Reps. Nealey and Walsh tapped for ranking positions, receive 2015 House committee assignments

John Sattgast, Broadcast Coordinator – (360) 786-7257
Reps. Nealey and Walsh tapped for ranking positions, receive 2015 House committee assignments
Rep. Terry Nealey, R-Dayton, and Rep. Maureen Walsh, R-Walla Walla, will both fill leadership positions on House committees during the 2015 legislative session. Nealey has been reappointed as the ranking Republican on the House Finance Committee and Walsh will serve as the ranking Republican on the Early Learning and Human Services Committee.
“The House Finance Committee considers issues relating to state and local taxes. The governor's tax increase proposals will likely come through this committee for consideration. So I expect there will be some lengthy and healthy debates as we decide the best way to fund state government for the next two years and beyond,” said Nealey. “As the ranking Republican on this committee, I will be serving as the first line of defense in the Legislature to protect taxpayers against unnecessary increases, as well as to bring new solutions to the table, while working to ensure tax fairness.”
In addition to Finance, Nealey will also serve on the House Technology and Economic Development Committee.
Walsh, who has served as the ranking Republican on Early Learning and Human Services for eight years, is looking forward to serving another session on the committee.
“I am so proud to continue this work on behalf of all families and children in our state. There has been tremendous support for early learning; it really is all about providing resources that help to empower young parents to be their kids' first and best teachers and cheerleaders,” said Walsh. “This committee also deals with our citizens with developmental disabilities. Everyone has figured out I have a soft spot in my heart for our citizens with disabilities and their families who love and care for them. I will continue to work for sensible solutions to address their unmet needs.”
Walsh will also serve on the House Capital Budget Committee.
The 2015 legislative session will begin Jan. 12 and will last 105 days.