Author Archives: ericlafontaine

Capital budget highlights and local projects

The final supplemental capital budget allocates $1.33 billion, including $130.6 million in bonds. The plan entails significant investments throughout the state in K-12 school construction, behavioral health and substance abuse treatment facilities, and early learning facilities, leaving $547,000 in remaining bond capacity.

With this budget’s unanimous approval, we are delighted to announce that more than $49 million for 8th District projects was included in the statewide spending plan.

In addition to the 8th District, we were able to contribute significantly to projects in the neighboring 15th and 16th districts, securing an additional $53.6 million in regional allocations. These projects underscore our commitment to shared community efforts.

 

Projects include:

8th District

  • Emergency Communications Radio Microwave: $235,000
  • Port of Benton Inland: $240,000
  • Renovations for Children’s Developmental Center: $174,000
  • HAPO Community Center: $3 million
  • Tri-Tech Skills Center: $45.496 million

 

15th District

  • Energy Northwest: $25 million 16th District
  • Columbia Valley Center for Recovery: $1.5 million
  • Pasco Agricultural Symbiosis Industrial Park: $150,000

State legislature passes operating and transportation budgets

OPERATING BUDGET

The final supplemental operating budget appropriates $72 billion (NGF-O), a $2.2 billion increase over current 2023-25 spending. While the budget pays for many important core services, it once again contains no meaningful tax relief for working families. The state has a moral imperative to provide tax relief.

The budget also fails to provide resources to address some of our state’s most serious problems, such as the fentanyl epidemic.

 

TRANSPORTATION BUDGET

This year’s supplemental transportation budget was a thoughtful, bipartisan spending plan that focuses on key statewide priorities. It adds $1.1 billion to the $13.5 billion allocated last year, prioritizing maintenance and preservation.

 

Other spending highlights include:

  • $600 million federal grant funding for the I-5 Interstate replacement bridge;
  • $5.9 million for training and arming a third Washington State Trooper class;
  • $2 million additional funding for clean-up of encampments on highway right-of-ways, which makes a total of $13.5 million for the biennium; and
  • $1 million to implement House Bill 1989 for graffiti

Attacks on energy affordability

A pair of bills that will make energy more expensive in Washington were signed into law.

House Bill 1589 allows Puget Sound Energy to end natural gas services for its customers.

While this will directly affect our neighbors to the west, it represents a concerning trend toward eliminating an important fuel source that people use to cook their food and stay warm in the winter. Access to affordable, reliable energy is critical for our economic growth and prosperity. Shutting down natural gas will make Washington vulnerable to energy shortages and rationing, similar to what we see in California.

Senate Bill 6058 amends the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) to allow Washington to link its carbon markets with California and Quebec. We’ve already seen the economic impact of the state’s carbon tax: it has increased the cost of regular gasoline by about 50 cents per gallon. This latest change will only make the problem worse. California has higher fuel prices, higher housing costs, and higher electricity costs than Washington. Entering into binding agreements with them, with few protections for Washington consumers, is a recipe for disaster.

GUN BILLS: ATTACKS ON YOUR SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS DO NOT ADDRESS ROOT PROBLEMS

Communities statewide are facing increased crime alongside diminishing law enforcement resources. Citizens are increasingly relying on their Second Amendment rights for protection.

Unfortunately, this session saw the majority party pass three bills further eroding these rights. House Bill 1903 requires lawful gun owners to report the loss or theft of their firearm within 24 hours of discovering its disappearance or face a $1,000 fine, Senate Bill 5444 tightens carry restrictions, and

House Bill 2118 imposes burdensome regulations on firearm businesses, which could lead to many business closures.

Worse yet, while penalizing law-abiding citizens, the majority party introduced bills seeking to reduce criminal penalties, neglecting the root causes of crime. With rising crime and limited law enforcement, firearms serve as essential tools for self-defense and family safety. Until we address the underlying issues fueling

Citizen Initiatives

During the 2024 session, Washingtonians brought six initiatives before the Legislature, all aimed at tackling important issues. We are happy to report that the people of Washington scored a big win with approval of three of these initiatives, which are:

  • I-2113 restores police officer’s ability to pursue suspected criminals, a crucial win for public safety amidst rising crime rates following restrictive law enforcement measures approved in 2021. This initiative equips law enforcement with essential tools to safeguard our neighborhoods, marking a positive step forward.
  • I-2081, known as the “Parents’ Bill of Rights,” reaffirms parents as primary stakeholders in their children’s upbringing. This initiative emphasizes transparency in government practices regarding children, promotes stable and healthy family dynamics and respects established legal principles.
  • I-2111 solidifies Washington’s long-standing prohibition on state and local personal income taxes. By upholding this tradition, the initiative aligns with our state’s cultural values and supports economic growth by protecting tax policies conducive to attracting businesses. Under Washington state statute, when a voter initiative is approved by the Legislature, it is enacted without the governor’s signature.

