News

First, I want to thank the families and community members who joined us last Monday night in Kennewick for the town hall on the proposed less restrictive alternative (LRA) placement. I was encouraged by the strong turnout and deeply appreciate everyone who took the time to show up, ask questions, and share personal concerns. When...

Join Senator Shelly Short and Representative Hunter Abell on Okanogan Country Radio for an in-depth conversation about key issues shaping Washington’s legislative session. From the controversy over initiatives to the legislature—including the Parents’ Bill of Rights and girls’ sports fairness—to efforts addressing declining wildlife populations and wildfire prevention funding, this episode covers what matters most...

Senator Jeff Wilson shares exciting news about Washington’s official designation as the “Evergreen State” and his role with America 250. With the Senate’s unanimous approval, the Evergreen State bill now heads to the House. Wilson highlights plans for the nation’s Semiquincentennial celebration, emphasizing pride in Washington’s heritage and unity under “one nation under God.”

Senator Shelly Short warns about a bill that could significantly raise housing costs by requiring cultural resource reviews for projects previously exempt, like single-family homes. She explains the financial burden and delays this could impose on homeowners, while stressing respect for Native heritage and advocating for a better process that balances preservation with affordability.

Senator John Braun discusses two recently certified citizen initiatives: restoring parental rights in education and prohibiting biological males from competing in girls’ sports. He emphasizes fairness, safety, and constitutional priorities, criticizing the Democrat’s refusal to hold hearings.

Sen. Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick, shares a legislative update on ongoing efforts to address the proposed less-restrictive alternative (LRA) housing placement in Kennewick. From Olympia, he discusses how community input, town hall feedback, and constituent concerns are shaping legislation to protect families, children, and neighborhoods while ensuring public safety across the Tri-Cities and Washington state.

A state senator is pushing for a permanent tax break on a basic necessity: diapers. Tracy Ellis reports.

In his latest legislative update, Sen. Mark Schoesler raises alarms over three payroll-tax-funded programs he calls unsustainable: unemployment insurance, paid family medical leave, and industrial insurance. With skyrocketing tax rates, program abuses, and a staggering unfunded liability, Schoesler urges urgent reforms to protect employers, employees, and taxpayers from looming financial disaster. Efficiency, he says, is...

In this episode of Elephant in the Dome, Tracy Ellis sits down with Senate Republican Leader John Braun and Caucus Chair Judy Warnick to discuss two citizen-driven initiatives shaping Washington’s legislative agenda: IL26-638 – Protecting fairness and safety in girls’ sports, and IL26-001 – Restoring the Parents’ Bill of Rights. We dive into why these...

On KPQ Radio, 12th District Senator Keith Goehner shares his concerns about reactionary legislation and its impact on Washington residents. From opposing a bill banning law enforcement face coverings to questioning the effectiveness of lowering the DUI threshold without stronger enforcement, Goehner emphasizes practical solutions over political optics. He also highlights looming challenges for agriculture,...

Washington lawmakers are moving to close dangerous gaps in how the state places sexually violent predators in communities. Kelley Payne reports.

OLYMPIA — Sen. Matt Boehnke and Sen. Nikki Torres have introduced a comprehensive package of legislation to close dangerous gaps in Washington’s handling of less restrictive alternative (LRA) placements for sexually violent predators, prioritizing the safety of families, neighborhoods, and children across the state. “These are not abstract policy debates; they affect real neighborhoods, real...