Tag Archives: News Releases

The themes coming out of Olympia: more taxes and government control

Click here to view this week’s report from the legislative session.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

It’s day 96 of this year’s 105-day legislative session. By now we’ve been able to see which bills are considered priorities by the majority, and which are not.

The majority has approved several bills that can be collectively described as efforts to increase government control over more parts of our lives.Click on the video above for my report on those.

Unfortunately for the families across our state that are struggling just to get by, Democrats also are clearly determined to push a number of tax increases through this year. Keep reading for more about those.

Where we are in the session

All but one of the deadlines for taking action on bills have come and gone (the final deadline arrives April 27… because we’ll adjourn that day). Much of what we do on the “floor” of the Senate chamber from here on out will fall into one of two categories.

One category is debating and voting on budget-related bills. Those include the massive tax increases that are being hustled through the process.

The second is called “concurrence.” Suppose a bill passed by the Senate goes to the House, which also approves the bill but after making a change to it. The next step is for the bill to come back to us to see whether we “concur,” or agree, with the change made by the House.

If the vote is to concur, the bill will have received approval from both chambers, and will head to the governor for what is typically a ceremonial signing (although sometimes the signing is mandatory to put the new law into effect). If we don’t agree with the House’s change, a few other things can happen. One way or another, the differences of opinion usually get worked out.

Majority party is moving its new tax bills quickly

On Wednesday the majority Democrats in the Senate and House joined forces to introduce a another tax package — five bills costing around $18.5 BILLION in all, to go along with the other taxes they had introduced separately about a month ago.

Those five bills were rushed through public hearings later Wednesday in the Senate Ways and Means Committee. Today two came in front of our committee and were approved by the Democrat members: an expanded sales tax on services (SB 5814) and an expansion of the tax on capital-gains income (SB 5813).

The majority members also approved a version of the so-called “wealth” tax (SB 5797) that had already received a public hearing in our committee back on March 31.

When the full Senate is in session tomorrow (Saturday), I expect there will be debates and votes on these three big tax bills. Think about that for a moment: less than four full days from introduction to potentially moving out of the Senate. It’s like the majority wants to ram these tax bills through before any opposition can organize.

It’s my understanding that the House Finance Committee will take up three more big taxes tomorrow: a property-tax rate increase (House Bill 2049), an expansion of the tax on businesses (HB 2081) and a tax on automakers that sell certain electric vehicles (HB 2077, nicknamed the “Tesla tax”).

The “make the wealthy pay more” messaging we’ve heard from Democrats all session long is a farce when you consider how raising the property tax and sales tax hits almost everyone regardless of income level.

Governor calls new tax package ‘too risky’ — and he’s right

To his credit, our new governor has again stepped up and voiced his concern about what his fellow Democrats are doing. I encourage you to read his comment (linked here) first, then my response will make more sense (it’s linked here)..

Also, this newspaper editorial from Wednesday gets it right about the need for sensible lawmakers to avoid going over a cliff by following “the Legislature’s left-leaning Democratic leaders.”

Republicans certainly see the danger in the Democrats’ agenda. We also know there’s a better way to budget, in the form of the $ave Washington plan (Senate Bill 5810). Unfortunately, it will take some bravery from several members on the majority side to derail the massive and unnecessary tax increases their left-leaning leaders support — and that’s what worries me.

During a lengthy interview yesterday on KVI Radio, I spoke of how calling something a business tax is inaccurate in the sense that consumers end up shouldering the taxes and other costs imposed by government — and also, how the property-tax and sales-tax proposals are my greatest concern.

Your Input Matters

I am committed to representing your interests effectively and I welcome your feedback and suggestions. You may contact me at:

It is an honor serving you and I look forward to your continued engagement and support!

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Sen. Chris Gildon, 25th Legislative District

Rep. Gildon elected to leadership position in first term as state senator

Rep. Chris Gildon will begin his first term in the state Senate as the Deputy Floor Leader for the Republican caucus, as his peers in the Senate unanimously elected him to fill this important role.

