Rep. Peter Abbarno

Maddy summaryHB 1002 recognizes posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as an occupational disease for county coroners, medical examiner personnel, and investigative staff in Washington State. It amends workers' compensation rules (RCW 51.08.142) to allow these workers to file claims for PTSD-related injuries, which were previously excluded. The bill requires pre-employment psychological exams for some groups (like firefighters and law enforcement) hired after specific dates to confirm no preexisting PTSD. This change directly affects public safety workers in high-stress roles who develop PTSD from job-related trauma, expanding their eligibility for workers' compensation coverage.

Maddy summaryHB 1073 creates the Washington National Guard Retention Program to help the state retain military personnel. It directs the Adjutant General to study retention needs - such as length of service and critical skills - and determine reenlistment bonuses to encourage members to extend their service. The program requires clear eligibility criteria and bonus payment schedules, with the state military department mandated to report on retention needs to the governor and legislature every three years starting in 2027. The bill directly affects Washington National Guard members who may qualify for reenlistment bonuses.

Maddy summaryThis House resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States founding on July 4, 2026, specifically focusing on Washington State's role in that history. The bill formally recognizes the significance of the Declaration of Independence and encourages citizens, organizations, and businesses in Washington to participate in commemorative events celebrating American heritage and federalist principles. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic acknowledgment of the nation's founding ideals and Washington's contributions to the country's development.

Maddy summaryHB 2743 reduces Washington state property taxes by $2.1 billion for 2027, applying to all property owners statewide. The bill amends tax code to cap the combined state property tax rate at $3.60 per $1,000 of assessed value and mandates this specific $2.1 billion reduction in the 2027 tax levy. It does not change tax rates for prior years but sets a permanent cap on future combined tax levies. This is a direct adjustment to the state's property tax collection amount, not a rate change for individual properties. The bill affects all taxable property within Washington, as the tax is statewide.

Maddy summaryThis House Resolution (HR 4701) is a symbolic measure passed by the Washington State House of Representatives to honor Black History Month in 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of the national observance. It recognizes the historical contributions of Black Americans to Washington state and the nation through decades of cultural, scientific, and civil rights advancements. The resolution encourages year-round celebration of Black history in schools, communities, and institutions, emphasizing that "Black history is American history" and "Black culture is American culture." As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws or directly affect specific groups.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 4692) acknowledges the 84th anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which led to the forced relocation and internment of over 120,000 Japanese Americans during WWII, including 12,000 from Washington State. It recognizes Japanese American veterans, incarcerees, and civil rights activists from Washington, and urges reflection on the principle "with liberty and justice for all," without creating new policies or requiring government action.

Maddy summaryHB 2188 requires Washington's Department of Labor and Industries to publicly disclose details when it limits workers' compensation insurance rate increases below actuarial recommendations. It directly affects employers in specific risk classes (like manufacturing or construction) whose rates are artificially capped, as well as the public and lawmakers. The bill mandates publishing three key details: the limited rate classes, the actuarial rate without limits, and how other classes absorb the cost difference. This aims to clarify hidden cost shifts and rebuild transparency in the state's workers' compensation program, which has used contingency reserves to suppress rate hikes for three years.

Maddy summaryHB 1496 limits fees health care providers can charge patients for accessing their medical records. It sets a $50 maximum fee for patients, their legal representatives, treating providers, or designated advocates, and prohibits per-page charges. The bill requires the state department to establish fee standards based on actual costs of searching records, not arbitrary rates. These changes directly affect patients seeking their own health information and their authorized representatives.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a ceremonial resolution (HR 4691) adopted by the Washington State House of Representatives on February 16, 2026. It formally commends the contributions of U.S. presidents, specifically highlighting George Washington and Abraham Lincoln's roles in establishing freedom and ending slavery, and recognizes the third Monday in February as Presidents' Day. The resolution does not create new laws or affect any individuals or policies; it solely expresses the House's symbolic honor for presidential legacies. It directly affects no one but serves as a formal statement of recognition by the state legislature.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not substantive legislation) passed by the Washington state House of Representatives. It formally congratulates the Seattle Seahawks football team for winning the 2025 NFL regular season, NFC West Division championship, and Super Bowl 60. The resolution specifically recognizes their 14-3 record, defensive dominance, key player achievements (including MVP Kenneth Walker III), and community contributions. It has no legal effect beyond expressing the House's recognition and appreciation to the team organization.