News about Councilmember Girmay Zahilay

2025 News

June 17, 2025
Zahilay Awards Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Distinguished Service to Michael Byun
“Michael Byun has been a steadfast force for justice and equity in our region,” said Councilmember Zahilay. “Through his leadership at ACRS, he’s not only empowered thousands of vulnerable community members—he’s helped build a more inclusive and compassionate King County. His vision, heart, and relentless advocacy have left a legacy that will inspire generations to come. We are deeply grateful for his service, and I cannot think of anyone more fitting for this award.”

June 17, 2025
Council Passes Legislation to Formally Oppose Trump’s Proposed Cuts to Medicaid
“Nearly half a million people in King County rely on Medicaid. Slashing Medicaid funding is not just a budget decision—it’s a life-altering blow to millions of families, seniors, and people with disabilities who rely on it for essential health care. These cuts threaten essential services such as behavioral health services, maternal health, public health, and other essential services. What’s more, frontline health workers, who have been the backbone of our health care system throughout the pandemic, will feel the brunt of reduced funding, further straining our already overburdened health infrastructure. We cannot afford to abandon those who rely on Medicaid or the dedicated professionals who provide their care.”

June 13, 2025
Zahilay Issues Statement Regarding New Data Illustrating the Immediate Impact of the Health Through Housing Program
“New data released today on King County’s Health Through Housing program is proof that when King County invests in our people, we get strong results. It’s even further proof of just what’s possible when a regional government works effectively with local governments, like Renton and Auburn.”

June 2, 2025
Zahilay introduces motion opposing Medicaid cuts, supporting healthcare for workers, will convene panel to discuss impacts
“Medicaid is a lifeline for nearly half a million people in King County. Cutting it would be devastating for families, frontline care workers, and our entire healthcare system. This motion is about standing up for our most vulnerable neighbors and making sure King County continues to be a place where everyone can get the care they need to live and thrive.”

May 7, 2025
Zahilay introduces motion to reaffirm reproductive rights, convenes expert panel to highlight impact of state, federal cuts
“King County has to be a stronghold for reproductive freedom, especially when it’s under direct attack from the federal government. The recent state-level budget cuts are devastating too, and together, all of this means real people are losing access to the care they need. This is a direct threat to the health, autonomy, and dignity of thousands of people in our region.”

April 25, 2025
Potential sales tax measure would prevent devastating cuts to public safety -- Zahilay, Dembowski urge swift action
King County Council Chair Girmay Zahilay and Budget Chair Rod Dembowski on Friday urged Executive Shannon Braddock to act swiftly to prevent severe cuts to critical public safety and criminal justice services by proposing a new revenue measure allowed under House Bill 2015. 

January 14, 2025
Zahilay selected as Chair of the King County Council for 2025
“Serving as chair of the King County Council and leader of the legislative branch is an honor. I’m grateful for the trust of my colleagues, and the work of our outgoing Council Chair Upthegrove. This is a pivotal moment for our community, and I’m committed to advancing policies that help all our residents, businesses, and the environment thrive. Together, we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead — whether improving our public services, making neighborhoods more safe, addressing the housing crisis, or strengthening our economy.”  

2024 News

November 20, 2024
Zahilay Proposal for Economic Revitalization Using the Arts Passes Key Committee
“Many of our commercial centers have been in economic decline for years—struggling with empty storefronts, rising crime, and a general sense of despair. This proposal taps into the power of our arts and culture organizations to restore and activate these spaces. By doing so, we can boost local economies, reduce crime, attract more foot traffic, and foster a sense of safety and belonging. This is a meaningful step toward building a stronger, more connected future for our county.” 

November 19, 2024
Zahilay leads Council approval of $10.2 billion 2025 King County budget with big investments in public safety, public health, public defense, housing, more
“As we navigate this period of economic uncertainty and a massive revenue shortfall, it’s important that we do not balance the budget on the backs of the people who rely on our services. This was a difficult budget, but we abided by smart budgeting principles while supporting critical services. We were able to keep our rainy day reserve balance at 7.8%, which is on the more conservative end of our policy range. Today’s budget vote is an investment in affordable housing, public safety, behavioral health services, climate resiliency, and so much more.” 

November 12, 2024
Zahilay’s $1 billion workforce housing initiative approved by Council
“To properly tackle the housing crisis, we must use every tool available to us to act urgently and aggressively. Today’s vote is an investment in the workers who power our economy, who deserve sustainable and affordable housing close to where they work.” 

September 23, 2024
Council Embarks Upon 2025 Budget Process Upcoming Meetings and Town Halls
The King County Council, under the leadership of Budget and Fiscal Management Chair Girmay Zahilay, is set to begin reviewing a proposed $10.2 billion budget for King County for 2025, and is offering multiple opportunities for the public to learn about and weigh in on the Council’s budget priorities.

September 5, 2024
Zahilay Announces Plan for $1 Billion Regional Workforce Housing Initiative
“This initiative is about ensuring that the people who power our economy can afford to live near where they work. By leveraging King County’s financial resources and partnering with both public and private entities, I believe we can create sustainable, affordable housing solutions for thousands of workers around the region.”

July 16, 2024
Council approves $178 million supplemental budget, with funding to address housing, gun violence, traffic patrols, more
“My goals as Budget Chair are to ensure King County delivers the best possible services while abiding by smart budgeting principles that allow us to navigate a general fund shortfall and economic uncertainty. I think our Council struck the right balance with this supplemental budget. We won’t be spending beyond our means, but we will also be supporting critical services and infrastructure projects that benefit residents of King County."

July 10, 2024
Zahilay proposes $1 million for comprehensive gun violence prevention strategy
“Gun violence has been increasing in King County for several years now. This trend is as unacceptable as it is preventable. Today, I proposed a comprehensive plan to address this crisis through King County’s budget. By building on the five pillars laid out in my plan, I believe we can more effectively respond to and even prevent the shootings and deaths we are seeing all too frequently. I look forward to working with partners around the region to create a safer community for all.”

June 11, 2024
Zahilay awards Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Distinguished Service to Matt Chan
“This award is a celebration of Matt’s life and legacy of advocacy, storytelling, empowerment, and service. This legacy lives on in every film he’s made, every life he’s touched, every movement he’s helped build, and every voice he’s amplified. As we reflect on Matt’s contributions, let us carry forward his passion for justice, commitment for community, and unwavering spirit of advocacy.” 

April 16, 2024
$20/Hour Minimum Wage Proposal Clears Key Committee Action
“Today’s committee vote to increase the minimum wage in unincorporated King County is a big step toward investing in the workers, families, and economy of every corner of our region. I’m proud and grateful of the work we’ve done in partnership with small businesses and labor partners in unincorporated King County to make sure that everyone can share in our county’s prosperity.”

January 16, 2024
Zahilay proud to join Sound Transit Board
“It is an honor to join the Sound Transit Board to help build a world-class transportation system for the residents of King County. I will prioritize building a system that is reliable, accessible, affordable, safe, and growing in a timely way to every corner of our region..."