Author Archives: ericlafontaine

Legislation to bolster Washington’s election security clears key hurdle

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke’s bill to strengthen Washington’s election security was endorsed yesterday by the House State Government and Tribal Relations Committee, moving the proposal one step closer to a full House vote.

Senate Bill 5014 would expand the Secretary of State’s oversight of election equipment and platforms, require the disclosure of security breaches, and establish cybersecurity requirements for county election officials.

“These reforms are designed to protect voter integrity and ensure Washington’s election systems are safeguarded from cyber threats,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. ”With mail-in ballots, fortifying every step of the process is crucial to maintaining public confidence.”

The bill also requires state approval for election-related systems and mandates cybersecurity measures, including system partitioning, by July 1, 2027, unless an extension is granted.

“This legislation is intended to reinforce public trust and ensure Washington’s elections remain secure, transparent, and reliable. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and oversight, we are safeguarding our democratic process for future generations.”

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27. The last day to consider opposite house bills is April 16, by 5 p.m., except for initiatives and alternatives to initiatives, matters necessary to implement budgets, matters that affect state revenue, amendments, differences, and business related to the interim or closing the session.

For more information on Boehnke’s legislative work, visit mattboehnke.src.wastateleg.org.

Boehnke applauds B.C.’s decision to end consumer carbon tax

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… British Columbia’s government has announced the swift repeal of its consumer carbon tax, drawing praise from Sen. Matt Boehnke, lead Republican on the state Senate’s energy committee.

“British Columbia’s leadership has finally acknowledged what conservatives have been saying for years: carbon taxes harm working families and do little to significantly reduce emissions,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick.

“By fast-tracking the elimination of this unnecessary tax, B.C is putting money back into the pockets of hardworking citizens and pushing back against ineffective climate policies that disproportionately affect lower- and middle-income people.”

The province’s residents expected to see a 17-cent-per-liter drop in gas prices as early as this week. It’s a stark contrast to the consequences of carbon-pricing schemes in Washington, where fuel costs have been among the highest in the United States for close to two years.

“Here in Washington, we are seeing the negative effects of our own carbon tax policies firsthand,” Boehnke said. “Washingtonians are paying far more at the pump than our neighbors to the east and south; now the neighbors to the north are enjoying immediate relief. It’s time for our state to take a hard look at how these policies are burdening our families and businesses.”

The provincial government’s decision to repeal the consumer carbon tax comes amidst increasing public frustration over affordability and the broader economic impact of carbon pricing. While the B.C. government has indicated it will continue to impose carbon pricing on industrial emitters, the repeal of the consumer tax signals a shift in public sentiment that can no longer be ignored.

“Washington state leaders should take note—when even progressive governments admit that carbon taxes are failing to deliver real benefits and instead hurting working people, it’s time for a serious policy rethink,” Boehnke said. “We need solutions that promote innovation and economic growth without punishing those who can least afford it.”

As British Columbia moves forward with this significant policy reversal, Boehnke calls on Washington legislators to consider similar relief measures for struggling families and small businesses.

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

Boehnke pro-agriculture bill wins full support from House committee

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… The greenest of the pro-agriculture legislation introduced by Sen. Matt Boehnke at the Capitol this year, which has to do with Washington’s turf-seed industry, has moved another step forward in the state Legislature.

Senate Bill 5074 is aimed at updating regulations about the sale and distribution of turf-seed grass. It easily cleared the Senate on a 49-0 vote March 3 and was just endorsed unanimously by the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee.

“This bill is about ensuring fairness and security for everyone involved in the turf-seed industry,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick.

“Right now, if a contract falls through, farmers and businesses may face significant financial hardship. The safeguards advocated in this bill should make for a more predictable and trustworthy marketplace.”

The proposal is similar to one in Oregon and would help Washington’s turf-seed industry to compete. A key feature of the bipartisan bill is the authorization of mediation services through the state Department of Agriculture, as a cost-effective and efficient alternative to litigation.

“Disputes in agriculture can be costly and time-consuming. With the state ag department offering mediation, businesses and farmers will have a practical way to resolve conflicts fairly and efficiently.

“Although the turf-seed industry may not be as visible as wheat or wine grapes, it’s an important part of our agricultural sector, which in turn is so vital to our state’s economy. This bill is about supporting its long-term success,” Boehnke said.

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

Boehnke bill aimed at timely greenhouse-gas emissions data clears House committee

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Legislation sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke to improve the tracking of greenhouse-gas emissions is one step closer to final approval in the House of Representatives.

Senate Bill 5036 would shift Washington’s biennial reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to annual reporting, ensuring policymakers have timely and accurate data to make informed decisions. The measure received unanimous approval from the House Environment and Energy Committee and now awaits placement on the voting calendar.

“Reliable, timely data is essential for effective policymaking,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “Transitioning to annual emissions reporting enables us to track progress more accurately, respond swiftly to emerging climate trends, and ensure that our policies are producing tangible results. This bill strengthens transparency, accountability, and our ability to take meaningful action in reducing emissions.”

