WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Freshman state Rep. Riccelli sworn in, focused on bipartisan budget solutions

Rep. Marcus Riccelli (center)

The newest state representative from the 3rd Legislative District has been officially sworn in and is ready to get to work on finding bipartisan solutions to balancing the state budget.  Rep. Marcus Riccelli (D – Spokane) joins Rep. Timm Ormsby in the state House, replacing Andy Billig, who is now the district’s state senator.

“The three of us are committed to working together as a team to best serve our constituents,” Riccelli said. “Our focus is on balancing the state budget, funding our education system, and protecting the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Riccelli is also carrying a full committee load this session. He has been appointed to the House Capital Budget, Health Care and Wellness, Higher Education and Transportation committees.

“These committees will be considering issues that are particularly important to the greater Spokane region,” Riccelli said.  “Whether it’s continued funding for local programs that provide vital community services, or implementation of federal health care reform, there’s a lot on the agenda for the coming months.”

Within his caucus, Rep. Riccelli has also been named Assistant Whip.

The 3rd Legislative District represents the heart of Spokane, extending north to Francis and Five Mile Prairie, South to 14th and parts of 29th, East to Havana and West to the Spokane River.

The 2013 regular session is slated to run for 105 days, through April 28, 2013.