Energy
Washington state needs more power on the grid as well as transmission to get it to homes - and we need it now. This is urgent. We need to bring new sources of clean energy generation online as quickly as possible to provide affordable power to our growing population, continue to eliminate fossil fuel pollution in our air and water, and electrify our economy. And by working together with Tribal governments and labor unions to get the job done, we can ensure Washington’s clean energy economy is built on good-paying jobs and that economic benefits are shared by all.
We cannot allow our state’s energy future to be dictated by powerful interests while leaving our communities and families sweltering in the dark. This is why I passed a law banning utilities from shutting off power and water for non-payment during heatwaves, just as they’re prevented from doing during cold snaps.
Power is essential. It’s lights to do homework, fans to keep you cool, and a refrigerator to keep your medications safe. And that’s why I am so proud that in 2026 I sponsored and passed Washington’s first statewide monthly utility bill assistance program that will help ensure ratepayers get the help they need to fight the rising cost of household electricity. This is a big win that shows what can happen when you center the voice of community in policymaking in Olympia.
TRACK RECORD
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Passed into law a ban on utility shutoff for nonpayment during heatwaves (HB1329)
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Passed the law establishing the first statewide utility-bill assistance program for low-income Washingtonians (HB1903)
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Voted in favor of establishing strict guardrails and regulations on construction of new data centers in Washington state (HB2515)
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Voted in favor of eliminating tax breaks for refurbishment of data centers (SB6231)
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Voted to establish the Washington Electric Transmission Authority to accelerate construction of new grid transmission in Washington state (SB6355)