Dear friends and neighbors,
We are entering the homestretch of the 2016 legislative session that is scheduled to wrap up by the 60th and final day on March 10.
A successful town hall meeting
Thank you to everyone who attended our recent 3rd Legislative District town hall meeting. We had over 250 in attendance and I appreciated all the input on issues of importance to Spokane. It was a productive and substantive conversation. If you have any further comments or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Your feedback is essential as we work to represent you and the entire Spokane community.
Securing funding for YWCA
Last week, the Senate voted on the Supplemental Capital Budget. At first I was disappointed that funding was not included for the Spokane Family Justice Center at the YWCA. This collaborative effort that includes police, prosecutors and domestic violence advocates has been effective in reducing domestic violence in our community.
As the budget came to the Senate floor, I offered an amendment to add $75,000 to the budget for completion of the Family Justice Center’s physical space. The full Senate passed the amendment and I am hopeful that this funding will be included in the final capital budget negotiated by both the House and Senate.
Spokane legislative pop quiz
To honor my favorite city, I decided to have a little fun this week by sponsoring our very own Spokane legislative trivia contest.
Please respond with your answers to the following questions. Everyone who answers correctly will be entered into a drawing to receive a Spokane gift bag full of locally procured treats. Just hit reply to this email and list your answers.
Ready? On to the quiz:
1) In 1923, this Spokane senator became the first woman elected to the Washington State Senate. What was her name?
2) One of the first bills that I was able to pass when I arrived in the Legislature six years ago created a significant new protection for the Spokane River. What specifically did the bill do?
3) Which senator from Spokane joined me in voting for the U-District bike and pedestrian bridge and the rest of the 2015 Transportation Revenue Package?
Good luck!
Keeping in Touch
If you have a comment, idea or question, please let me know. I would love to hear from you!
You can email me at andy.billig@leg.wa.gov or call me at 360-786-7604.
Onward!
Andy
