Tag Archives: Boehnke

Two of Boehnke’s higher-ed bills move forward from committee

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

OLYMPIA… Legislation from Sen. Matt Boehnke aimed at improving access to education was endorsed today by the state Senate’s higher-education committee.

Committee members, who include Boehnke, supported two of his bills. One is Senate Bill 5542, to accommodate more enrollment in high-school completion programs at community and technical colleges; the second is Senate Bill 5543, which would expand eligibility for College Bound scholarships.

“While we need to be thoughtful from a budget standpoint about how and when the eligibility for financial assistance is expanded, I am also interested in removing barriers to education,” said Boehnke, R-Kennewick. “By offering a new level of fairness and equity, these bills would also offer new opportunities to prospective students across our state, particularly in the 8th District.”

Both of Boehnke’s measures have bipartisan sponsorship and were introduced in cooperation with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. Their next stop is the Senate Ways and Means and Rules Committees, both of which Boehnke also serves.

SB 5543 would add those who receive a high-school equivalency certificate to the eligibility list for College Bound scholarships.

“Not every student learns the same way and a lot of kids find success in different types of learning environments. Smaller classes, a more fluid learning pace, and online access work really well for some students,” Boehnke explained. “This bill gives these kids better access to more scholarships to continue their learning journey.”

SB 5542 would eliminate the requirement that a student be 19 years of age or older to be eligible for a High School Completion Program tuition and fee waiver.

Boehnke has two other bills before the higher-ed committee. SB 5618 would create more transparency by requiring colleges and universities to post admissions information and data.

Senate Bill 5619 would establish minimum enrollment thresholds for in-state students so that Washington residents face less competition from out-of-state applicants for enrollment slots at the state’s public universities. The bill would require state and regional colleges and universities to have Washington residents comprise 75% of their fall first-year student enrollment.

“I’d like to encourage constituents to reach out the committee chairs and voice their support for these bills,” Boehnke said.

June Robinson is the chair of the Senate Ways & Means Committee and can be reached at (360) 786=7674 or email at June.Robinson@leg.wa.gov. Lt. Governor Denny Heck is the chair of the Senate Rules Committee and can be reached at (360) 786-7000 or email at ltgov@ltgov.wa.gov.

The Senate’s policy committees, including the higher-education committee, have a Feb. 21 deadline for taking action on bills; only legislation related to the budget may remain under consideration through the April 27 end of the session.

Boehnke files measure to protect lower Snake River dams

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

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, has filed legislation encouraging federal lawmakers to protect the four lower Snake River dams from removal.

Senate Joint Memorial 8010 formally requests approval of the Northwest Energy Security Act, introduced late last month by U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse and an Idaho senator. That act is about safeguarding the hydroelectric power, irrigation networks and economic stability the dams provide.

“The dams are essential to Washington’s energy security, transportation networks and agriculture,” Boehnke said. “New leadership across the federal government makes this an ideal time to take a more proactive response to those who have been blaming the dams for harming salmon when good science says otherwise.”

Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose and Lower Granite dams lie between Clarkston and Pasco. They supply reliable and carbon-free electricity that serves thousands of homes, businesses and industries. It is estimated that 750,000 homes rely on the power generated by the four lower dams.

The former Biden administration supported dismantling the dams, which would be the largest dam removal project in U.S. history.

“My legislation highlights the efficiency of our hydroelectric dams, which provide low-cost electricity essential to meeting the goals set forth by Washington’s Clean Energy Transformation Act. They also enable agricultural irrigation across the region, create a river-based economy and support regional fish-conservation efforts,” Boehnke added.

“Breaching the lower Snake River dams could add 3 million metric tons of carbon to the atmosphere if fossil-fuel electricity is the replacement. It could also raise the region’s electricity costs by $800 million, including a 50% jump in the Bonneville Power Administration’s power costs. This is not a viable solution to supporting all of the increased electricity needs in the future as required by the Climate Commitment Act. This could increase energy costs in our homes by 25%.”

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

LISTEN

Boehnke legislation attracts strong bipartisan interest

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

OLYMPIA… Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, came into the 2025 legislative session to find common ground with the Senate majority – and it’s working.

Two full weeks into this year’s session, 14 of the 17 bills filed by Boehnke, the ranking Republican on the Senate Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee, have attracted co-sponsorship from across the political aisle.

Boehnke’s bills cover topics ranging from increasing election security, SB 5014, and increasing efficiencies when siting energy projects to strengthening Washington’s leadership and accountability on climate policy and emissions data and modifying motor-vehicle emissions standards, SB 5091.

“The Tri-Cities region is poised to lead Washington’s clean-energy revolution. By streamlining energy-project siting and embracing advanced nuclear and hydrogen technologies, we’re creating jobs while securing our energy future,” he said, referring to SB 5015.

Other bipartisan Boehnke bills would provide tax exemptions for qualifying farm equipment, SB 5092; modify cost-of-living adjustments for older, retired public employees, SB 5113; improve the process for payouts of retirement benefits when a retiree or beneficiary dies, and create prohibitions on the purchase of small, unmanned aircraft manufactured or assembled by certain foreign entities (SB 5302).

Boehnke is also a co-sponsor on several majority-party bills, including SB 5329, which is about better regulating the installation of smoke-detection devices; SB 5338, which would create a veteran’s affairs advisory committee; SB 5400, aimed at supporting local news journalism; SB 5401, which concerns wholesale power purchases by electric utilities under the Washington Clean Energy Transformation Act; and SB 5430, which deals with approvals of electric-utility wildfire-mitigation plans.

