Dhingra named Deputy Majority Leader, Chair of Behavioral Health Sub-Committee
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — Nov. 29, 2018
OLYMPIA – After a hugely successful legislative session, Democrats head back to Olympia in January with an expanded majority in the Washington State Senate.
Following a strong first year in the Senate, Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond) will become one of two Deputy Majority Leaders when the Legislature convenes in 2019, splitting the duties with Sen. Rebecca Saldana (D-Seattle).
Dividing up the duties of the number-two position on the Democratic leadership team will enable Democrats to more thoughtfully set the agenda and guide policy in the Senate. The Senate Democratic Caucus met yesterday to affirm the leadership posts and finalize committee assignments.
“I am humbled to have been chosen by my colleagues to help lead my caucus,” Dhingra said. “When women of color get elevated, we uplift many more communities because we wear many more hats. I look forward to bringing my unique perspective to the leadership table.”
Dhingra will also continue to serve as Vice Chair of the Law & Justice committee and will Chair the newly formed Behavioral Health Subcommittee. “I have spent my career standing up for those who have no voice; for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, for those with behavioral health struggles, for school children, and for those who have chosen to call America home and am excited to chair a new committee dedicated to addressing Washingtonians’, behavioral health needs,” Dhingra said.
“Mental health issues and substance use disorder impacts all of our lives, and it is crucial to have a collaborative, comprehensive plan to provide cost-effective services and support for all Washingtonians.”
