Sen. Jeff Wilson, R-Longview, is joining the Senate Freedom Caucus, the cadre of Washington senators focused on issues of individual liberties, economic growth and restrained, responsible government. “If ever there was a need for a Senate Freedom Caucus, the time is now,” Wilson said. “This year’s legislation presents major threats...

Measure would reduce barriers to affordable home ownership Today the House of Representatives unanimously passed Sen. Mike Padden’s measure to help increase the supply of affordable housing by removing barriers to condominium construction. “This is tremendous news for both homebuilders and those looking for more affordable homeownership,” said Padden, R-Spokane...

Spokane Valley Republican returns on Monday for the start of a session unlike any other Today Sen. Mike Padden, R-Spokane Valley, was sworn into office by Spokane County District Court Judge Patti Connolly Walker. Due to COVID-19 restrictions in Olympia, the swearing-in ceremony was held in Judge Walker’s court room...

Republicans ask Inslee to rethink plan – improper release of more than 1,100 inmates makes state liable for new crimes To see a copy of this letter, click here. OLYMPIA – Senate Republicans today formally asked Gov. Jay Inslee to rethink his plan to deal with the coronavirus crisis by...

Bill would allow existing childcare workers to substitute experience and demonstrated competence for certification Should daycare workers be required to have specific educational certification if they already have demonstrated knowledge and years of experience? Not necessarily, says Sen. Mike Padden, sponsor of a measure that would allow childcare workers to...

On Monday the Senate Law and Justice Committee heard testimony on Sen. Mike Padden’s proposal to combat sexual exploitation of children and vulnerable adults by having Washington hotels and motels conduct training on preventing human trafficking. Under Senate Bill 6356, hotels would provide annual training to their employees on identifying...

Legislators to fix problem that produced chaotic double-taxation situation In response to concerns raised by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, the Washington Department of Revenue (DOR) has suspended the implementation of new administrative guidance concerning the sales tax on concrete pumping. The delay will allow lawmakers to weigh in during...

It’s not too late for you to reserve your spot for our next coffee meeting! Let’s have a cup of coffee at Cole’s Coffee, on Tuesday, Sept. 17th. I want to hear your concerns, ideas and questions, to help me better serve the people of our district. Normally, I would...

By Hanna Scott September 2, 2019 at 7:10 am From a computer system glitch blamed for the early release of thousands of prisoners, to investigations over inmate deaths under a now-fired medical director at the Monroe prison, the Washington State Corrections Department has had its share of scandals. Some state...