Governor Bob Ferguson’s statement on the Governor’s Emergency Powers
“Despite lawmakers on both sides of the aisle engaging in good faith negotiation, it’s clear that the Legislature will not adopt bipartisan legislation to place reasonable limits on the Governor’s emergency powers.
“Reform is necessary to protect Washingtonians in times of emergency while ensuring an appropriate balance between the branches of government.
“Consequently, I commit to the people of Washington and the Legislature that I will take the following actions in the event of an emergency when the continuity of government has not been disrupted:
“If I declare a state of emergency that lasts longer than 60 days while the Legislature is not in session, I will terminate that emergency, or any order arising from it, if three leaders of the four legislative caucuses write to me requesting that action.
“Moreover, if a state of emergency has been in place longer than 120 days while the Legislature is not in session, I will call a special session to give the Legislature the opportunity to terminate an emergency order or declaration.
“This policy will remain in effect as long as I am Governor unless the Legislature adopts bipartisan legislation amending these emergency powers.”
Senator Keith Wagoner (R-Sedro Wooley) shared this statement in response:
“I welcome the Governor’s proactive approach; it demonstrates his sincere understanding of the issue of unchecked governors’ emergency powers and the important role the legislature plays. This is a win for Washington’s citizens but, it is a perishable win. The legislature needs to codify similar provisions into law.”
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