Home | About Matt | News & Media | Email Updates | The Ledger | Contact
Dear Friends,
The election-year restrictions for communication have been lifted, so I am pleased to provide you with an e-mail update from the Legislature.
I spent much of last week in Olympia – first for a scheduled assembly of legislative committees that was held Wednesday through Friday – and then Saturday for a one-day special session to take early action on reducing a $1.1 billion budget deficit.
Less than one month remains before the Legislature will convene Jan. 10 for a scheduled 105-days session. While some believe the coming session may be the most difficult in recent years, I look at it as an opportunity to reform the role and functions of state government. For too long, state government has tried to do far more than it should, spending far more than taxpayers could afford, and has extended its heavy arm of excessive regulations into too many lives. It’s time to rein in state government, and limit its role and spending.
As we look ahead, my commitment remains to provide a strong, conservative, reasoned voice for the people I serve, with an emphasis on growing jobs and helping small businesses throughout the 4th Legislative District.
I appreciate your input as we move forward together.
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
State budget crisis requires immediate attention
During a special session on Saturday, Dec. 11, I voted for a course correction that reduces the current-year budget by $588 million and attempts to make a dent in the state’s multi-billion deficit. I invite you to read more about our budget actions in my news release. Click here to read it.
Shea elected assistant floor leader
I am honored to be serving in a leadership role in the House Republican Caucus. Last month, House Republicans elected me to serve as assistant floor leader. In that capacity, I will be working with Republican Floor Leader Rep. Charles Ross of Naches to manage legislation and debate on the floor of the House, and will represent Republicans in negotiations with the majority party floor leaders. I will also be providing input during caucus leadership meetings, including legislative strategy and policy decisions. Click here to read more about my new leadership role.
Pages and interns needed for legislative session
Applications are being accepted for the Legislature’s page and intern programs. Pages are between the ages of 14 and 16 and help with various chores around the House, including delivering messages to lawmakers in their offices and in the House chambers. Internships are available for college and university students who work as staff members for lawmakers. If you are interested in becoming involved in these programs, contact my office. For more information and applications for the page and intern programs, click here.
Sincerely,
Matt Shea