By increasing the frequency of emissions reporting, SB 5036 would improve the state’s ability to respond to environmental changes, refine climate policies, and better align with Washington’s climate initiatives, including the Climate Commitment Act, Clean Fuel Standard, and zero-emission vehicle policies.

“It’s unacceptable that we must rely on outdated emissions data to develop policy. Waiting two years for updated numbers slows our ability to adapt and improve. Annual reporting will provide us with the real-time insights needed to make evidence-based decisions that support both our environment and economy,” he explained.

Rather than adding bureaucracy, SB 5036 focuses on enhancing accountability and efficiency in emissions tracking. Boehnke emphasized that more frequent reporting will keep state agencies transparent, ensure lawmakers have current accurate information, and keep the public informed on Washington’s climate progress.

“If we’re serious about meeting our climate goals, we need precise and up-to-date data to guide us,” He said.

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

AUDIO | Sen. Boehnke | KONA Radio

Sen Matt Boehnke discusses budget negotiations, the impact of transportation policies on local economies and the contentious issue of gas taxes. He highlights his commitment to addressing community concerns—from infrastructure to education.

LISTEN

Boehnke opposes Senate Democrats’ $78.5 billion budget, largest tax hike in state history

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke joined Senate Republicans today in voting against Senate Bill 5167, the majority Democrats’ 2025-27 operating budget, which dramatically increases state spending and relies on the largest set of tax hikes in Washington State history.

Prior to adopting their $78.5 billion budget proposal, majority Democrats rejected the Senate Republicans’ $ave Washington approach, which would have balanced the budget without raising taxes or cutting essential services. That plan was voted down along party lines, 30-19.

Despite bipartisan opposition, the Senate budget was passed 28-21. Once the House adopts an operating budget, which is expected to happen Monday, budget leaders from the two chambers will meet to work on a compromise version.

Senator Boehnke, R-Kennewick and Ranking Member on the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee, issued this statement:

“The budget passed by the Democrats today would cut support for child care, force an increase in tuition at our state-run colleges and universities, raise the costs of hunting and fishing licenses and the Discover Pass, reduce the pay of state employees through furloughs, and more – all while increasing taxes by a record $21 billion. And they adopted that budget after voting down the budget we proposed, even though our plan didn’t require a single tax increase or make a single service cut yet supports K-12 education and other priorities we all share.

“A responsible budget isn’t just about how much we spend—it’s about setting the right priorities, and the priorities in the majority’s budget are clearly wrong. It’s more than just the tax hikes and cuts; they would almost completely drain the state’s rainy-day fund, even though our state is not in a recession and revenues are still on the rise. The budget we offered is focused on preserving core services, and the complete lack of tax increases ensures fiscal responsibility. That’s real value for Washingtonians, and the better way for our state. Fortunately, the Senate budget isn’t the final version, and there is still time for some sanity to overcome the tax madness we’re seeing from the Democrats.”

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/CREDIT: Washington State Legislature

Boehnke bill to expand renewable energy clears key House committee

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Legislation from Sen. Matt Boehnke that would expand renewable-energy development while balancing environmental regulations and land-use policies is moving closer to a final vote in the House of Representatives.

Senate Bill 5445 would promote distributed-energy projects and support “agrivoltaics,” meaning agricultural production underneath or adjacent to solar panels. It received unanimous approval from the House Environment and Energy Committee and now awaits placement on the voting calendar.

“Expanding distributed-energy projects is a win-win for our district,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “This bill makes it easier to develop renewable energy while protecting farmland and supporting rural communities. By cutting red tape and allowing all energy options to coexist with agriculture, we’re ensuring that farmers can benefit from clean energy without jeopardizing their land-use status or tax benefits. This is smart policy that would strengthen both our economy and our energy future.”

SB 5445 also would encourage the growth of clean energy, enhance the state’s energy independence, reduce carbon emissions, and create economic opportunities in rural communities.

“This bill strikes the right balance between environmental responsibility and economic growth,” Boehnke said. “By streamlining regulations for renewable-energy projects and providing utilities with more flexibility in meeting clean-energy targets, we’re paving the way for a stronger, more resilient energy grid. This approach not only reduces our carbon footprint but also stimulates investment in rural areas, creating jobs and new opportunities for both landowners and businesses alike.”

Boehnke expects the bill to reach the House floor for a vote before the April 16 deadline for action on bills passed by the Senate.

House committee backs Boehnke bills creating more opportunities for students

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Today, two of Sen. Matt Boehnke’s bills, which would create more financial opportunities for students in Washington to attend college or a technical school, came one step closer to a vote by the full House of Representatives.

Senate Bill 5542 and Senate Bill 5543 were endorsed by the House Committee on Postsecondary Education and Workforce, with the former gaining unanimous support. Both are now before the committee that determines which legislation will be placed on the voting calendar.

