Hundreds of active members of the Democratic organizations in Washington State devote substantial time and energy into attending party meetings, working in committees, vetting candidates, knocking on doors, making phone calls, and debating resolutions. Legislative district orgs, county orgs, and state caucuses pass resolutions and send them on to the state Democratic Central Committee, whose members include state committeemen and state committee women elected by precinct committee officers in legislative district organizations.
At meetings, like the one that was held in Pasco on April 7, 2019, the WSDCC passes resolutions which are meant to express the will of the party.
Despite the large number of resolutions passed, and the substantial effort gone into their formulation and approval, it's not clear that the contents of the resolutions are widely known or that the lawmakers pay attention. To a large extent, the resolutions end up in a black hole. Part of the problem is that the Left needs to build progressive media that they control, to get their message out. Another part of the problem is that the format of the resolutions on the state party website makes them difficult to read and copy.
With the intention of remedying that disconnect between the grassroots voice and public awareness, this article makes some suggestions about the format of resolutions. It also aggregates the various resolutions from the state party website https://www.wa-democrats.org/issues/ in an easy-to-read and easy-to-copy form.
The party and activists should make efforts to advertise the contents of these resolutions and to hold lawmakers more accountable for following them.
I suggest that the state party should stop requiring activists to prepare resolutions in PDF format and should stop requiring them to remove hyperlinks. PDF is slow to load, difficult to read, and can't easily be copy-and-pasted. They should store the resolutions as regular HTML files, which also have the advantage of being easier to produce and manipulate. Requiring activists to produce PDFs is tedious, time-consuming and inconvenient. Printed copies are needed for some purposes but should be secondary in this day and age. Resolutions should be online mainly, where they are more easily viewed, edited, and shared; having paper copies is expensive and wasteful, and it forces the writers to remove hyperlinks or place the link contents in footnotes. Also, the way the resolutions are stored on the website https://www.wa-democrats.org/issues/ forces viewers to do many mouse clicks to view a resolution. For example, to view this resolution WSDCCRES 924 190405 PASS MIL - Resolution on Military Spending you have to make an extra click: the intermediate page is unnecessary.
The state party website says:
Resolutions are displayed in their entirety. However, only the paragraphs beginning with the word "therefore" have been formally adopted by the WSDCC.But, in fact, some of the resolutions on the website omit the WHEREAS clauses. I don't know if this is because the state party staff thought they were too verbose or because they thought the contents of the WHEREASs was too controversial. I suspect the latter in the case of the resolution above about military spending, for which you can see the WHEREASs here.
Maybe we can make a resolution to to remedy these problems.
The resolutions (copied from the state party website) are sorted into the following categories. Click on a Show/Hide Category button to expand a category. Then click to see individual resolutions.
WHEREAS with rising transportation costs, it is important in terms of both local economic and local food security that local farms and ranches be able to sell their products locally;
WHEREAS current food processing regulations for slaughter houses and processing facilities including cold storage, etc for production of retail meats are designed for large corporate processing plants (4 corporations control processing of 80% of US meat) and contain requirements making it difficult financially for small local or on-farm processing facilities; and
WHEREAS at present local ranchers must take livestock over 100 miles to a USDA approved sale yard or packing plant which is not economically feasible for small numbers of livestock;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Department of Agriculture to develop new or revise existing regulations making it possible for the processing and production of meat products in smaller, local facilities that can be approved and inspected and that can sell officially inspected meat products approved for the sale at local retail businesses including restaurants - regulations that promote economic viability, retain working landscapes, as well as maintain food safety; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/16/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS industrial hemp historically was cultivated and processed in this State and useful in multiple products including rope, fabric, paper, oil, and as a rotation crop;
WHEREAS finished products containing hemp fibers and oil from the seed can include paint, solvents, plastics, dietary supplements, cosmetics, biofuel and other useful products;
