Benton County Democrats

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8th LD Legislative Report, October 31, 2024

Posted on October 31, 2024

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

Oct. 31, 2024

Committed to expanding broadband access for all

Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick

I was honored to speak at the Washington Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisers (WATOA) annual conference in Kennewick, Washington in mid-October. WATOA is a professional organization dedicated to serving citizens through developing, regulating, and administrating cable television and telecommunications systems.

The organization aims to share vital information on cable and telecommunications issues impacting local governments, enhance the administration of cable TV franchises, provide technical assistance to members, foster open discussions on telecommunications policies, and collaborate with other professional organizations to improve public services. WATOA members are deeply engaged in shaping the state and federal telecommunications policy, making my invitation to speak particularly meaningful.

In my speech, I addressed the historical impacts of broadband funding, environmental considerations, the urgent need to bridge the digital divide, and the importance of digital equity. I also highlighted the role of public-private partnerships and outlined my preparations for the upcoming 2025 session.

During the 2023 session, Senators Torres, Dozier, King, and I sponsored SB 5577, a crucial piece of legislation that unfortunately did not receive the attention it deserved. We plan to reintroduce it in 2024, as it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prepare Washington for significant federal broadband investments.

I am committed to reintroducing SB 5577, viewing this effort as a legislative initiative and a promise to my constituents. Regardless of their background or location, every resident deserves to thrive in a connected and safe world. It’s also important we upgrade our emergency 911 response in the Benton and Franklin counties.

Together, we can transform our communities, empower our citizens, and build a stronger, more resilient Washington State. I believe that through collaboration, we can achieve these goals in the 2025 session.

Connecting with families

As your state lawmaker, October has been a meaningful month dedicated to connecting with constituents and key community stakeholders, particularly those providing services and support for children with disabilities.

On October 21, I participated in the Voices for Disability Advocacy Service Providers Tour, including a Spectrum Studios visit. This organization is committed to offering employment, on-the-job training, and growth opportunities for young adults on the autism spectrum. Witnessing the incredible work and meeting some of the young people at Spectrum was genuinely inspiring.

The day continued with a tour of the Goodwill facility in Kennewick and visits to the Columbia Ability Alliance (CAA) and the Children’s Development Center. The CAA champions empowerment and inclusivity, supporting individuals with unique abilities and life challenges. Meeting the dedicated staff and youth who benefit from their essential work was a pleasure.

At the Children’s Development Center, I learned how they empower families by preparing infants and toddlers with special needs through early intervention services, education, and therapeutic support. My tour included visits to various classrooms and interactions with staff committed to this vital mission.

As the lead Republican on the Senate Human Services Committee, these experiences deepened my understanding of the needs of our disabled youth, which will inform better legislation and oversight during the 2025 session.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who hosted us and guided us through their facilities. It was a genuine pleasure to be part of this journey.

DCYF Secretary declines reappointment

Washington State Senator Matt Boehnke, R-Kennewick

Earlier this month, Secretary Ross Hunter of the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) announced that he will not seek reappointment after seven years in leadership.

This decision comes at a critical time, as his tenure has been marked by misalignments and missteps in the state’s child welfare and juvenile rehabilitation efforts.

Notably, a few years ago, Secretary Hunter directed his agency to cease accepting child abandonment referrals from hospitals. This move strained the medical system, hindering the ability to discharge youth in psychiatric crises to more appropriate care settings.

In July, he faced backlash for suspending new admissions at two overcrowded juvenile detention centers, including Green Hill School in Chehalis. This decision arose amidst high demand and rising violence against staff. Ultimately, he reversed this suspension due to a court order.

As we look toward new leadership, there lies an opportunity to refocus on the safety of our children and the well-being of the workforce within the child welfare system and juvenile rehabilitation.

Moving forward, it is essential to implement strategic planning that safeguards our youth and strengthens DCYF, ensuring that past mistakes are not repeated. The appointment of a new secretary presents a valuable chance to reflect on the lessons learned over the past seven years and to foster a brighter future for the department.

Engaging with workforce leaders in Benton Franklin

Wrapping up a busy October, I attended the Benton Franklin Workforce Legislative Board Council for the 8th and 15th legislative districts. Our meeting took place at the WorkSource Columbia Basin facility, where we gained valuable insights into the crucial role of the Local Workforce Board, as well as an overview of the Economic Security for All (EcSA) and the Career Resource Fund (CRF).