As Deputy Floor Leader, Gildon’s duties will include organizing and managing debate in the Senate Chamber, assisting caucus leadership in the development of legislative strategy and policy, and representing Republicans in negotiations with majority party floor leaders.

“It is truly an honor to be selected Deputy Floor Leader by my peers, especially as a new member,” said Gildon, R-Puyallup.

Gildon, who is currently completing his term in the House of Representatives, was recently elected to the Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Hans Zeiger.

Gildon was also appointed to several committees that cover a wide variety of topics, including two of the same committees Zeiger served on. The four committees Gildon will cover include:

  • Human Services, Reentry and Rehabilitation, as the Ranking Republican.
  • Housing and Local Government, as the Assistant Ranking Republican.
  • Ways and Means
  • Rules

Serving on both the Ways and Means Committee as well as the Rules Committee is rare for a new legislator. However, Gildon said he is up to the task and plans to continue Zeiger’s legacy of being a calm voice of reason in the Legislature.

“I look forward to advocating for sensible, budget-sensitive, and fair policy that is in the best interest of all those I serve,” said Gildon.

The 2021 legislative session is scheduled to begin Jan. 11 and last 105 days.

Rep. Gildon’s letter to the governor calling for a regionalized restart receives widespread support

Joined by nearly 50 state lawmakers and county level officials throughout the state, Rep. Chris Gildon sent a letter to the governor calling for decentralization of some decision-making as the state begins recovering from the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order.

“We need a decentralized recovery effort,” said Gildon, R-Puyallup. “Each county is experiencing various levels of difficulties and each is equipped with a different set of resources with which to respond. A one-size-fits-all policy may have assisted with slowing the spread of the virus, but now it will only prolong emotional and economic suffering across the state if continued in the same manner.

“Each county has elected officials and competent medical staff who are capable of leading the recovery effort in their particular areas,” Gildon continued. “They are closer to the problem. They understand the resources available to wage the fight in their communities. They can also be much more responsive to the needs of their individual areas and determine which restrictions to impose or modify, which to remove, and the proper timeframe to do so.”

Rep. Gildon spent many hours reaching out to state legislators, county commissioners, and executives throughout the state to discuss his concept. Gildon sent his sign-on letter to officials on Tuesday. By the time he sent it to the governor Friday, he had received more than 45 signatures.

“The response has been remarkable,” said Gildon. “It shows counties are prepared to lead the recovery efforts in their communities, and we should allow them to do that.”

The letter to the governor concludes with a plea to allow Washington to safely get back to work.

“Governor Inslee, you have done a lot, but you simply cannot do everything. We have capable elected officials and staff ideally situated in each county to take much of this tactical level decision making off your shoulders and allow you and your staff to focus on higher level strategy. We believe it is time to let them do just that.

“After all,” said Gildon, “every business that can safely keep its doors open today will be a blessing for tomorrow!”

Governor Inslee signs Rep. Gildon’s prescription medication bill into law

A bill from Rep. Chris Gildon that will limit the maximum amount a person will pay for prescription medication at the point of sale will soon be Washington state law.

Gov. Jay Inslee signed House Bill 2464 today, in Olympia. This new law will protect patients from excess costs of prescription medications by requiring pharmacists to charge the lesser of the patient’s insurance co-pay or the cash price.

Due to the ongoing restrictions and safety measures to avoid the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Gildon did not attend the bill signing. However, he was pleased to see his bill become law.

“I’m very grateful to all the parties involved to make this a law,” said Gildon, R-Puyallup. “There are so many people in my district, and throughout the state, that struggle to stay afloat. One of the biggest strains they face is the cost of prescription medications.”

Currently, pharmacists don’t have to tell patients if the cash price is lower. This too often leads to people paying higher prices for their medications than necessary.

