Freedom Index

A Legislative Scorecard Based on the Principles of the U.S. Constitution

Votes


Foreign Carbon Market  |  SB6058

SB6058 enables linking Washington’s carbon market with California and Quebec, expanding the state’s cap-and-invest program, which requires industries to cut emissions or buy allowances. The bill addresses compliance, penalties, reporting, offsets, and mandates for electricity imports and biofuels.

The Washington State Senate passed SB6058 on March 5, 2024 by a vote of 28 to 19. We have assigned pluses to the nays because linking Washington’s carbon market with California and Quebec expands the state’s cap-and-invest program, increasing government regulations that infringe on state and national sovereignty. This bill uses taxpayer funds to embrace the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, which is unconstitutional and prioritizes international agendas over U.S. sovereignty, further entrenching government intervention in the private sector.

2nd Amendment and Mental Health  |  SB6246

SB2646 strengthens firearm bans for individuals with mental health issues, requiring courts to prohibit possession and mandate surrender for those with dismissed felony charges due to incompetency or violent mental-health histories. Prohibition orders must be reported to authorities, and firearm rights cannot be restored under active-risk or surrender orders.

The Washington State Senate passed SB2646 on March 5, 2024 by a vote of 34 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the 2nd, 9th, and 10th Amendments, and should not be infringed. SB2646 is an extreme government overreach.

Traffic Cameras  |  HB2384

HB2384 expands automated traffic camera use for violations such as speeding and red-light running. Key changes include permanent authorization for large cities, speed enforcement in work zones, and reduced fines for low-income violators.

The Washington State Senate passed HB2384 on February 29, 2024 by a vote of 26 to 23. We have assigned pluses to the nays because traffic cameras undermine due process by removing human interaction and presuming guilt before innocence—principles protected by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Additionally, these cameras infringe upon the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government, and unfairly grant leniency to some while denying it to others, contradicting the American principle that “all men are created equal.”

Nothing About Us Without Us Act  |  HB1541

HB1541 requires new state entities to include at least three members from underrepresented populations with relevant “lived experience.” “Underrepresented populations” are defined as those facing “barriers” like “socioeconomic challenges.” Entities must report on diversity, participation impacts, and stipends, with the Office of Equity reviewing these reports annually to recommend ways to improve “inclusivity” and “reduce barriers.”

The Washington State Senate passed HB1541 on February 28, 2024 by a vote of 40 to 9. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation essentially forbids agencies from picking the best candidates available for positions, which likely expand the size of government to begin with, while pitting Americans against each other. The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” We must remain true in our commitment to equality and resist government actions that seek to divide us.

Professional Licenses for Illegals  |  HB1889

HB1889 allows individuals to obtain professional licenses and certifications in Washington State regardless of their immigration or citizenship status. Applicants can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. The law removes U.S. citizenship requirements for certain professions, such as notaries and bail bond agents.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1889 on February 27, 2024 by a vote of 41 to 8. We have assigned pluses to the nays because individuals who enter the United States illegally—by definition a criminal act—should not be granted residency or sanctuary in Washington, much less access to professional licenses. This undermines the rule of law and incentivizes further illegal immigration, taking jobs away from American citizens.

“Gender Affirming Care” Provider Protection  |  HB1954

HB1954 ensures that healthcare providers in Washington cannot be denied licensure or face disciplinary action for providing reproductive healthcare or gender-affirming treatment.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1954 on February 22, 2024 by a vote of 30 to 19. We have assigned pluses to the nays because Marxists and leftists are pushing their woke agenda — telling everyone that one can choose his or her own gender and pronouns.  Scientifically and biblically, there are only two genders. Additionally, states should push back against sex-change medical practices.

Traffic Cameras  |  HB2384

HB2384 expands automated traffic camera use for violations such as speeding and red-light running. Key changes include permanent authorization for large cities, speed enforcement in work zones, and reduced fines for low-income violators.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB2384 on March 5, 2024 by a vote of 55 to 38. We have assigned pluses to the nays because traffic cameras undermine due process by removing human interaction and presuming guilt before innocence—principles protected by the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Additionally, these cameras infringe upon the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government, and unfairly grant leniency to some while denying it to others, contradicting the American principle that “all men are created equal.”

