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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we enter the final stretch of the 2024 legislative session in Olympia, I’m reaching out to you with an urgent call to action. Our collective efforts are needed to shape our state’s future, and I firmly believe that your voice can make an impact.
Three important public hearings next week
Recently, we received some promising news: the majority party has announced public hearings on three of the six citizen-driven initiatives. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, I must admit that I am disappointed that not all initiatives will receive the consideration they deserve.
However, this setback only reinforces the importance of participation from individuals like you. Your insights, opinions, and experiences are invaluable in informing the decisions made in our state capital. Your involvement can help ensure that the initiatives under review receive the thorough examination they warrant.
I encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity to engage in the conversation regarding the three initiatives scheduled for public hearings. Whether you opt to express your opinions in writing or participate in person, your input will significantly enrich the discussion and influence the result. Submitting written testimony ensures that your thoughts are recorded and considered.
- I-2081: A parental bill of rights will have a public hearing on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 8 – 9 a.m. Comment on this initiative.
- I-2111: Prohibiting state and local income taxes will have a public hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Comment on this initiative.
- I-2113: Restoring vehicular police pursuits will have a public hearing on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 9 – 10 a.m. Comment on this initiative.
Additionally, I urge you to consider testifying either in person or online. It’s important to note that due to the limited duration of each hearing, speaking slots will be scarce. Therefore, if you choose to testify, be aware that only a limited number of individuals will have the opportunity to speak.
- For information on how to testify in person or online, click here.
- Learn more about the initiatives.
What’s next?
All three initiatives are slated for committee voting on Friday, March 1. Following this, it will be at the discretion of the majority party to advance them for a floor vote. Approval by the Legislature would bypass the need for them to appear on the November ballot, ensuring their enactment.
The bad news is that the majority party has decided not to grant hearings for the remaining three initiatives. Despite this setback, two weeks remain in the session, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to advocate for hearings on all initiatives. We will persist in our fight to ensure that every proposal receives fair consideration and the opportunity to be heard.
Here they are:
- I-2117 | Repealing the carbon tax
- I-2124 | Opting out of the state long-term care program and payroll tax
- I-2109 | Repealing the capital gains tax
It’s important to note that after the last day of session, I cannot use my newsletter, website, or other legislative resources to provide you with information about the three remaining initiatives, as it would be considered campaigning for a ballot measure.
Thank you!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if there’s anything I can do to assist you in participating effectively. Your commitment to our communities is deeply appreciated, and I look forward to working alongside you as we strive to make a difference.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Barnard
