Author Archives: ericlafontaine

Boehnke bills move toward votes in House

OLYMPIA… With less than two weeks to go before lawmakers adjourn for the year, four bills proposed by Sen. Matt Boehnke remain on track to become law.

Three of the bills line up with Boehnke’s agenda for the 2024 legislative session: make Washington safer and more affordable, and build a better future for the state’s children.

Senate Bill 6079 would make juvenile-detention records available to managed-health care organizations and behavioral-health administrative services organizations for care-coordination activities. The bipartisan bill was endorsed by the House Committee on Human Services, Youth and Early Learning on Tuesday, ahead of the deadline for policy bills to move forward. The bill has been referred to the House Rules Committee for review.

The second of Boehnke’s bills to win committee approval in the House of Representatives this week is Senate Bill 5891, intended to maintain order within school buses by designating trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense.

“There was a time when no one would have seen a need for this bill, but the times change, for better or worse,” Boehnke said. “One thing that hasn’t changed is how every day, school bus drivers take on the responsibility of transporting our future generations. This bill can help with that, and it needs to become law.”

The bipartisan bill, SB 5891 was passed by the Senate on February 9. A revised version cleared the House Committee on Community Safety, Justice and Reentry on Tuesday and has been referred to the House Rules Committee for review.

AUDIO: Boehnke school bus trespass bill continues to move forward in state Legislature | LISTEN HERE

A third bill, 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. It was passed out of the House Committee on Postsecondary Education and Workforce on Wednesday and referred to the House Rules Committee.

“Senate Bill 6296 is a testament to Washington’s commitment to creating a sustainable and dynamic workforce. By fostering career pathways, we’re supporting individual growth and fortifying the backbone of our state’s economy,” Boehnke said.

A fourth 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 was passed to the House and passed out of the House Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary on Wednesday. A House Committee on Appropriations public hearing is scheduled for February 23, followed by an executive session on February 26.

“The unanimous support for SB 6068 in the Senate underscores our bipartisan commitment to improving the lives of dependent children in Washington. This bill equips us with the necessary tools to assess our dependency system’s effectiveness and make adjustments that prioritize the relational permanency and overall well-being of every child in our care,” Boehnke said.

Boehnke to speak at WEDA conference

OLYMPIA… Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, will be a featured panelist at the Washington Economic Development Association’s 2024 Winter Conference this February 28-29. The conference, “ADAPT & IMPACT: Economic Development in a Rapidly Transforming World,” will be held in the Norman Worthington Conference Center at Saint Martin’s University, located at 5300 Pacific Ave SE in Lacey, Wash.

The conference runs from noon to 9:30 p.m. on February 28 and 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on February 29. Following the conference, a Legislative Reception will be held at the Governor’s Mansion from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“True economic development is about evolving our communities into spaces where opportunity is not just present, but abundant, where every individual has the chance to thrive and contribute to the collective prosperity of our state,” Sen. Boehnke said.

Sen. Boehnke will share his insights as the state responds to the rapidly transforming world, including opportunities and challenges as Artificial Intelligence is leveraged in nearly every economic sector and workplace. The conference will also discuss transforming commercial and office-centered real estate into new uses, such as workforce housing.

He will speak during the Legislative Economic Development Leaders panel on February 29, between 12:15 and 12:55 p.m., for 10 to 12 minutes, including Q&A.

“Innovation is the lifeblood of economic progress. As we stand on the brink of technological revolutions, it is our responsibility to harness these innovations to fuel economic growth and equitable development for all,” Sen. Boehnke said. “Education is the cornerstone of sustainable economic development. By investing in the minds of our people, we are laying down the foundation for a future that is resilient, adaptable, and forward-thinking.”

The conference expects over 225 attendees representing economic development, ports, local government, tribal, business, education, workforce, and community leaders from rural and urban communities throughout Washington.

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Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, represents the 8th Legislative District, which includes Benton and Franklin Counties.

