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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Welcome to my Weekly Session Snapshot — a quick, weekly look at what I’m working on in Olympia on behalf of the 8th Legislative District. Think of this as a focused check-in during session: clear, informative, and designed to keep you connected without taking up too much of your time.
As the 2026 legislative session gets underway, I want to start by highlighting two priority bills I’ve introduced this year. These bills reflect my commitment to planning ahead, supporting economic growth, and ensuring Washington remains reliable, competitive, and prepared for the future.
Building a reliable, affordable energy future
One of my priority bills this session is House Bill 2090, which focuses on integrating advanced nuclear energy into Washington’s long-term energy strategy.
Washington’s energy needs are growing, and so are expectations for reliability, affordability, and clean power. Advanced nuclear technologies offer a non-emitting, around-the-clock energy source that can complement hydropower and renewables, especially as demand increases. My bill directs the Department of Commerce to develop a strategic framework that evaluates how advanced nuclear energy could responsibly fit into Washington’s energy mix, including workforce needs, infrastructure readiness, regulatory considerations, and economic impacts.
This bill does not mandate the construction of new facilities. Instead, it ensures policymakers have accurate, state-specific information before making major energy decisions, so Washington can plan thoughtfully rather than react later. Below is a video clip from my testimony on HB 2090, in which I explain why long-term energy planning matters for families and employers across our state. Please click the photo above or here to watch the clip.
You can also learn more about my bill “in the news.”
- Rep. Stephanie Barnard’s bill takes a hard look at how Washington will power a clean energy future without driving up costs or risking reliability | Link to my press release
- Washington GOP lawmaker explains push toward nuclear energy | Link to The Olympian’s coverage
- Should WA embrace nuclear to meet clean energy goals? There’s a bipartisan push | Link to the article in the Tri-City Herald
- Pasco lawmakers’ bill explores nuclear energy for Washington’s future | Link to KNDO/KNDU TV’s coverage
Bringing federal dollars home for local economic development
I’m also sponsoring House Bill 2186, known as the MATCHED bill, another priority bill that aims to improve Washington communities’ access to federal economic development funding.
Federal dollars are available for projects tied to infrastructure, workforce development, housing, broadband, and economic growth, but many communities struggle to compete due to limited matching funds or a lack of coordination. HB 2186 strengthens the state’s role in helping local governments, ports, and economic development organizations navigate these opportunities by improving coordination, prioritizing matching funds, and increasing transparency around available grants.
The goal is to ensure Washington communities are better positioned to compete for federal investments, bring resources back home, and support job creation and local economic growth without raising taxes. Below is a clip from my testimony on HB 2186, where I discuss why helping communities access federal funding is a smart, proactive investment in our state’s future. Please click the photo above or here to watch the clip.
Kennewick LRA housing proposal
I am closely monitoring the proposed Less Restrictive Alternative (LRA) housing site in Kennewick, as well as the concerns raised by residents and local families. Situations like this underscore the importance of transparency, community input, and clear communication when decisions with significant public safety implications are being considered.
I am working closely with my seatmate, Rep. April Connors, to gather information, understand the process that led to this proposal, and explore whether changes are needed to ensure communities have a stronger voice. As this situation develops, I will continue to share updates and make sure constituents are kept informed.
Looking ahead
I’ll continue using Barnard’s Weekly Session Snapshot to share updates on priority legislation, committee work, and other key developments throughout the session.
Thank you for staying engaged and for allowing me to serve you in Olympia.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Barnard
