Robert Frost 5th graders visit the Capitol
I had the privilege to meet with 5th grade students from Robert Frost Elementary on Tuesday this week. The class travelled down to Olympia to meet their legislators – Rep. Springer, Sen. Rossi, and myself – and learn more about how the state government works. They were an insightful bunch, who already knew so much about the legislature and had thoughtful questions!
It is always a pleasure to have students come to visit, but this trip was special, because I had a surprise for them. I did something I’ve never done before, sponsor a bill for a class of students! I introduced HB 1940 for the Robert Frost Elementary 5th graders. The bill helps keep our communities safe by requiring proof of car insurance when renewing car registration. People without car insurance are breaking the law, and if they crash into someone else’s car they force the other car owner to have to pay for the repairs. As the bill progresses through committee, the House and eventually the Senate, I’ll be keeping the kids updated!
Making solar energy more accessible
Solar energy and other alternative energy sources are great ways to reduce fossil fuel use and protect our environment. The solar industry has grown tremendously in Washington state as technology and state incentives for utilities and homeowners make systems more affordable.
And, solar is an emerging industry here, providing family-wage jobs – many in more rural areas of the state.
But how well is the state’s solar incentive program helping utilities and homeowners? My colleague Rep. Jeff Morris has introduced a bill to modify the program providing more people the option of solar systems.
Among other things, the bill revamps the customer incentive program so more people can take advantage of it by providing eligible solar system owners a “production incentive” for the energy they produce. It also allows electric utilities to claim a credit against their tax obligations for incentives they provide solar users.
Promoting affordable alternative energy options for homes and businesses is a smart way to reduce energy costs while at the same time helping reduce environmental damage.
All best wishes,
Roger Goodman
Representative, 45th District
Washington State Legislature