Foreign Carbon Market  |  SB6058

SB6058 enables linking Washington’s carbon market with California and Quebec, expanding the state’s cap-and-invest program, which requires industries to cut emissions or buy allowances. The bill addresses compliance, penalties, reporting, offsets, and mandates for electricity imports and biofuels.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed SB6058 on February 29, 2024 by a vote of 57 to 39. We have assigned pluses to the nays because linking Washington’s carbon market with California and Quebec expands the state’s cap-and-invest program, increasing government regulations that infringe on state and national sovereignty. This bill uses taxpayer funds to embrace the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, which is unconstitutional and prioritizes international agendas over U.S. sovereignty, further entrenching government intervention in the private sector.

2nd Amendment and Mental Health  |  SB6246

SB2646 strengthens firearm bans for individuals with mental health issues, requiring courts to prohibit possession and mandate surrender for those with dismissed felony charges due to incompetency or violent mental-health histories. Prohibition orders must be reported to authorities, and firearm rights cannot be restored under active-risk or surrender orders.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed SB2646 on February 27, 2024 by a vote of 84 to 11. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the 2nd, 9th, and 10th Amendments, and should not be infringed. SB2646 is an extreme government overreach.

Secretary of Health  |  SB6095

SB6095 grants the secretary of health and his designees the authority to issue standing orders or prescriptions for medications, vaccines, and medical devices to address public-health threats, such as diseases or emergencies. These orders allow individuals to access certain treatments without a personal prescription. The authority includes safeguards like consulting local health officers and compliance with licensing requirements.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed SB6095 on February 27, 2024 by a vote of 59 to 37. We have assigned pluses to the nays because granting broad authority to the unelected secretary of health violates a republican form of government as required under Article IV, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution. Concentrating health-related decision-making in a bureaucrat undermines accountability, bypasses constitutional checks, and risks government overreach. Personal healthcare decisions should remain free from government control, as forcing medical procedures or vaccinations infringes on God-given rights protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Assisting Illegal Migrants  |  HB2368

HB2368 directs the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to support refugees and immigrants in Washington by managing the Refugee Resettlement Plan, offering services such as cash, medical assistance, employment help, and English instruction. It also enables DSHS to assist migrants ineligible for federal programs through community organization contracts and “equitable” funding.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB2368 on February 13, 2024 by a vote of 61 to 35. We have assigned pluses to the nays because individuals who enter the United States illegally—by definition a criminal act—should not be granted sanctuary or residency in Washington, nor should they be eligible for state benefits funded by taxpayers. Furthermore, medical assistance and social welfare are not legitimate government functions. These expenditures unjustly use taxpayer money, violating the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Diversity Mandate  |  HB1541

HB1541 requires new state entities to include at least three members from underrepresented populations with relevant “lived experience.” “Underrepresented populations” are defined as those facing “barriers” like “socioeconomic challenges.” Entities must report on diversity, participation impacts, and stipends, with the Office of Equity reviewing these reports annually to recommend ways to improve “inclusivity” and “reduce barriers.”

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1541 on February 6, 2024 by a vote of 83 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation essentially forbids agencies from picking the best candidates available for positions while pitting Americans against each other. The Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.” We must remain true in our commitment to equality and resist government actions that seek to divide us.

Clean Energy Tax Changes  |  HB1756

HB1756 provides that all qualified personal property used for generating renewable energy owned by eligible taxpayers will be exempt from Washington state property taxes.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1756 on April 19, 2023 by a vote of 33 to 15. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation creates more government interference in the free-market economy and advances the Marxist climate-change agenda while propping up certain people over others.

Gun Control  |  HB1240

HB1240 imposes strict regulations on assault weapons, defining them as specific types of firearms with particular features. These rules prohibit the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or offer for sale of assault weapons, except for specific exceptions like sales to law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, and out-of-state individuals. Inherited assault weapons can be kept under certain conditions. Violations of these regulations are considered gross misdemeanors under the Consumer Protection Act. The Attorney General can issue investigative demands for potential violations, and recipients can request extensions or modifications. The Attorney General is restricted from sharing investigation information with criminal law enforcement agencies unless a search warrant requires it.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1240 on April 18, 2023 by a vote of 28 to 21. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the 2nd, 9th, and 10th Amendments, and should not be infringed. HB1240 is a gross infringement on that right.