Washington’s Economic Security for All (EcSA) program aims to reduce poverty by helping low-income families access essential benefits and services. The CRF encompasses initiatives like the EcSA Career Accelerator Incentives Fund and the EcSA Business Support and Subsidized Training Fund, designed to address the racial, economic, and social disparities that have emerged from the War on Drugs.

Throughout the day, we discussed the pressing workforce needs of employers and heard inspiring success stories from program participants. Our visit concluded at Taxes D & Notary, LLC, where we learned about additional success stories, growth opportunities, and the challenges facing our workforce community.

This event provided a unique opportunity to connect with key stakeholders, witness the positive changes in our communities, and understand the vital services that help individuals secure sustainable employment.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the participants for helping me better comprehend how our state funding is allocated, particularly regarding the EcSA and CRF funds.

Big Tech’s investments in nuclear energy, a turning point for Washington

As Washington stands at a critical juncture in shaping its energy future, adopting sensible, forward-thinking solutions cannot be overstated. We need reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound energy sources, and we must acknowledge the growing support for advanced nuclear technologies, particularly in the Tri-Cities. Unfortunately, the majority party have largely remained silent on promoting this vital technology, and it’s crucial to ensure that those outside Olympia are aware of this oversight.

Our focus must remain on transitioning to clean, innovative energy solutions while reinforcing our electric grid. Local initiatives, such as harnessing hydropower in irrigation canals and promoting advanced nuclear technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs), are central to this mission. As a strong advocate for advanced nuclear technologies, I believe Washington should actively support and incentivize the manufacturing and development of nuclear power, especially SMRs, to achieve a cleaner and more efficient energy future.

Encouragingly, major tech companies are starting to pay attention. Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have announced significant investments in nuclear power. A recent Wall Street Journal article highlighted that Microsoft’s emissions increased by 40% over three years ending in June 2023, while Google’s emissions rose nearly 50% over four years through December 2023. The surge in energy demand from these tech giants has prompted them to explore alternative energy sources beyond wind and solar, with SMRs emerging as one of the most efficient and cost-effective options.

Despite years of discussion around SMRs, the active involvement of these tech companies could signal the watershed moment we’ve been waiting for in our journey toward decarbonization. We must elevate the promotion of nuclear energy solutions to ensure they are embraced as a key component of our energy strategy.

This recent announcement reflects our previous efforts and the hard work of our team, bringing us closer to a significant commitment to nuclear energy.

Sen. Boehnke November Calendar

Nov. 4 | 8th Legislator Building Tour

Nov. 6 | Green Hill Site Visit

Nov. 7 | Visit Tri-Cities 55th Annual Meeting & Tradeshow

Nov. 13-15 | NCSL/NLWG meeting Baltimore, MD

Nov. 15 | Manufacturing Council – R&D Tax Policy Subcommittee

Nov. 19 | Supply Chain Caucus Tour in 8th with Port of Benton

Nov. 20 | Farm Bureau 2024 Annual Meeting Banquet & Auction

Nov. 28 | Happy Thanksgiving

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Vaccination is described as safe, effective, and the best protection available against respiratory viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV, according to the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). ... See MoreSee Less

Washington state releases new vaccine recommendations ahead of flu season

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The state of Washington announced its vaccine recommendations for the 2025-26 respiratory virus season.
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If we're reading this correctly, Trump has just broken the law by advising the public to buy Lilly stock, which is a violation of the STOCK Act - short for the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act, the STOCK Act is a 2012 law that aims to prevent insider trading among members of Congress, government officials, and their staff.🚨INVESTMENT ALERT🚨Eli Lilly is set to build a $5,000,000,000 manufacturing plant in Virginia! ... See MoreSee Less

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2 weeks ago

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What’s different now is the looming threat of entire research programs being eliminated, not just reduced.www.tricitiesbusinessnews.com/articles/our-view-sept-2025?fbclid=IwY2xjawM3oFVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHo... ... See MoreSee Less

We can’t afford to lose this much talent. PNNL layoffs put scientific progress at risk

www.tricitiesbusinessnews.com

The real risk of PNNL layoffs is brain drain on a national scale.
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For the first time since 2021, there are more unemployed job-seekers than available openings. ... See MoreSee Less

Trump’s Economy Is Finally Here—and It’s Even Worse Than You Imagined

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Layoffs are spreading and unemployment is rising—and one kind of worker is being hit the hardest.
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Some good news to report this morning, but we wish Rep. Dan Newhouse would step up and work with his WA state Dem colleagues to challenge the potential shut down of Hanford's VIT plant. ... See MoreSee Less

