2026 Survey, Recovery Resources & Protecting Higher Education

State Representative Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor) posted this to the news section of his legislative website on 2026-01-08 11:34:23

Dear friends and neighbors,

The 2026 legislative session begins this coming Monday, so this is a great time to check in and hear from you. What is important to you, your family and your community? What issues affect your day-to-day life?

Democracy is about participation, so please click here or on the button below to fill out a short survey on YOUR priorities. This survey will only take a minute or two and the information you provide will help guide my decisions as I consider legislation and navigate a difficult supplemental budget year.

Take survey blue button

Recovering From Recent Floods

Our communities showed remarkable strength during the recent severe flooding and that spirit of resilience continues today. The floods caused serious and lasting damage for many families across our region and some of them continue facing real challenges as recovery efforts are still very much underway. Whether you are dealing with property damage, financial strain, or the loss of basic necessities, help is available. Below are resources that may be able to help you and your family as you continue the recovery process.

Skagit flood

State Supports

While Disaster Cash Assistance Program funds managed by the Department of Social and Health Services are no longer available, Gov. Bob Ferguson allocated $2.5 million for Individual Assistance Needs Grants to continue helping people impacted by the severe flooding in our state. Click here for information or call 877-501-2233.

Washington Connection offers a fast and easy way to apply for a variety of public benefits, including Assistance Needs Grants.

The Washington State Department of Health provides information on what to do before, during and after a flood.

The Department of Financial Institutions has a comprehensive list of financial resources for folks impacted by the flooding – including information on safety and disaster shelters through the American Red Cross, for those who have been displaced.

The Office of the Insurance Commissioner put together this blog post with several flood resources – what’s covered, how to recover, information on flood insurance and more.

The Employment Security Department offers information and resources for working Washingtonians and business owners impacted by flooding.

The Department of Labor & Industries has a list of resources for homeowners and business owners, as well as employers and workers after windstorms, floods, and other natural disasters.

County Supports

Skagit and Snohomish counties are still collecting information from residents and businesses on damage – including losses – from the recent floods. Even if you only suffered minor damage, consider completing the damage form. You may be eligible for disaster assistance as you continue with recovery.

Resources for SKAGIT County residents

Resources for SNOHOMISH County residents

Protecting Higher Education

This session I will focus on safeguarding access to higher education and workforce training, supporting students and faculty, and ensuring our public institutions remain strong engines of opportunity and economic growth.

Federal cuts are threatening critical funding to financial aid programs, which are essential to support workforce training that meets Washington’s evolving needs. In a year when tough budget decisions are unavoidable, I will work to make sure postsecondary education remains a state priority — because investing in students today is vital to building a resilient, skilled workforce for tomorrow.

graduation

Keep in Touch

It is an honor to continue serving the 10th Legislative District representing your interests and addressing your concerns. I hope you will consider taking my survey to help me bring your voice front and center in Olympia.

If you have any questions or you want to meet with me either remotely via Zoom or in my office, please call or email me, all my contact info is below.

Happy New Year!

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CONTACT ME
424 John L. O’Brien Building
PO Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504
Email

(360) 786-7914
Toll-Free: 1-800-562-6000 | 1-800-635-9993 (TTY)
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Legislative Assistant
Rachel Campbell

  • January 8, 2026