Today, a bill that would reduce higher ed assistance to vulnerable populations has now cleared both chambers of the legislature.
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, opposed the bill, along with Senate Republicans. The bill received 28 yays and 20 nays and heads to the governor for a signature.
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… Legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke to support Washington’s turf-seed industry has passed both chambers of the Legislature and now heads to the governor’s desk for final consideration.
Senate Bill 5074 would establish updated regulations for selling and distributing turf seed grass, providing greater contract security, promoting fair business practices, and authorizing mediation services through the Washington State Department of Agriculture to help resolve disputes efficiently.
Boehnke, R-Kennewick, issued this statement following the Senate’s unanimous vote:
“This bill is about creating fairness, transparency, and accountability in Washington’s turf seed industry. By requiring financial assurances from seed dealers, we’re helping to protect producers and buyers from contract failures that can lead to serious financial setbacks.”
“One of the key features of this bill is that it authorizes the Washington State Department of Agriculture to offer mediation services. Agricultural disputes can be costly and time-consuming, giving farmers and businesses a cost-effective, efficient way to resolve contract issues without going to court.”
“While turf seed may not be as widely recognized as other crops like wheat or grapes, it’s a vital part of our agricultural sector. This legislation helps ensure a more stable, predictable environment for everyone involved in the industry, supporting its long-term health and competitiveness.”
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… As Republican leader on the Senate Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee, Sen. Matt Boehnke has worked hard to improve the state’s energy policy. His bill to improve the state’s climate-data reporting is headed for the late-session step known as “concurrence” after receiving a second unanimous vote, this time from the House of Representatives.
Senate Bill 5036 would transition the state from biennial to annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting, giving lawmakers and the public timelier access to critical environmental data. By requiring the state Department of Ecology and Department of Commerce to report emissions yearly, the bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of Washington’s climate-action planning.
“This bill is about getting policymakers the information they need when needed,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “Annual greenhouse gas reporting means we’re not waiting two years to understand where we stand—it gives us the ability to respond faster, adjust strategies, and make decisions based on the most current data available.”
“We have a responsibility to make sure that our policies are not just ambitious, but achievable,” Boehnke explained. “This bill helps us track real-time progress, measure results, and hold ourselves accountable to the climate goals we’ve committed to. It’s a smart, practical step forward.”
By moving to more frequent emissions tracking, the bill will support stronger climate accountability by ensuring that state agencies remain transparent and current in reporting progress toward climate goals.
“When people see the numbers yearly, they can better understand how we’re doing and where we need to improve,” Boehnke added. “That kind of visibility builds trust, keeps the public engaged, and reinforces that Washington is serious about taking meaningful climate action.”
The bill passed the House on a 96-0 vote on April 10 after receiving unanimous support in the Senate.
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature
OLYMPIA… Yesterday, Sen. Matt Boehnke voiced serious concerns following the Senate majority’s approval of House Bill 1217, which would cap annual rent increases at 10%.
Prior to its passage, the rent-increase cap was lifted from the 7% in the bill adopted by the House, which means HB 1217 must return to that chamber for consideration of the changes.
Boehnke warned that any cap in the bill, while presented as a solution to rising housing costs, could backfire by destabilizing the rental market and discouraging housing development.
Boehnke, R-Kennewick, issued this statement following the Senate vote:
“This bill is built on the wrong premise. Limiting rent increases might sound helpful on the surface, but in practice, it discourages investment in new housing and puts small property owners in an impossible position.
“If the goal is to make housing more affordable, we need to increase the number of homes available, not pile on restrictions that make it harder to provide them. In other cities, heavy-handed policies like this led to fewer rentals and a deteriorating housing supply.
“The small landlords aren’t large corporate owners holding massive portfolios. These residents saved, invested, and are now punished for trying to provide housing. They’re being asked to absorb rising property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs without the ability to adjust rent accordingly. That is not sustainable.
