Today marks the start of the 60-day 2026 state legislative session in Washington. As the main organization addressing homelessness in King County, KCRHA has outlined key priorities to tackle the rising homelessness crisis amid funding cuts and slow revenue growth.

The organization seeks to maintain homelessness services statewide by requesting $16.4 million in operating funds for SFY 2027 and $6.5 million for local housing programs in King County. These funds are essential to avoid a $500,039 shortfall and support the Encampment Resolution Program. KCRHA also aims to secure contingency funding for changes in federal Continuum of Care funding and the Emergency Housing Voucher program, which may deplete by fall 2026.

Additionally, KCRHA advocates for investments in evidence-based models to prevent and reduce homelessness, including Permanent Supportive Housing, community health care, and enhanced shelter models. It calls for increased emergency rent assistance to help households facing eviction.

Finally, KCRHA emphasizes the need for more flexible revenue tools for affordable housing operations and urges lifting the 1% cap on annual property tax revenue.