Here’s what residents of the 4th Legislative District are saying about top legislative issues

Here are the results of Sen. Mike Padden’s 2016 legislative survey. Sen. Sheldon circulated his survey in a newsletter mailed to residents of the 4th Legislative District, and also made it available online. Thanks to all who took a few moments to respond, and to the many who offered additional thoughts in writing.

1. Washington politicians are fond of saying the state has recovered from recession and the economy is booming. But the growth is most evident in the city of Seattle and nearby areas. In the 4th District, how do you perceive the state of the economy?

2. How do you feel about your personal economic situation?

 

3. Washington is one of just two states that issue driver’s licenses to those who are in the country illegally. Because of this, the federal government has said Washington drivers’ licenses may no longer be an acceptable form of identification for airline boarding and other interstate travel purposes. How do you think Washington should respond?

4. In December, the governor’s office disclosed that the Department of Corrections released more than 3,000 violent inmates before their sentences were finished. Police say at least two people were killed by inmates who should have been in prison. Officials have known for three years that their sentencing calculations were wrong, yet continued releasing prisoners early. How should this matter be investigated?

5. Do you think the people of Washington state should have the opportunity to vote on a constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds vote of the Legislature before taxes are increased?

6. In 2012, Washington voters approved an initiative permitting public charter schools to be established as an alternative to failing public schools. But in September the state Supreme Court ruled charter schools are unconstitutional, for technical reasons. Should the Legislature fix the problem?

7. Lawmakers are being asked this year to pass a carbon-tax initiative, I-732, that would place new taxes on industry and on energy and raise the price of gasoline, but also would reduce business taxes and the sales tax. Do you favor this policy?

8. Gov. Jay Inslee has directed the Department of Ecology to impose limits on industrial carbon emissions – a “carbon cap.” This policy will increase costs for Washington industry and will raise the price of gasoline and other forms of energy. Should the Legislature have a chance to vote on this policy?

9. Four years ago, the state Supreme Court ruled the Legislature is not adequately funding basic education. Since then the Legislature has met the court’s deadlines to dramatically increased spending for public schools. Yet the court, relying on outdated and inaccurate budget information, says the Legislature has not complied. How should the Legislature respond?

10. Washington workers can be required to pay union dues or an equivalent fee as a condition of employment. Should this arrangement be maintained or eliminated?

11. The unelected state Human Rights Commission recently adopted a rule allowing transgendered persons to use any public restroom, shower, locker room and other facilities. Some women and men object that this violates their right to privacy. What do you think about this policy?