OLYMPIA — Ryan Ericson, 14, served as a page in the Washington State Senate during the week of April 1.
Pages are sponsored by the senator from their legislative district. Sen. Hunt (D-Olympia) sponsored Ericson’s week at the Legislature.
“It was so great to host Ryan at the Capitol this week,” Hunt said. “I hope that he enjoyed his time with the Legislature.”
The page program offers a hands-on opportunity for students to find out how state government works. The educational experience is furthered by guest speakers. It also includes classes with topics such as budget writing and how a bill becomes a law — which culminates in pages creating their own bills in a mock committee setting.
Ericson and his partners worked on a bill that would encourage the use of green energy by increasing a household’s income tax based on the percentage of nonrenewable energy used. Their bill would increase the amount of renewable energy used in each household by discouraging the use of nonrenewable energy. Ericson was excited to see his bill being heard in mock committee.
“I enjoyed working with the security officers and learning more about their jobs,” Ericson said. “Also, the page scavenger hunt was fun. It allowed me to walk around the buildings and learn more about the work that people do in them.”
Pages also have the opportunity to work on the Senate floor. Their maroon coats and credentials allow them access to all parts of the Capitol Campus.
Ericson is in 9th grade at Olympia High School. In his free time, he likes to play the piano and is part of his school’s swim team. He also enjoys taking walks and playing video games.
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For more information about the Senate Page Program, contact SenatePageProgram@leg.wa.gov
