Biography

Elective Office: Senate, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, current term expires in January 2013.

Leadership: Majority Caucus Vice Chair, 2003; Republican Caucus Vice Chair, 2001-02.

2011-12 Standing Committees: Ranking Republican Member, Ways & Means; Member, Rules; Economic Development, Trade and Innovation.

Special Committees: Economic & Revenue Forecast Council; Caseload Forecast Council; State Expenditure Limit Committee; State Actuary Appointment Committee; Pension Funding Council.

Past Standing Committees:

Occupation: President, JP Zarelli,Inc., specializing in Business Development and Risk Management services.

Military Service: Served in U.S. Navy from 1982-89.

Community Involvement: Rotary International; Clark County foster parent since 1986; Columbia River Chapter of the American Society for Industrial Security.

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Awards, Honors & Recognition: Association of Washington Business "Cornerstone" award, 2007; 2006 NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award; 2006 Champions of Free Enterprise Award from Associated Builders and Contractors; 2005 AWB Cornerstone Award; 2004 Washington Economic Development Association Leadership Appreciation Award; 2004 Farm Bureau Legislator of the Year; 2003 Perfect Voting Record, Washington Conservative Union; 2000 Family Honors Award for Public Policy, Families Northwest; 2004 and 2002 NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award.

Education: Clark College, AAS degree.

Personal: Joe and his wife Tani, have four daughters and two grandchildren.