The Senate Appropriations Committee recently passed appropriation bills containing over $513 million for infrastructure and environmental projects in Washington state. Sen. Patty Murray, the committee chair, emphasized the importance of funding various projects aligning with the state's priorities. Notable allocations include $1 million for Centralia College to enhance its hydrogen and battery science program, along with $1.5 million for drinking water infrastructure improvements in Skamania County. The legislation also encompasses substantial funding boosts for Native American housing programs, homeless assistance grants, family self-sufficiency programs, public transit, and affordable housing initiatives. Murray highlighted the focus on salmon restoration efforts, Tribal commitments, public lands protection, and support for federal wildland firefighters. These investments aim to address critical needs such as reducing homelessness, enhancing public transit systems, and promoting affordable housing solutions across Washington state.