Author Archives: Laudan

Senate Democrats Block Resolution Honoring Women’s Sports, Warnick Pushes Back

State Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, on Tuesday criticized Senate Democrats for refusing to allow even the reading of Senate Resolution 8647, a measure she sponsored to honor the legacy and importance of women’s sports and promote fairness in female athletic competition.

The resolution, co-sponsored by Sen. Shelly Short, R-Addy, recognized the accomplishments of female athletes, the impact of Title IX, and the need to preserve equal opportunities for women and girls in sports.

“It is deeply disappointing that my Democratic colleagues chose to block a resolution that simply celebrates the achievements of women in sports and calls for fairness in competition,” Warnick said. “SR 8647 acknowledges the transformative impact of Title IX, the rise of women’s athletics, and the importance of preserving equal opportunities for female athletes.”

Warnick said the refusal to bring the resolution to the Senate floor is part of a broader trend of dismissing concerns raised by athletes, parents and sports advocates who say women’s sports are being undermined when biological males are allowed to compete in female categories.

“This is not a fringe issue, it is a mainstream concern shared by athletes, coaches and families across Washington and the country,” said Warnick. “Washington should be leading the way in supporting women’s sports, not silencing efforts to recognize and protect them.”

SR 8647 also celebrated Spokane’s recent hosting of the NCAA Women’s Sweet 16 and Elite 8 games and praised the city for advancing opportunities for female athletes.

Budget Week in Olympia – What It Means for You

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This past week in Olympia made one thing very clear: while Senate Republicans are working to deliver a responsible, no-new-tax budget, the majority party has taken a sharp turn toward higher taxes, without public notice or debate.

Saturday morning, the Senate convened to take up the largest tax increase in state history – over $18 billion dollars. The four proposals include steep increases in sales taxes on all kinds of services, excise taxes, real estate taxes, and budget gimmicks.

While the majority continues to say that the wealthy need to pay what the owe, the reality about the taxes being passed will hit main street hard.

A Responsible Path Forward

I’m proud to support the Senate Republicans’ $ave Washington budget, a $75.6 billion proposal that boosts education funding, strengthens behavioral health, and maintains vital services all without new taxes or draining our rainy-day fund. We’ve shown it’s entirely possible to meet our state’s needs by respecting your tax dollars and focusing on outcomes, not just spending.

Sounding the Alarm: A Tax Tsunami

While we worked on that responsible plan, the majority party rushed through hearings on five new tax proposals with less than a day’s notice. These include:

  • A targeted tax on electric vehicle credits aimed squarely at one company that did exactly what the state asked.
  • Increases to property, capital gains income taxes, and business taxes, which will ultimately be passed along to you, the consumer.
  • A gimmicky change to sales tax collection timing that only masks budget shortfalls while straining small businesses, that is in effect a net increase on the state sales tax.

They call it progressive policy, but the reality is, it’s regressive, inflationary, and hurts rural and working families the most.

Fireman

Enhancing Penalties for Theft from First Responders Heads to Governor

Legislation that I sponsored to strengthen penalties for theft and possession of stolen property belonging to first responders is one step closer to becoming law. The Washington State Senate voted to concur with House amendments to Senate Bill 5323, sending the bipartisan measure to the governor’s desk for consideration.

Warnick’s bill targets individuals who steal or possess property used by firefighters or emergency medical service providers, classifying such crimes as a Class B felony under certain circumstances. The legislation is intended to deter thefts that can hinder the effectiveness and safety of emergency response teams.

Click here to read more…

Remembering Sen. Bill Ramos

This past Saturday, my colleague, Senator Bill Ramos suddenly passed away. Bill and I spoke on Friday about working together on several issues that affect both of our districts; rural economic development, forest health, and ensuring our communities have a voice in Olympia. That conversation, like many I had with him over the years, was productive, respectful, and focused on finding real solutions for the people we serve.

Senator Ramos was deeply committed to public service. Though we sometimes came from different perspectives, I always appreciated his willingness to listen, to collaborate, and to find common ground. His thoughtful approach and dedication to his constituents will be missed, not just in the Senate chamber, but across the state.

