Friends and neighbors,
Many of us remember the tragic incidents at an Anacortes petroleum refinery in 1998 that resulted in the death of six employees, and another devastating incident in 2010 that left seven additional refinery workers deceased. These accidents had far-reaching impacts on so many families, our communities across the 40th District, and the entire state.
Since then, efforts have been underway to improve workplace safety standards in the refineries and ensure no further lives are lost on the job.
After years of community and worker lead calls to take action, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has published a draft rule updating the Process Safety Management regulations. This month, they are hosting meetings across the region to hear your input on these proposed changes.
We encourage you to make your voice heard at any of the upcoming meetings listed below.
- Tuesday, August 15, 2023: Virtual via Zoom. Pre-hearing overview at 12:30 p.m, public hearing at 1:30 p.m.
- Wednesday, August 16, 2023: Majestic Inn & Spa, 419 Commercial Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221. Pre-hearing overview at 5:30 p.m., public hearing at 6:30 p.m.
- Thursday, August 17, 2023: Four Points Sheraton, Fairhaven Room, 714 Lakeway Drive, Bellingham, WA 98229. Pre-hearing overview at 9:00 a.m., public hearing at 10:00 a.m.
If you are unable to attend one of these meetings, you can submit written comments for consideration by 5pm on Thursday August 24. Follow this link to learn more or to submit written comment.
We thank you for your continued engagement in our communities and hope to hear from you soon!
All the best,
Sen. Liz Lovelett
Rep. Debra Lekanoff
Rep. Alex Ramel
