Senate advances package of elections, tribal, education and public-safety measures; several bills pass

The Washington State Senate on Feb. 12 moved a broad package of measures to final passage after floor debate and roll-call votes on multiple bills affecting elections, tribal relations, education, climate and public-safety procedures.

Senators advanced second substitute Senate Bill 6,035, a bill aimed at increasing voter access for military personnel, overseas voters, Native American communities and people with disabilities. Senator Ann Kaufman, the bill’s sponsor, said the measure requires county auditors to consult with federally recognized tribes and directs the secretary of state to check in with tribes biennially to ensure they have necessary equipment and outreach resources. Kaufman also described an authorization — not a mandate — for the secretary of state to develop a model electronic voting portal, with work toward a model due by 2031. "This is about civic engagement and getting people involved, and having an educated electorate," Kaufman said. Opponents raised security concerns about a potential online portal; Senator Jeff Wilson said he did not think the portal was "ready for prime time" and planned to vote against the bill, while Senator Christian…