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Smith takes first week of Legislature in stride
Rep. Norma Smith, appointed
unanimously to the Legislature the week before the 2008 session,
spent her first week learning about the status
of issues around the state and connecting with colleagues and staff. She
also took her first two votes as 10th District state representative.
"It was rewarding
that the first two votes I took were in support of our veterans and
members of the military," said Smith, R-Clinton. "Honoring those who
serve our country is something I am proud to do."
Smith said that getting up
to speed on bills from last session and all of the new legislation has
kept her busy. So busy, she said, she hasn't had time to arrange her
office.
"It's clear we have a lot
of work to do, but my colleagues in both parties have been very helpful
with getting me up to speed on where bills are in the process and what
ideas are being considered," Smith said. "I am particularly
impressed with the non-partisan staff. They are incredibly professional and
knowledgeable. Their advice has been invaluable."
Crafting good policies
that serve the citizens, not political parties, is the task of the
Legislature, Smith added.
Smith was appointed to
serve on the House Transportation; Capital Budget and Insurance,
Financial Services and Consumer Protection committees this year.
Attending the multiple committee meetings each week is part of her, and
every other legislator's, full schedule.
"My first week was filled with
reports from state agencies on
the status of transportation projects, photos of the flood damage in
Chehalis, proposals to deal with the
sub-prime lending crisis, along with public testimony on all the bills. It's
educational and overwhelming all at once, but I feel better prepared to
cast votes that ensure we're moving our state in the right direction on
these and the other challenges we face," Smith said.
Smith, along with her
House seatmate Rep. Barbara Bailey, also met with Transportation
Secretary Paula Hammond and local chamber members during the first week
of the session. The discussion centered around finding solutions to the
ferry crisis on the Keystone to Port Townsend route.
"I needed to get a handle
on the reality of the situation from those negatively impacted, the transportation agency
perspective, and hear from local businesses on their needs
and expectations," Smith said. "We can't discuss solutions without a
full picture. This will help me advocate on behalf of the district in a
way that stresses our needs and priorities. We're going to get there,
but the talk must turn to action this session."
Smith encourages
constituents to contact her with questions or comments. She can be
reached at (360) 786-7884 or via email at
smith.norma@leg.wa.gov. The
2008 legislative session began Jan. 14 and is slated to adjourn March
13.
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For more information, contact:
Bobbi Cussins, Public Information Officer:
(360) 786-7252
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