The Island County Democrats publish a monthly newsletter, which we are posting here. We believe that the statements made by the leadership of each party is of general public interest.
Message from ICD Chair, Jennifer Haase Morris
My 3-2-1 for March
- 3 things on my mind (or worth sharing with the group)
- 2 ways you can get involved
- 1 thing to do in the next 30 days
3 Things on My Mind:
- I’ve been participating in a series of courses on civics education with a group of teachers. It is getting increasingly difficult to teach critical thinking skills in the classroom to prepare the next generation to have dialogue about controversial or contentious topics. I think frequently about how I am modeling civic discourse. How about you?
- There are a number of open races in 2023 – School Boards, Hospital Board, City Councils, and others. The Rise & Run Committee will be working over the next few months to identify potential candidates. If you know of community leaders that we should have on our radar, please let me know.
- Thank you to everyone who provided feedback about location preference for our regular general meetings. There is definitely a preference for offering a hybrid format – meeting in person and having a Zoom link available as well. Unfortunately, we were not able to secure a location with Wi-Fi for the March 11thmeeting (10:00 am – 12:00 pm), so we will go virtual in March and then hybrid on June 10th, September 9th, and December 9th. Only members, officers, and PCO’s are able to vote in the general meeting but all are welcome.If you want to make sure you receive the Zoom link, please send me an email (icdchair@gmail.com).
2 Ways You Can Get Involved:
- We could use some help in keeping our website up to date. The platform is easy to manage, and we have some volunteers who can help with writing the content. It would be valuable to have someone paying attention to this. Know someone who can help?
- I also need someone to help with memberships – both tracking current members as well as coordinating efforts to attract new members. Anyone interested in reaching out to engage more Democrats across Island County?
1 Thing to do in the Next 30 Days:
- If your membership is not current, please consider making your membership contribution this month. Thank you!
News from ICD
On behalf of the Executive Board, I am reaching out to encourage you to engage with our legislators as they consider decisions on the bills in this legislative session. If you are not already tracking progress on issues that are important to you, we have pulled together a list of bills that may be of particular interest to many of you.
Thank you to Fe Mischo, one of our State Committee Members, for compiling a list of bills that are connected to a number of progressive issues. (She has also provided a few comments in parenthese.) I have also included several bills that relate to potential gun legislation that will likely get a lot of attention. You may also want to track climate-related bills.
The links take you to the Washington State Legislature page for each bill. You can comment on the bill, click the link to contact any of the legislative sponsors, and view available information for more details. This is a great way to stay engaged in the political process.
Thanks for all that you are doing!
Jennifer
Chair, Island County Democratic Central Committee
SB 5125 – Washington Futures Fund
SB 5435 – Rent increase limits
SB 5190 – Increasing middle housing where single-family homes are traditionally built
HB 1220 – Establishing universal civic duty voting
HB 1174 – Improving access and removing barriers to jail-based voting
HB 1131 – Improving recycling outcomes (very long bill! makes manufacturers pay for pollution and creates a WA bottle buyback program)
SB 5267 – Protecting railroad workers and increasing benefits (relevant after the strike was shut down by Biden a few months ago)
SB 5257 – Ensuring elementary students receive sufficient recess (this was amazing to find, but it’s pretty good — 45 minutes of recess mandated across the state which cannot be taken away as punishment for students)
SB 5263 – Legalizing medically supervised psilocybin for people over 21
SB 5441 – Diverse, inclusive, and equitable curricula in public schools (also mandates district Inclusive Curricula Coordinators and a district student Youth Advisory Committee to work on/provide feedback on the curricula)
SB 5028 – Name changing (makes the process easier and expands access to transgender/gender nonconforming people)
HB 1240 – Establishing firearms-related safety measures to increase public safety.
HB 1143 – Concerning requirements for the purchase or transfer of firearms.
SB 5078 – Protecting public safety by establishing duties of firearm industry members.
Jennifer Haase Morris
-she/her/hers-
Chair
Island County Democrats
https://islandcountydemocrats.org
Message from Island County Commissioner, Janet St Clair
At a time when we are seeing increasing homelessness, not only in urban communities but also in our rural areas, the question is why? Data will tell you that many who are unsheltered often have experienced mental health and addiction issues. We know we have a behavioral health crisis in this country which was only exacerbated by the pandemic. We also know that we have seen increases in housing insecurity since the pandemic despite Herculean efforts by the federal government and local efforts to provide Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP) through Island County Human Services and their partners.
Many have experienced escalating housing costs that often move stable housing options out of reach for those living a paycheck away from homelessness. We need to recognize that homelessness extends from those experiencing crises to working families that are being pushed to the edge of homelessness because of housing pressures. In a study published by John Quigley and Steven Raphael entitled “The Economics of Homelessness” there was a clear connection made between housing price pressures and homelessness that “contrast with conventional wisdom regarding the causes of homelessness.” (Journal of Housing Policy; 2001). There is a social problem to solve and an economic problem to solve.