“Washington needs more housing, less red tape, and policies supporting tenants and responsible landlords. This bill may satisfy specific interest groups, but it does nothing to solve the root of the problem. I remain committed to advancing legislation encouraging construction, supporting renters, and building a better future for all Washingtonians.”
The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to adjourn Sunday, April 27.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, and Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature
OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke, Rep. April Connors, and Rep. Stephanie Barnard are championing critical 8th District investments included in the proposed 2025-27 House and Senate capital budgets. Both proposals must still be reconciled before final approval by the Legislature and the governor.
The state’s capital budget funds construction and improvement projects that support public schools, colleges and universities, correctional and juvenile rehabilitation facilities, behavioral health institutions, state offices, parks and recreational facilities, low-income housing, museums and cultural facilities, local government infrastructure, environmental cleanup, and habitat conservation and restoration.
Proposed investments specific to the 8th District include:
Additional regional projects benefiting the 8th District and located in the Tri-Cities area include:
A list of all proposed capital budget projects can be found here.
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick:
“The proposed capital budgets make meaningful investments in the future of the 8th District, supporting education, public safety, and critical infrastructure. These projects would strengthen our communities, create growth opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents. I remain committed to ensuring these investments receive final approval and that our district continues to receive the support it needs to thrive.”
Rep. April Connors, R-Kennewick:
“Our region is a vital part of Washington’s economy. The capital investments we’re fighting for are more than just line items-they’re a reflection of our values and vision. We want to support families, create opportunities, and strengthen our workforce while enhancing public spaces and fueling future growth. I’m committed to doing everything I can to ensure these projects are included in the final budget.”
Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco:
“These proposals put people first. Even as other parts of the state budget face shortfalls, the capital budget seeks to deliver targeted, responsible investments right here in the Tri-Cities region. From expanding health services at Tri-Cities Community Health to upgrading school facilities at Tri-Tech Skills Center, and upgrading key infrastructure at WSU Tri-Cities and Benton REA, these are the kinds of projects that make a real difference-and we’re doing it in a fiscally responsible way.”
The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to adjourn Sunday, April 27.
Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke’s bill to strengthen Washington’s election security was endorsed yesterday by the House State Government and Tribal Relations Committee, moving the proposal one step closer to a full House vote.
Senate Bill 5014 would expand the Secretary of State’s oversight of election equipment and platforms, require the disclosure of security breaches, and establish cybersecurity requirements for county election officials.
“These reforms are designed to protect voter integrity and ensure Washington’s election systems are safeguarded from cyber threats,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. ”With mail-in ballots, fortifying every step of the process is crucial to maintaining public confidence.”
The bill also requires state approval for election-related systems and mandates cybersecurity measures, including system partitioning, by July 1, 2027, unless an extension is granted.
“This legislation is intended to reinforce public trust and ensure Washington’s elections remain secure, transparent, and reliable. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and oversight, we are safeguarding our democratic process for future generations.”
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27. The last day to consider opposite house bills is April 16, by 5 p.m., except for initiatives and alternatives to initiatives, matters necessary to implement budgets, matters that affect state revenue, amendments, differences, and business related to the interim or closing the session.
For more information on Boehnke’s legislative work, visit mattboehnke.src.wastateleg.org.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… British Columbia’s government has announced the swift repeal of its consumer carbon tax, drawing praise from Sen. Matt Boehnke, lead Republican on the state Senate’s energy committee.
“British Columbia’s leadership has finally acknowledged what conservatives have been saying for years: carbon taxes harm working families and do little to significantly reduce emissions,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick.
“By fast-tracking the elimination of this unnecessary tax, B.C is putting money back into the pockets of hardworking citizens and pushing back against ineffective climate policies that disproportionately affect lower- and middle-income people.”
The province’s residents expected to see a 17-cent-per-liter drop in gas prices as early as this week. It’s a stark contrast to the consequences of carbon-pricing schemes in Washington, where fuel costs have been among the highest in the United States for close to two years.
