Recent Press- ACLU Criticizes Proposed Gang-Free Zones, And Why Does Washington Have A B&O; Tax? May 10, 2012
- State's expensive love affair with 4-wheel drive hybrid SUVs | Local News | The Seattle Times April 30, 2012
- Can more rigorous academics help Rainier Beach? | Local News | The Seattle Times April 30, 2012
- State coffers won’t require new revenue, Inslee says | The Olympian - The News Tribune April 22, 2012
- Inslee: No new taxes needed to fund education - seattlepi.com April 21, 2012
Category Archives: Environment
More on Toxic Flame Retardants
In 2005, 2006, and 2007 I championed a bill in the Legislature that prohibited the use of poly-brominated diethyl (PBDE) flame retardants in products sold in Washington State. I argued that PBDEs were toxic for children and unnecessary. It was … Continue reading
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End of Session Budget Update
Thank you for allowing me to represent you in the Washington State Legislature. It’s an honor and a privilege. This year was pretty “special.” There’s nothing like a little drama to spice up a legislator’s life. This session had it … Continue reading
Posted in Budget, Education, Environment, Health Care, Social Justice, Tax Policy
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House Budget Proposal
Earlier this month I released the House budget proposal for 2011-13. Just before the end of the regular session, the Senate released their proposal. I asked for the job of chairman of the budget committee, but it’s clear my timing … Continue reading
Posted in Budget, Education, Environment, Health Care
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Conservation NW – People who do real work
Tricie and I spent last weekend in the Okanogan looking at the work of the local land trust and of Conservation NW, the umbrella organization that is working to protect a corridor between the Rockies and the Cascades. It’s an … Continue reading
EPA Response to Industry Phase-Out of DECA-BDE
I worked hard (successfully) to eliminate the use of this chemical in Washington. The ban spread to other states. The companies have finally thrown in the towel and are switching to a presumably better product. It’s nice to win one … Continue reading
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Urban Legends – Emissions based on engine displacement
In 2006 a senator introduced a bill (SB 6900) that would have charged a vehicle registration fee every year based on the size of your engine and not on the use of the vehicle. The bill did not receive a … Continue reading
More Toxic Chemicals
In 2007 I passed a bill I had worked on for 3 years, banning a toxic flame retardant called PBDE in Washington. This year a group of legislators is working on a different compound – Bisphenol-A. It’s found in polycarbonates … Continue reading
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2009 Legislative Agenda
This year will be particularly difficult due to the national economic disaster. Unlike the federal government, Washington is required to have a balanced budget. Our budget situation is dire, and will require dramatic measures. I try to be organized about … Continue reading
Posted in Budget, Business Climate, Education, Environment, Tax Policy, Transportation
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Global Warming – Cap and Trade?
Last year the legislature instructed the governor to negotiate our entry into the Western Climate Initiative (WCI) and come back with a plan we would have to approve. She has, and now we get to make some very big choices … Continue reading
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