Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As we embark on the 2025 legislative session, I am honored to continue serving as your state senator for Washington’s 15th Legislative District. This session presents significant opportunities and challenges, and I am eager to work collaboratively to address them.

Committee Assignments

I am privileged to serve in the following capacities:

• Ranking Member of the Senate Local Government, Land Use and Tribal Affairs Committee
• Assistant Ranking Member for Operating Budget on the Senate Ways and Means Committee
• Member of the Senate Law and Justice Committee

These roles enable me to advocate effectively for our district’s interests, particularly in areas of local governance, fiscal responsibility, and public safety.

Legislative Priorities

Ensuring the safety of our students and educators is a top priority. To this end, I have introduced two key bills aimed at enhancing school safety across the state:

Senate Bill 5003: This legislation creates a grant program to help school districts improve safety, ensuring that schools are well-prepared to respond effectively to emergencies.
Senate Bill 5004: This bill focuses on updating and modernizing school safety protocols, including the integration of advanced security technologies. Our goal is to create a secure learning environment for all students and staff.

These measures reflect our commitment to proactive and preventive strategies in safeguarding our educational institutions.

You can see other bills that I’ve sponsored by clicking here.

State Budget and Fiscal Responsibility

Washington State is currently facing a projected budget deficit of approximately $12 billion over the next four years. As the Assistant Ranking Member for the state’s operating budget, I am in the room advocating for our district while looking at savings for taxpayers to balance our budget.

Addressing this shortfall requires prudent fiscal management and strategic investments. I am committed to collaborating with my colleagues to develop a balanced budget that safeguards essential services such as education, public safety, and infrastructure while promoting economic growth and stability.

Let me be clear, our state’s current financial woes are a direct result of misplaced spending priorities. The reality is that the state’s revenue continues to grow, but spending is outpacing what we collect. Current projections show the state will still collect about $5 billion more this budget cycle. We must make prudent decisions and resist imposing new taxes.

Engagement and Feedback

Your input is invaluable as we navigate these complex issues. I encourage you to share your thoughts, concerns, and suggestions. Together, we can work towards solutions that reflect the values and needs of our community.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. I look forward to a productive session and to making meaningful progress on behalf of the 15th Legislative District.

Warm regards,

Senator Nikki Torres

15th Legislative District