Greetings Parent Leaders!
Today, January 26, is day 15 of the 2026 Legislative Session. There are 45 days left in this session.
Our newsletters are here to help you understand how to participate in the Washington State legislative session. This week, we’re sharing a simple way to make your voice heard: signing in on a bill.
What Does “Signing In” Mean?
When a bill is in committee, anyone who wants their opinion recorded can sign in to show their position: pro (support), con (oppose), or other (comments or questions).
It’s called “signing in” because historically people literally signed a sheet to record their stance. Today, you can also do it online through the legislative website, but the name stuck. Signing in helps lawmakers see where people and groups stand, even if you don’t speak at the hearing.
How to Sign In
You can sign in on any bill that is scheduled for a public hearing in a committee. A public hearing is a meeting where lawmakers listen to people’s opinions about a bill before deciding whether it should move forward. Each hearing has its own deadline, so it’s important to check the schedule and sign in on time. Even if you don’t speak, your position is added to the official record, making sure your voice is heard.
To sign in, click the “✏️Sign up to testify / submit written testimony” button for the bill and select the type of testimony: You will be given three options:
- I would like to testify during the hearing (speak at the hearing)
- I would like my position noted for the legislative record (This is the sign in option!)
- I would like to submit written testimony (send written comments for lawmakers to read)
Anyone can sign in, but you must include your name, email, city, and phone number. Addresses and other personal details are not required.
Signing in is fast and easy, and it’s a simple way to make an impact,even if you don’t speak at the hearing. Lawmakers notice and pay attention to the number of sign-ins at hearings, so your participation really matters.
Opportunity Today: HB 1834
House Bill 1834, which aims to protect kids online, is being heard in the Appropriations Committee today. If you wish to share your stance, you must sign in by 3 pm today.
Bills of Interest
As the legislature continues its work, here are a few bills you may want to learn more about:
SB 5906 – protecting students, childcare providers, patients, and others from immigration enforcement actions in sensitive places
HB 2464 – increases transparency and reporting requirements for private detention facilities operating in Washington.
SB 5855 – Sets limits and standards on when and how law enforcement officers may use face coverings while on duty.
SB 5346 - would limit students’ use of personal mobile devices in public schools during instructional hours. A public hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, January 29, at 10:30 AM in the Senate Committee on Early Learning & K–12 Education. Here is another chance to sign in!
Stay engaged, stay powerful!