I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the people of the 5th District. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he cared so deeply about, serving Washington with integrity and compassion.

Thank you for staying engaged, and please continue reaching out with your questions and concerns.

Signature

Sen. Judy Warnick

Senator Judy Warnick’s Legislation Enhancing Penalties for Theft from First Responders Heads to Governor

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, to strengthen penalties for theft and possession of stolen property belonging to first responders is one step closer to becoming law. On Monday, the Washington State Senate voted to concur with House amendments to Senate Bill 5323, sending the bipartisan measure to the governor’s desk for consideration.

Warnick’s bill targets individuals who steal or possess property used by firefighters or emergency medical service providers, classifying such crimes as a Class B felony under certain circumstances. The legislation is intended to deter thefts that can hinder the effectiveness and safety of emergency response teams.

“Our first responders risk their lives daily to protect our communities,” Warnick said. “Ensuring they have the equipment they need is critical. This legislation sends a clear message — stealing from those who serve and protect won’t be tolerated.”

The bill passed the Senate earlier this session with a 47-2 vote. The House later approved amendments specifying that the enhanced penalties apply only when:

  • The theft or possession of property or equipment significantly hindered or delayed a firefighter’s or emergency medical service provider’s ability to respond to an emergency, or

  • The stolen property or equipment is valued at more than $1,000.

The House also clarified that the law applies to items stolen from a fire department vehicle, in addition to those taken from a fire station or other emergency services facility.

Warnick introduced the bill in response to concerns from first responders in Moses Lake about a rise in thefts of critical emergency equipment. By increasing the severity of these offenses, the legislation aims to provide a stronger deterrent to protect tools essential for emergency response.

Senate Bill 5323 now awaits the governor’s signature.

Property tax hike threatens housing affordability says Warnick

Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, issued the following statement in response to a host of new tax proposals from the Democratic majority to fund their most recent budget:

“Washingtonians are already stretched thin by rising inflation and record housing costs and now Senate Democrats are proposing another version of the property tax hike that will make things worse.

This massive increase would hit homeowners, renters, and small businesses alike, especially in rural communities. For working families and seniors on fixed incomes, it’s a recipe for displacement and instability.

The public has already made their opposition clear. Just weeks ago, more than 40,000 Washingtonians signed in against a version of this proposal when it was first introduced. Yet here it is again, a recycled plan that ignores what voters have repeatedly said: No to higher property taxes.

Higher property taxes don’t just hurt homeowners, they get passed along to renters, too, as housing providers struggle to absorb the cost. That means fewer affordable housing options and higher monthly bills for people already on the edge.

Now is not the time to put housing further out of reach. I will continue to stand up for affordability and against regressive tax policies that hurt the people who can least afford it.”

Warnick votes against Democrat budget, largest tax increase in state history

Sen. Judy Warnick (R-Moses Lake), Chair of the Senate Republican Caucus issued the following statement today in response to the passage of the Senate Democrat budget:

“The budget passed by Senate Democrats is a glaring example of unsustainable spending and misplaced priorities. Instead of addressing the real needs of Washingtonians, this budget doubles down on unnecessary and regressive taxes that will exacerbate the challenges facing hardworking families across our state.

One of the most concerning elements of this budget is the property tax hike, which will directly impact housing affordability. Families are already struggling to keep up with rising costs, and this tax increase will only push the dream of homeownership further out of reach for many. Rather than providing relief, this budget burdens our communities with policies that will deepen the housing crisis.

Equally troubling is the lack of meaningful investment in law enforcement and public safety. At a time when communities are calling for safer neighborhoods, this budget fails to adequately fund the resources and tools our law enforcement officers need to protect and serve. Public safety is not optional, yet this budget treats it as an afterthought.

The fiscal irresponsibility of this budget cannot be overstated. By prioritizing unchecked spending and tax increases over practical solutions, Senate Democrats have shown a disregard for the long-term stability and prosperity of our state. We need a budget that addresses today’s challenges without mortgaging our future.

