New WA Governor Backs Tri-City Lawmaker ‘Heroes’ Bill to Help Cops, Firefighters, Others

Jan. 17—Gov. Bob Ferguson says he’ll help a Tri-City lawmaker’s bill reach his desk, paving the way for a new program that would help Washington’s police and firefighters buy their first homes.

Washington’s new and 24th governor made the call this week to support bipartisan legislation to improve the state during his inaugural address to a joint session of the Legislature and just shortly after he took his oath of office.

Rep. April Connors’ “Homes for Heroes” bill was mentioned first among a flurry of bipartisan bills he highlighted.

“Let’s recognize the contributions of police officers, firefighters, behavioral health professionals and other critical public servants, and ensure they can access low-interest loans to purchase their first homes,” said Ferguson, a Democrat.

Connors, R-Kennewick, says she’s grateful for Ferguson’s remarks and support. She says her bill is a “solution that benefits everyone.”

“Working together, we have an opportunity to honor those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to serving our communities. These are the people who show up for us every day — it is time for us to show up for them and help make the dream of home ownership a reality,” she said in a Thursday statement.

Bipartisan House Bill 1022 seeks to create a $15 million pilot program under the state Department of Commerce providing interest-free loans to help certain workers cover the down payment and closing costs on their first home.

The loans can only be used for the purchase of a “primary residence,” according to a bill summary, and may not exceed 5% of the first mortgage or $25,000, whichever is less. They must be repaid once the first mortgage is paid off or the home is sold.

Applicants must be employed full-time as either a police or correctional officer, firefighter, 911 communications officer, dispatcher, EMT, health care professional, direct care worker, mental health professional, social worker, paraeducator or a licensed child care facility worker.

Military veterans and service members would also qualify.

Qualified applicants must have a household income below 100% of the state median, according to the summary.

If passed by both chambers of the Legislature, and signed by Ferguson, the pilot program would begin Dec. 1.

On Tuesday, HB 1022 received a public hearing in the House Housing Committee and it was scheduled Thursday for work in executive session.

With Ferguson’s support, Connors is optimistic about the bill’s chance of success. Last year, it passed out of the House Housing Committee but failed to progress.

“There is significant momentum behind this bill and rightfully so as Washington faces both a housing shortage and a critical shortage of essential workers,” Connors said.

“Passing this legislation would help ensure our heroes can achieve home ownership sooner rather than later. It would also serve as a vital tool to recruit and retain more essential workers, encouraging them to live in and strengthen our communities. By investing in their futures, we’re not just supporting them — we’re bolstering the workforce that is essential to the well-being of our state,” she continued.

The 105-day legislative session began Monday and is set to conclude April 27.

This story was originally published January 17, 2025 at 12:39 PM.

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(c)2025 Tri-City Herald (Kennewick, Wash.)

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