NAIOPWA Legislative Session Report - Week 10

Krystelle Purkey and Ehren Flygare, State Lobbyists

This week, regular legislative activity primarily revolved around policy committee hearings, where lawmakers reviewed and debated bills that had recently advanced from the opposite chamber.

Some of these include high profile bills like Unemployment Insurance for Striking Workers (5041), Waste Management (5284), Firearm Restrictions in Sensitive Places (5098) and Rent Stabilization (1217). These hearings are part of the lead up to the April 2 deadline for bills to be passed out of policy committees.

Just two months into his first term, Governor Bob Ferguson's administration is experiencing significant staffing challenges. Key staff members, including Legislative Director Joyce Bruce, Deputy Legislative Director Shawn Lewis, Chief Strategy Officer Mike Webb, and several others in his office have resigned. These departures follow reports of internal concerns, including complaints about a hostile work environment. In response, Governor Ferguson's office indicated they plan to restructure their leadership approach to address these issues.

The timing of these leadership changes presents unique challenges, especially given the current stage of the legislative session. Next week, we expect budget proposals from the House and Senate, along with revenue proposals from both chambers. Governor Ferguson’s proposed spending cuts, including eliminating teacher bonuses and furloughing state employees one day per month over two years, sparked considerable criticism. Some stakeholders, legislators, and members of the public have called on lawmakers to focus not only on cuts but also on identifying revenue solutions to address the state’s substantial $15-$16 billion budget deficit.

To read the full legislative update using your NAIOPWA member profile, click here.