Washington lawmakers are looking to quell some of the backlash over new wildfire-related building codes set to take effect in March, while also trying to keep homes on the edge between wooded and developed areas safe from the blazes.

Democrats in the Washington Legislature are restarting conversations around rent stabilization with a proposal that would cap rent increases at 5% a year for residential tenants and also place limits on fees charged by landlords.

The new lots would need to be no smaller than 2,000 square feet, at least 40% of the size of the original lot and could not require the demolition or alteration of any affordable housing.

Washington’s Legislature passed more than 450 bills last session, which ended in April 2023. Most took effect in July but a handful didn’t until Jan. 1. 

Lawmakers have made their way to Olympia to kick off 60 days of lawmaking. The session is set to start Jan. 8. If you’re following along for the first time, you may have a lot of questions. This guide should help you follow along with all the action over the next few months.