AWB's 2023 Annual Report | Page 10

Member-focused .

Member-driven . On the Hill

advocacy
We advocate on behalf of Washington ’ s privatesector employers
Lawmakers
. We passed
fight for a historic
public nine
policy bills that will help small , aimed medium at addressing and large Washington businesses ’ s housing succeed .
crisis as AWB joined with a coalition calling
We represent on lawmakers
industries to
from boost
every the state
sector
’ s housing
and from every supply corner . The of campaign the state urged . We them convene to “ go leaders from throughout big ” on housing the state so all to Washingtonians
generate new ideas and take action would to have make a place Washington “ go home ’ s .” economy stronger and Other build session vibrant wins communities included passage . of
a bill to boost production of sustainable
We are preparing aviation the fuel next in Washington generation , legislation of leaders by creating connections allowing nurses and and pathways other health for care success .
professionals to work across state lines , and adoption of a state budget that slowed the growth in spending and did not include higher taxes .
Even so , there were many missed opportunities and new hurdles put in front of employers , including a bill allowing the state to adopt new ergonomics rules .

Forging Connections

2023
Nearly 80 lawmakers spoke with employers during the 38th annual Legislative Day and Hill Climb . The annual gathering included dozens of virtual meetings on topics ranging from housing and employment law to health care and child care .
“ The ability to relay pressing issues for our community and to hear how these issues are being worked on by our representatives is invaluable for our community ,” said Miriam Battson , president and CEO of the Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce .