The House and Senate are holding their pre-session warm-up, known as Committee Assembly Days, this week. The House met on Monday, December 9, and Tuesday, December 10, while the Senate will convene on Thursday, December 12, and Friday, December 13.
These meetings provide an opportunity for caucuses to organize, finalize committee structures, and select committee chairs. Committees are conducting work sessions and receiving reports from stakeholders, agencies, and interest groups on issues likely to be addressed in the 2025 session.
On Tuesday, the House Appropriations Committee—the largest legislative committee—held a work session covering topics including the budget outlook, childcare, and behavioral health. This week also allows retiring legislators to bid farewell to the Capitol community while newly elected members begin transitioning into their roles. Office relocations are underway, and Senate Republicans are moving into a new office building.
Washington Retail’s team is actively engaging with both returning and newly elected legislators on the hill, gearing up for the 2025 Legislative Session, which begins on January 13.