WHEREAS the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) passed a resolution in 2003 urging the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy to collaboratively develop and adopt an official definition of industrial hemp, and urged Congress to statutorily distinguish between industrial hemp and marijuana and to adopt policies which would allow U.S. Farmers to grow industrial hemp; and
WHEREAS the Democratic Party urges the President, Attorney General and Congress to direct the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to differentiate between industrial hemp, low-THC oilseed and fiber varieties of Cannabis, and marijuana, and adopt a policy to allow American Farmers to once again grow industrial hemp, thereby legalizing production and its use in American manufacturing efforts, without requiring DEA licenses;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats vigorously encourages the Washington State Congressional Delegation to actively support and advance language in the 2012 Farm Bill to include industrial hemp as a legal crop; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Congressional Delegation is urged to actively support and promote the immediate addition of language allowing designation of industrial hemp in the United States Department of Agriculture Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP) as an eligible feedstock.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 006 - 120602 - PASS - AGR - Legalizing Industrial Hemp 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Columbia Basin Irrigation (CBI) project was started under President Franklin D. Roosevelt's term with the design and engineering being done;
WHEREAS the Grand Coulee Dam was built and pumps installed to pump water to supply Banks Lake for future irrigation through canals to the CBI project;
WHEREAS the total CBI project was intended to irrigate approximately 1,029,000 acres, but only 571,000 acres being supplied water to date. The first water being delivered in the early 1950s;
WHEREAS the total CBI project has created many thousands of jobs, tax dollars, and food for the world;
WHEREAS the CBI project also created many lakes used for recreational purposes and many, many varieties of wildlife;
WHEREAS the Bureau of Reclamation in the 2014-2015 is increasing the CBI project another 70,000 acres for irrigation of which a portion of this water will replace the deep wells pumping for the Odessa Aquifer, which has continued declining due to heavy withdrawal from pumping for irrigation, which would leave more water for the towns' and cities' water supply;
WHEREAS the water for the entire project was allotted from the Columbia River when the project first started, and now with new farming techniques and irrigation districts in water conservation, the amount would be less than originally thought;
WHEREAS the completion of the CBI project would mirror the existing portion of the project;
WHEREAS the CBI project could create many thousands of jobs, increase the property tax base and food products for the world, and increase other businesses related to farming; and
WHEREAS it would create additional thousands of acres for wildlife and many newly created lakes for recreational purposes; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the completion of the CBI project and urge the Governor of the State of Washington, our Democratic State and National Senators and Representatives of Washington State. 2014SC - 109 - 140621 - PASS - AGR - Columbia Basin Irrigation Project
Submitted by the Adams County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Agriculture amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Agriculture recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Agriculture at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS agriculture provides the economic and cultural foundation for the Columbia Basin's rural populations and contributes substantially to the overall economy of Eastern Washington;
WHEREAS agriculture's sensitivity to climate change stems from its dependence on irrigation water, as well as other factors involving temperature and precipitation;
WHEREAS drought in Washington state and across the West caused billions of dollars of losses in 2015, and is predicted to cost billions more in the coming years;
WHEREAS continued warming will reduce snowpack and change the timing of stream flows, causing the availability of irrigation water during peak growing periods to be unreliable at best;
WHEREAS Washington's water resources serve many competing demands in addition to agriculture;
WHEREAS the Yakima Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan (YBIP) is designed to provide a balanced approach to long-term water supply and environmental issues in the basin, more dependable water supplies to meet agricultural and municipal needs, and will significantly restore the fisheries and ecosystems of the Yakima River and its tributaries;
WHEREAS Senate Bill S. 1694, the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project Phase III Act of 2015, authorizes federal involvement in projects that improve water security for farmers through water conservation, water marketing, and more access to water stored in an existing reservoir during drought years, and also authorizes projects to restore fish passage at two federal reservoirs and to protect and restore habitat for salmon, steelhead and bull trout; and
