Rep. Stephanie Barnard honored with Outstanding Service to Veterans – Legislator Award

Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Outstanding Service to Veterans – Legislator Award by the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs and the Governor’s Veterans Advisory Committee.

The award recognizes state legislators who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, compassion, and service to Washington’s veterans and their families. In their official notification letter, the VAAC and WDVA wrote:

“On behalf of the Governor’s Veterans Advisory Committee and the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs, we are pleased to announce your selection as a recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Service to Veterans – Legislator Award. This award is a testimony of your empathy and the unselfish fashion in which you serve our veterans community. You are a shining example of what can be accomplished when the community joins in ‘Serving Those Who Served.’”

Barnard said the honor reflects her deep respect and gratitude for those who have worn the nation’s uniform — a connection that is also personal, as her son currently serves in the U.S. Navy.

“Our veterans represent the best of us — courage, sacrifice, and devotion to country,” Barnard said. “Their service allows the rest of us to live in freedom, and we owe them more than words of thanks. We owe them action — through strong policy, accessible care, and community support. I’m humbled by this recognition and will continue working to ensure every Washington veteran feels valued and supported.”

During the 2025 legislative session, Barnard sponsored and championed House Bill 1106, which passed the House and Senate unanimously and was signed into law earlier this year. The legislation recognizes the tremendous sacrifices made by Washington’s military veterans by phasing down the disability rating requirements to ensure more disabled veterans are eligible for property tax relief.

The award will be presented following the annual Veterans Legislative and Advocacy Day parade, hosted by the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs and the Governor’s Veterans Advisory Committee, on Nov. 8, 2025, in Auburn.

Each year, the Legislator of the Year Award is presented to one member of the state House and one member of the state Senate. The 2024 recipients were Sen. Steve Conway of the 29th Legislative District and former Rep. J.T. Wilcox of the 2nd Legislative District. In 2023, the award was presented to Sen. Chris Gildon of the 25th Legislative District and Rep. Mari Leavitt of the 28th Legislative District.

Barnard represents the 8th Legislative District, which includes portions of Franklin and Benton counties. She serves on the House Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee, the Environment and Energy Committee, the Capital Budget Committee, and the Rules Committee.

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Washington State House Republican Communications
houserepublicans.wa.gov