“Here in Washington, we are seeing the negative effects of our own carbon tax policies firsthand,” Boehnke said. “Washingtonians are paying far more at the pump than our neighbors to the east and south; now the neighbors to the north are enjoying immediate relief. It’s time for our state to take a hard look at how these policies are burdening our families and businesses.”
The provincial government’s decision to repeal the consumer carbon tax comes amidst increasing public frustration over affordability and the broader economic impact of carbon pricing. While the B.C. government has indicated it will continue to impose carbon pricing on industrial emitters, the repeal of the consumer tax signals a shift in public sentiment that can no longer be ignored.
“Washington state leaders should take note—when even progressive governments admit that carbon taxes are failing to deliver real benefits and instead hurting working people, it’s time for a serious policy rethink,” Boehnke said. “We need solutions that promote innovation and economic growth without punishing those who can least afford it.”
As British Columbia moves forward with this significant policy reversal, Boehnke calls on Washington legislators to consider similar relief measures for struggling families and small businesses.
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… The greenest of the pro-agriculture legislation introduced by Sen. Matt Boehnke at the Capitol this year, which has to do with Washington’s turf-seed industry, has moved another step forward in the state Legislature.
Senate Bill 5074 is aimed at updating regulations about the sale and distribution of turf-seed grass. It easily cleared the Senate on a 49-0 vote March 3 and was just endorsed unanimously by the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.
“This bill is about ensuring fairness and security for everyone involved in the turf-seed industry,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick.
“Right now, if a contract falls through, farmers and businesses may face significant financial hardship. The safeguards advocated in this bill should make for a more predictable and trustworthy marketplace.”
The proposal is similar to one in Oregon and would help Washington’s turf-seed industry to compete. A key feature of the bipartisan bill is the authorization of mediation services through the state Department of Agriculture, as a cost-effective and efficient alternative to litigation.
“Disputes in agriculture can be costly and time-consuming. With the state ag department offering mediation, businesses and farmers will have a practical way to resolve conflicts fairly and efficiently.
“Although the turf-seed industry may not be as visible as wheat or wine grapes, it’s an important part of our agricultural sector, which in turn is so vital to our state’s economy. This bill is about supporting its long-term success,” Boehnke said.
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.
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Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate
OLYMPIA… Legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke to improve the tracking of greenhouse-gas emissions is one step closer to final approval in the House of Representatives.
Senate Bill 5036 would shift Washington’s biennial reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to annual reporting, ensuring policymakers have timely and accurate data to make informed decisions. The measure received unanimous approval from the House Environment and Energy Committee and now awaits placement on the voting calendar.
“Reliable, timely data is essential for effective policymaking,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “Transitioning to annual emissions reporting enables us to track progress more accurately, respond swiftly to emerging climate trends, and ensure that our policies are producing tangible results. This bill strengthens transparency, accountability, and our ability to take meaningful action in reducing emissions.”
By increasing the frequency of emissions reporting, SB 5036 would improve the state’s ability to respond to environmental changes, refine climate policies, and better align with Washington’s climate initiatives, including the Climate Commitment Act, Clean Fuel Standard, and zero-emission vehicle policies.
“It’s unacceptable that we must rely on outdated emissions data to develop policy. Waiting two years for updated numbers slows our ability to adapt and improve. Annual reporting will provide us with the real-time insights needed to make evidence-based decisions that support both our environment and economy,” he explained.
Rather than adding bureaucracy, SB 5036 focuses on enhancing accountability and efficiency in emissions tracking. Boehnke emphasized that more frequent reporting will keep state agencies transparent, ensure lawmakers have current accurate information, and keep the public informed on Washington’s climate progress.
“If we’re serious about meeting our climate goals, we need precise and up-to-date data to guide us,” He said.
The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.
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Sen Matt Boehnke discusses budget negotiations, the impact of transportation policies on local economies and the contentious issue of gas taxes. He highlights his commitment to addressing community concerns—from infrastructure to education.