Boehnke secures $300,000 in capital budget

OLYMPIA… Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, has helped secure $300,000 in the state capital budget for the 8th legislative district, which includes Benton and Franklin Counties.

Sen. Boehnke’s capital budget requests were $240,000 from the 2025 local and community projects funding for the Port of Benton Inland that will help support the future state Port Electrification program to support zero emissions equipment and conversion of rail engine to electric. Another $60,000 was approved from the same project funding for an Emergency Communications Radio Microwave, which will help support the replacement and updating of equipment used by Benton and Franklin Co. first responders.

“Investing in the Emergency Communications Radio Microwave system for the Port of Benton is an essential step towards ensuring the safety and security of our community. This funding will enable us to establish a robust communication infrastructure, enhancing our ability to respond effectively to emergencies and protect the well-being of our citizens,” Sen. Boehnke said. “The Port of Benton’s request for funding for the Emergency Communications Radio Microwave system is a proactive investment in our community’s resilience. By supporting this initiative, we demonstrate our commitment to preparedness and rapid response, ultimately safeguarding lives and critical infrastructure during crises.”

“Allocating the funds for the Emergency Communications Radio Microwave system at the Port of Benton is a strategic decision that aligns with our vision for a safer and more secure community. This investment will bolster our emergency communication capabilities, enabling seamless coordination among first responders and agencies, and reinforcing our ability to mitigate risks and protect our residents,” Sen. Boehnke said.

The Senate’s supplemental capital budget plan, Senate Bill 5949, funds the construction and maintenance of state buildings, public-school matching grants, higher-education facilities, public lands, parks, and other assets.

“I  commend our  leadership. Senators Schoesler, Rivers, Warnick,  Mullet. and Robinson got it done and both sides worked really well together,” Sen. Boehnke said.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee approved the Senate supplemental capital budget this afternoon. The full Senate will vote on the spending plan later this week.

The House Capital Budget Committee held a public hearing on the House’s proposed supplemental capital budget on Feb. 23.

 

Property-tax increase bill dies, Boehnke praises Republican leaders

On Feb. 8, 2024, members of the Republican caucus, homeowners, and small business owners held a press conference to inform the public about Senate Bill 5770, a bill that would have significantly raised property taxes.

One day later, on Feb. 9, it was announced that Democrats have ditched the bill repealing a voter-backed cap on property tax hikes.

“This is a huge victory for Washington, homeowners, business owners, and even renters,” State Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, said. “This was one of the most dangerous bills this session. And now it is dead.”

Washington is currently ranked fifth worst in the country for housing affordability and seventh worst for rent. The potential passage of SB 5770 would only exasperate the housing crisis, making all forms of housing more unaffordable.

“Today, we celebrate the preservation of the voter-backed cap on property tax hikes. It’s a victory for democracy and every resident who values fair taxation and affordable housing. This bill’s failure is a testament to what we can achieve when we prioritize the financial well-being of our citizens over tax increases that disproportionately impact them,” Boehnke said. “The shelving of SB 5770 is a clear message that we stand against rising taxes that threaten to drown our homeowners and local businesses.”

“SB 5770’s potential impact on housing affordability would have been devastating. Its defeat ensures that Washington remains a place where people can afford to live, work, and thrive. Tax increases are a burden on our citizens and a deterrent to economic growth. We must protect our community from policies taking more from their pockets,” Boehnke said. “We must remain vigilant against any legislation that seeks to undermine the financial stability of our residents by imposing unnecessary tax hikes.”

SB 5770 is sponsored by Senate Majority Floor Leader Jamie Pedersen, D-Seattle, and cosponsored by 18 members of the Senate Democratic Caucus. The measure cleared the Senate Ways and Means Committee on Feb. 5 on a Democrats-only vote, was then placed on second reading in the Rules Committee on Feb. 7, and will not advance this legislative session.

