Dear friends and neighbors,
We’ve just passed the House of Origin cutoff—and we passed 270 bills, 146 of which were unanimous and 205 that received strong bipartisan support (80+ votes)! The 60-day supplemental sessions move fast—don’t hesitate to reach out! I am eager to hear from you and your participation is vital to our community. Here are some ways we can stay connected:
- Locate: Check your district to find your legislators!
- Watch: Join me on TVW.org for live broadcasts featuring debates, votes, committee meetings, and other significant events.
- Research: Stay informed by exploring legislation based on lawmakers or topics that resonate with you. Understanding these issues is key to our collective progress.
- Learn: Dive into the legislative process from its inception to gain a deeper understanding of how decisions are shaped and executed.
- Testify: Your voice is powerful. Whether virtually or in writing, you can continue to testify on legislation during the committee process. Share your insights and personal stories to make a lasting impact.
- Get in touch: I am here for you. To schedule a meeting, please contact my Legislative Assistant, Darci Suttle, at Darci.Suttle@leg.wa.gov.
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2024 Priorities
Recalibrating Sentencing Ranges for Juvenile Felony Adjudications House Bill 2065 marks a transformative moment in justice reform, reshaping sentencing for those affected by past juvenile errors. This groundbreaking bill not only aims to rectify long-standing injustices in our legal system but also opens doors to new beginnings for many, particularly in communities long burdened by unfair sentencing. This signals a shift towards a more compassionate, equitable, and just legal future.
Native American Apprentice Assistance Program (House Bill 2019) establishes the Native American Apprentice Assistance Program. This program, administered by the Office of Student Financial Assistance, provides support for members of federally recognized Indian tribes. It covers costs related to apprenticeship programs, including tuition for supplemental instruction, supplies, tools, materials, work clothing, and living expenses. To qualify, participants must file a FAFSA and be enrolled in a state-registered apprenticeship program. The bill reflects a commitment to enhancing educational and vocational opportunities for Native American communities across Washington State.
Other Bills I’m Sponsoring
Support for local law enforcement (House Bill 2211): This bill empowers local counties raise extra funds to support important law enforcement projects. The goal is to provide more local officers to our law enforcement, making sure there’s enough support for efforts that keep our communities safe
Halal Food Consumer Protection Act (HB 2059): Ensuring the authenticity of halal food products, this bill prohibits false representation and establishes penalties for violations, emphasizing consumer trust and protection while respecting Islamic principles.
Emergency Management Inclusivity (House Bill 2135): This bill ensures that members of federally recognized tribes can be part of the Emergency Worker Program, which deals with responding to emergencies. This initiative recognizes the valuable contribution of tribal communities in responding to emergencies and ensures that they have the same protections as others involved in these efforts.
Modifications to State Procurement Procedures (House Bill 1471): Bringing essential modifications to state procurement procedures, this bill enhances competition, accountability, and transparency, prioritizing fairness and efficiency.
Improving Government Efficiency (House Bill 1362): Focused on improving government efficiency, this bill streamlines reporting processes of state agencies by eliminating or modifying reporting requirements, fostering a more agile and responsive government committed to transparency.
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Honoring Billy Frank Jr.
I am thrilled to share a momentous occasion in our state’s history—the unveiling of a statue commemorating the remarkable Billy Frank Jr. at the Washington State Capitol. Billy Frank Jr., a fearless advocate for Native American rights and environmental conservation, left an indelible mark on our region. The statue serves as a poignant tribute to his tireless efforts during the “Fish Wars” and his instrumental role in securing tribal fishing rights. It symbolizes not just a man, but a legacy of resilience, justice, and the enduring fight for indigenous rights. This monument reminds us of our commitment to honor and uphold the values Billy Frank Jr. held dear—equality, environmental stewardship, and the strength of diverse voices in shaping our shared future. May this statue stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
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Celebrating Mayor Jeff Wagner and 20 Years of Dedicated Service
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I am delighted to share a heartwarming moment from a recent event where I had the honor of speaking and celebrating the remarkable Mayor Jeff Wagner for his two decades of dedicated service to our community. The event was a surprise tribute to recognize his unwavering commitment and leadership as Mayor of Covington. It was a joyous occasion filled with gratitude and admiration his significant contributions to our city. The photo captured during this memorable event encapsulates the warmth and respect we all share for Mayor Wagner. Join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations to him for this incredible milestone, and let us express our gratitude for his continued service to Covington. |
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Thank you so much for reading! Please don’t hesitate to reach out and make your voice heard.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more updates!
Sincerely,
State Representative Chris Stearns
47th Legislative District