May 1, 2020
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Earlier this afternoon, Governor Inslee extended his previous “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order through May 31 and discussed his phased-in approach to reopen the state economy. To read his proclamation, click here and to view the press briefing, click here. The governor also participated in an extended interview to answer questions about the COVID-19 pandemic, which you can view here on TVW’s Inside Olympia. While the economic slowdown resulting from today’s order is a significant cause of concern, I am thankful that the governor released a plan to ease restrictions on things like golfing, hunting, fishing, and other forms of outdoor recreation. The state parks will be reopening on May 5 for day-use activities and many Department of Natural Resources sites will be reopening as well. To view the recent press briefing with the governor and Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, click here. The governor also eased some restrictions on residential construction.
 This map shows confirmed cases by COVID-19 in our state by county as of April 29.
Updated information on easing of statewide orders
We must get our economy restarted
While the reopening of outdoor recreation, residential construction, and elective surgeries is certainly a positive step forward, I continue to have major concerns about the long-term economic impact of the extended shutdown. Washington state’s $54 billion operating budget is largely dependent upon the sales tax and business and occupation (B&O) tax as key revenue sources. Many families, businesses, and service providers are struggling greatly and the state will likely be significantly impacted in the years ahead. As soon as it is safe to do so, my hope is that the governor will be in a position to authorize many more steps forward. I discussed the state and federal assistance efforts, economic outlook, and the timing of a possible special session during recent interviews. You can click the links to listen to my interviews with KPQ’s The Agenda show, KOHO and KOZI. I also shared my thoughts recently with The Wenatchee World.
Helpful websites and phone numbers
There are many helpful and informative websites with useful information on the COVID-19 virus and government resources to help those in need of assistance.
The Department of Health recently created a COVID-19 daily bulletin. To sign up for the daily bulletin, go here.
Here are helpful phone numbers to reach various state agencies if you need assistance related to the COVID-19 outbreak:
- Department of Health: 1-800-525-0127
- Department of Revenue: 360-705-6705 (tax extensions and waiver requests)
- Department of Labor and Industries: 360-902-5800
Please complete your 2020 census information
I encourage everyone to take part in the 2020 census. Every 10 years, the federal government conducts a national census. In fact, Article I, Section II of the U.S. Constitution calls for a census to be taken every decade, in a year ending with zero. This nationwide project involving all Americans has taken place since 1790, just three years after the Constitution was written by our Founding Fathers. The census collects important information for communities across our state. It helps the federal government make funding determinations for more than 100 programs, from Medicaid, to transportation, to education funding, and more. If we are undercounted, the consequences can be serious – such as fewer resources and a dramatic change in political representation – and we’ll have to live with those results for the next decade.
Not completing census could impact our region
Another key reason why the census matters involves the state Legislature. The number of people in central or eastern Washington who take part in this year’s census will have an impact on the number of legislative districts in our part of the state. Of Washington’s 49 legislative districts, 11 are located east of the Cascades. If western Washington districts show a greater response to the census during the next legislative redistricting process – which balances each district by reported population – some of the eastern Washington districts will need to reach into western Washington to balance their populations. The census also determines the number of representatives each state has in Congress, which can make a difference when it comes to issues important to Washingtonians.
 This map shows the census household return rate by state legislative districts.
Taking the census is quick and easy
I encourage everyone to participate in the 2020 census. You can do so online at 2020census.gov and it’s quick and only takes about five to ten minutes. Some residents may receive a paper census form to fill out. The information you provide for the census will be kept private and confidential. You can learn more about how U.S. Census Bureau protects your data here.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your state senator.
Sincerely,
Brad Hawkins
State Senator
Brad Hawkins
12th Legislative District
E-mail:
brad.hawkins@leg.wa.gov
Website: senatorbradhawkins.org
107 Newhouse Building
- P.O. Box 40412 | Olympia, WA 98504-0412
(360) 786-7622 or Toll-free: (800) 562-6000
|
