State legislator calls for renewed spirit of cooperation

Rep. Liias urges an end to partisan bickering while state’s citizens struggle

March 11, 2009

Rep. Marko Liias (D-Mukilteo) has called for an end to “partisan bickering” while the state faces unprecedented economic challenges, including a major state budget shortfall.

Earlier Wednesday, Liias and other state legislators were greeted by the sight of a placard on display outside the House Republican caucus room calling Democrats “Job Killers.”

“Since our first day of session, we have worked hard to create a spirit of cooperation to solve the state’s challenges,” Liias said. “Every day, our citizens face job losses and economic distress. They expect us show leadership, not pettiness.”

The House passed several bills Wednesday with bipartisan support to create new jobs and protect workers threatened with layoffs.

“Whether you look at the transportation stimulus bill, which will create 3,500 jobs throughout the state, or our bill to boost unemployment benefits and retraining opportunities, we have worked across the aisle to take care of the families caught in this crisis,” Liias said.

The Legislature passed ESHB 1978 in February appropriating $341 million in federal recovery funds for transportation projects. The bill passed 67-28, with support from Republicans and Democrats.

Earlier in February, the House and Senate passed ESHB 1906 which raises minimum weekly benefits for unemployed workers. The bill passed with near unanimous support out of the House, 90-2.

“Nobody comes to the House chamber in order to kill jobs,” Liias said. “At the same time, labels and placards that create division don’t create one single job. We need to stay on a bipartisan path as we lead the way out of this crisis.”