WHEREAS the Bureau of Reclamation's statutory mandate to manage the basin's dams, hydropower facilities and irrigation infrastructure, and legal requirements to manage stream flows for tribal, fisheries and other needs requires that the federal government play an active role in a solution to the water resources problem;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Convention, thank Senator Maria Cantwell for sponsoring S. 1694 and ask our congressional delegation to approve S.1694 and to fully support the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project Phase III Act of 2015 YBIP in order to avoid future devastating economic and environmental impacts in the region. 2016SCRES - 009 - 160618 - RECPA - AGR - Yakima River Basin Water
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS our State's independent farmworkers union, Familias Unidas Por La Justicia (FUJ) does important work representing farmworkers in Skagit County; and
WHEREAS Sakuma Brothers Farms and Driscoll Berries have repeatedly treated their workers unfairly and placed obstacles in the way of fair contract negotiations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Convention, support the Familias Unidas Por La Justicia (FUJ) in its struggle to achieve a fair contract with Sakuma Brothers Farms in Skagit County; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Convention also supports the boycott of Sakuma Brothers Farms and Driscoll Berries throughout the United States.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS there have been $4 billion in cuts to the 2007 Farm Bill and,
WHEREAS the current version guts the few programs available to family farmers while continuing with megasubsidies to megafarms;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the conservation and rural development programs be restored to the 2007 Federal Farm Bill and that the above be funded by limiting commodity support subsidy payments to large agribusiness operations.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the WSDCC urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to restore the programs from the 2007 Farm Bill.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Agricultural Rural Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS Sakuma Brothers Farms, a corporation with holdings throughout the West Coast, has failed to provide a workplace which treats workers with respect and dignity;
WHEREAS Sakuma Brothers Farms has provided substandard housing for their employees;
WHEREAS Sakuma Brothers has provided benefits for H2A visa workers in terms of wages, food, and housing that they have not provided for currently existing migrant workers in an attempt to displace present workers;
WHEREAS employees have been asked to work when ill under the threat of termination;
WHEREAS Familias Unidas Por La Justicias (Families United for Justice) has tried to negotiate through mediators and face-to-face with management;
WHEREAS Sakuma Brothers has broken the accords agreed upon in good-faith three times; and
WHEREAS, work-stoppages and boycotts will not cease until a contract is agreed upon by the negotiating committee and Sakuma Brothers Farms;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports Familias Unidas Por La Justicia in their labor-related actions at Sakuma Brothers Farms; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on its members, legislative delegation, endorsed candidates and Democratic Party organizations to support the work stoppages and boycott of Sakuma Brothers Farms, Haagen-Dazs, and Driscoll's Berries until they act in good faith on negotiated demands.
Submitted by the 40th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21st, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Submitted 9/15/2013) WSDCCRES - 625 - 130921 - PASS - AGR - Support Farmworkers.docx The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS Congressman Dan Newhouse (R-WA 04) has proposed a House Resolution that would exempt animal and crop waste from the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which currently classifies these waste products as "solid waste";
WHEREAS land application of livestock manure can provide a cost-effective means to fertilize crops but research confirms that manure applications in excess of crop nutrient uptake, or when crops are not actively growing, or when followed by excessive irrigation or precipitation leads to leaching of nitrates into waterways and groundwater;
WHEREAS lagoons for manure storage that are not constructed to recognized standards further contribute to nitrate leaching into waterways and groundwater; and
WHEREAS in 2012 nitrate levels were found to be greater than the EPA standard of 10 ppm in 20% of the tested wells in the Lower Yakima Valley and the situation has not improved;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports continued regulation of animal wastes under RCRA and opposes changing this regulatory oversight;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports programs that help agriculturalists use the best available approaches to proper management of crop application, reducing leaching from storage lagoons by installing synthetic liners or using above-ground storage units, and to encourage or offer incentives to convert to an Anaerobic Digestion System; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution will be sent by WSDCC to all Washington State Members of U.S. Congress and U.S. Senators.
