Members of the Majority Coalition Caucus have announced that Spokane Valley Sen. Mike Padden will continue to serve as chairman of the Law and Justice Committee, which deals with civil and criminal law and will assume responsibility for corrections issues.

“In the last two years, the Senate Law and Justice Committee has addressed issues ranging from impaired drivers and human trafficking and public safety to the separation of powers,” said Padden. “I look forward to continuing to lead the committee in its effort to improve our courts and corrections system.”

Padden’s colleagues also selected him to serve on the Senate’s budget committee – known as Ways and Means – and the Human Services and Mental Health Committee.

The Senate Accountability and Reform Committee deals with issues involving the management of government, including transparency, efficiency programs and strategic planning. Sen. Mark Miloscia, R-Federal Way, will chair the committee with Padden, serving as vice chairman.

“Mark Miloscia has been a leader on issues of efficient and effective government and has made them a trademark of his career in public service,” said Padden. “His leadership on lean management and performance audits make him the ideal choice to chair this committee.”