WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Sells’ 4/11/17 Update: Closer look at Budgets / Internet Privacy / Free Park Days

April 11, 2017

Investing in a Strong Economy

The House Democrats’ budget speaks to our values and focuses on building a Washington that works for everyone. Our proposal cleans up our upside down tax code and invests in the foundations of thriving communities. It provides for fully funded schools, affordable housing, high quality healthcare, and strong environmental protections. Click here for the rollout document, and here for the budget summary.

As you will recall from my March 27 e-newsletter, the Senate budget proposal does not reflect these priorities. But it’s important to see the stark differences side by side, so here is a table with a brief comparison of what is or is not included in both budgets.

I’ll be working hard with my colleagues to ensure we pass a budget that improves the quality of life for everyone in our state.

Internet Privacy Protections

Last month President Trump signed into law a bill that strips you of your ability to stop internet service providers (ISP) from selling your private browsing information.

This means if you’ve ever typed your Social Security into an online form, your ISP could collect it and sell it according to congressional experts.

internet privacy

I think that is wrong. The internet has become ubiquitous and it is increasingly difficult to conduct our lives without entering personal information on the internet. ISPs should not be allowed to sell your personal information without your permission.

That is why I am supporting HB 2200 to create new internet privacy protections enforceable under the Washington Consumer Protection Act, including:

  • Compelling transparency by making ISP privacy policies available to customers so they know what to expect.
  • Protecting privacy by prohibiting ISPs from selling or using private information (such as a person’s browsing history) without consent.
  • Requiring ISPs to report to customers when they have been hacked and personal data has been breached so customers can protect themselves. 

Consumers should have the option to keep their personal browser history private.

This is an important consumer protection measure that enjoys wide bipartisan support, and I look forward to seeing it land on the governor’s desk for his signature.

Get Outside and Play

Two of the 12 free days per year designated by Washington State Parks are in April: the 15th, Spring Day and the 22nd, Earth Day. On those days, visitors don’t need a Discover Pass to park.

parks

The Discover Pass, which costs $30 for an annual pass or $10 for a one-day permit, is required for vehicle access to state recreation lands managed by Washington State Parks, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources.

The free days apply only to day use and only for lands managed by Washington State Parks.

But National Park Week is also in April, and to celebrate the 101st birthday of the National Park Service, fees will be waived April 15-16 and April 22-23 at national parks that typically charge for entrance.

So you’re getting four free days or two free consecutive weekends this month to get out and play. Go dust off those hiking boots.

Thanks for reading this update. If you have questions or comments, please contact my office.

Sincerely,

mikesig