In some instances, the difference between the cash price and the co-pay price is significant, and it happens far too much. About one fourth of all patients end up paying more than the actual cost of the drug.

“I know this new law is just a small step in reducing the high cost of prescription drugs,” said Gildon. “However, every little bit counts, especially in these uncertain times. I’m confident this law will have a positive impact on people who struggle to pay for their medications.”

The law is expected to take effect June 10, 2020.

25th District Reps. Kelly Chambers and Chris Gildon co-sponsor House Republican tax relief plan

With last week’s state revenue forecast revealing a $2.4 billion budget surplus, House Republican budget lead, Rep. Drew Stokesbary, introduced a bill that would provide $1 billion in tax relief for Washington’s working families. Twenty-fifth District Reps. Kelly Chambers and Chris Gildon joined every member of the House Republican Caucus in signing on to the measure. They issued the following statement Monday:

“Voters in our district overwhelmingly supported $30 car tabs and have repeatedly rejected higher taxes on the ballot. While the majority party keeps coming up with excuses for not cutting taxes, we believe it is imperative to provide tax relief and lower the costs of daily living for families in the 25th District and around the state. With a $2.4 billion budget surplus, we have more than enough money to fund our state’s top priorities. Instead of asking for more, which the majority party has done time and time again, it is time we give back to taxpayers.”

House Bill 2946 would:

  • Uphold voters’ demand for $30 car tabs, while ensuring stable funding for roads and transit.
  • Eliminate the sales tax on prepared food items sold at grocery stores.
  • Eliminate the sales tax on personal necessities like feminine hygiene products, breast pumps, and diapers.

In a news release last week, Stokesbary, R-Auburn, said the following:

“House Republicans are intent on delivering $30 car tabs this session. Unfortunately, the majority party has not shown any willingness to uphold the clear will of the voters. House Bill 2946 provides a path forward to implement $30 car tabs without compromising transportation projects, while also offering meaningful sales tax relief on food and many personal necessities. I’m proud to be united with my House Republican colleagues in working to make life more affordable for all Washingtonians.”

Along with Stokesbary’s bill, House Republicans have also introduced bills to reduce the state property tax, provide a back-to-school sales tax holiday, and reaffirm the prohibition of the imposition of a local income tax.

The 2020 session is scheduled to adjourn March 12.

House unanimously passes Rep. Gildon’s prescription medication bill

A bill from Rep. Chris Gildon that would limit the maximum amount a person would pay for prescription medication at the point of sale was unanimously approved by the House today.

“I’ve spoken with so many people who are struggling to make ends meet, and a big driver of that struggle is the cost of prescription medications,” said Gildon, R-Puyallup. “This bill would provide some relief.”

House Bill 2464 seeks to protect patients from excess costs of prescription medications by requiring pharmacists to charge the lesser of the patient’s insurance co-pay or the cash price. Currently, pharmacists do not have to tell patients if the cash price is lower. This too often leads to people paying higher prices for their medications than necessary.

“Many times, the cash price is actually less than the insurance co-pay,” noted Gildon. “Big pharma really doesn’t want you to know this, but I believe it’s important for you to get the best deal possible, which is why I sponsored this bill.”

In some instances, the difference between the cash price and the co-pay price is minimal. However, in many cases, it’s significant, and it happens far too much. About 25 percent of patients pay more than the actual cost of the drug. While this bill will not solve everything, it could have a positive impact on those struggling to pay for their medications.

“Lower prescription medication prices can make a big difference for low-income families who struggle to get by but must have these medications to enjoy a better quality of life,” added Gildon. “I believe this bill would give these individuals and families at least a little help.”

House Bill 2464 now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

Rep. Gildon’s bill to hold prosecutors accountable passes unanimously out of committee

The House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee unanimously voted to advance Rep. Chris Gildon’s House Bill 2465 Wednesday. Gildon, R-Puyallup, introduced the bill as a means of increasing transparency for elected prosecutors.

