OLYMPIA- State Rep. Shelley Kloba has been appointed chair of the House Commerce and Gaming Committee by her colleagues for the 2021-2022 biennium. Having previously served as vice chair of the committee she will continue her leadership in gambling policy and regulating Washington’s legal cannabis industry.
Kloba (D-Kirkland) has been a member of the Commerce and Gaming Committee since she joined the Legislature in 2016. Since coming to the Legislature she has taken a leading role in crafting gambling policy, serving as an ex-officio member of the Washington State Gambling Commission, and serving on the problem gambling task force. In 2019, Kloba passed a bill creating a way for those who struggle with problem gambling to self-exclude themselves from gambling. She has also been a leader in crafting policy for Washington’s evolving and growing legal cannabis industry ensuring that medical patients are protected, employees have demonstrated knowledge about the rules of their industry, and businesses have clear guidelines.
“I am honored that my fellow legislators have chosen me to lead the important work of the Commerce and Gaming Committee. We will strive to pass smart, forward-thinking policy on alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, and gambling that mitigates the harms associated with these activities while creating fair and clear guidelines for these sectors of our economy.
Kloba will also join the Capital Budget and Rural Development, Agriculture & Natural Resources committees for the first time. Last year she served on the Transportation Committee and as vice chair of the Innovation, Technology, & Economic Development Committee.
A complete list of House committee assignments can be found here.