It’s the first day of the 2021 legislative session and what a wild journey it’s been since we spoke last! We have probably never looked forward to a new year as much as we have in 2021. With 2020 finally behind us, we can only hope a lot of what we experienced is behind us as well. With a new year comes new challenges and opportunities, including drafting a new two-year budget and addressing the needs of people and small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. I met with Representative Paul and Representative Gilday ahead of Session, and we wanted to share a few thoughts from all three of us as things kick off here in Olympia.

As your legislators, we’re working together to prepare for the upcoming 105-day legislative session that begins today. We had hoped to collaborate in person, but due to the recent rise in COVID cases, all legislative business will be conducted remotely this session. We’ve met, and will continue to meet, virtually. We are committed to working together to address the needs of the 10th Legislative District. We’ll be keeping an open line of communication throughout the session, and we look forward to collaborating on projects and ideas that will benefit our community and the state as a whole.

Our district is one of only 4 of the 49 legislative districts in the state that is represented by both parties. Though we may not agree all the time, each of us is committed to working across the aisle to serve the best interests of our district. We will be working together to help the State of Washington be a better place to work, play and live. We hope to serve as a model to show how leaders of both parties can come together and help our community heal from the political divisions that have been so prominent lately.

As we go into this remote session, we’re committed to remaining as accessible as possible to those we represent. While we may not be physically in our Olympia offices, we and our staff are monitoring emails, letters, and phone calls. We want to remain in touch with your needs and best represent you, so please stay in contact with us about your priorities and concerns. If you need assistance with a state agency or have a question about your state government, please reach out to one of our offices. We have access to the same resources, and are equally committed to serving you as your elected representatives.