Standing up for our values during the 2017 Legislative Session
On Monday, I was sworn in to serve the constituents of the 36th district for my first full term. It has been an honor to serve as an appointed Representative this last year, and I’m so honored to have been elected for another two years. I know that there are many challenges facing the Legislature this session, and I look forward to the opportunities these challenges present to make positive changes for friends and neighbors in our district and around the state.
The time has come for the Legislature to make the hard decisions necessary to fully fund basic education as required by the state Constitution – decisions that have been put off for nearly 40 years. But that is not the only issue we need to focus on this year; we also need to continue looking out for all people in Washington state.
As Speaker of the House Frank Chopp said during his opening remarks on Monday, “Our constitutional duty is to fund our students who are learning. Our moral imperative is to care for our people who are suffering.” We cannot fully fund our schools while balancing the budget on the back of poor and working people. We must include new progressive forms of revenue in our budget to ensure we can continue critical programs for our communities.
The task in front of the Legislature is not an easy one, but I am here and ready to stand up for our children, our families, and our neighbors in urban and rural areas, and make sure that our shared values as Washingtonians are upheld.
Will 2017 (finally) be the year for Paid Family and Medical Leave?
Answer: I sure hope so! I’m honored to join as a co-sponsor of the Paid Family and Medical Leave bill introduced by Sen. Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines) and Rep. June Robinson (D-Everett) on the second day of session. This bill allows workers to take time off in the face of a serious illness or to care for a new baby.
Under the bills (SB 5032 & HB 1116), employees would be able to use extended paid leave for the birth of a child, a personal health emergency, or to take care of an ill family member. It’s a comprehensive, practical and affordable plan for both workers and businesses that will promote stronger families and a secure middle class.
Get more details here.
Great opportunity for young people to see their government in action
With the Legislature in session, it’s page season once again. Our page program offers 14-, 15- and 16-year-olds from across the state to have a hands-on experience in government. And they get paid too!
If you know a young person who is interested in this opportunity, click here to learn more and to download an application. Don’t delay – spots fill up quickly! I have up to four slots for pages this year but it’s a “use them or lose them” system. Encourage young people in your life to get their applications in ASAP!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office with concerns or suggestions you may have to make Washington an even better place to live. Your input is crucial and valued.
Thank you for your engagement,
Noel