked out.
This bill provides financial support to workers who are on strike or locked out by allowing them to receive unemployment benefits during such periods. Supporting this bill ensures that workers have a safety net during labor disputes, promoting fair labor practices and protecting workers’ rights.
Approve SB 5515
Fair Access to Community Solar
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill aims to ensure fair access to community solar projects.
This bill promotes equitable participation in community solar programs by addressing barriers that prevent certain communities from benefiting. Supporting this bill ensures that low-income households and underserved communities have access to the financial and environmental benefits of community solar, promoting clean energy and social equity.
Approve SB 5397
Limiting Non-Tenure Faculty in Colleges
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill sets limits on the percentage of courses that can be taught by faculty without tenure track status at community and technical colleges.
This bill helps improve the quality of education by ensuring that a higher proportion of courses are taught by tenured or tenure-track faculty, promoting stability and academic excellence
Approve HJR 4201 / HB 1032
Improving School District Elections
Current Status:
Companion Bill SB 5186 Did Not Pass Out of Chamber
This bill focuses on improving the election process for school districts, making it more transparent, efficient, and accessible.
This bill ensures fair representation and participation in school district governance, promoting democratic principles and community involvement.
Approve HB 1214
Expanding Working Families' Tax Credit
Current Status:
Companion Bill SB 5768 Did Not Pass Out of Chamber
This bill expands eligibility for the working families’ tax credit to include everyone aged 18 and older.
This bill provides financial relief to a broader range of low- and moderate-income families, promoting economic stability and reducing poverty.
Approve HB 1404
Increasing Access to Free School Meals
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill aims to increase student access to free meals served at public schools.
This bill ensures that more students, regardless of their economic background, have access to nutritious meals during the school day, promoting health and academic success.
Approve HB 1128
Establishing Child Care Workforce Standards Board
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill establishes a child care workforce standards board to set standards and regulations for the child care workforce.
This bill ensures that child care workers receive fair wages, benefits, and professional development opportunities, ultimately enhancing the quality of child care services provided to families.
Approve HB 1391
Strengthening Juvenile Diversion Programs
Current Status:
Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Human Services
This bill aims to improve developmentally appropriate alternatives for youth outside the formal court process by strengthening juvenile diversion programs.
This bill provides more effective and supportive interventions for young people, reducing their involvement in the criminal justice system and promoting positive youth development.
Approve SB 5412
Temporary Loans for School Districts
Current Status:
Scheduled for public hearing in the House Committee on Education on March 24
This bill provides temporary interfund loans for school districts facing short-term cash flow issues.
This bill ensures that school districts can continue to operate smoothly and meet their obligations, promoting financial stability and continuity in education.
Approve SB 5570
Supporting Tribal Sovereignty Education
Current Status:
Referred to Appropriations in the House
This bill supports public school instruction in tribal sovereignty and federally recognized Indian tribes.
This bill enhances students’ understanding and appreciation of tribal history, culture, and governance, promoting greater awareness and respect for indigenous communities.
Reject HB 1140
Establishing EmpowerED Scholarships (Vouchers)
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill aims to establish EmpowerED scholarships using educational savings accounts. The goal is to provide financial support to students and families, allowing them to access a wider range of educational opportunities.
By diverting funds to educational savings accounts, there could be a reduction in resources available for public schools, which may negatively affect the quality of education for students who remain in the public school system. Additionally, there may be concerns about the lack of accountability and oversight for how the funds are used, leading to potential misuse or inequitable distribution of resources.
Reject HB 1676
Current Status:
Did Not Make it Past Cutoff
This bill concerns the reassignment and authorization of surrendered, revoked, or nonrenewed charter school contracts. It aims to provide a clear process for reassigning these contracts to ensure that students’ education is not disrupted. The bill outlines the criteria and procedures for reassigning contracts to new charter school operators, ensuring continuity and stability in the education system.
By reassigning charter school contracts, there may be a risk of diverting resources away from public schools, which could negatively affect the quality of education for students in the public school system. Additionally, there may be concerns about the oversight and transparency of the reassignment process, leading to potential misuse or inequitable distribution of resources.