The 2020 Legislative Session Has Begun
This Monday marked the beginning of the 2020 legislative session, and we got right down to business for this short, 60-day session. These short sessions occur in even-numbered years, and can often feel like a sprint to the finish line, with the entire legislative process condensed into just eight weeks! I’m honored to have been selected to represent the 1st Legislative District in the Senate.
I was sworn in on Monday, and I’ve hit the ground running to advocate for policies that put people first in Washington. One of the biggest challenges the Legislature faces this year is sorting out the devastating loss of revenue to fund transportation after the passage of I-976, which slashes voter-approved transportation revenue.
Committee work this session
As vice chair of the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, I will continue to put people first by making sure our education system is top notch and expanding higher education opportunities for Washingtonians. I’ll be introducing a bill to develop our community and technical colleges by increasing full-time faculty, which will have a stabilizing effect that will support student success.
I am also serving on the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee, where I’ll focus on improving working conditions and rights for Washington workers and building an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top. On the Senate Environment, Energy & Technology Committee, I look forward to addressing the causes of climate change and finding ways to reduce our state’s carbon footprint.
Meet my team
This session I have a great team, made up of my legislative assistant, Stephen Cardamenis, session aide Shannon Madden, and intern Hannah Sirois. They will be helping me answer your calls, e-mails and meeting requests. Please reach out to our office with your concerns about legislation at 360-786-7600, or send an e-mail to Derek.Stanford@leg.wa.gov.
Get more
Follow my brand new Facebook page for the latest on what’s happening in Olympia! There you’ll find a variety of content, including this video from my swearing in ceremony on Monday.
Stay in touch
What are the issues that are important to you and your community? Your participation helps improve our district for all! Contact my office to make sure your voice is heard!
