As the new legislative session begins, Gov. Jay Inslee delivered his 2023 State of the State speech on Jan 10th, at a joint session of the House and Senate. This is the first in-person session since 2020, and is among the most diverse legislatures in state history, including a “younger and more diverse” class of legislators and record number of women.

Though several difficult issues are on deck for the 105-day session, the mood among legislators and visitors has been palpably upbeat and hopeful following renewed activity at the Capitol.

In his speech, Inslee reflected on several significant actions passed by the legislature in recent years that will allow leaders to respond boldly to current crises in housing, behavioral health, climate change and salmon recovery. Additional student-centered investments such as special education, and policies related to public safety and protect reproductive freedom are also top priorities for the session.

Read the full speech on the governor's Medium page or watch on TVW.

Click Here for more information.