The 2026 Washington State Legislative Session has begun, and DESC is focusing on crucial investments in life-saving programs such as permanent supportive housing, behavioral health treatment, and mobile crisis response. DESC has identified four primary legislative priorities to protect clients in these programs.

First, DESC aims to safeguard Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) from federal budget cuts, as uncertainty regarding the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Continuum of Care program risks $120 million essential for programs like DESC. Second, DESC seeks to stabilize funding for state-supported PSH Operations, Maintenance, and Services to ensure ongoing support for individuals in housing.

Third, DESC emphasizes the importance of preserving behavioral health programs that provide essential services, including mental health care and mobile crisis outreach, particularly for those facing chronic homelessness and behavioral health issues. Lastly, DESC advocates for continued funding for emergency shelters, affordable housing, and transitional housing to work toward ending homelessness and building a sustainable future in the region.