Submitted by the Agriculture/Rural Caucus on 4/22/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS, Sakuma Brothers Farms, a corporation with holdings throughout the West Coast, has failed to provide a workplace which treats workers with respect and dignity; and
WHEREAS, Sakuma Brothers Farms has provided substandard housing for their employees; and
WHEREAS, Sakuma Brothers has provided for H2A visa workers in terms of wages, food, and housing what they have not provided for currently existing migrant workers in an attempt to displace present workers; and
WHEREAS, employees have been asked to work when ill under the threat of termination; and
WHEREAS, Familias Unidas Por La Justicias (Families United for Justice) has tried to negotiate through mediators and face-to-face with management; and
WHEREAS, Sakuma Brothers has broken the accords agreed upon in good-faith three times; and
WHEREAS, work-stoppages and boycotts will not cease until a contract is agreed upon by the negotiating committee and Sakuma Brothers Farms; and BE IT RESOLVED, that the 40th Legislative District Democrats supports Familias Unidas Por La Justicia in their labor-related actions at Sakuma Brothers Farms; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the 40th District Democrats call on its members, legislative delegation, endorsed candidates, the Washington State Democratic Party and other Democratic Party organizations to support the work stoppages and boycott of Sakuma Brothers Farms, Haagen-Dazs, and Driscoll's Berries until the demands of Familias Unidas Por La Justicia are met.
Submitted by the 40th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21st, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Submitted 9/15/2013)
WHEREAS the 2007 Farm Bill now under consideration in Congress contains provisions for a National Animal Identification System (NAIS); and
WHEREAS the NAIS would require every farmer, hobbyist and pet owner to band, mark or implant a chip with a 15 digit ID number registered in a federal database in each animal and
WHEREAS Anyone who owns even one horse, cow, pig, sheep, chicken, pigeon, or any other livestock animal will be required to register their home, including the owner's name and other identifying information, along with the address of your farm or home, to be keyed to global positioning system (GPS) coordinates in a federal database under a 7-digit "premises ID number."; and
WHEREAS Animals that do not have an ID number cannot be bought or sold, used to obtain stud service or sent to a slaughterhouse. And;
WHEREAS Within the system, animal owners will be required to report the birth-date of each animal, including chickens, as well as the application of the animal's ID tag. Every time the animal enters or leaves the premises, this will have to be reported. When a tag is lost or replaced, this will need to be reported. If an animal dies, or goes missing, there will have to be a report. These events will have to be reported to the government within 24 hours; and
WHEREAS The costs and time associated with this program may well be beyond the reach of small farmers, and make it impractical, from an economic standpoint, for people to raise their own meat.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington Democratic Central Committee oppose the implementation of the NAIS and urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to oppose the implementation of the NAIS.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Agricultural Rural Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS country-of-origin labeling is important to U.S. and Washington farmers so that consumers may be able to identify and support local growers, and;
WHEREAS Congress has passed a country-of-origin labeling law but has not appropriated any funds for its implementation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Washington Democratic Central Committee support full funding of the Country-of-Origin Labeling Law and encourage the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support full-funding.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Agricultural Rural Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS there is a great demand for sustainabally farmed produce; and
WHEREAS there is a great need for more research into sustainable, non-toxic farming practices;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the WSDCC urge that the Washington State Legislature increase funding for Washington State University's BioAg Research Program.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Agricultural Rural Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS there have been $4 billion in cuts to the 2007 Farm Bill and,
WHEREAS the current version guts the few programs available to family farmers while continuing with megasubsidies to megafarms;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the conservation and rural development programs be restored to the 2007 Federal Farm Bill and that the above be funded by limiting commodity support subsidy payments to large agribusiness operations.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the WSDCC urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to restore the programs from the 2007 Farm Bill.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Agricultural Rural Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS the Agricultural Plank of the 2006 Platform adopted by the Washington State Democrat Party at the bi-annual convention in Yakima in June 2006 is abbreviated, addressing rural and agricultural issues only in the broadest of terms;
WHEREAS the majority of other planks of the Platform are specific, and spelled out at great length;
WHEREAS the abbreviated Agriculture Plank of the 2006 Platform was the result of procedural confusion during the deliberations of the 2006 WSDCC Platform Committee;
WHEREAS there are many pressing and urgent issues of great concern to the rural and agriculture communities and industries of Washington State;
WHEREAS member of the Agriculture and Rural Caucus (ARC) recognized the failure of the proposed 2006 Agriculture Plank to address these issues, and the negative impact such omissions would have on the electoral campaigns in the State of Washington this election season;
WHEREAS ARC members attempted to correct the omissions by introducing an amendment to the Convention body from the floor to replace the abbreviated Plank with the Agriculture Plank of the 2004 Washington Democrat Platform;