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

Legislative Latte Rescheduled – Update

We have rescheduled the Legislative Latte for Friday, Jan. 3, 2025, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Tri City Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Center.

Last Friday night I was caught up in a five-car pileup on Manastash Ridge on I-82 heading home to Kennewick. Thankfully no one was seriously injured. However, the incident caused me to miss both of my Legislative Latte events Saturday morning, which was a disappointment to those that arrived for the meeting. It was difficult for me to not attend and I appreciate the kindness and understanding that was exhibited by the dozens of constituents that showed up for both events.

Please mark your calendar and plan to join me on Friday, Jan.3, 2025, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the the Tri City Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Center, located at 7130 W. Grandridge Blvd., Kennewick.

If you would like to RSVP for the event, please send me an email at matt.boehnke@leg.wa.gov or call my assistant Virginia Hall at (360) 786-7614.

LEGISLATIVE LATTE WITH SEN. BOEHNKE

Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce

Tri-City Business Center

Bechtel Board Room

7130 W Grandridge Blvd

Kennewick, WA 99336

Boehnke looks to improve rules for siting of power plants

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick

OLYMPIA… The state Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) held a special meeting on September 13 to approve the revised site certification agreement for the controversial Horse Heaven Wind Project.

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, believes the EFSEC’s process to approve the revised site certification agreement (SCA) did not properly account for local concerns and gave the governor too much decision-making power. To correct this, Boehnke plans to introduce a bill for the 2025 legislative session that improves the energy facility site evaluation process by removing the governor from the final stages of approval.

The EFSEC initially recommended project approval with mitigation measures for ferruginous hawk habitat, among other requirements. Gov. Jay Inslee rejected the original proposal and asked the council to reconsider mitigation measures allowing for a larger facility with more turbines. On Friday, the EFSEC sided with Inslee and approved the revised agreement.

“I’ve heard from many Tri-Citians who have concerns about disrupting the habitat of the endangered ferruginous hawk, impeding on lands held sacred by Native Americans, and altering the skyline and scenic beauty of the Horse Heaven area,” Boehnke said. “The EFSEC heard these concerns and agreed to a smaller-scale project and has now reversed course, based on the governor’s request. The concerns of the local community were not heard.”

Boehnke’s proposed legislation will be filed before the 2025 legislative session begins Jan. 13.

The revised SCA for the Horse Heaven Hills project now includes conditions for habitat improvements, changes to mitigation measures that address the impact to ferruginous hawks and creates more safety measures for aerial firefighters when wildland fires are active.

Still, local community members disagree about the effectiveness of the EFSEC’s revisions. And some issues, such as the project’s visual impact on the Tri-Cities community, remain unaddressed.

The amended SCA has been resubmitted to the governor, who will have 60 days to approve or reject the resubmission. If approved, the certification will become binding once the governor and the applicant execute it.

“The governor is a political official and should not be part of this process,” Boehnke said. “I believe the EFSEC is better positioned than the governor – any governor – to review proposed projects objectively. If the bill I will file becomes law, EFSEC would have the final say on project approval and mitigation measures. The governor would not.

“My bill will improve the process based on lessons learned from the Horse Heaven project. It’s prospective in its application and does not interfere with any specific project, including Horse Heaven.”

Information and documents regarding this project can be found at www.efsec.wa.gov/energy-facilities/horse-heaven-wind-project. The revised SCA submitted to the governor is available on the EFSEC website at www.efsec.wa.gov/energy-facilities/horse-heaven-wind-project/horse-heaven-recommendation-and-governors-decision.

BOEHNKE RADIO INTERVIEW

Visitors listen to guide Rick Bond as they stand before the front face of the plutonium reactor at the Hanford site on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022. The B Reactor was the first full-scale plutonium production reactor in the world. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Snyder/Crosscut)

NEWS | B-Reactor tours extended through October

I am pleased to share that Visit Tri-Cities has announced the Department of Energy (DOE) will be extending reservations for The Manhattan Project B-Reactor Tours through the end of October 2024. This extension grants visitors more time to explore this significant historical and scientific landmark.

The B-Reactor is a significant landmark in our nation’s history, and extending the tours allows us to share this legacy with a broader audience. This move underscores our commitment to preserving history and fostering an appreciation for scientific achievements.

According to Kevin Lewis, President and CEO of Visit Tri-Cities, there has been a surge in interest in destinations where history and science converge.

“We have one of the most compelling stories in that genre to tell,” Lewis said. “Our history and science messaging is currently yielding the highest return on advertising investment among all our marketing efforts. We are thrilled with the collaboration we’ve had with the DOE to extend this opportunity to visitors for the remainder of the 2024 season.”

Recent data underscores the growing appeal of history and science tourism in the Tri-Cities area:

– Visitors from 38 countries and 48 U.S. states toured the B-Reactor between March 29 and June 29, 2024.

– Advertising focused on history and science tourism generated over $1.7 million in direct revenue for local hotels, accounting for 12,848 room nights booked between March 20 and June 30, 2024.

– The region’s history and science marketing efforts yielded an impressive return on advertising spend of $135 for every $1 invested.

The B-Reactor tours not only bolster our local economy but also provide a unique educational experience for those interested in the intersection of history and scientific advancement.

For more information or to book a tour, visit https://manhattanprojectbreactor.hanford.gov/.

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.”

D’Aquila serves as page for Sen. Matt Boehnke

OLYMPIA… Jason D’Aquila, a 9^th-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.”

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.

“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.