As we approach completion of our work in the Legislature on April 27, we face the daunting task of addressing a looming budget shortfall. Tax proposals must pass to fill a budget hole of $12 billion to $20 billion.

There will be a rough-and-tumble debate, and in the end, there will be little common ground between the two caucuses. It is unlikely that a more moderate spending proposal will come from this Legislature.

To be recognized in this industry, by my fellow sojourners, those who love and live the land, following her leading to truths revealed through perpetual surprises, the land whose fickle seasons meld and hone our characters into to forged steel.

Washington State Representative Mary Dye (R-Pomeroy) received the Distinguished Leader Award for her outstanding leadership, direction, advocacy and support of invasive species policy. Dye worked to elevate invasive species prevention and management at the state, regional and local levels. She was successful in adding $3.6 million to the 2025 state budget, half of which came from the federal government for zebra and quagga mussel prevention.

WENATCHEE — Ninth District Representative Mary Dye (R-Pomeroy) received the State Representative Legislator of the Year award from the Washington Farm Bureau at its annual meeting last week in Wenatchee. 

Important news: Citizens can vote “yes” and pay less for Initiative 2117 and repeal the costly Climate Commitment Act, knowing that critical projects will be protected.