Charting a Sustainable Energy Future

As Washington stands at a pivotal moment in shaping its energy future, it becomes increasingly clear that adopting sensible, forward-thinking solutions is crucial for a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound power grid.

It’s time for our state to embrace energy policies that genuinely prioritize the well-being of its residents. The Power Washington plan, a comprehensive strategy I advocate for, is designed to confront and resolve critical issues within our energy landscape. The plan is led by Sen. Curtis King of Yakima, who is a Republican leader on both the Senate commerce and transportation committees.

This ambitious plan allows our state to build on our accomplishments. It sets seven major goals, each meticulously crafted to serve the best interests of all Washingtonians. It’s a pragmatic, equitable roadmap from promoting alternative energy vehicles to bolstering our clean hydropower systems. Importantly, Power Washington aims to keep energy costs manageable, ensuring that our homes and businesses remain secure and that the burden of high fuel prices is alleviated.

In this discourse, I will highlight three pivotal goals of this plan and the critical aspect of cybersecurity.

Addressing the burden of high fuel prices is our primary challenge. The Climate Commitment Act, colloquially termed “cap-and-tax,” has notably escalated gas prices via a complex carbon allowance auction system. In response, I endorse Initiative 2117, which seeks the repeal of cap-and-tax. This legislation has inflated gas prices in Washington by approximately 50 cents per gallon, heavily impacting our working families. It’s essential that I-2117 gain momentum in this legislative session, echoing the clear demands of our citizens for its repeal.

Next, we must focus on transitioning to clean, innovative energy technologies. This involves responsible growth strategies, such as reinstating local review processes for solar- and wind-farm projects and introducing recycling protocols for wind-turbine blades and solar panels. Understanding and addressing the disposal and recycling of vehicle batteries is also crucial. We must actively explore and implement solutions in this area.

Furthermore, reinforcing our electric grid is paramount. We aim to provide affordable and reliable power while moving towards zero carbon emissions in electricity production. Embracing a diversity of fuel sources that adhere to strict emission standards is key. Local solutions, such as hydropower in irrigation canals and promoting advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors, are central to this endeavor. As a proponent of advanced nuclear technologies, Washington should actively support and incentivize the manufacturing and development of nuclear power, particularly SMRs, for a cleaner, more efficient energy future.

The Power Washington plan significantly strides toward our state’s rational, sustainable energy future. By tackling high fuel costs, embracing clean-energy technologies, and fortifying our electric grid, we pave the way for an environmentally responsible and resilient energy landscape for future generations.

However, another critical issue arising from past energy policies is the diminishing competitiveness of Washington’s manufacturing sector, leading to the exodus of high-paying jobs. Investing in workforce development is imperative to bolster our energy sector. This involves a holistic approach to education and training in areas like apprenticeship programs, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, nuclear technology, and clean-energy systems. Aligning state policies such as 2021’s Building Economic Strength Through Manufacturing (BEST) Act with educational initiatives and industry growth empowers our workforce to meet future challenges and opportunities.

Reflecting on the past year, Washington’s energy policy milestones have established a solid foundation for progress. Concentrating on grid reliability and nuclear innovation positions us to effectively meet our environmental, economic, and energy security objectives. Building upon these enacted policies, Washington is poised to advance towards a sustainable, dependable, and innovative energy future, benefiting current and future residents.

As the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 5518, signed by Governor Inslee in April 2023, I have contributed to enhancing our state’s cybersecurity framework. This legislation integrates cybersecurity into our emergency management processes, akin to our approach to floods, fires, and other state emergencies. A robust, secure grid is vital; it is foundational in successfully integrating renewable energy sources and maintaining a steady power supply for our growing population.

— Sen. Matt Boehnke represents the 8th Legislative District and is a member of the Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee, Chair of the Washington State Joint Committee on Energy Supply, Energy Conservation, and Energy Resilience, and Co-Chair of the National Conference of State Legislatures Nuclear Working Group.

