July Update: Celebrating Unity, Cultural Heritage, and Economic Progress

Dear friends and neighbors,  

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve and advocate for our community’s best interests. Today, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all those who recently joined me at our town hall meeting and shared their concerns, aspirations, and visions for our district’s future. 

First and foremost, thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to attend the town hall meeting. Your active participation truly makes a difference in shaping our legislative priorities. It was inspiring to see such a diverse group of individuals coming together to discuss the issues that matter most to them. Your presence and engagement underscore the strength and vitality of our democratic process. 

During our gathering, I was greatly impressed by the range of topics that were brought to the table. Your perspectives on housing, public safety, roads, and the proposed battery storage facility were not only enlightening but also reflective of our shared commitment to improving the lives of every member of our community. 

If you have any further questions, suggestions, or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. 

I want to draw your attention to an upcoming event that presents a unique opportunity for us to demonstrate our support for our tribal communities—the annual Tribal Canoe Journey. As your representative, I firmly believe in fostering cultural appreciation and recognizing the contributions of our indigenous populations.  

The Tribal Canoe Journey, organized by the Muckleshoot Tribe, is not only a vibrant cultural celebration but also a significant gathering that showcases the rich traditions and history of our region’s tribes. It serves as a platform for intertribal connections, cultural exchange, and unity among diverse indigenous communities. 

The importance of recognizing and preserving indigenous culture cannot be overstated. By attending and participating in the Tribal Canoe Journey, we affirm our commitment to promoting inclusivity, cultural diversity, and mutual respect. Moreover, this event offers us an opportunity to learn and appreciate the values and wisdom that have been passed down through generations. 

As your representative, I am dedicated to advocating for legislation that supports and empowers our tribal communities. By joining the Tribal Canoe Journey, we can further understand the challenges they face and identify areas where legislative action can make a meaningful impact. Additionally, this event allows us to engage directly with tribal leaders, community members, and organizations, fostering important relationships that contribute to more informed and effective policymaking. 

I look forward to joining you at the Tribal Canoe Journey and standing together in support of our indigenous communities. Together, let’s celebrate their rich heritage and work towards a future that upholds their rights, values, and traditions. 

The International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking, established in 1974 by the esteemed Dr. Bill Eadington, remains the largest, oldest, and most prestigious gathering of its kind. By consistently embracing innovation and staying at the forefront of gambling research, the conference has earned its reputation as a catalyst for change and a hub for groundbreaking ideas. 

This year, I attended the International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking—an enlightening event that brought together esteemed researchers and industry professionals from around the world. This conference, renowned for its pioneering insights and forward-thinking approach, provided a platform for in-depth discussions on various aspects of gambling studies, to help inform the development of public policy.  

This event attracted a diverse range of participants, including academics, researchers, industry representatives, professional gamblers, regulatory and government officials, and treatment providers. By bringing together such a varied group of individuals, the conference fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and provided unparalleled access to the brightest minds in the field of gambling. 

As your representative, it was my privilege to attend the International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking and engage in enlightening discussions with experts in the field. This firsthand experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities surrounding gambling and risk-taking behaviors. It will inform my work as I continue to advocate for responsible gambling practices, effective regulation, and comprehensive support systems for individuals affected by gambling-related issues. 

I would like to express my gratitude to the organizers and participants of this remarkable conference for their dedication to advancing our knowledge in this important area. Their commitment to shedding light on the multifaceted aspects of gambling is invaluable and paves the way for evidence-based policies and programs that prioritize the well-being of individuals and communities. 

I am excited to share with you my recent participation in a tour of the Northwest Seaport Alliance Port of Tacoma, which provided valuable insights into our region’s economic potential. Additionally, I would like to bring your attention to the important work carried out by the Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA), an organization dedicated to advancing the lives of Indian peoples in our state. 

During the Port of Tacoma tour, I had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the bustling activity and the crucial role our ports play in our local and regional economies. As I went up in a container crane, I gained a new perspective on the vast scale of operations and the significant impact that international trade has on our communities. This experience reinforced my commitment to promoting policies and initiatives that support the growth of our ports and enhance economic opportunities for all. 

Furthermore, I would like to highlight the Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA), a non-profit organization comprised of tribal government leaders from federally recognized Tribes in our state. WIGA serves as a trade organization with a vital mission—educating and disseminating information to the Indian gaming community, federal and state governments, and the general public on matters related to gaming in Indian Country.  I was glad to attend their annual conference and tradeshow this year where I was able to discuss the problem gambling bill I sponsored in the House – which doubled funding for treatment in our state – as well as talk with tribal leaders about the need for a gambling court to divert and treat people with gambling addictions.  

WIGA’s work extends beyond the gaming industry itself. They strive to advance the lives of Indian peoples in economic, social, and political realms. By supporting economic development initiatives, WIGA plays a significant role in fostering sustainable growth within tribal communities. Additionally, through their advocacy efforts, they ensure that the interests and concerns of tribal governments are recognized and respected by federal and state authorities. 

Recently, I attended Auburn’s Pet-Palooza—an event that brought together pet lovers and showcased the unconditional love and joy that our furry friends bring into our lives. 

As your representative, I understand the importance of recognizing the role that pets play in our lives. They bring us comfort, companionship, and an undeniable sense of happiness. That is why I am committed to supporting legislation that ensures the well-being and protection of animals, as well as promoting responsible pet ownership within our communities. 

This session, I’m proud to have supported HB 1424 to end the puppy mill to pet store pipeline and restrict pet stores from offering predatory financing, preventing animal abuse and cruelty. I’m also proud to have supported HB 1234, which clarifies the authority for law enforcement agencies and local animal care and control agencies to take possession of abused and neglected animals. It is our objective to care for an prevent their unnecessary suffering.  

Events like Pet-Palooza serve as a reminder of the significant contributions that pets make to our overall quality of life. Their presence not only brings us joy but also encourages us to be more compassionate and empathetic towards all living beings. 

As always, I am deeply grateful for your continued support and engagement. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. I hope you have a memorable summer! 

Sincerely, 

Rep. Chris Stearns