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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The 2026 legislative session began yesterday, Jan. 12, and the debate in Olympia is already centered on taxes and the state budget.
Majority Democrats are blaming federal policies and tariffs for higher costs and are using those claims to justify new taxes, including a proposed state income tax on “higher earners.” Republicans strongly disagree.
Washington’s affordability crisis is the result of policy decisions made here at home, including the largest tax increase in state history, passed last year. Democrats and Gov. Bob Ferguson are now citing a projected $4.3 billion budget deficit over the next four years as justification for raising taxes further.
House Republicans believe the budget can be balanced by prioritizing spending, not raising taxes, and without deep cuts to essential services. Our Affordability First Budget Plan offers a responsible alternative that restores fiscal discipline and keeps Washington affordable.
Please read on about these and other issues expected in this short, but intense 60-day session.
Staying informed
I encourage you to read the 9th District joint article, “What to Expect in the 2026 Legislative Session,” authored by Sen. Mark Schoesler, Rep. Joe Schmick, and me. It outlines the major issues expected in this short but intense 60-day session. Rep. Schmick and I also mailed a printed newsletter, “2026 Session Expectations,” to households across the district.
Key issues I’m working on
As ranking Republican on the House Environment and Energy Committee, I am focused on several important issues:
- Flood prevention: I am renewing efforts to pass House Bill 1288, the Outdoor Recreation and Climate Adaptation (ORCA) plan, which emphasizes practical flood mitigation and resilience—especially important after last month’s atmospheric river flooding. Read my opinion editorial that was published Jan. 8 in The News Tribune (Tacoma). Also, read my press release on the ORCA Plan.
- Grocery bag fees: I am sponsoring House Bill 2284 to protect consumer choice and prevent sharp increases in grocery bag fees that could cost families more than $57 per year. A public hearing will be held this Thursday, Jan. 15, on the bill. Read my press release for more details.
Other issues
- Energy costs: I am raising concerns about House Bill 2275, which would create a California-style state-run wildfire liability fund financed by new charges on electricity bills, increasing power costs statewide. Read my press release.
- Helping our male population to build stable, productive lives: I have introduced House Bill 2461 to establish a Washington State Commission on Boys and Men, aimed at addressing growing disparities in education, mental health, incarceration, and economic opportunity. Read my press release.
Staying engaged in the legislative process
Your voice matters. I encourage you to become involved during the 2026 legislative session. You can watch committee hearings and floor debates live on TVW at tvw.org. You can also submit comments on legislation and testify at committee hearings through the Legislature’s website at leg.wa.gov.
I will continue standing up for taxpayers and working for better affordability in our state. Most importantly, I remain committed to being a strong voice for the families, farmers, and communities of the 9th Legislative District.
Thank you for staying engaged and involved in your state government.
Sincerely,
Mary Dye
