Dear neighbors, This pandemic proved that broadband internet is now a basic, essential service, like power and water. So many workers and students were forced to do things remotely, a…
Category: Email updates
How to participate in your democracy and an update on COVID vaccines
Dear neighbors, I’d like to tell you about two related issues in this legislative update. First, new ways to participate during the 2021 session without driving to Olympia. Because of…
Updated information about the coronavirus–and what we can do about it
Dear neighbors, Because the coronavirus is such a huge issue right now, affecting all of our families, schools and businesses, I wanted to give you the latest information. Testing and…
Fighting the coronavirus here in Washington state
Dear neighbors, Washington state is experiencing an increase in cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and it is anticipated that the virus will continue to spread. There have been several deaths….
Legislative update: Budgets that put people first
This week, the House introduced all three budget proposals—operating, capital budget and transportation. As chair of the House Capital Budget Committee, I’d like to tell you a little about our…
Legislative update: Mass timber means jobs, and guarding against the corona virus
Mass timber is reaching critical mass I’ve pushed hard for years to help create a mass timber market here in Washington state. We are in a prime position to be…
Legislative Update: Homelessness, childcare, jobs and health care
Here’s a quick update on four major issues I’m working on during the 2020 session. Housing Homelessness was the No. 1 issue in a new statewide poll, and you can…
Legislative update: The dream of a college degree
This session, we passed huge reforms when it comes to higher education. I’d like to tell you about three new laws that will make a big difference to families and…
Legislative update from Rep. Steve Tharinger: Big steps forward on behavioral health
This was a historic session for behavioral health funding, with funding in the operating budget and capital budget that will help families here in the 24th District and across the…
Legislative update from Rep. Tharinger: Better health care
I’m happy to report that this was a great session when it came improving health care. Nothing is more precious or irreplaceable than the good health of your family. Here is…