Dear Neighbor,
As the legislature continues to work remotely, I wanted to update you on some of the bills I’ve sponsored this session, legislation that’s been heard in the Law & Justice Committee and provide a video update on our state’s reopening plan.
Senate Bill 5081, which I’m sponsoring, would place the legal burden of proof on certain state agencies when there are disputes about agency enforcement actions against private citizens. This bill would ensure that people who are subject to enforcement actions have a level playing field and are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise. After all, property rights should have some meaning other than “you have the right to pay your property taxes.” This bill received a hearing in the Senate’s Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks Committee.
Another bill I’ve sponsored and shared with you in previous newsletters, Senate Bill 5074, would expand on a successful pilot program that allows some fire stations to serve as safe fire stations. These safe fire stations provide an alternative to emergency rooms where individuals can go to receive services like substance abuse treatment, medical attention and peer support, as well as connections to community resources. This legislation will not interfere with the current services firefighters provide and no funds will come out of their budget for this program. This bill was passed out of the Senate Behavioral Health Subcommittee and was heard in the Senate Ways and Means Committee this week.
Please remember that I am here to serve you. Although we may not be able to meet face to face, I encourage you to reach out to my office and to share your thoughts, ideas and concerns on matters of importance to you. And please, if you don’t already, follow me on Facebook. My contact information can be found on the right sidebar. Now, more than ever, it is vital that you are connected with the decisions being made in Olympia. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