Automatic Voter Registration  |  SB5112

SB5112 automatically registers enhanced driver’s license or identicard applicants to vote.

The Washington State Senate passed SB5112 on April 14, 2023 by a vote of 33 to 13. We have assigned pluses to the nays because automatic voter registration may increase the risk of voter fraud and compromise the integrity of elections. Individuals should take the initiative to register to vote, as it is a civic responsibility, but automatic registration can lead to inaccuracies in voter rolls.

Free School Meals  |  HB1238

HB1238 mandates that all schools offer free breakfast and lunch to any student who asks for it, regardless of their eligibility for free or reduced-price meals.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1238 on April 11, 2023 by a vote of 44 to 5. We have assigned pluses to the nays because taxpayers should not be funding meals for all public-school students. This bill increases government spending and expands the role of government. Providing free meals to all students, regardless of need, removes the personal responsibility of parents and guardians to provide for their children’s meals.

Odometer Readings  |  HB1736

HB1736 requires the Department of Licensing (DOL) to request odometer readings when registering or renewing a motor vehicle.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1736 on April 10, 2023 by a vote of 28 to 20. We have assigned pluses to the nays because mandatory odometer readings constitute a form of warrantless search or surveillance and violates the Fourth Amendment. Requiring individuals to provide specific information about their vehicle, like the odometer reading, is a violation of this protection against unreasonable searches.

Climate Change Response  |  HB1170

HB1170 requires the Washington Department of Ecology to update its Climate Change Response Strategy by September 30, 2024, with a focus on preparing for, addressing, and adapting to climate change impacts. It mandates reporting, collaboration with other state agencies and stakeholders, and guidance on climate resilience actions. The updated strategy will be implemented by various state agencies, with no new regulatory authority, and will involve coordination for federal funding opportunities.

The Washington State Senate passed HB1170 on April 8, 2023 by a vote of 34 to 14. We have assigned pluses to the nays because investing taxpayer dollars in creating a climate change response strategy is a complete waste of money. States should not be buying into the climate-change agenda.

Gun Control  |  HB1240

HB1240 imposes strict regulations on assault weapons, defining them as specific types of firearms with particular features. These rules prohibit the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or offer for sale of assault weapons, except for specific exceptions like sales to law enforcement agencies, the armed forces, and out-of-state individuals. Inherited assault weapons can be kept under certain conditions. Violations of these regulations are considered gross misdemeanors under the Consumer Protection Act. The Attorney General can issue investigative demands for potential violations, and recipients can request extensions or modifications. The Attorney General is restricted from sharing investigation information with criminal law enforcement agencies unless a search warrant requires it.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1240 on April 19, 2023 by a vote of 56 to 42. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms is protected by the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the 2nd, 9th, and 10th Amendments, and should not be infringed. HB1240 is a gross infringement on that right.

Climate Change Response  |  HB1170

HB1170 requires the Washington Department of Ecology to update its Climate Change Response Strategy by September 30, 2024, with a focus on preparing for, addressing, and adapting to climate change impacts. It mandates reporting, collaboration with other state agencies and stakeholders, and guidance on climate resilience actions. The updated strategy will be implemented by various state agencies, with no new regulatory authority, and will involve coordination for federal funding opportunities.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1170 on April 13, 2023 by a vote of 87 to 10. We have assigned pluses to the nays because investing taxpayer dollars in creating a climate change response strategy is a complete waste of money. States should not be buying into the climate-change agenda.

Peer Specialists  |  SB5555

SB5555 forces insurance carriers to offer access to certified peer specialist services meeting network standards. Additionally, this legislation creates standards for certification for Peer Specialists.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed SB5555 on April 12, 2023 by a vote of 63 to 34. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this is an expansion of government regulation in the healthcare industry. Requiring insurance carriers to offer specific services is interference in the free market and individual choice.

