House Republicans Warn Democrat Bills Will Raise Costs for Washington Residents

GOP lawmakers say Democratic majority is pushing measures that would increase utility bills and limit ability to clear homeless encampments

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:15pm

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House Republicans in Washington state are warning that bills proposed by the Democratic majority would raise everyday costs for residents, even as lawmakers claim affordability is a top priority this legislative session. GOP leaders cited a utility surcharge bill and a measure they say would limit local governments' ability to clear homeless encampments from public spaces, arguing these proposals would hurt working families and public safety.

Why it matters

This political clash over the impact of proposed legislation highlights the ongoing debate in Washington state over balancing affordability, public services, and public safety concerns. As the Democratic-controlled legislature pursues its agenda, Republicans are seeking to draw attention to measures they believe will exacerbate cost-of-living challenges for residents.

The details

House Republican Deputy Leader Chris Corry said a Democratic bill, House Bill 2275, would increase a new utility surcharge, raising heating and gas bills for Washingtonians. House Republican Floor Leader April Connors also raised concerns about a Democrat-sponsored bill that she says would limit local governments' ability to clear homeless encampments from public spaces, arguing cities are worried about the impact on public safety.

  • The comments from House Republicans came during a media availability on Tuesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

Chris Corry

House Republican Deputy Leader in Washington state.

April Connors

House Republican Floor Leader in Washington state.

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What they’re saying

“They're moving House Bill 2275, which is going to increase a new utility surcharge on folks, so Washingtonians' bills are going to get more expensive when they go to pay their heat and gas.”

— Chris Corry, House Republican Deputy Leader

“The cities are very, very worried about how this will be implemented, how many beds are available, and how they're going to keep their parks and their communities safe.”

— April Connors, House Republican Floor Leader

What’s next

The Washington state legislature will continue debating the bills cited by House Republicans, with the potential for further political clashes over the impact of the proposed legislation.

The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing partisan divide in Washington state over the role of government, with Republicans warning that Democratic policies will raise costs for residents while Democrats argue their agenda prioritizes affordability. The debate underscores the challenges of balancing competing priorities around public services, public safety, and the cost of living.