WHEREAS due to severe procedural confusion existing on the floor at that time and misunderstanding of Convention delegates of the seriousness of ARC concerns, the motion was not accepted by the body;
WHEREAS the Agriculture Plank of the 2004 Platform of the Washington State Democrats adequately addresses many of the omissions, and the majority of the 2004 Plank remains relevant for the 2006 campaign year;
WHEREAS Democratic candidates throughout rural and agriculture Washington are suffering from accusations that the Washington Democrats do not value and understand agriculture and rural issues based on readings of the abbreviated 2006 Plank;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Chair and Executive Director of WSDCC are hereby directed to place a notation at the Agriculture Plank on the WSDCC web-site page with the 2006 Platform that the 2006 Agriculture Plank is further clarified by the Agriculture Plank, and that the 2004 Plank shall be printed and/or included on the same page of the web site as the 2006 Agriculture Plank. The same notation and 2004 WSDCCRES - 118 - 060929 - PASS - AGR - Agriculture Plank Resolution text inclusion will also be placed on any printed or published hard copy of the 2006 Platform, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chair and Executive Director of WSDCC immediately forward copies of the 2004 Agriculture Plank to all 2006 Statewide and Federal Democratic candidates in the State of Washington.
Submitted to the WSDCC by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus (ARC) of the Washington State Democrat Central Committee (WSDCC) for consideration at its September 29-30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma (Date Submitted 7/31/2006). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, America has plentiful farmland that can grow food to feed the nation and much of the world; and
WHEREAS, it is in our national interest to strive for agricultural self-sufficiency; and
WHEREAS, family farms are the economic backbone of a community, a nation, and of society as a whole; and
WHEREAS, the maintenance of sustainable local agricultural ecosystems benefits our environment; and
WHEREAS, family farmers are good land stewards who manage soil fertility, pests and water resources in sustainable, holistic ways; and
WHEREAS, with the average supermarket item having been shipped 1500 miles, buying locally grown produce reduces demand for petroleum; and addresses our most significant national security issue, our food supply;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports policies that enhance American agricultural competitiveness and that help sustain local agricultural ecosystems and the preservation of family farms.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, agricultural products are the number one source of income for Washington State;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington Congressional Delegation support increased Marketing Access Program Funds (MAP) for all Washington agricultural products.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the establishment of national or state animal identification requirements are detrimental to individual ownership and raising of livestock; and
WHEREAS, HB 1151 addresses this issue by exempting livestock growers from state animal identification programs without interfering with existing animal disease control programs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that all the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) recommend that our Washington State delegation members support the passage of HB1151.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. (Date
Submitted 1/27/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "PASS" on this resolution at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution "WITH MINOR HOUSEKEEPING CHANGES" by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS, our marine waters and natural resources are managed for public benefit by state and federal agencies under various laws and regulations; and
WHEREAS, we have an obligation under the public trust doctrine to ensure that sustainable use preserves water quality and natural resources for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the people of Washington State have entrusted their elected officials to protect our natural assets and resources; and
WHEREAS, there are numerous concerns regarding the environmental, economic, social, and health impacts of industrial aquaculture, including but not limited to: spread of diseases and parasites, entrapment and death of marine mammals and birds; introduction of non-native species; colonization of wild fish habitat; net loss of ocean productivity; lack of containment of antibiotics, pesticides, algaecides and fish waste; conflicts with commercial and recreational marine activities; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Commerce is promoting the "National Offshore Aquaculture Act of 2007, House Bill 2010" that allows privately owned fish feedlots in our federally managed waters, three to 200 miles offshore; and
WHEREAS, scientific assessments of risks and impacts, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act, have not been prepared prior to introduction of this legislation to Congress; and
WHEREAS, a socio-economic assessment of impacts on fisheries dependent communities, businesses or tribes has not been prepared; and
WHEREAS, H.R. 2010 would only allow states to "opt out" to twelve miles, so Washington's ban on production of genetically engineered fish would be circumvented; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee has unanimously passed previous resolutions opposing open ocean aquaculture and calling for the preparation of a legislative environmental impact statement; and
WHEREAS, the WSDCC platform states that "We oppose open-cage, polluting fin fish farms of carnivorous species in our marine waters"; WSDCCRES - 340 - 070428 - PASS - AGR - Private Aquaculture
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) respectfully requests our elected officials to call for a moratorium or ban on expansion of privately owned, industrial aquaculture operations in state and federal waters; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that our state ban on production of genetically engineered fish is upheld in federally managed waters. Copies of this resolution shall be sent Senator Maria Cantwell, Senator Patty Murray and members of Washington's Congressional delegation.
