Legislative Advocacy

A simple guide to how laws move through the Legislature and the ways people can testify, share stories, or contact lawmakers to be part of the process.

Overview of the Legislative Process

The Washington State Legislature is responsible for creating new laws, changing existing laws and enacting budgets for the state. The legislative cycle is two years long. In odd-numbered years (such as 2025), the regular session is 105 days. In even-numbered years (for example, 2026), the session lasts 60 days.

It takes many steps for a bill to become a law. The ideas for bills come from a number of places, including:

  • Members of the public who reach out to legislators with their concerns. 
  • Members of the House and Senate offer legislation, or bills, for consideration. 

Once a member introduces a bill, the legislative process begins. If the bill passes one chamber of the legislature, it goes to the other. After it has gone through both chambers, it goes to the Governor’s office for the Governor’s signature.

 

Advocacy

For a full overview of the legislative process, visit the Washington State Legislature's website.

 

 

How to Participate in the Legislative Process

Have a Topic

  • What topic do you want to discuss?
  • What would you like the other person to know? Why is this important?
  • What would you like to happen?

What to Have with You

  • Bring stories or other information about the topic to share your message.
  • Bring a card or handout with your information so the person can follow up with you.
  • A plan for your next steps.

 

 

How to Make Your Voice Heard

Get Involved in the Process

The Washington State Legislature website has information on how to get involved in the legislative process and find out the schedule for hearings and floor sessions.

 

Participate in a Hearing

By testifying, submitting written testimony or getting your position noted. 

 

 

Communicate Directly

With your legislator by sending an email or commenting on a bill. 

 

 

 

 

Additional Resources