The Um, Sir Podcast

Um, Civics: The System Is Designed to Kill Your Bill


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Emily walks Ashley (and all of us) through how a bill actually becomes law in Washington. Spoiler: it’s messy, slow, and absolutely designed to kill your idea. Using the fictional Rhythm Reduction Act (RIP dancing), they break down committees, sponsors, lobbyists, hearings, caucuses, companion bills, and why a 60-day session turns everyone feral. Along the way: dinosaurs, pickleball, Bic pens, why the minority party controls the clock, and a reminder that democracy is less Schoolhouse Rock and more group project with deadlines and vibes.

CHECK OUT

Washington State Legislature Bill Tracker

The Snohomish Podcast Network

Committee schedules & public hearing calendars 

Washington State legislative session calendar & cutoff deadlines

*Research your favorite advocacy organization and find their Advocacy Day! 


LISTEN

Um, Sir Podcast

Um, Civics: FIFA 2026 and the Politics Behind the Pitch

Capitol Ideas Podcast


WATCH

I'm Just a Bill, Schoolhouse Rock - YouTube 

TVW - Committee hearings livestreams from Olympia

READ

The Washington Standard 

Axios Politics

Fiscal notes (and why they kill dreams)
Governor’s Veto Power in Washington: How It Works and Why It Matters - Tri City Regional Chamber of Commerce
Initiative and Referendum Processes - National Conference of State Legislatures


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Pocket Constitution
Washington State Legislative Gift Center!


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Washington State Civic Education Programs

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The Um, Sir PodcastBy EmilyInEverett and her Neighbor, Samie