Washingtonians deserve better than this. The Senate Republican budget proposal proves that we can sustainably fund state government without raising taxes or draining the rainy-day fund. As a voice for fiscal responsibility and common sense, I will continue to fight for a budget that supports our communities, strengthens public safety, and ensures affordability for all.”

###

Mid-way through the 2025 session

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

The 2025 legislative session is well underway, and I’m pleased to report significant progress on key issues that matter to our communities. As we work through the final weeks, I remain committed to advocating for responsible policies that strengthen rural economies, support public safety, and protect our natural resources.

This session, I have focused on several important measures to address critical needs across our state. I am proud to announce that three of my bills have passed the Senate with bipartisan support. Below, you’ll find updates on these pieces of legislation and what they mean for our communities.

LivestockProtecting Our Agricultural Industry: Livestock Identification Bill Passes

Senate Bill 5485, my legislation to modernize and improve Washington’s livestock identification program, has successfully passed the Senate. Our state’s cattle industry is vital to rural economies, and this bill ensures that our livestock identification system remains effective and up to date. By streamlining regulations and enhancing tracking capabilities, we are helping protect farmers and ranchers from losses due to theft and disease outbreaks. This measure now moves to the House for consideration, and I look forward to seeing it cross the finish line.

Read more

IrrigationEnsuring Water Security for the Yakima Basin

Access to water is a fundamental need for our farmers, businesses, and residents. That’s why I sponsored Senate Bill 5303, which secures a sustainable water future for the Yakima Basin. This bipartisan bill builds on years of work to balance the needs of agriculture, fish, and local communities. By ensuring long-term water storage, conservation efforts, and infrastructure improvements, we are taking proactive steps to protect our water resources. The Senate’s strong support for this measure is a testament to the importance of this issue, and I look forward to advancing it in the House.

Read more

First RespondersCracking Down on Theft Targeting First Responders

Our firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers risk their lives daily to keep us safe. Yet, we’ve seen a troubling rise in thefts targeting these frontline heroes. That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 5323, which enhances penalties for those who steal from first responders. The passage of this legislation sends a clear message: we will not tolerate crimes that endanger public safety personnel and the communities they serve. This measure will now be considered in the House, and I will continue to push for its enactment.

Read more

Warnick FloorBuilding a New Relationship

Since I joined the state Senate, the relationship between the Legislature and the Governor has been less than productive. There were no real open lines of communication or in-person discussions about the people Senate Republicans represent and the challenges they face.

While we do not agree on everything, the new governor has recently made a welcome overture. He and his staff met with Senate Republicans for a meaningful discussion about our priorities. It was refreshing, to say the least. We discussed concerns over reforming the governor’s emergency powers—an issue with bipartisan support that Democrats in the Legislature failed to advance.

We also addressed ongoing concerns with the Fish and Wildlife Commission and its increasingly political stances that oppose real conservation efforts, including responsible hunting and fishing. Another pressing but underreported issue is the impending changes to commercial trucking.

Incredibly, Washington will be forced to adopt California’s standards, which restrict the sale of diesel trucks in favor of electric ones. This misguided policy will drive up prices, reduce consumer choice, and cost the state millions in lost revenue.

Warnick backs Republican ‘$ave Washington’ budget plan

Chair of the Senate Republican Caucus, Sen. Judy Warnick, is voicing her support for a recently unveiled budget proposal, ‘$ave Washington,’ saying it funds shared priorities without raising taxes or tapping the state’s rainy-day fund.

“Washington families have to live within their means, and our state government should do the same,” Warnick, R-Moses Lake said. “This budget is a smart, sustainable approach that prioritizes core services like education, public safety, and essential social services—without burdening taxpayers.”

The $75.6 billion two-year budget proposal represents a 5% spending increase while avoiding tax hikes or deep service cuts. The plan offsets costs by repurposing surplus funds, freezing certain spending increases, and implementing cost-saving efficiencies across state agencies.