SB 5542 would eliminate the requirement that a student be 19 years of age or older to be eligible for a tuition and fee waiver for a high school completion program.

“Education should never have an expiration date, and by removing the age restriction on high school diploma and certificate course fee waivers, this bill opens the door for more Washingtonians to pursue their education, regardless of their stage in life,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “This bill is about breaking down barriers to opportunity. No one should be denied the chance to earn a diploma or certification simply because they don’t meet an arbitrary age requirement. By expanding access to fee waivers, we’re ensuring that more students, especially those facing financial hardship, can get the education they need to build a better future.”

SB 5543 would extend eligibility for College Bound Scholarships to students who have received a high school-equivalency certificate. Currently, only students with a high-school diploma are eligible.

“Every student deserves a fair shot at higher education, regardless of how they completed high school. Expanding this scholarship to include those with a high school-equivalency certificate removes an unnecessary barrier and opens doors for more students to pursue their dreams. This bill recognizes that success doesn’t follow a single path, and it ensures that financial aid is available to those willing to work for a brighter future.”

The measures have bipartisan sponsorship and were introduced in cooperation with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

Boehnke expects the bills will come up for a vote on the House floor ahead of the April 16 voting deadline. They were passed unanimously by the Senate during the first week of March.

Boehnke, Senate Republicans push back on Democrats’ tax-heavy budget proposal

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke is among the Senate Republicans sounding the alarm over the 2025-27 operating budget proposed Monday by the Senate’s majority Democrats, which calls for nearly $78.5 billion in spending and includes significant tax increases that would burden Washington families and businesses. The plan, which outspends the no-new-taxes, no-cuts Senate Republican “$ave Washington” proposal by $3 billion, prioritizes government expansion over real solutions for working families.

Senator Boehnke, R-Kennewick and Ranking Member on the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee, issued this statement:

“Washingtonians are already struggling with the high cost of living, yet Democrats are pushing a budget that demands billions in new taxes while cutting critical services. This plan fails to support working parents and small businesses and creates additional barriers for students to access higher education. It’s clear where their priorities lie—growing government instead of easing financial burdens on taxpayers and increasing college attendance. The ‘$ave Washington’ budget from Senate Republicans proves we can fund essential services, fully support K-12 education, and protect our most vulnerable citizens without raising a tax or cutting a single service.”

“The Democrats’ budget proposal requires the largest tax increases in state history, yet it still leaves behind those who need help the most. Cutting financial aid while raising tuition, slashing childcare support, and making outdoor recreation more costly is not the way to move Washington forward. On top of that, the Senate majority’s plan would even double the annual bed fees in long-term care facilities like nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Republicans have proven there is a better way—we can fund key priorities, invest in public safety, and balance the budget without burdening families with higher taxes.”

The 105-day legislative session began Jan. 13 and is scheduled to conclude on April 27.

VIDEO

Sen. Matt Boehnke warns of rising taxes and tuition, emphasizing the impact on higher education. Tuition hikes across WA colleges will affect students statewide. He urges the public to stay engaged and voice concerns against increasing tuition.

WATCH

Kamiakin, Hanford students serve as pages for Sen. Matt Boehnke

Ryan Benham, Kennewick and Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

OLYMPIA… Ryan Benham and Alexander Li recently spent a week working as a page for the Washington State Senate at the Capitol in Olympia.

The teens were among 19 students who served as Senate pages for the ninth week of the 2025 legislative session.

The duo was sponsored by Sen. Matt Boehnke, who represents the 8th Legislative District, which includes Kennewick and Richland in Benton County.

“The page program is a great opportunity for youth from all over the state to connect and meet other students interested in politics,” Boehnke said. “Both of these boys were fantastic pages who did great work, and I am glad they both enjoyed their experience here at the Legislature.”

Ryan, a sophomore at Kamiakin High School and 16-year-old son of Denise Benham of Kennewick, became interested in paging when it was brought to his attention though his school.

He couldn’t be happier about having applied, commenting that “paging is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with an abundance of knowledge to gain in only a week’s time.”

Alexander, 15, is the son of Huidong Li of Richland. He is a sophomore at Hanford High School, where he is involved in Key Club and has gone to state as a Knowledge Bowl team member two years in a row.

Getting to meet fellow pages from across the state was the highlight of Alexander’s experience. “Making friendships with other students from all over the place was something I never expected, but I am so happy it happened,” he said.

Alexander Li, Richland and Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick/Credit: Washington State Senate

The Senate Page Program provides an opportunity for Washington students to spend a week working at the Legislature. Students transport documents between offices, as well as deliver messages and mail. Pages spend time in the Senate chamber and attend page school to learn about parliamentary procedure and the legislative process. Students also draft their own bills and engage in a legislative mock session.

Students interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit the Senate Page webage.

Applications for the 2026 legislative session open November 1, 2025.