Zarelli to continue as Senate Republican lead
on budget, economic development committees

December 22, 2008

OLYMPIA… Sen. Joseph Zarelli, R-Ridgefield, has been appointed to serve another two-year term as Republican leader on the Senate Ways and Means Committee, which addresses tax and spending matters that include development of Washington state government’s biennial operating budget.  

He also will continue as lead Republican on what is now the Senate Economic Development, Trade and Innovation Committee (formerly Economic Development, Trade and Management). 

“For someone who understands how government policies affect employers and job creation and also believes in limiting the growth of government, it’s the ideal pair of committee assignments,” said Zarelli, chosen last week by Senate Republicans to lead them on those committees. 

While the 2009 legislative session doesn’t begin until Jan. 12, Zarelli already is suggesting ways to close a gap of more than $5 billion between anticipated revenue and spending commitments that stand in the way of a balanced state operating budget for 2009-11. Earlier this month, for example, he explained how the Legislature might narrow that gap significantly through spending reductions which could be approved during the first week of the session. (click here for details)

“Understandably, the budget process can get emotional at times – and unfortunately, that can lead to spending decisions which don’t work out over the long run,” Zarelli explained. “I’ve tried to bring a ‘just the facts’ approach to our work on the budget and am honored my colleagues want me to continue with that.” 

Zarelli also was chosen to another two years on the Senate Rules Committee, a powerful group which acts as gatekeeper for legislation that is ready for a vote by the full Senate. 

As lead Republican on the budget committee Zarelli also retains his membership on the state Economic Revenue and Forecast Council. Each quarter the council adopts a state revenue forecast that can factor heavily into budget negotiations and adjustments.

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For more information contact Eric Campbell
at (360) 786-7503 or campbell.eric@leg.wa.gov