The remaining three initiatives will be on the ballot in November:

  • I-2117: Repealing the carbon tax.
  • I-2124: Opting out of the state long-term care program/payroll tax.
  • I-2109: Repealing the capital gains tax.

Read more about the initiatives here.

6 Boehnke bills signed into law

OLYMPIA… In a remarkable feat of legislative prowess, Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, saw six of his bills signed into law by Governor Inslee in March. This achievement, the highest number of bills he’s successfully passed since his tenure in the legislature began in 2019, is a testament to his dedication and effectiveness in governance. Of the 28 bills he introduced or carried over from the 2023 session, he deems these six a solid start for 2024, underscoring his commitment to effective governance.

“With each of the six bills now becoming law, I am reminded of the responsibility and trust bestowed upon me by the people of our great state,” Boehnke said. “This milestone transcends legislative success; it’s a testament to the collective efforts of my colleagues, staff, and the community, whose unwavering support and collaboration have been pivotal.”

In mid-March, Inslee signed three of Boehnke’s bills. ESB 6296 creates a retail workforce by creating a retail industry workgroup to identify and recommend four colleges to pilot micro-term and short-term credentials for the retail workforce.

SB 6079 makes juvenile detention records available to managed care organizations and behavioral health administrative services organizations for care coordination activities. SB 6080 simplifies the funding provisions of the statewide tourism marketing account by removing the requirement that deposits to the account may only occur if the Legislature authorizes them.

“I extend gratitude to everyone involved in this team effort. This is a clear sign of our shared commitment to making a significant difference and improving the lives of our constituents,” Boehnke said. “Each bill, from enhancing our retail workforce to improving juvenile care coordination and simplifying tourism funding, is a step forward in making our state a better place for all its residents.”

Over the final three days of March, Inslee signed his last three bills, culminating in a successful session for the first-term Senator. ESSB 5891 protects the safety and security of students and maintains order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense. E2SSB 6068 expands the ability of courts to work with the DOC to collect and report more data about foster kids’ adoption and reunification rates. Boehnke’s last bill, 2SSB 5660, directs the Washington State Health Care Authority to convene a workgroup to create recommendations for effectively implementing mental health advance directives. These directives declare a person’s preferences regarding behavioral health treatment in the event they are incapacitated due to their behavioral health disorder.

“I am deeply grateful for the collaboration and support that led to the success of these initiatives. These laws are not just legislative victories; they reflect our shared values and dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of Washingtonians,” Boehnke said. “I extend my heartfelt Thanks to everyone involved in bringing these important pieces of legislation to fruition. Your support and collaboration have been invaluable.”

Jason D’Aquila and Sen. Matt Boehnke

D’Aquila serves as page for Sen. Matt Boehnke

OLYMPIA… Jason D’Aquila, a 9th-grader at South Ridge High School, recently spent a week working as a page for the Washington State Senate at the Capitol in Olympia. D’Aquila was one of 32 students who served in the Senate during the Ninth week of the 2024 legislative session.

He was sponsored by 8th Legislative District Sen. Matt Boehnke, who represents Kennewick, Richland, and Benton counties.

“Jason did a fantastic job paging this week and I am so happy I was able to be a part of such a special experience,” said Boehnke. “I’m so appreciative of all the hard work and learning Jason was a part of this week here in Olympia,” said Boehnke

The Senate Page Program is an opportunity for Washington students to spend a week working in the Legislature. Students are responsible for transporting documents between offices, as well as delivering 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 mock committee.

“This experience wasn’t what I expected, but I am so glad I decided to become a page because of how amazing the opportunity was for me,” said D’Aquila. He also stated that his favorite part of this experience was the chance to be on the Senate floor and have first-hand experiences.

D’Aquila, 15, enjoys reading, studying politics and history, playing video games, and spending time with his dog. Jason is the son of Jessica and John D’Aquila.

Students interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit http://leg.wa.gov/Senate/Administration/PageProgram/ to learn more.

Senator Matt Boehnke speaks with Senator Linda Wilson on the Senate floor.

5 Boehnke bills pass legislature

OLYMPIA… Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke has been very active in representing the 8th district this legislative session, with 28 bills introduced or retained from the 2023 legislative session. As the 2024 session ended today, Boehnke had five bills pass the House last week, all unanimously, and concurred by the Senate this week. All five bills are now headed to Governor Inslee for signature.

SB 5891 and SB 6296 were unanimously passed by the House February 27 and concurred with the Senate on Monday. SB 5891 protects the safety and security of students and maintains order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense. SB 6296 supports the retail workforce by creating a retail industry workgroup to identify and recommend four colleges to pilot micro- and short-term credentials for the retail workforce.

“Today, we celebrate not just the passing of SB 5891 and SB 6296, but the spirit of progress and protection they embody. These bills reflect our collective resolve to safeguard our students’ well-being and to fortify the foundation of our retail industry through education and opportunity,” Boehnke said. “Together, they symbolize our commitment to building a future that honors the safety, dignity, and potential of every member of our community.”

