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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
It is officially spring! The rain is beginning to subside, and the sun is becoming a more permanent presence in our days. It is a welcome change. And now that some of the restrictions have been lifted on our outdoor recreational activities, including the opening of most of our state parks, I hope you and your family have the opportunity to get out of the house, get some fresh air, and enjoy this great state we are fortunate to call home.
I'm heading into an election-year cycle which means my legislative communications will be put under what's known as an election-year freeze beginning Monday, May 11. This freeze on my communications will lift once Secretary of State Kim Wyman certifies the election at the end of November.
It is important to note that the freeze does not restrict me from responding to your emails, phone calls and messages. I am also not restricted from having in-person meetings with you, so please continue to reach out to me as you normally would.
2020 Legislative Session Review
Even though our focus these days circles around COVID-19, it is important for me to still keep you updated on everything that takes place under the dome in Olympia during session. If you have not already received your 2020 Legislative Session Review newsletter, it should be hitting your mailbox anytime.
You can also read the digital version by clicking here.
COVID-19 updates, information, and resources
I want to ensure you have the resources and information you need surrounding COVID-19. I know frustration levels remain high.
I will continue to do all I can to help you navigate through the maze of the governor's Safe Start Washington, four-phased plan. You can get a comprehensive breakdown and my thoughts on his plan here.
My caucus has also put together a website with all the information you need on COVID-19. Even though this page was setup by the House Republicans, it is not a partisan page. Please bookmark this page for all the latest information and resources.
It is important that you know my colleagues and I are doing everything we can to safely open our state. I know our actions are not always seen or known, but please know we are doing all we can.
We have introduced the Legislative Republicans' Safe Economic Restart Plan; lawsuits have been filed against the constitutionality of the governor's actions under the umbrella of his state of emergency orders; and we have also sent over a dozen letters to the governor in our attempts to change or alter his Stay Home, Stay Healthy restrictions.
I know many of you have had questions about the governor's emergency orders and what the Legislature's role, or lack thereof, has been. I hope these links are helpful and help answer some of your questions.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to the governor's emergency powers during this challenging time.
- What is the Legislature's role?
As always, you can contact my office with any questions, concerns, or further information. I am here to help in any way I can.
It is an honor to serve you.
In Service,
Andrew Barkis