Representatives Newhouse and Schrier push for Washington conservation bill to aid farmers

www.nbcrightnow.com

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08) and Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA-04) introduced a bipartisan bill to enhance conservation efforts in Washington state.
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Party Calendar

October 2025

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
2
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 2, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

•
3
  • Indivisible Tricities - First Fridays Happy Hour

    Indivisible Tricities - First Fridays Happy Hour

    October 3, 2025  4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
    Moonshot Brewing 8804 W. Victoria Ave Kennewick, WA

    We are going to start a social every first Friday of the month and BIG thanks to Moonshot Brewing who has agreed to let us meet there. Join us on Friday, Sept 5th, 4-6pm. Let’s come together and have some fun! Hope to see you there!

    See more details

•
4
5
6
7
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 7, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council

    Richland City Council

    October 7, 2025  7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
8
9
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 9, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

  • MiniVan Training: Democrats University

    MiniVan Training: Democrats University

    October 9, 2025  5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
    https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/JAmvKeUER7yEYZtEgU2dBQ#/registration

    Information you provide when registering will be shared with the account owner and host and can be used and shared by them in accordance with their Terms and Privacy Policy.

    See more details

• •
10
  • Tri-City Democrats Meeting/Potluck

    Tri-City Democrats Meeting/Potluck

    October 10, 2025  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    For current location please visit https://www.facebook.com/TriCityDems/

    See more details

•
11
12
13
  • Benton County Executive Board

    Benton County Executive Board

    October 13, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Meeting details will be provided over email from the Benton County Democrats Chair.

    See more details

•
14
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 14, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Kennewick City Council Workshop

    Kennewick City Council Workshop

    October 14, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

    See more details

• •
15
16
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 16, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

•
17
18
  • NO KINGS Zillah Washington

    NO KINGS Zillah Washington

    October 18, 2025  10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    1st Avenue & Vintage Valley Parkway Zillah, WA 98953

    **In Zillah, we don’t put up with would-be kings. Come out and let your neighbors know they aren’t alone.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us.

    A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Tri-Cities WA

    NO KINGS Tri-Cities WA

    October 18, 2025  11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Columbia Center Blvd 1321 N Columbia Center Blvd Kennewick, WA 99336

    Keep your eye out for the perfect costume because this year’s HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser will take place on Saturday, October 25, at 6pm at the Pasco Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center. Costumes are encouraged at this Halloween Bash celebrating the amazing work that B5 does.

    Guests will hear an update from Executive Director Theresa Roosendaal, and hear two stories of B5 students who are thriving here in the Tri-Cities. There will be auctions, games, a costume contest, and an opportunity to win a two-year lease for a 2025 Cadillac CT4 generously donated by McCurley Cadillac! 

    You can purchase tickets at here or contact Larissa at 509-551-1643 or at larissa.knopp@thriveatb5.org.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Walla Walla

    NO KINGS Walla Walla

    October 18, 2025  12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    Walla Walla County Superior 315 W Main St Walla Walla, WA 99362

    In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us.

    A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.

    See more details

• • •
19
20
21
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 21, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council

    Richland City Council

    October 21, 2025  7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
22
23
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 23, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

  • BCDCC General Public Meeting

    BCDCC General Public Meeting

    October 23, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Meeting details will be provided over email from the Benton County Democrats Chair.

    See more details

• •
24
25
  • HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser

    HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser

    October 25, 2025  6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    Red Lion Hotel Pasco Airport & Conference Center 2525 N 20th Ave, Pasco, WA 99301

    Keep your eye out for the perfect costume because this year’s HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser will take place on Saturday, October 25, at 6pm at the Pasco Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center. Costumes are encouraged at this Halloween Bash celebrating the amazing work that B5 does.

    Guests will hear an update from Executive Director Theresa Roosendaal, and hear two stories of B5 students who are thriving here in the Tri-Cities. There will be auctions, games, a costume contest, and an opportunity to win a two-year lease for a 2025 Cadillac CT4 generously donated by McCurley Cadillac! 

    You can purchase tickets at here or contact Larissa at 509-551-1643 or at larissa.knopp@thriveatb5.org.

    See more details

•
26
27
28
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 28, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council Workshop

    Richland City Council Workshop

    October 28, 2025  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
29
30
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 30, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

•
31
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