Last week, the Senate released our bipartisan 2017 capital budget. This budget is a big win for Spokane. I am proud we were able to secure funding for the following projects and improvements in the 3rd Legislative District and greater Spokane area:

  • Spokane Family Justice Center at the YWCA.
  • East Central Community Center dental clinic
  • Renovations to the south wing of Spokane Community College’s main building.
  • Honor Point Aerospace Museum
  • Peaceful Valley Spokane River boat access
  • EWU Interdisciplinary Science building

In addition to these important projects, the capital budget invests $1.1 billion in school construction and public education investments throughout the state, including $7.4 million to support the remodel work at Franklin Elementary.

The House capital budget will be released soon and I know my 3rd LD seatmates will have many of these same projects and more in the House budget proposal.

The next step will be to negotiate between the House and Senate capital budgets. I will work hard to ensure funding for these Spokane projects remain in the budget as we move toward an agreement on this year’s final capital budget.

Advocacy Matters

The Senate Republican majority’s operating budget released two weeks ago initially included a damaging provision that would exclude at-risk three year olds from the state’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP). Early learning programs, like ECEAP, provide services that are proven to change the trajectory of a child’s life.

At the public hearing on the budget, stakeholders and concerned citizens presented data and personal stories showing how this cut would be detrimental to kids, families and the state as a whole. Because of their hard work and passion, the cut was reversed.

I thought the most persuasive testimony came from Shauniece Quins who shared how ECEAP helped her and her son get back on their feet. You can watch her moving testimony by clicking here.

Foreign Donor Legislation in the News

Earlier this session, I introduced legislation to deter foreign influence in our elections. Senate Bill 5570 would require corporations donating to campaigns in Washington state to certify that their ownership is comprised of less than 50 percent foreign nationals.

While I am disappointed this bill is not moving forward this session, I am glad to see this issue is gaining national attention. Earlier this month, Stateline news of the Pew Charitable Trust reported on my efforts to tackle this problem. You can read the article by clicking here.

Thanks Cassandra!

This week, we bid farewell to our legislative intern, Cassandra Barret, who is heading back to Eastern Washington University to finish her degree.

Cassandra was a key member of Team Billig. Every day, she inspired us with her positive attitude and can-do spirit. Cassandra listened to and cared about every constituent she worked with. Thank you for all of your hard work, Cassandra! We couldn’t have done it without you!

Keep in Touch

I value your input as we work to improve opportunity and prosperity in Spokane and our state. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have a comment, idea or questions.

You can reach me by email andy.billig@leg.wa.gov or by phone at 360-786-7604.

Onward!

Andy