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 4/24/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS House Bill 1091 is presently being considered by the Agriculture and Natural Resource Committee; and
WHEREAS this bill intends to restrict stock watering and other agricultural uses from the 5,000 gallons per day exempt well use; and
WHEREAS most if not all agriculture and livestock producers utilize their domestic exempt wells for livestock watering;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee instruct Washington legislators to continue to include stock watering as an approved beneficial use of the 5,000 gallons per day exempt domestic well for livestock watering.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus with the signatures of fifty State Central Committee members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 24 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/24/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 24, 2009 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS the $42B agriculture industry in the state of Washington is a cornerstone of the state's economy, employing 160,000 and contributing 13% to the economy;
WHEREAS more than $9.3B in food and agricultural products were exported through Washington ports in 2007, the third largest total in the U.S.;
WHEREAS the Market Access Program (MAP) of the United States Department of Agriculture provides invaluable assistance in the marketing of many Washington State crops beyond the borders of the U.S., including aquaculture products, cherries, hops, honey, potatoes, wine and grapes, organic food products, pears, apples, dairy products, meat, dry pea and lentils, poultry, grain and wheat, and other tree fruits, thus providing critical support in assuring continued high agricultural production, a continuing economic contribution to the State, and continued employment to the State;
WHEREAS the entire national economy is experiencing a recession which is impacting agriculture as it is all other sectors of the economy; and
WHEREAS the proposed White House Budget for FY 2010 includes a 20% reduction in MAP funding from the approved funding of the 2008 Farm Bill, which would have probable further negative economic effects reducing agricultural sales and jobs which would then impact the larger state economy now and in the future;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on the President, and the White House Budget Office, to withdraw request for a 20% reduction of MAP funding;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Representative Collin Peterson, Chair, Agriculture Committee, U.S. House of Representatives; Senator Tom Harkin, Chair, Agriculture Committee, U.S. Senate, Senator Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell (D) WA reject the proposed 20% budget reduction of the MAP and maintain the MAP funding in the 2008 Farm Bill as already approved by Congress; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that businesses and growers receiving MAP funding, and their labor contractors, must be in compliance with all applicable U.S. Labor Laws including the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act (MSPA) and, where applicable, the International Labor Organization's Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. WSDCCRES - 402 - 090425 - PASS - AGR - Market Access Program
Submitted by the Douglas County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 4/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS genetically engineered (GE) plants will foreseeably, and have been known to, disperse into the environment through pollen drift, seed commingling, and inadvertent transfer of seeds by humans, animals, vehicles, farm equipment, and weather events;
WHEREAS courts have found that genetic drift of GE material can restrict the freedom of farmers to grow agricultural crops for organic and non-GE markets or for export markets that prohibit or restrict products contaminated by GE material;
WHEREAS contamination by GE material of non-GE agricultural crops can create economic losses for the affected producers;
WHEREAS the liability for the transfer of GE material is currently passed from manufacturers of GE plants to farmers and other property owners;
WHEREAS farmers have been searched and sued by manufacturers and patent holders of GE crops for saving their own seed because the seed contains patented genetics; and
WHEREAS contamination of the food and feed supply due to the production of food and feed crops containing human and animal pharmaceutical drugs and biologics designed to be biologically active in humans and animals, can impact public health, damage the seed supply, and cause economic loss for non-GE growers; and
WHEREAS innocent farmers, farm businesses, and other property owners deserve to be shielded from legal and financial liabilities for the presence of GE material in their crops that occurred without their knowledge and is beyond their control;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) urge our legislators to sponsor legislation that will protect organic and non-GE farmers from liability and economic losses resulting from the drift of genetically engineered material;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the WSDCC, urge our legislators to ensure that the State of Washington retains the authority and capacity to adequately monitor and document the planting of genetically engineered material in order to protect the agricultural economy, including the interests of non-GMO participants therein, and to mediate and enforce the law when necessary between manufacturers and farmers; and WSDCCRES - 469 - 100130 - PASS - AGR - Genetically Modified Material
