WHCA Member Legislative Briefing
Today Governor Bob Ferguson released his supplemental budget plan in Olympia. The proposal would cut $147 million in funding for skilled nursing and assisted living Medicaid rates updates. Look for the details in the WHCA Capitol Update on Monday, December 29, and please make it a priority to join the WHCA team for a Member Legislative Briefing on January 8 at 3:00pm, presented by WHCA CEO Carma Matti-Jackson, WHCA Key Political Consultant Jeff Gombosky, and WHCA’s Government Relations team, led by Lauri St. Ours. This panel brings decades of political experience and legislative expertise to the table and is excited to bring timely insights for 2026.
In light of Governor Ferguson’s Supplemental Budget proposal, which includes disappointing financial outlooks for long-term care, there has never been a more important moment to understand the political context behind these decisions and the advocacy pathways WHCA will pursue to protect quality, sustainable care. WHCA members, watch your inbox on Monday, December 29 for the first issue of Capitol Update this Session, which will include a more detailed analysis of the Governor’s budget proposal.
With the 2026 Legislative Session fast approaching, the January 8 briefing is a great opportunity to connect with other WHCA members, get up to speed on our legislative priorities, and prepare for what’s ahead. Start the new year prepared to engage with the political outlook, policy debates, and fiscal challenges that will shape the future of long-term care.
The WHCA Government Relations team looks forward to connecting with our members at this briefing, as part of our preparations for the start of session on Monday, January 12, 2026.
If you are interested in learning how WHCA will engage the Legislature amid extreme budget pressures and a rapidly aging population, we strongly encourage you to attend. We appreciate your continued support and hope this briefing inspires you to bring your expertise as a provider into meaningful advocacy and legislative action.