The Island County Board of County Commissioners made a commitment to step into that economic gap. Recognizing the need to invest significantly to move the needle on housing instability in our communities, we dedicated $9.5M of our $16M American Rescue Plan allocation for housing priorities. We designated funding to Habitat for Humanity to help provide home repairs for low income seniors to help them remain safely in their homes. The Board designated $2.2M to Shelter Resources in Oak Harbor to develop affordable housing on County land near our Crisis Stabilization Center. We issued a Request for Proposals and in early 2023, we granted $6.9M to team with housing partners to develop permanent affordable housing in South Whidbey and Oak Harbor. Our vision is that this affordable housing, serving hundreds of individuals and families, will achieve stability for families and strengthen our communities by helping seniors stay housed and addressing the homelessness and workforce crises in our local communities by creating housing options for working families. Everyone deserves a roof over their head and a chance for a better future.
Janet St Clair, Island County Commissioner
Email: j.stclair@islandcountywa.gov
Message from Island County Commissioner, Melanie Bacon
Every Monday at 3 pm, I hold an informal gathering at the Wifire Community Space in Freeland that I call “Monday Tea with Melanie”. What often happens is, people will come once to talk with me about an issue of concern with them–and then they’ll keep returning because they want to hear what others have to talk about. Last time there were about 15 people, and none of them had anything new they wanted me to address. They just like to keep up with things, and hear what’s going on at the County.
My quandary is: many of these people, including all of my most regular attendees, are conservatives. Last week, as is often the case, all three of the people who sued Janet and me over the Harbor Inn project were there. They’re very polite, and participative, and I have no qualms with them being at my weekly meeting. But they take every word I say and repeat it to others of their mind-set in an attempt to build outrage. I know this for a fact, because something I said off-the-cuff last time came back to bite at all three commissioners this week in an anonymous nasty-gram email.
When that happened, my first thought was to quit holding these weekly gatherings. Or at least to quit being so honest (and yes, sometimes snarky) when I speak with people. But neither of those is the answer. I am an elected official. My constituents have the right to know what I’m doing and why. Regardless of party politics.
I’m sharing this with you because you who are the base of the Democratic party in Island County are also my constituents (and you’re the ones who voted me into this office, for which I thank you). I would be delighted if more of you would join me at these Monday gatherings. You would bring different questions to the room. You would ask things like: “what other affordable housing projects is the County working on?” and “what are the Commissioners doing to protect critical habitats?” and “what are you doing so that in fifty years there will still be an abundance of trees and wildlife and potable water in Island County?” and “what are you doing to ensure equitable access to opportunities and services in our county?” Your questions would change the focus of the conversations. Everyone in the room would benefit from that. And since apparently what happens in that room does not stay in that room, ultimately the whole county could benefit.
Thanks for your support,
Melanie
Message from State Representative, Dave Paul
We are nearing the halfway point of the 2023 Legislative Session, and here’s a quick update on my work for our community.
My legislative proposals are progressing through the legislative process. I’ve continued to work on improving college affordability, and HB 1316 will ensure that high school students can enroll in college classes in the summer. HB 1316 was approved by the Appropriations Committee last week, and I hope to see it passed off the House Floor soon.
Addressing workforce shortages is a major legislative focus this session. HB 1058, which streamlines the process for individuals to earn their Commercial Driver’s License and for retirees to renew their CDL, passed the House unanimously on Feb. 9. It’s now waiting for a hearing in the Senate. This common-sense bill will help get more truck drivers on the road without compromising highway safety.
In addition, I’ve continued to work to help veterans receive the benefits they deserve. HB 1007 will ensure public servants who served overseas and earned an expeditionary medal receive their state retirement benefits. The bill passed the House unanimously on Feb. 1. It’s now waiting for a hearing in the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
Finally, I’m working to provide some relief to ferry commuters and riders. Energy prices spiked last summer, nearly triggering a provision that required the Transportation Commission to impose a fuel surcharge to cover increased ferry fuel costs. Thankfully, the Transportation Commission used emergency rulemaking to avoid this. The Legislature should fully fund these emergencies, and I’ve introduced HB 1833 so that the Legislature can fund shortfalls in the future before a surcharge can be implemented—and ensure ferry riders are not hit by increased fares.
As always, it’s an honor to serve as your state representative.
Dave
Message from State Representative, Clyde Shavers
Dear friends,
With the beginning of week 6 of legislative session, we continue to work as hard as possible! I have drafted and submitted 12 bills, offered 3 amendments, and introduced numerous budget requests that benefit our communities.
In the next few weeks, I will be fighting for funding that helps all our communities – in flood mitigation for Stanwood, improved roads and food services in Arlington, healthcare and forest protection on Whidbey, housing and homeless services in Mount Vernon, and much, much more.
Our Legislative Priorities are Being Heard
We are six weeks into the 15-week legislative session, and I am proud to say many of our priorities are being heard. Here is a quick update on where some of my priority bills stand:
House Bill 1086 provides better opportunities for our communities to partner with local service organizations. It has passed the house and is in the Senate for consideration. To watch my testimony on House BIll 1086, click here!
House Bill 1346 supports the children of military families by providing school resources and tools. It also establishes a Purple Star Award to recognize school excellence in supporting military-connected students. House BIll 1346 should be voted on by the House and sent over to the Senate Soon. Click here to watch my testimony on House Bill 1346.
