Human Services Archives

Early Learning & Human Services

Overview: During the 2026 session, Legislative Pages (students ages 14-16) had the opportunity to interview legislators from both the Majority party and the Minority party about issues of interest. In this lesson, students will learn about where the Majority Party, currently the Democrats, and the Minority Party, currently the Republicans, stand on three important policies regarding State Human Services. Essential Questions: House Early Learning & Human Services Committee The House Early Learning and Human Services Committee considers issues relating to:

Snap Food Programs & Funding Cuts (2026)

Legislative page, Aashi Uppal, asks a question about federal funding cuts from the House Early Learning and Human Services Committee. Chair Bergquist and Ranking Member Eslick respond with ideas to help Washingtonians with their immediate budgetary need.

Addressing Juvenile Sentencing Disparities (2026)

Legislative page, Amelia Florentino, asks members of the House Early Learning and Human Services committee about the complicated issue of juvenile justice. Representatives Bergquist and Eslick share some similar ideas and some disparate ones about how to address juvenile justice sentencing in Washington.

On The Issues – Q&A

Help students explore real policy questions facing Washington State through timely, issue-based conversations with lawmakers. This series features student-led questions on topics such as health care, transportation, public safety, the environment, education, and economic policy, while highlighting both Democratic and Republican committee leadership perspectives on each issue. Students will learn how legislators analyze complex problems, weigh competing priorities, and consider impacts on communities across the state. Ideal for connecting classroom civics to current debates in Olympia and understanding how policy is shaped through differing viewpoints.