Stoked to protect Washington's ocean, waves, and beaches, for all people!
So it begins!
Welcome back! We hope you've all had a restful and restorative holiday! We're not even two weeks in, and already it's been a wild ride. This week marks the start of the 2026 state legislative session, and our bills are speeding along through their first round of committee hearings. Although much of our work will be focused on passing policies to protect Washington's waters, we're also continuing to fight against offshore drilling and protecting our public lands and waters at the federal level. Chapters are also busy with their annual planning efforts, strategizing on this year's goals, scheduling events, developing budgets, and more. Stoked to ride into another year of protecting and enjoying our ocean, waves, and beaches with you all!
~ Liz Schotman, Washington Regional Manager
Pete Steelquist, Washington Policy Manager
Legislative session is upon us!
It's that time of the year when politicians and activists descend upon the Capitol to advocate for (or against) statewide bills and budgets. This year's legislative session is a short one - in just 60 days, we'll be working to get a suite of bills across the finish line! Between January 12 and March 12, there will be many opportunities for YOU to help us pass these bills. For more info on our priority policies, as well as an updated bill tracker with ways to take action, check out the link below to our Legislative Landing Page. Stay tuned for regular policy updates in the coming weeks!
Join us for a day of action in Olympia's Capitol! Our Plastic Free Lobby Day is this Monday, January 19th (MLK Day). We'll spend the morning and early afternoon meeting with elected representatives from YOUR districts to advocate for plastic-free policies. Hosted by the Plastic Free Washington / WA Sin Plástico Coalition and our partners, this is an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded folks, build relationships with your elected leaders, and advocate for policies that reduce pollution and protect our ocean, waves, and beaches. Snacks, refreshements, and lunch will be provided.
New to advocacy? Fear not! We'll provide all the training, talking points, and support you need. For an overview of the legislative process, best practices on how to speak with your electeds, and an overview of the policies we'll be advocating for, join our virtual webinar this Thursday, January 15, from 5:00 - 6:00 pm, hosted by yours truly, Pete Steelquist.
THIS IS NOT A TEST! But it IS a great chance to practice your New Year's resolution to take more action. The best part? It only takes a minute or two! Signing in Pro to a bill you support is a simple, quick, and easy way to demonstrate to our decision-makers that we want action on plastic pollution. First up: our bag bill update. This bill will close the loophole that allows thicker, 'reusable' plastic bags (which in reality are rarely reused and worse for the environment), ensuring that only reusable or compostable/paper bags are available in groceries and retail stores. The bill is moving through both the House and Senate environment committees and will be heard on Wednesday (Senate) and Thursday (House) morning. Sign in by 7:00 am tomorrow and Thursday, respectivey!