Link to the Cheney Free Press.

8th District lawmakers to host virtual town hall Feb. 17

– In a combined effort to support open communication and more community engagement, three 8th District lawmakers are hosting a virtual town hall on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m.

Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke (R), State Representative Stephanie Barnard (R), and State Rep. April Connors (R), all three representing the 8th Legislative District, invite the public to attend the virtual event. Virtual Town Halls are a great way for local residents in the Tri-Cities area to connect and engage with their state lawmakers.

“During session, we normally don’t have the opportunity to engage with our constituents. This type of event allows us to hear directly from local voices on the things that matter most,” Boehnke said. “Since we’re not able to make it back to our district very often during session, it’s great to connect with local constituents in their own space. I’m a big fan of these types of events.”

The 2024 legislative session began on Jan. 8 and concludes on March 7. This year’s 60-day short session focuses on a supplemental budget, which makes adjustments and additions to the previously adopted two-year budget.

“Virtual town halls are a game-changer, breaking down barriers and bringing us closer to the heartbeat of our communities,” Barnard said. “Connecting in your space means we can zero in on what matters most to you. I’m genuinely thrilled about the impact of these events and can’t wait to connect with the people we represent in Olympia.”

During the one-hour virtual event, the lawmakers will listen to your comments, answer your questions, and discuss issues related to the 2024 session.

“I am encouraging folks in the Tri-Cities to attend the upcoming virtual town hall meeting for the mighty 8th District,” Connors said. “While we’re here in Olympia for the legislative session, this will be a great opportunity to give us direct feedback about the issues you care about. I hope to see a strong turnout.”

To register for the virtual town hall event, please visit http://tinyurl.com/8thDistrictVTH or scan the QR code. Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar. If you have additional questions or want more information,  please email Matt.Boehnke@leg.wa.gov or call (360-786-7614).

Boehnke introduces SB 5957 addressing A.I.

Olympia, Wash. – In the rapidly advancing world of artificial intelligence (A.I.), distinguishing between what is genuinely original and what is the product of AI is becoming increasingly challenging. This scenario echoes the transformative early phase of the internet, where technological advancements necessitated legal evolution. Understanding this critical juncture, Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, is committed to ensuring that Washington State’s governance keeps pace with the advancements in A.I.

To address this pressing issue, Boehnke introduced Senate Bill 5957 on the opening day of the 2024 Washington State legislative session. This bill mandates the Office of Privacy and Data Protection to formulate comprehensive guidelines governing A.I. use. The legislation enjoys widespread bipartisan support, backed by Senators Dhingra, Dozier, Hasegawa, Lilas, Short, and Warnick.

“As A.I. reshapes our world, it’s imperative that our laws evolve at the same pace to ensure responsible use of this transformative technology. Senate Bill 5957 represents a crucial step towards achieving that goal,” Boehnke said. “In the era of A.I., safeguarding personal information while promoting ethical use of technology is not just an option. It’s a necessity. This bill is a testament to our commitment to these values.”

Senate Bill 5957 proposes amendments to RCW 43.105.020 by adding a precise definition of A.I. Additionally, it aims to revise RCW 43.105.369 by introducing guidelines for A.I. utilization. These changes are crucial to guarantee the ethical, transparent, accountable, and responsible deployment of AI technologies, emphasizing the enhancement of the security of personal information.

“Through SB 5957, we’re defining A.I. and setting a standard for its ethical application. It’s about striking a balance between technological advancement and personal privacy,” Boehnke said. “The introduction of SB 5957 marks a pivotal moment in legislative history – adapting our legal framework to address the rapid evolution of AI, ensuring it serves the people ethically and responsibly.”

The bill was introduced on Jan. 8 and referred to the Environment, Energy and Technology Committee, where Sen. Nguyen, D-White Center, is chair. Boehnke is joined by leading Republican Sen. Drew MacEwen, R-Union, and Sen. Shelly Short, R-Addy.