“The Democrat-led approach presents a false choice between drastic cuts and tax hikes,” Warnick said. “Our plan proves we can invest in shared priorities while respecting taxpayer dollars.”

Key investments in the $ave Washington budget include:

  • Increased K-12 funding, with more support for special education and classroom materials.
  • 1,800 new higher-education slots for resident students while keeping tuition affordable.
  • Programs aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism in schools.
  • Maintaining services for seniors, people with developmental disabilities, and those needing behavioral health care.
  • Public safety investments, including SB 5060 grants to help communities hire law enforcement officers.
  • Government reforms, such as a 10% reduction in middle management and streamlining the Department of Children, Youth and Families to increase front-line staff.
  • Freezing state park, hunting, and fishing fees.

“The people of Washington deserve a government that works for them, not one that continually reaches deeper into their pockets,” Warnick said. “I urge my colleagues to take a serious look at this proposal and prioritize responsible budgeting over unnecessary tax increases.”

For more details on the $ave Washington budget proposal, click here. 

Senate passes Warnick’s bill to extend livestock ID program

The state Senate has approved a bipartisan bill sponsored by Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, to extend Washington’s livestock identification program through 2030.

Senate Bill 5485 continues the current livestock identification fees, the Livestock Identification Advisory Committee, and the Livestock Identification Program report from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2030.

“This bill is a significant step forward for our agricultural community,” Warnick said. “By extending these critical components of the livestock identification program, we’re ensuring that our ranchers and farmers have the support they need to maintain accurate records and protect their livestock investments.”

The livestock identification program helps track ownership, deter theft, and support the health and safety of the state’s livestock industry. The extension provided by SB 5485 ensures the program can continue operating without interruption, offering stability for producers statewide.

“Our livestock producers rely on this program for essential services like brand registration and inspection,” said Warnick. “Continuing these services means we can uphold the integrity of our livestock markets and provide peace of mind to those who work tirelessly to feed our communities.”

The bill received strong bipartisan support and now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.

“I’m grateful for the bipartisan collaboration that made this possible,” Warnick added. “Together, we’re reinforcing the foundation of our state’s economy and honoring the hard work of our livestock producers.”

Accountability and Results: Are Washington’s Education Dollars Being Spent Wisely?

Friends,

As your state senator, I believe that every dollar we invest in education should go directly toward providing our students with the highest quality learning experience. Unfortunately, recent trends in Washington’s education system suggest that our growing investment isn’t translating into better results for our students—or for taxpayers.

Despite record funding increases for K-12 education in the last decade, we’re seeing stagnant or even declining student performance across key areas like math, reading, and science. Families and educators alike are asking a simple but critical question: Where is the money going?

A recent report on schools in Pierce County shows they have paid out nearly $52 million to settle lawsuits related to allegations spanning over a decade. While legal issues can arise in any organization, settlements of this magnitude raise serious questions about oversight and priorities. Instead of these funds being used to enhance classroom learning, support teachers, or improve resources, they are being diverted to legal costs and settlements.

Of course, every complaint deserves to be taken seriously, and it’s vital that we create safe environments for our students. But when school districts settle claims to “protect financial well-being” without full transparency, it’s the taxpayers and students who lose. Accountability matters—not just after the fact, but in preventing issues from occurring in the first place.

This is just one example of how financial mismanagement can quietly drain resources away from where they’re needed most: the classroom. As we continue to invest heavily in education, I’m committed to ensuring that those funds are spent responsibly, with a clear focus on improving student outcomes and safeguarding taxpayer dollars.

At the same time, I want to take a moment to recognize a positive step forward in our local education efforts. The recent passage of the Moses Lake school levy is a testament to the community’s commitment to supporting its students and educators. By approving this measure, voters have ensured critical funding for programs, staff, and resources that will directly benefit students. I commend the Moses Lake community for coming together to prioritize education and invest in the future of our children.

Washington’s students deserve more than just promises—they deserve results. And taxpayers deserve to know that their hard-earned money is being used wisely and transparently.