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Dear Neighbor,
With Week 12 in the books, the 2025 legislative session is entering the home stretch. There is still plenty of work to be done to wrap things up before the 105-day deadline on April 27.
Our Community at the Capitol continues to spotlight the remarkable people and organizations from the 20th Legislative District who are making their voices heard in Olympia! This biweekly update features photos of constituents who have visited the Capitol, sharing their perspectives, ideas, and passion for shaping state policy.
Your weekly recap of what’s happening in the Legislature
Every week, I break down major developments shaping the future of our state — highlighting proposals that impact families, communities, and the direction of Washington.
This week, my Week 12 video dives into a central problem with the House operating budget: it’s not a budget crisis — it’s a priorities crisis.
The budget passed by House Democrats includes more than $15 billion in new and increased taxes. But it’s not just targeting big corporations. It hits everyday Washingtonians with higher costs on marriage licenses, fishing and hunting permits, and Discovery Passes — making it more expensive for families and seniors to enjoy the great outdoors.
During the debate, House Republicans pushed for a more responsible approach — offering amendments to reduce wasteful spending, eliminate the need for new taxes, and fund real priorities like special education and universal school meals. Every one of those amendments was rejected along party lines.
And here’s the kicker: the budget still leaves $3.5 billion unspent. That means these tax increases aren’t about necessity — they’re about choice.
To learn more about all the tax proposals on the table, click here.
At the end of the day, these decisions make it harder to live here, raise a family, and build a future.
Watch the latest recap here or by clicking the photo below.
You can watch all my weekly recaps by clicking here.
Our Community at the Capitol
Union Ridge Elementary (Ridgefield) 4th Graders
Athletes | Special Olympics Washington
Special Olympics Washington
Ridgefield Page Sam Parker (sponsored by Rep. Ed Orcutt)
Lewis County Commissioner Sean Swope and his daughters
Constituent Lane Finley, Centralia (with Rep. Mike Steele and Rep. Peter Abbarno)
If you plan to visit the Capitol, I’d love to connect with you and hear from you. Reach out to schedule a meeting—I’m here to represent and support you!
Thank you for the honor of allowing me to be your voice in Olympia.
Sincerely,
Peter Abbarno