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the WSDCC, urge our legislators to sponsor legislation to maintain sufficient knowledge of the presence of GE material in the State of Washington and to investigate what can be done in regard to providing adequate buffers from non-GE crops when necessary to preserve the economic freedom of farmers to grow agricultural crops for organic and non-GE markets or for export markets that prohibit or restrict products contaminated by GE material.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 12/8/2009)
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 1/5/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS pending U.S. House of Representatives Bill 503 and pending U.S. Senate Bill 727 would criminalize horse slaughter and would provide for a three year prison term and a fine for anyone selling or providing transport for horses sold for humane slaughter for commercial use;
WHEREAS it has been documented that a ban on such slaughter leads to an increase in the abandonment and neglect of unwanted horses;
WHEREAS being able to market otherwise unmarketable surplus horses for humane commercial slaughter benefits the farm and ranch economy as well as the tribal economy;
WHEREAS approximately 20,000 feral horses reside on Northwest Indian Reservations and these numbers are far in excess of the carrying capacity of the land, which negatively impacts other resources including forage and cover for wildlife, native cultural food and medicinal plants and degrades water and fishery resources;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, strongly urge our Washington State Congressional delegation to oppose passage of any law that criminalizes the humane commercial slaughter of horses when there are compelling contravening reasons for such slaughter.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 1/5/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS current Washington State law and rules require a single EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) or SEPA (State Environmental Policy Act) review for a project proposal in the county/region of the development;
WHEREAS, when a water right is transferred to a project different from the original county/region point of origin, only the county/region of the new project proposal area is reviewed; and
WHEREAS, when water rights of the northern tier of counties (Okanogan, Ferry, Stevens & Pond Oreille) and neighboring counties (including Spokane, Lincoln, Douglas, Chelan & Grant) are sold downstream to another jurisdiction the EIS or SEPA review does not include the county/region of origin, and does not address the adverse impact to the communities, irrigation districts and local economies at the original county/region water right point of withdrawal;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Agriculture and Rural Caucus (ARC) and WSDCC shall work with the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Department of Ecology to change current laws and rules to require inclusion of an EIS or SEPA review and public comment period covering the jurisdiction of the original water right county/region.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 1/5/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the commercial and recreational salmon fishing activities are both providing economic benefits to Washington State;
WHEREAS millions of dollars (federal, state and local) have been spent during the past decade on projects addressing the coastal waters of the state in efforts to protect native salmon stock listed as threatened or endangered by the Endangered Species Act;
WHEREAS hundreds of citizen volunteers have donated thousands of hours to restoration of native salmon runs;
WHEREAS the Puget Sound Partnership and its Action Agenda were both created to expand and enhance the restoration efforts;
WHEREAS the task of the Puget Sound Partnership (PSP) is to "ensure" (as endorsed by Governor Christine Gregoire in the preamble to the PSP) that the Sound will forever be a thriving,natural system with clean marine and fresh waters, healthy and abundant native species, natural shoreline and places for public enjoyment and vibrant economy that prospers in productive harmony with a healthy Sound;
WHEREAS WAC-173-26-201 (3)(E)(iii) requires that County's Shoreline Master Programs "shall achieve no net loss of ecological function and address the cumulative impacts on shoreline ecological function that would result from future shoreline development and uses that are reasonably foreseeable";
WHEREAS all the environmental challenges to aquaculture listed in NOAA's Draft Aquaculture Policy (Feb 2011), to wit "nutrient and chemical wastes, water use demands, aquatic animal diseases and invasive species, effects on protected and sensitive marine areas, potential competition and genetic effects on wild species, effect on endangered or protected species, effects upon habitat for other species, and use of forage fish for aquaculture feeds", are all risks related to Atlantic Salmon Fish Farms;
WHEREAS WAC173-26-201 (2)(f) states that SMPs "be designed to achieve overall improvements to ecological functions over time when compared to the status upon adoption";