“As an elected official, you can visit my website and see exactly how I’ve voted on every bill since I joined the Legislature,” said Gildon. “That same level of transparency does not exist for elected prosecutors.”

Some of Gildon’s concern about this issue stems from findings in a report titled System Failure 2: Declines, Delays and Dismissals. According to this report, the Seattle city prosecutor denied taking action on 17% of cases presented by law enforcement in 2007. That number grew to almost 50% in 2017.

While Rep. Gildon understands there may be valid reasons not to prosecute, such as lack of evidence, that high of a percentage does raise concerns.

“I understand there are several factors that contribute to a prosecutor’s decision to act on a particular case or not and I do not want to interfere with their discretion,” added Gildon. “However, I strongly believe the people of Washington have the right to know how prosecutors are conducting business so they can determine if they approve of their elected officials’ actions or not.”

This bill would require all elected prosecutors to submit an annual report stating, at minimum: the number of cases presented by law enforcement, the number of cases prosecuted, the number of cases dismissed without action, and a short narrative explanation of the prosecutors’ actions.

The bill now awaits a vote by the full House of Representatives.

The 2020 session is scheduled to run 60 days and end on March 12.

25th District lawmakers to hold town hall listening session Dec. 19 in Fife

Sen. Hans Zeiger and Reps. Kelly Chambers and Chris Gildon, all R-Puyallup, invite 25th District residents to join them Thursday, Dec. 19, for a town hall listening session at the Dacca Barn in Fife (2820 54th Ave E). The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. and adjourn at 7 p.m.

“I’m really looking forward to hosting this town hall with Reps. Gildon and Chambers,” said Zeiger. “Hearing directly from our constituents is a critical component of doing our jobs effectively as lawmakers. We’re hoping for a great turnout in advance of the upcoming legislative session.”

The 2020 session is set to begin Jan. 13 and will run for 60 consecutive days.

“Our collective goal this interim has been to meet with as many of our constituents as possible before the start of the 2020 session,” added Gildon. “Getting their feedback on the issues most important to them will allow us to focus on solutions and deliver results when we get back to the Capitol in January.”

“Whether someone in the 25th District is concerned about homelessness, affordable housing, transportation, or something else entirely, I hope they come out and make their voice heard,” said Chambers. “We want to make it clear their concerns are our concerns, and that we are here to serve them.”

For more information regarding this event, contact:

Rep. Gildon at (360) 786-7968 | Chris.Gildon@leg.wa.gov
Rep. Chambers at (360) 786-7948 | Kelly.Chambers@leg.wa.gov
Sen. Zeiger at (360) 786-7648 | Hans.Zeiger@leg.wa.gov

Chambers, Gildon issue statement on HB 1216 press conference in Fife

A press conference was held Monday at Columbia Junior High School in Fife to highlight the implementation of certain school safety provisions in House Bill 1216. The bill, which received overwhelming bipartisan support during the 2019 legislative session, is focused on making schools safer by providing resources and training surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, and community coordination efforts.

Twenty-Fifth District Reps. Kelly Chambers and Chris Gildon, both R-Puyallup, supported the bill during this year’s session and issued the following statement:

“We fully support the provisions in House Bill 1216 and are committed to doing everything we can as lawmakers to keep students, teachers, school administrators and staff safe.

“There is no doubt we need more mental health and suicide prevention resources in our schools, and the Legislature should be funding these priorities. However, we also know this is an issue that requires a holistic approach. House Republicans have offered proposals on numerous occasions to increase the number of school resource officers (SRO) in our schools. SROs are uniformed and highly trained, making them essential for responding quickly and professionally to threats. We also support efforts to construct schools with secure design principles in mind.

“Working together, there is much we can do to make our schools safer. We applaud the efforts being made through House Bill 1216, and look forward to making further progress on this issue during the 2020 session and beyond.”