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Know your rights

Know your legal rights

The right to air conditioning

It looks like this week’s heat wave has passed, and we’ve returned to mild summer weather. But, did you know… If you want to be ready for the next round of hot weather, you have the right to install AC in your rental? This is

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New state laws now in effect

Many new laws took effect on June 11 that impact people across Washington state. Here’s a recap of two we have been keeping an eye on: – Senate Bill 6237 requires landlords to disclose flood risk to renters. However, it does not require the landlord

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Strengthening protection orders for survivors

ELAP recently stood with survivors in the Washington Court of Appeals to protect long-term safety. In the case Woods v. Owens, an abuser tried to terminate a 25-year-old protection order by arguing he had “checked the boxes” of treatment and good behavior. We joined our

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State legislature update

The 2026 state legislative session is moving at a rapid pace, with several critical bills currently being debated. We are keeping an eye on legislation that could impact tenants, survivors, and vulnerable families ELAP serves. Here are some bills worth watching: The legislature provides many

Know your legal rights

Youth & young adults: Know your rights

Navigating the immigration system can be overwhelming—especially for youth and young adults who may be facing it for the first time. Whether you’re applying for DACA, figuring out your rights during an encounter with immigration officials, or seeking help with school and employment opportunities, having

Tips for tenants

What Washington’s new rent stabilization law says

A new rent stabilization law (HB 1217) went into effect in Washington state in May. The law sets a limit on how much a landlord may increase a tenant’s rent over a 12-month period. The Attorney General’s Office will enforce the law, and tenants may

Understanding small claims court

The mysteries of small claims court

Small claims court can be confusing, yet sometimes it’s the best path to solve small legal issues. For example, tenants sometimes need to take their landlord to small claims court over issues like withheld security deposits or unaddressed repairs. If you’re navigating small claims court,

Know your legal rights

Immigrant safety planning

Here is some information and answers to common questions about safety planning, especially for our immigrant communities. What is a safety plan?A safety plan is a community resource to help parents prepare for emergencies. The plan contains important documents and instructions for the care of

Free online legal resources

Know your rights on immigration

Everyone has legal rights in the United States, regardless of immigration status. If you are concerned about being separated from your children in the event of a deportation, we recommend reviewing the Immigration Safety Plan created by Legal Counsel for Youth & Children: in English