Representative Sharlett Mena - Contact Information

Sharlett Virginia Mena (born in the Tri-Cities, Washington) is an American politician and community organizer. She proudly identifies as a first-generation Mexican-American, the daughter of immigrant farmworkers from Mexico. Her upbringing in a working-class family has deeply influenced her commitment to empowering working families through policy and change.

Education and Early Career :

• Sharlett earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Philosophy from Washington State University in 2011.
• She began her career in the U.S. House of Representatives, serving as a Communications Manager and later as a Communications Director.
• Returning to Washington, Sharlett worked in the Washington State Senate and for Governor Jay Inslee. Currently, she holds a leadership position in the Washington State Department of Ecology, where she focuses on environmental justice, clean air, water protection, and climate action.

Community Advocacy and Civic Engagement :

• As a community organizer, Sharlett co-created Voter Turnup, a movement led by people of color to promote voter registration, cultural expression, and civic engagement.
• She serves as a Board Member of the South Tacoma Neighborhood Council, actively contributing to building her community.
• Governor Inslee appointed her to the Governor’s Pandemic After Action Review Task Force, representing the immigrant community.

Legislative Accomplishments (2023-25 Biennium) : 1.HB 1047 : Bans dangerous chemicals from personal care products. 2. HB 1048 : Helps municipalities voluntarily adopt changes for fair elections. 3. HB 1085 : Prevents microplastics from contaminating water sources. 4. HB 1329 : Protects communities from utility cutoffs during extreme heat events. 5. HB 1533 : Defends state employees from harassment via the Public Records Act. 6. HB 1758 : Streamlines hatchery maintenance permits. 7. HB 1905 : Protects women with overlapping identities and addresses wage gap issues. 8. HB 2000 : Strengthens international partnerships through strategic planning. 9. HB 2414/SB 6009 : Outlaws the deadly restraint known as hog-tying by law enforcement.

Sharlett Mena’s dedication to public service, combined with her diverse experiences, positions her as a respected representative working diligently for the people of Washington.