Skyler Rude

Education

Materials Supplies and Operating Costs - This allocation is used for insurance, utilities, classroom supplies and more. It is indisputable that state funds fall short to cover these basic costs. As a matter of constitutional obligation, I support the state picking up the full tab for these expenses. In addition, it important for lawmakers to also deep dive into cost drivers for insurance. Some districts are seeing premiums nearly double in the last few years. This means educational dollars diverted from the classroom. Learn more

High-quality educational opportunity is Washington’s constitutional obligation to every child, however, 71% of Washington 8th graders aren’t proficient in math and 69% are not proficient in reading. I worked last session on a bipartisan literacy bill that was signed into law earlier this year. There is still much work to do to improve student outcomes. I have also worked to ban mobile phones from use in the classroom - this effort continues to gain momentum. All students should learn basic life skills by high school graduation. This includes instruction on personal financial management, household management, and civic engagement. I have sponsored legislation to make financial education a graduation requirement. Learn more

Housing

The decisions of the State Building Code Council add tens of thousands of dollars to the cost of new home construction. While environmental concerns and energy efficiency are important, affordability has to be a driving factor when adopting new building mandates. Washington should ensure that every new code requirement delivers benefits that justify the additional cost imposed on homebuyers and renters. Learn more

Washington families cannot afford homes when government regulations make housing more expensive to build. I support reducing unnecessary permitting delays, streamlining environmental review, and reforming state and local regulations that drive costs. The Legislature needs to take the housing supply crisis seriously. Washington recently enacted statewide rent control policies and numerous landlord-tenant law changes that drive housing providers out. While well-intended, these policies discourage investment in rental housing and reduce the supply of available units. The state should focus on increasing housing supply and encouraging new construction rather than adopting policies that further restrict availability. Learn more

Infrastructure / Transportation

Transportation costs affect nearly every Washington household. Recent fuel-related taxes have increased costs that are ultimately passed on to consumers through higher fuel prices and higher prices on everyday goods. I support policies that prioritize affordable energy and transportation while maintaining environmental stewardship. Learn more

Legislation

State agencies currently have broad authority to create law through the rule making process. Constant rule making from these agencies create a sense of uncertainty for businesses because the rules are constantly changing. The frequency of rule changes is one concern, but also the lack of legislative oversight that exists with the current system is another. The Legislature, consisting of elected representatives of the people, should have the final say on agency rule making to make sure rules comply with the intent of the Legislature. Learn more

Taxes / Budget

This budget, funded primarily by the gas tax, is responsible for transportation activities including construction, maintenance, and operation of state highways. A robust transportation infrastructure is critical to the communities of our region and state for economic development and counted among the basic functions of government. Washington should focus on finding efficiencies, controlling costs, and increasing the quality of our roads and bridges. Learn more

I was a strong opponent of the income tax passed by the Legislature this year. Case law is clear that income is property, subject to taxation limits in the Constitution. Despite this, the tax was passed. The effects can already be seen in the form of capital flight to other states. This tax not only applies to individuals, but to business. The last legislative session also saw a variety of other taxes increase, from B&O to sales and use tax. The last thing we should be doing in times of ever-increasing costs is creating new tax on our job creators. Learn more

Washington families are already struggling with inflation, housing costs, and rising utility bills. State government should focus on responsible budgeting rather than imposing new taxes and fees that make it harder for families to get ahead and more difficult for employers to create jobs. Learn more