Franklin Connection

• Governor's virus proclamations extended indefinitely January 14, 2021
  OLYMPIA – Following a state Senate vote, Gov. Jay Inslee’s coronavirus-related orders will remain intact indefinitely. Senate Concurrent Resolution 8402 passed the Senate along a partyline vote, 28-19, with the House concurring. Two Senators, both Democrats, were absent. Sen. Shelly Short, R-Addy, attempted to sunset the emergency on Jan. 27, but Democrats opposed the amendment. […]
• Parents, educators worry Inslee schools budget falls short January 14, 2021
  OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee’s proposed budget for the upcoming biennium calls for $570 million in new education spending, but many parents and educators have expressed frustration that the governor’s budget does not adequately fund additional transportation and special education needs fueled by COVID-19. Of the education spending, the governor proposed $400 million for schools […]
• Use of police force elicits emotional testimony January 14, 2021
  OLYMPIA — A proposed ban on the use of chokeholds, unleashed K-9 dogs and other use-of-force tactics by law enforcement is just the beginning of an effort by several state lawmakers to address alleged police violence. If passed, House Bill 1054 would ban the use of tear gas on civilians, shooting at or pursuing a […]
• Newhouse votes to impeach Trump January 13, 2021
  WASHINGTON, D.C. — Eastern Washington's two Republican congressional representatives were on opposite sides of the House vote to impreach President Donald Trump for a second time. Fourth Congressional District Rep. Dan Newhouse of Sunnyside joined Democrats in voting for impreachment of the president on grounds of so-called sedition. Newhouse represents Central Washington, including...
• Didier concerned by governor's newest plan January 13, 2021
  PASCO — Franklin County Commission Chairman Clint Didier is concerned about the governor's attempt to strip health care authority away from local agencies. During the commission meeting Tuesday morning, Didier called on the county to reject Gov. Jay Inslee's new "Healthy Washington-Roadmap to Reopening" plan. His call came during a presentation by Zak Kennedy of […]