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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
A critical deadline has passed: fiscal cutoff. This means that all bills with a financial impact have passed out of their respective committees by now to remain under consideration. With just over a month left in session, our focus now shifts to House floor debate, active bills, and budget negotiations. We must ensure we secure funding for essential infrastructure projects across Washington.
Budget Challenges, Transportation Revenue Matters
Without sustainable revenue solutions, major projects that keep Washington moving forward will be delayed—including the Gateway Project in Pierce County, which is vital for freight mobility, and the Nisqually Bridge replacement on I-5, crucial for safety and climate resiliency. These projects are more than lines in a budget—they impact businesses, commuters, and emergency response times.
Here is a break-down of what happens to transportation budget bills as they move through the legislative process:
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Committee Review – Both bills go to the House Transportation Committee for hearings, possible amendments, and a vote.
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House Floor Vote – If passed by the committee, they move to the full House of Representatives for debate and approval.
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Senate Consideration – The Senate Transportation Committee reviews the bills, may amend them, and sends them to the full Senate for a vote.
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Reconciliation (If Needed) – If the House and Senate pass different versions, a conference committee negotiates final language.
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Final Passage & Governor’s Signature – Once both chambers agree, the bills go to the Governor, who can sign them into law or issue vetoes.
These bills will set transportation funding levels for the next two years and adjust the current budget to reflect updated needs.
Governor Inslee released his budget in December, setting the stage for this year’s budget discussions—including a significant $1 billion cut to WSDOT’s transportation projects. This serves as the foundation for the House proposed budget currently under development. This budget will be introduced shortly after the March revenue forecast, which will shape final decisions.
With tough financial challenges ahead, we’re working to ensure a responsible budget that meets the needs of Washington’s communities while balancing available resources. Stay tuned for more details as the process unfolds. I will post up-to-date announcements on my website and Facebook page.
One of the best examples of why transportation investment matters is right here in our district: the Tacoma Narrows Bridge sisters.
A Legacy of Strong Infrastructure: Tacoma Narrows Bridge Recognition
I was honored to see my words featured in a new display at Milgard Hall on the UW Tacoma campus, recognizing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge sisters as one of the most successful infrastructure projects of our time. It is truly a special part of what makes our district special and a key part of the Pacific Northwest's distinctive architecture.
These bridges are more than just structures—they connect communities, drive commerce, and serve as a symbol of Washington’s investment in forward-thinking transportation.
A huge thank you to UW Tacoma and Professor Mark Pagano for showcasing this important history!
If you're on campus, I encourage you to check it out.
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Join Us for a Town Hall on March 15!
Want to learn more about our budget realities and how they impact transportation? I’ll be joining Speaker Laurie Jinkins and Senator Yasmin Trudeau for a 27th Legislative District Town Hall on:
📅 Saturday, March 15
⏰ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Stadium High School Auditorium
Submit your questions in advance here: Pre-Town Hall Survey.
This is a great opportunity to discuss key legislative issues shaping our district and state.
Stay Engaged
There are several ways you can track bills and make your voice heard:
📜 Follow my bills: Fey-sponsored bills
📬 Contact my office
Your input is invaluable as we work to pass a budget that supports a safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation system for Washington.
If you have thoughts or questions, please reach out—I’d love to hear from you.
Thank you for your support and engagement!
 Washington State House of Representatives
Transportation Committee Chair
27th Legislative District
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