The 2002 Legislative Session kicked off Monday, January 14. This year’s session is short (60 days), but with the Democrats in control of both Houses and the Governor’s mansion we hope to press forward with our priority issues.
Transportation – "Take the vote."
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Transportation funding is far and away the biggest topic this year. There is no debate that an increase in the gas tax is needed to fix the long ignored gridlock on our roads. Unfortunately, Mr. Eyman has many lawmakers running scared and many want to duck their responsibility and defer the matter to the public. Local government needs this revenue due to I-747 stripping millions from road budgets.
Pension governance (HB - 2185)
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We have renewed our fight to create a pension board where beneficiaries have a voice and a vote. Other groups (namely fire fighters and police) have now joined which gives us a much greater voice. If we can get everyone (other employee groups) to agree on a bill, our chances are good.
Contracting Out/Bid Limits (SB-5873)
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The statutes that bar public employees from performing work are out-dated and in dire need of revamping. The private contractors have fed at the public trough long enough.
The initiative process which was intended to be a safety valve for the public to voice its concerns has morphed into a money making, for profit cash cow for paid signature gatherers and professional sponsors like Tim Eyman. Rules need to be set in place that require financial disclosure similar to what elected officials must file.
School District Employees
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Funding for employee health care costs must be preserved and not used to balance the State’s budget.
Retiree Health Care (SB-5777)
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All local government employees deserve access to retiree health care coverage.
Please call or e-mail your legislators and let your voice be heard.
Click here for the list of 2002 legislators.
