Fair Start Act
Legislators deal with thousands of topics every session, but we are only policy experts in three or four. For me, early learning and childcare has been my area of focus. I prioritize early learning and childcare because the incontrovertible evidence shows it is vital for the success of children, families, employers, and pays a return to taxpayers.
So, I was thrilled on Saturday as the Senate passed the historic Fair Start Act (SB 5237) which will improve our childcare and early learning system by increasing affordability and access to childcare and early learning programs in every community throughout the state.
You can view my Senate floor speech on the bill here.
County Redistricting Commission
In 2018, the Legislature passed HB 2887, which required counties of a certain size to improve representation on county commissions with a minimum of five commissioners who all have to be elected by their district.
As a result of this bill, Spokane County will implement a special redistricting process this year to draw the new districts.
I joined with my seatmates, Reps. Riccelli & Ormsby, to appoint Natasha Hill and Brian McClatchey to serve as the Democratic appointees on the Spokane County Redistricting Commission.
Natasha and Brian will be exceptional in their ability to listen to community input as they do this historic work. Both are passionate about our region and dedicated to ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard. They will serve with two Republican-appointed commissioners to do this important job, which is vital to a fair and healthy democracy.
Keep in Touch
Please stay safe and healthy, and do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments at andy.billig@leg.wa.gov.
Onward!
Andy
