LEGISLATORS: Great job this session

Thank you, legislators, for a job well done. Thirteen intense weeks, 780 pieces of legislation, almost 300 bills signed by the governor, and way more hours put in than a full-time job. 

I can honestly say, as I watched committee hearings, heard debates on the House and Senate floors, and listened to interviews with officials about specific bills — we are blessed. 

We truly have conservative representatives in Kootenai County who contend for decency, law and order, election integrity, the protection of children, a more efficient government, and improvements in education. Our elected officials strive to preserve our God-given freedoms.

I appreciate the time you spent traveling back and forth, listening to long-winded constituents, and explaining the reasons for your “yeah” or “nay” on a particular bill. You voted your principles and stood your ground even when an issue was unpopular or was misconstrued by the media.

Many are unaware that you don’t have paid assistance or staff to follow up on emails, field phone calls, or respond immediately to a voter’s concern. Some of you still have full-time jobs. You leave your home and business duties to your spouse or coworkers while you’re serving in the legislature. And when the final gavel is struck “sine die,” your work is not done. There’s still the interim period where committees meet, communicate, and strategize for next year.

Thank you, Senators Bjerke, Hart, Okuniewicz, Toews; and Representatives Alfieri, Barbieri, Hawkins, Mendive, Price, Redman, Scott, and Wisniewski. 

Thank you for representing us well. And when next session comes around, may you be ready, again, to fight the good fight. 

JENNY HOLMES

Post Falls