Progreso: Latino Progress works to improve the quality of life for all Washingtonians by supporting public policy that supports and builds power for communities who have historically been excluded through institutionalized barriers. We believe all communities deserve access to economic opportunity, robust democratic representation, and a healthy environment.
To support these goals we are primarily advocating for the following bills during the 2026 legislative session:
Progressive Revenue & Defending the Social Safety Net
Washington believes in taking care of each other, yet working people carry the cost of public services while the wealthiest and largest corporations dodge their responsibility. Lawmakers must reject regressive taxes and harmful cuts and instead pass progressive taxes that make the richest pay what they truly owe – so all our communities can thrive.
Economic Opportunity and Prosperity
Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights - SB 6053 / HB 2355
This legislation ensures that nannies, housekeepers, gardeners, and other domestic workers have the same fundamental rights and protections as most other workers, regardless of immigration status or work authorization. By guaranteeing economic certainty and protections from discrimination and retaliation, this legislation restores dignity to the essential workers who sustain our homes and families. Passing it sends a clear message: in Washington, all work is valued.
Underserved Community Grocery Store Incentives - HB 2297
HB 2297 provides targeted, state- and locally controlled tax incentives to help preserve existing grocery stores and make new ones possible in underserved communities where higher operating costs make sustainability harder.
Upholding Civil Rights
Immigrant Worker Protection Act - SB 5852 / HB 2105
The IWPA would require employers to notify their employees within 72 hours of any federal notice that their I-9 employment-eligibility paperwork will be inspected. For many immigrants, documented or not, that early warning could mean the difference between getting legal help, regrouping with family, or being swept up in a raid. It’s a simple but critical step toward fairness and transparency in workplaces across Washington.
SAFE Act - SB 5906
Protect the privacy and safety of immigrants in public settings, including hospitals, clinics, and child care centers.
Attorney General’s Office Civil Investigation Demands - SB 5925 / HB 2193
Clarify the Washington Attorney General’s Office's investigative authority to uphold and enforce our state laws, such as Keep Washington Working and Courts Open to All.
Budget Requests
Alianza Program Funding - $190,000
Rep. Ortiz-Self's $190,000 one-time budget proviso in fiscal year 2026 to sustain Alianza, a culturally responsive youth leadership and civic engagement program that reflects and uplifts the communities it serves. This targeted investment will expand opportunities for Latino youth across Washington, particularly in rural, low-income, and historically marginalized communities.
Restore the Wildfire Account - $60M
Washington must restore the $60 million cut from the Wildfire Response, Forest Restoration, and Community Resilience Account to keep communities safe amid a growing wildfire crisis. The program, created by HB 1168, has funded frontline firefighters, restored tens of thousands of acres, upgraded aircraft, and invested heavily in community resilience. Without full funding, the state faces significant cuts to firefighting capacity, forest restoration, community grants, and wildfire detection tools, jeopardizing progress and public safety.