Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/1127356
Nearly 30 MBAKS members and housing advocacy staff headed to Olympia on April 2 for our annual Hill Day. MBAKS Executive Director Kat Sims kicked off the day by addressing the group and presenting an issue briefing. Thanking attendees, Sims said, "Members are our best advocates for housing issues… I greatly appreciate everyone taking time out of their busy schedules to be here and help make this day a success." With talking points and collateral materials in hand, members broke into small groups and met with King and Snohomish county-based legislators to discuss our highest legislative priorities for housing. When all was said and done, MBAKS met with 37 different state representatives and senators. The timing was important because Hill Day took place just before a key legislative cut-off date for bills moving out of committee. Two MBAKS- supported bills—one that increases thresholds for short plats and one that eases restrictions on accessory dwelling units—passed the House Local Government Committee during Hill Day. Another priority bill encouraging density in urban areas cleared the Senate Housing Stability & Affordability Committee the day before. MBAKS' top 2019 legislative priority, condominium liability reform, passed the Senate and was awaiting action by the House during our Hill Day visit, making our presence at the capital even more timely. Ultimately, Hill Day was a positive, productive one for MBAKS and our members. We look forward to even more legislative successes next year. BY ALLISON BUTCHER SENIOR POLICY ANALYST MBAKS "Members are our best advocates for housing issues." —MBAKS Executive Director Kat Sims MBAKS Advocates for Housing at Annual Hill Day MBAKS' outreach to state legislators continues during the off-session season through our Primary Contacts Program. Get involved at mbaks.com/ primary-contacts housing advocacy 29 master builder SUMMER 2019 master builder