Health & Long-term Care

September 08, 2021

Senate ag leaders say COVID vaccine mandate for 4-H volunteers serious blow to program

More and more people tangentially connected with state government are finding out that they are subject to Gov. Jay Inslee’s recently announced vaccine mandate – even 4-H volunteers. In a letter sent to volunteers, the Washington State University Extension, which oversees the 4-H youth agricultural program, wrote that 4-H volunteer...
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July 20, 2021

WA CARES Fund (Upcoming Payroll Tax) – what you need to know

Dear Friends and Neighbors, I recently heard from many of you regarding the payroll tax that will be implemented next year to fund long-term care. I know many of you have questions and concerns regarding this new tax and I wanted to provide you with background information on this topic...
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July 13, 2021

Sen. Shelly Short: Tremendous losses trivialized as Inslee spikes the COVID football

Special to The Spokesman Review and The Statesman Examiner Over the last 16 months, each one of us has suffered through the endless chaos and uncertainty of COVID-19 and the seemingly endless monarchical restrictions that have affected every facet of our lives. Quite frankly, putting what I’m thinking into words...
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April 25, 2021

That’s a wrap: Republican leaders wish Legislature had listened to the people more

Senate Republican leaders released the following remarks as the 2021 legislative session came to a close as it prepared for the traditional “Sine Die” adjournment.   Senate Republican Leader John Braun, R-Centralia: “Throughout this session Republicans have consistently offered ideas and taken positions that come from listening to the people....
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March 26, 2021

Capital gains income tax update & new recommendations for reopening schools

Dear Friends and Neighbors To say that the last few weeks have been intense and demanding is an understatement. Floor action for the Senate and the House during this point in session is always an all-encompassing time that combines long hours, minute focus on the bills before us for consideration...
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February 22, 2021

Republican budget proposal – we don’t need to raise your taxes

Dear Friends and Neighbors We have reached the point in the legislative session where we are busy with floor action – passing bills out of the Senate Chamber and moving them along in the legislative process over to the House of Representatives. As floor leader, I spend many hours in...
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February 15, 2021

Bringing better broadband to rural communities

Dear Friends and Neighbors, The past two weeks have seen a flurry of activity in legislative committees as the policy committee deadline has passed. Bills that have not been voted out of committee by now, and are not needed to implement the budget, will not be further considered this legislation...
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February 01, 2021

Update on businesses reopening and limiting the governor’s powers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we continue to anticipate what the things will look like in the near future, I know many parents are eagerly waiting for a time when kids will be back in the classroom. At a news conference this week, Governor Inslee finally stated what we have...
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January 18, 2021

2021 legislative session: what to expect

Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we begin a new year, I want to thank you so much for the honor and privilege of serving you in the legislature.  While the 2021 legislative session is unlike any other, your participation in it is more important than ever to ensure that the...
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