Standing up for our shared values during the 2017 Legislative Session
Last Monday, I was sworn in to serve the constituents of the 45th district for my 6th term. 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. 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.”
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?
To get the ball rolling early, Sen. Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines) and Rep. June Robinson (D-Everett) introduced bills on the second day of session allowing workers to take time off in the face of a serious illness or to care for a new baby. As a strong supporter of working families, I’ve signed on as cosponsor of my colleague, Rep. Robinson’s bill.
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.
As always, I welcome your comments and ideas. Don’t hesitate to contact me or schedule a visit to come down to Olympia. Please contact my office to make an appointment or for information on visiting the Capitol.
Best wishes,
Roger Goodman
Representative, 45th District
Washington State Legislature