Commercial Aviation Service Study  |  HB1791

HB1791 assigns the Commercial Aviation Work Group to evaluate Washington’s future commercial aviation needs, explores alternatives to boosting aviation capacity, investigates aviation facility expansion and site options, involves stakeholders, and addresses environmental and military concerns. It gives annual progress reports to the Governor and the Legislature’s Transportation Committees.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1791 on April 12, 2023 by a vote of 91 to 6. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this could lead to excessive government intervention in the aviation industry. With consideration of environmental concerns, it may be seen as prioritizing these factors over economic interests. It is hard not to correlate the United Nations’ goal for air travel within the framework of Agenda 2030 is to make it more sustainable and reduce its environmental impact. This includes efforts to decrease carbon emissions, promote energy-efficient aviation, and encourage responsible travel practices to align with broader sustainability and development goals.

Automatic Voter Registration  |  SB5112

SB5112 automatically registers enhanced driver’s license or identicard applicants to vote.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed SB5112 on April 7, 2023 by a vote of 57 to 40. We have assigned pluses to the nays because automatic voter registration may increase the risk of voter fraud and compromise the integrity of elections. Individuals should take the initiative to register to vote, as it is a civic responsibility, but automatic registration can lead to inaccuracies in voter rolls.

Clean Energy Tax Changes  |  HB1756

HB1756 provides that all qualified personal property used for generating renewable energy owned by eligible taxpayers will be exempt from Washington state property taxes.

The Washington State House of Representatives passed HB1756 on March 16, 2023 by a vote of 81 to 12. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this legislation creates more government interference in the free-market economy and advances the Marxist climate-change agenda while propping up certain people over others.

Critical Race Theory in Higher Education  |  SB5227

SB5227 mandates “diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and antiracism” training and assessments for faculty, staff, and students at public institutions of higher education, with the purpose of “eliminating structural racism.”

The House passed SB5227 on April 9, 2021, by a vote of 67 to 31. We have assigned pluses to the nays because training, as well as curriculum, in higher education is the responsibility of–and a fundamental right of choice retained by–the faculty, staff, and students themselves, not the government. Educational freedom, as with all other constitutional rights, is protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Right to ‘Miscarriage Management’  |  SB5140

SB5140, also known as the “Protecting Pregnant Patients Act,” prohibits health care entities from restricting a health care provider’s provision of services related to complications of pregnancy, including, but not limited to, “miscarriage management” and treatment of ectopic pregnancies. It also allows for a private cause of action against health care entities in violation of such requirements.

The Senate passed SB5140 on April 20, 2021, by a vote of 29 to 20. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill is a Trojan horse for forcing health care providers to perform elective abortions. States should act to ban abortion and guarantee the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Universal Health Care Commission  |  SB5399

SB5399 establishes the Universal Health Care Commission to prepare Washington the creation of a state and federally-funded universal health care system.

The House passed SB5399 on April 7, 2021, by a vote of 57 to 40. We have assigned pluses to the nays because health care is not the legitimate object of government, nor should be under federal, state, or local jurisdiction in the United States. To compel American citizens to provide taxpayer money for a universal health care system would be to violate their fundamental rights protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Prohibiting Constitutional Carry  |  SB5038

SB5038 prohibits the open carry of firearms or any weapons at public demonstrations and the state capitol, whether the person carries the weapon on their person or in a vehicle. This prohibition also applies within 250 feet of the perimeter of a permitted demonstration at a public place.

The Senate passed SB5038 on April 20, 2021, by a vote of 28 to 21. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms should not be infringed, as guaranteed by the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Universal Health Care Commission  |  SB5399

SB5399 establishes the Universal Health Care Commission to prepare Washington for the creation of a state and federally-funded universal health care system.

The Senate passed SB5399 on April 19, 2021, by a vote of 28 to 21. We have assigned pluses to the nays because health care is not the legitimate object of government, nor should be under federal, state, or local jurisdiction in the United States. To compel American citizens to provide taxpayer money for a universal health care system would be to violate their fundamental rights protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Prohibiting Constitutional Carry  |  SB5038

SB5038 prohibits the open carry of firearms or any weapons at public demonstrations and the state capitol, whether the person carries the weapon on their person or in a vehicle. This prohibition also applies within 250 feet of the perimeter of a permitted demonstration at a public place.

