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Rep. Smith appointed lead Republican on
House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee
The 10th District lawmaker will also serve as assistant ranking
Republican on House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
Rep.
Norma Smith was selected by her
colleagues to serve as the lead Republican on the
House Community
and Economic Development and Trade Committee. The 2009 legislative
session began Jan. 12.
"I'm
thrilled to take on this role for our state and the Tenth District.
Economic development at the local level will be the catalyst to moving
the state economy forward," Smith, R-Clinton, said. It is essential that
as a state we create a climate that encourages business growth and
retention, and job creation.
It is vital to the economic prosperity of the Tenth District and the
state of Washington that we increase our job base, and encourage
business entrepreneurship and innovation. I remain committed to finding
solutions to achieve this goal. We
cannot regulate our way out of the current budget deficit and rising
unemployment, but we can find ways to stimulate local business
development."
The House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee
considers issues relating to local and state economic development, small
business, business assistance and financing, tourism, and other
business-related concerns. Community development issues include
revitalizing and building self-sufficiency for low-income communities
and preserving communities with distinct cultural identities. The
committee also considers legislation addressing domestic and
international trade.
Smith will also be serving as the assistant ranking Republican on the
House Agriculture
and Natural Resources Committee, in addition to her continued role
on the House
Capital Budget Committee.
"Agriculture
remains a vital piece of Washington's economy, and I am proud to
represent the hard-working and skilled farmers of the Tenth District,”
Smith said. “I look forward
to working with the agricultural community to find creative solutions to
the issues we face. My
committee assignments for the session will allow me to represent the
district well and be a strong advocate for our constituents, local
businesses, farmers and communities.
I encourage constituents to contact me with thoughts and ideas as
we address the challenges ahead."
Smith
can be reached at her legislative office at (360) 786-7884 or via e-mail
at
smith.norma@leg.wa.gov.
The 2009 legislative session is scheduled to run 105
consecutive days.
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For more information, contact:
Bobbi Cussins, Public Information Officer: (360) 786-7252
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