I also have a number of bill which have passed committee with bipartisan support and now move to fiscal committees:
- House Bill 1384 to provide free state park access to low-income veterans.
- House Bill 1413 to allow for flexible work schedules to help with law enforcement staffing shortages.
- House Bill 1458 which will create unemployment benefits for apprentices in classroom study.
- House Bill 1499 to allow food banks to carry non-food essentials – like diapers and hygiene products.
The Senior and Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption
On February 7th, I testified in the House Finance Committee in support of HB 1560 which provides greater property tax relief to disabled veterans and senior citizens. This bill raises the eligibility income thresholds by 10 percent and adjusts the thresholds every three years – ensuring new beneficiaries while allowing formerly removed ones to rejoin.
Many disabled veterans and senior citizens face housing instability and are at risk of homelessness. 1 in 25 disabled veterans in our state are homeless or unstably housed. Homelessness among older adults in the U.S. is increasing with half of single homeless adults aged 50 and older.
Both groups have sacrificed to build the society we inherited – and I’m fighting to make sure that our senior citizens and disabled veterans don’t lose their home. I will continue to work diligently to get this bill passed this session. Click here to view my testimony.
Working Families Tax Credit
The Working Families Tax Credit is a new program that will provide payments of up to $1,200 to low-to-moderate income individuals and families. The amounts are based on income level and the number of qualifying children (if any). Help us spread the word and make sure everyone who qualifies can receive this tax credit.
This program will help us stimulate local economies and provide the financial stability Washington families need right now. To find more information in several available languages, visit WorkingFamiliesCredit.wa.gov.
Fighting for a Better, Cleaner Future: Green Hydrogen
As a young(er) legislator always envisioning a better future, I believe that harnessing green hydrogen as a source of energy is the answer to a cleaner future. By using electrical currents (from renewable sources) to separate hydrogen from oxygen in water, green hydrogen can be used as a 100% sustainable, storable, and viable form of energy. Using our existing infrastructure (i.e. pipelines, transportation networks), this technology will create profitable jobs and push our state to be energy independent and innovative.
Last week, I submitted House Bill 1768 which exempts light and power businesses using green hydrogen from the public utilities tax. This bill will encourage private-public partnership, innovation that will spur local economic development, and create less demand for other inefficient energy options.
I’m excited to see what the future holds for us!
Honored to Serve You
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to continue my life-long dedication to public service. As a veteran having attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduated from Naval Nuclear Power School, trained at a naval nuclear reactor plant, and served in the Middle East and Southeast Asia as a public affairs officer, I am now honored to serve you.
In service,
State Representative Clyde Shavers
10th Legislative District
Message from Congressman, Rick Larsen
After Roe v. Wade was overturned by the Supreme Court, putting abortion regulation in the hands of the states, many Americans were worried that right-wing anti-abortion activists would go further and attempt to try to ban abortion nationwide.
Those worries are well-founded.
Here is what you need to know: 23 years ago, the FDA approved mifepristone as a safe and effective medication to end a pregnancy.
Despite millions of Americans successfully using mifepristone, a federal judge in Texas could issue a nationwide injunction blocking the FDA’s approval as soon as tomorrow.
The FDA is calling it “extraordinary and unprecedented”. I call it outrageous and dangerous.
More than half of all abortions in America are done through medication abortion — the “abortion pill” — and it is possible that this ruling will immediately ban the use of this medication nationwide, before there has even been a trial to determine the facts, much less appeals to higher courts.
If this right-wing judge blocks access to abortion nationwide, Congress must act. If Congress cannot act, we need to elect pro-choice champions nationwide. Chip in now to help build the movement to elect a pro-choice majority in the US House.
We do not have a moment to lose.
Rick
News from the WA State Democratic Party
While the Oak Harbor Public Schools’ $121 million bond measure failed to get a supermajority vote in the Feb 14th special election, there were several other school funding measures passed in Marysville, Tri-Cities, Gig Harbor and several other districts across Washington State. Civic engagement and voting in local elections are the building blocks for our democracy! We have collectively failed our children in Oak Harbor, but let this be our reminder to stay informed, stay engaged and resolve to work harder to ensure that every democrat turns in each and every ballot that makes it to their mailbox over the next two years!
In other news, the Washington State Legislature has been super busy.
The Senate passed Senate Bill 5082 to finally repeal the insidious advisory votes passed by “anti tax crusader” and conservative gadfly Tim Eyman. Instead of advisory votes, the Senate-approved bill would require the creation of a public website with summaries of government spending and require statements be published online with information about legislation that impacts state revenue. Thanks to our friends at the Northwest Progressive Institute (nwprogressive.org) who have been working on this cause for years. The bill goes to the House for consideration next.
Also Senate Bill 5486 and House Bill 1473 are both heading to the appropriate Senate and House committees for further consideration. These parallel bills invest in Washington families and create a more fair tax system by enacting a narrowly tailored property tax on extreme wealth derived from the ownership of stocks, bonds, and other financial intangible property.
Your State Committee Representatives
– Fe Mischo and Albert Ondo
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