Senate Republican Leader John Braun offered a comment following Gov. Jay Inslee’s proclamation that the Legislature will reconvene May 16
State lawmakers have been called into a special session to continue work toward a new state law on the possession of controlled substances, after failing to come to an agreement before the regular legislative session ended April 23.
Senate Republican Leader John Braun offered this comment following Gov. Jay Inslee’s proclamation that the Legislature will reconvene May 16.
“The governor had indicated he would not call a special session until legislative leaders reached an agreement that is worth bringing in front of each chamber. To be clear, we’re not to that point yet, although there have been productive bipartisan discussions over the past week. In that sense his announcement today was unexpected.
“Republicans worked in good faith throughout the regular session toward a new law that will give drug offenders more incentive to enter and complete treatment. We remain committed to that. While I am hopeful for a better outcome this next time around, there is also reason to be cautious. The House Democrats will need to demonstrate a combination of bipartisanship and leadership that was missing during the 105 days of the regular session – especially at the end, when they failed to pass a proposal that was still far from reasonable, and Democrats from all corners falsely claimed that failure was somehow the fault of Republicans, even though we are in the minority.
“All along, Republicans have insisted on a new drug-possession policy that truly works for the stakeholders – law enforcement, the criminal-justice system, and local governments. They need more leverage to save lives, lift people out of the despair that goes with being addicted to drugs like fentanyl, and also reclaim our streets and sidewalks. That’s still the right path for the upcoming special session. We must do better.”
Follow Washington State Senate Republicans on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram @WashingtonSRC
Also read:
- White House govt. Funding request for 2027 cuts $73 billion
President Trump’s budget seeks to boost defense funding while cutting $73 billion from agencies like the EPA, NASA, and Agriculture, prompting sharp criticism from Democratic leaders. - Heywood asks WA Supreme Court to allow referendum effort on income tax
Brian Heywood is petitioning the state Supreme Court after the Secretary of State rejected a referendum to repeal Washington’s new 9.9% tax on income over $1 million. - Opinion: Half the road, full stop – Understanding pedestrian right-of-way
Doug Dahl explains how Washington’s law requires drivers to stop when a pedestrian is within one lane of their half of the road, not just when directly in front. - Clark County seeks volunteer for Law and Justice Council
Applicants with experience in mental health services are encouraged to help guide Clark County’s coordination of local criminal justice and corrections planning. - VIDEO: Families at center of WA transgender sports debate face-to-face with OSPI
Two Washington high school students and their parents met with Superintendent Chris Reykdal to discuss concerns about sports policies after one student faced an investigation for harassment. - As Washington lawmakers punt on school cellphone ban, some want more action
At Robert Eagle Staff Middle School, all-day phone removal led to fewer conflicts and more student engagement, but some parents and lawmakers argue a ban should not be imposed statewide. - Opinion: The state’s RFK-proofing bill comes with a cost
Mandates like HB 2242 can lead to higher premiums as insurance companies absorb costs for new preventive services, affecting affordability statewide.
