Last night Governor Inslee vetoed ESB 6617, the Legislative Public Records Act. After hearing from the people of the 41st district, I believe it was the right decision.

I initially supported the bill because I believe in the positive transparency reforms it would have enacted. However, I recognize the process through which the bill came to be was flawed and did not adequately provide for public input.

I’m glad the media and Legislature were able to come to an agreement to jointly request a stay of Judge Lanese’s decision, to give all parties the time needed to sit down and find a workable solution. I look forward to an open process where all stakeholders, including the public and media, have the opportunity to share their concerns on this important piece of legislation.

For now, we can continue focusing on issues that impact the people of Washington, including efforts to reduce gun violence, improve women’s health, lower property taxes, increase affordable housing, and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.