‘I think a gross misdemeanor, with treatment-oriented diversion, is a good compromise,’ Cheney said
During an hours-long special session on Tuesday (May 16), the Washington State House of Representatives voted 83-13 in support of compromise legislation for the so-called “Blake fix.” The measure, Senate Bill 5536, failed to pass on the final day of the 105-day regular session, but negotiators were able to come to an agreement after much give-and-take by both sides.
Rep. Greg Cheney, R-Battle Ground, issued the following statement in support of the bipartisan compromise measure:
“I’ve said from the beginning that any solution to our state’s drug use and abuse problem needs to have a measure of accountability and consequences for actions. The compromise bill we voted on today takes these two key factors and combines them with a much-needed increase in services and investments in care for those struggling with substance abuse.
“There are some in our communities who would want this bill to go further – to reinstate the felony aspect of drug possession and drug use. There are some that think all drugs should be decriminalized. I think a gross misdemeanor, with treatment-oriented diversion, is a good compromise. We need to give law enforcement and prosecutors the tools they need to keep our communities, schools, and children safe. And we need to give our local jurisdictions the access to expert services and treatment to help those struggling within the grips of their addiction.
“I’m pleased to support Senate Bill 5536. However, I do not think this is the end of the issue. We will continue to perfect our strategies to help clean up our streets and make sure our citizens are safe.”
You can view Rep. Cheney’s floor speech from Tuesday here.
Information provided by Washington State House Republicans,
houserepublicans.wa.gov
Also read:
- VIDEO: Rejected – WA SOS will not process referendum to repeal income tax law
State officials stopped Let’s Go Washington’s referendum to overturn the new tax, citing constitutional limits. Legal and political battles, including a Supreme Court challenge, are expected next. - Washington’s studded tire deadline is March 31
Drivers must remove studded tires by March 31 or face a $137 fine, with WSDOT urging early action due to busy service centers and no planned deadline extension. - Community in Action: Police cruisers ‘crammed’ with snacks to benefit local students
Nearly 8,500 snacks filled police cruisers at Fred Meyer as the community rallied to stock high school pantries and build new relationships. - Southwest Washington lawmakers to hold a series of town hall meetings throughout the 17th Legislative District
Sen. Paul Harris, Rep. Kevin Waters, and Rep. David Stuebe will answer questions and discuss the state’s expanded operating budget and newly passed income tax at five April town halls. - Can your wellness routine be harming your teeth?
Dental enamel can’t regenerate once damaged, but steps like using a straw, rinsing with water, and choosing fluoride toothpaste can help protect your teeth from acidic beverages. - Vancouver Police investigate attempted murder
A 29-year-old man suffered critical injuries in a stabbing incident on NE 12th Street, with the alleged assailant Jason Johnson now facing multiple felony charges after release from medical care. - Project 42: It is an income tax, not a millionaire’s tax
Project 42 co-founder Dann Mead Smith urged Clark County residents to organize against the new income tax law, emphasizing it can be expanded to reach more than just millionaires.