The House passed SB5038 on March 28, 2021, by a vote of 57 to 40. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the fundamental right of the American people to keep and bear arms should not be infringed, as guaranteed by the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Critical Race Theory in Higher Education  |  SB5227

SB5227 mandates “diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and antiracism” training and assessments for faculty, staff, and students at public institutions of higher education, with the purpose of “eliminating structural racism.”

The Senate passed SB5227 on April 19, 2021, by a vote of 32 to 17. We have assigned pluses to the nays because training, as well as curriculum, in higher education is the responsibility of–and a fundamental right of choice retained by–the faculty, staff, and students themselves, not the government. Educational freedom, as with all other constitutional rights, is protected by the Bill of Rights and the 14th Amendment.

Right to ‘Miscarriage Management’  |  SB5140

SB5140, also known as the “Protecting Pregnant Patients Act,” prohibits health care entities from restricting a health care provider’s provision of services related to complications of pregnancy, including, but not limited to, “miscarriage management” and treatment of ectopic pregnancies. It also allows for a private cause of action against health care entities in violation of such requirements.

The House passed SB5140 on March 24, 2021, by a vote of 57 to 41. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this bill is a Trojan horse for forcing health care providers to perform elective abortions. States should act to ban abortion and guarantee the right to life for all persons. The right to life is the most fundamental, God-given, and unalienable right asserted in the Declaration of Independence and protected by the 5th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Federal COVID-19 Funds for Social Services  |  HB1368

HB1368 appropriates approximately $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 funding for Medicaid in K-12 public schools, COVID-19 vaccines, housing assistance, business grants, immigration, welfare, and food programs.

The Senate passed HB1368 on February 10, 2021, by a vote of 47 to 2. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this spending bill relies on a combination of unconstitutional federal funds, including from the federal Consolidated Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act and the Coronavirus Relief Fund under the federal CARES Act. States should oppose the use of federal taxpayer money for purposes not authorized under Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.

Federal COVID-19 Funds for Social Services  |  HB1368

HB1368 appropriates approximately $2.2 billion in federal COVID-19 funding for Medicaid in K-12 public schools, COVID-19 vaccines, housing assistance, business grants, immigration, welfare, and food programs.

The House passed HB1368 on February 1, 2021, by a vote of 61 to 36. We have assigned pluses to the nays because this spending bill relies on a combination of unconstitutional federal funds, including from the federal Consolidated Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act and the Coronavirus Relief Fund under the federal CARES Act. States should oppose the use of federal taxpayer money for purposes not authorized under Article 1, Section 8, of the U.S. Constitution.

Extending COVID-19 State of Emergency Orders  |  SCR8402

SCR8402 extends several of the COVID-19 State of Emergency orders issued by the Governor since February 29, 2020. It ensures that these emergency orders–which prohibit a number of activities and waive or suspend certain laws and regulations–remain in place until the COVID-19 State of Emergency is lifted or until rescinded by gubernatorial or legislative action.

The Senate passed SCR8402 on January 13, 2021, by a vote of 28 to 19. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the exercise of executive emergency powers ought to be strictly time-limited, not indefinite, and the abuse thereof checked against by periodic legislative oversight. Article IV, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution guarantees each state a republican form of government, which requires a limitation and separation of powers.

Extending COVID-19 State of Emergency Orders  |  SCR8402

SCR8402 extends several of the COVID-19 State of Emergency orders issued by the Governor since February 29, 2020. It ensures that these emergency orders–which prohibit a number of activities and waive or suspend certain laws and regulations–remain in place until the COVID-19 State of Emergency is lifted or until rescinded by gubernatorial or legislative action.

The House passed SCR8402 on January 15, 2021, by a vote of 54 to 44. We have assigned pluses to the nays because the exercise of executive emergency powers ought to be strictly time-limited, not indefinite, and the abuse thereof checked against by periodic legislative oversight. Article IV, Section 4, of the U.S. Constitution guarantees each state a republican form of government, which requires a limitation and separation of powers.