Address: 117 Legislative Modular Building * PO Box 40408 * Olympia, WA 98504
Olympia Office: (360) 786-7614 * Toll Free Hotline: (800) 562-6000 * E-mail: Matt.Boehnke@leg.wa.gov
June 15, 2024
Boehnke attends Nuclear Legislative Workgroup in Chicago
A few days ago, I returned from a trip to Chicago to Co Chair the National Conference of State Legislatures, Nuclear Legislative Work Group spring meeting on July 8-9.
The purpose of these meetings is to provide legislative members with the opportunity to learn about nuclear energy and related policy activity around the country. The group brings together the nuclear energy industry, government, and nonprofit professionals to foster communication with legislators and through these efforts, NLWG members help guide NCSL policies that serve as the basis for NCSL’s advocacy before the federal government on behalf of state legislators.
NEWS | Boehnke selected to serve on the new state AI task force
On June 21, State Sen. Matt Boehnke, the Legislature’s leading expert on cybersecurity and technology, was selected to serve on a new state Attorney General task force on artificial intelligence technology.
Boehnke, R-Kennewick, will serve on the 18-person task force, which will be tasked with issuing findings, guiding principles and policy recommendations.
“Serving on this task force provides an incredible opportunity to bring the insights and experiences I have gained through my service in the military cybercommand units and representing the innovative Tri-Cities community to the forefront of state policy,” Boehnke said. “I look forward to contributing to the development of comprehensive AI guidelines that will benefit all Washingtonians.”
Boehnke meets with Pasco School District staff
Earlier in June, I met with Pasco School District Superintendent Michelle Whitney and staff at the Richard L. Lenhart Transportation Center in Pasco, Wash.
The transportation center is named after Richard Lenhart, a Pasco school bus driver who lost his life in 2021, protecting 35 students from a man who entered his bus armed with a knife.
I had the honor of presenting Ms. Lenhart, Superintendent Whitney, and her staff, and Russell Shjerven, Teamsters Local 839, with copies of ESSB 5891, passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor. The bill, known as the Richard Lenhart Act, designates trespassing on a school bus as a criminal offense, protects the safety and security of students, and maintains order on school buses.
NEWS | B-Reactor tours extended through October
I am pleased to share that Visit Tri-Cities has announced the Department of Energy (DOE) will be extending reservations for The Manhattan Project B-Reactor Tours through the end of October 2024. This extension grants visitors more time to explore this significant historical and scientific landmark.
The B-Reactor is a significant landmark in our nation’s history, and extending the tours allows us to share this legacy with a broader audience. This move underscores our commitment to preserving history and fostering an appreciation for scientific achievements.