SB 6079 was unanimously passed by the House February 28 and delivered to the Governor on Thursday for signature. SB 6079 will make juvenile detention records available to managed care organizations and behavioral health administrative services organizations for care coordination activities.

The fourth bill to pass the House was SB 5660, which Boehnke introduced during the 2023 legislative session.  The bill failed to advance but, by resolution, was reintroduced in its present status during this year’s legislative session. The bill was unanimously passed by the House February 29 and then the Senate on Monday.

SB 5660 directs the Washington State Health Care Authority to convene a workgroup to create recommendations for effectively implementing mental health advance directives. This document declares a person’s preferences regarding their behavioral health treatment in the event they are incapacitated due to their behavioral health disorder.

“The unanimous House approval of both SB 6079 and SB 5660 sends a clear message: our community’s health and well-being are paramount,” Sen. Boehnke said. “These bills, now awaiting the Governor’s signature, are more than legislation; they are beacons of hope for a future where care coordination and mental health support are not just ideals, but realities.”

Boehnke’s last bill, SB 6068, expands the ability of courts to work with the DOC to collect and report more data about foster kids’ adoption and reunification rates A report will be due to the legislature by July 1, 2025. The bill passed the House March 1, the final cutoff for bills to pass out of the opposite house and was concurred in the Senate on Monday.

“In a world where mental health often takes a backseat, SB 5660 shines as a beacon of progress, ensuring that individuals have a say in their treatment through mental health advance directives,” Sen. Boehnke said. “These bills mark a significant milestone in our journey towards a more empathetic and effective approach to health and welfare. I want to thank all the members who helped work these policies, our great committee and budget staffs and the local community passionate people who took the time and effort to share these ideas, to fight for solutions to these issues impacting our state.”

3 initiatives pass the legislature

OLYMPIA… Yesterday, the Washington State legislature passed three initiatives, the most ever enacted by the legislature. Initiatives 2111, 2113, and 2081 all represent a comprehensive approach to enhancing the quality of life in Washington State. From protecting economic interests without imposing income taxes to ensuring communities are safe through effective law enforcement and supporting parents’ rights in their children’s education. Initiatives passed by the legislature do not require the governor’s signature and will become law 90 days after the session’s close.

Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, is proud of his Republican colleagues and appreciates the party’s strong support on all three initiatives.

“These measures collectively embody the principles of freedom, safety, and family values that Washingtonians hold dear,” Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, said.

I-2111 bans the adoption of personal income and bans any further efforts to pass a state income tax. The bill passed by a vote of 38-11, with all 20 Senate Republicans and 18 Democrats voting yes.

“By prohibiting the imposition of personal income taxes at both state and local levels, Initiative 2111 safeguards the financial freedom of Washingtonians, ensuring that our hard-earned money remains in our pockets,” Sen. Boehnke said. “This measure is a critical step towards maintaining the state’s competitive edge and upholding a century-long tradition of fiscal responsibility.”

I-2113 passed the Senate 36-13 restores the reasonable suspicion standard for police pursuits and takes stronger steps to protect our communities and lower the crime rate.

“Initiative 2113 is essential for restoring the ability of our law enforcement to effectively protect our communities. By removing undue restrictions on police pursuits, this measure ensures that officers have the necessary tools to apprehend suspects who threaten public safety, thereby enhancing the security and well-being of all Washingtonians,” Sen. Boehnke said.”

The third initiative, I-2081, which passed the Senate unanimously, restores parental rights that currently exist in law.

“Initiative 2081 empowers parents in Washington State by affirming their right to be fully involved in their children’s education. This Parents’ Bill of Rights is a testament to our belief in the importance of family engagement and transparency within our schools, ensuring that parents have a voice in the educational materials and policies that shape their children’s futures,” Sen. Boehnke said.

LISTEN TO THE AUDIO HERE

Coates serves as page for Sen. Matt Boehnke

Ethan Coates and Sen. Matt Boehnke

 OLYMPIA… Ethan Coates, an 8th grader at Bethlehem Lutheran from Cashmere, recently spent a week working as a page for the Washington State Senate at the Capitol in Olympia. Coates was one of 32 students who served in the Senate during the seventh week of the 2024 legislative session.

He was sponsored by 8th Legislative District Sen. Matt Boehnke, who represents Kennewick, Richland, and Benton counties.

“It was such an honor to have Ethan as a page this week,” said Boehnke. “He did an outstanding job, and I was thrilled that he chose to be a part of this opportunity and learn more about the process,” said Boehnke.

The Senate Page Program is an opportunity for Washington students to spend a week working in the Legislature. Students are responsible for transporting documents between offices, as well as delivering 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 mock committee.

“I wanted to become a page because I love the history and learning that comes with the experience,” said Coates. He also stated his favorite part was being on the Senate Floor and getting the opportunity to see aspects of government he wouldn’t normally get to see.

Coates, 14, enjoys playing competitive chess and recently competed in states. He also enjoys reading and learning about history as well as playing golf in his free time. Ethan is the son of Donald and Jennifer Coates of Cashmere.

Students interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit the program’s webpage.