WHEREAS WAC 173-26-201 (3)(f)(111)(c) states that shoreline ecological functions in marine waters include "removing excessive nutrients and toxic compounds";
WHEREAS the indication of a highly contagious and lethal Infectious Salmon Anemia (ISA) virus has been discovered in juvenile Sockeye Smolt in British Columbia; WSDCCRES - 568 - 120128 - PASS - AGR - Moratorium on Fish Pens
WHEREAS that virus, discovered in Canada, tested positive to the European strain of ISA and suggests there is a likelihood of it having originated from Atlantic Salmon Fish Farms;
WHEREAS no country has gotten rid of the ISA virus once the virus arrives; and
WHEREAS Washington State Environmental Policy Act of 1971 (SEPA) RCW Chapter 43.21c states that: "Master Program shall indicate that, where required, mitigation shall be applied in the following sequence of steps in order of priority with (e)(i)(A) of this subsection being top priority - (A) avoiding the act altogether by not taking a certain action";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, recognizing the significance and validity of the precautionary principle, submit this resolution and to urge the Governor to issue a moratorium on all new in-58 water fin fish net-pen aquaculture for Atlantic Salmon in the Coastal waters of Washington State until there is peer-reviewed evidence in place ensuring there is essentially no risk to native salmon runs.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date
Submitted 1/28/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS Immigration Control and Enforcement agents have been using the U.S. customs facilities in Anacortes to stop and question people traveling from the San Juan Islands to the Anacortes ferry terminal - intrastate travel on the Washington State highway system - in a way that appears to be racial and ethnic profiling; and
WHEREAS Immigration Control and Enforcement agents have detained members of our community without giving timely opportunity to contact concerned family members, and separating families by sudden deportation, leading to fear of separation and restriction of necessary travel by members of our community; and
WHEREAS to fully integrate immigrants into our communities, immigrants need to be treated with fairness and respect and afforded the due process of law; and
WHEREAS Immigration Control and Enforcement agents have informed legal residents of San Juan County that the citizenship and radiation checks at the ferry terminal are necessary - to protect us in the "War against Terror," because "'bad guys' might be sneaking dangerous materials across the international border in small boats" - without providing any evidence to suspect such activities; and
WHEREAS citizenship inspections by Immigration Control and Enforcement agents on our Washington State highway system constitutes an erosion by the federal government of our Fourth Amendment right to freedom from search and seizure; and
WHEREAS, as taxpayers, we pay for this service, whether we want it or not;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge our Washington State Congressional Delegation to work to stop citizenship inspections of intra-state travel on our Washington State highway system.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/22/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature passed the Anderson/Murray Act to end discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity;
WHEREAS marriage was not included in this act and sexual orientation or gender identity discrimination is still practiced in Washington State;
WHEREAS marriage should be a human right and not restricted by sexual orientation or gender identity; and
WHEREAS gay citizens are taxpayers, have fought in wars, teach in our schools, work in our hospitals, and serve in every part of society;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State legislature should repeal the Defense of Marriage Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on our State Legislators and our Washington State Congressional Delegation to recognize all gay marriages as equal with all citizens' marriages; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Legislature to end discrimination in marriage by amending the Murray/Anderson Act to include marriage.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Bill of Rights and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment constitute the cornerstone of American Civil Rights and Liberties;
WHEREAS sections of the Patriot Act and the Homeland Security Act and actions of the Justice Department place severe limitations on these rights and liberties; in particular the first, fourth, fifth, sixth and fourteenth amendments; and
WHEREAS the Bush Administration has denied these rights and liberties to citizens and resident non-citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that all sections of the Patriot Act and the Homeland Security Act that restrict these Civil Rights and Liberties shall be repealed;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Attorney General be admonished to abide by the provisions of the US Constitution; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Washington State Congressional Delegation to commit to roll back the self-serving war powers of the Presidency granted to itself by the Bush Administration and restore the rule of law.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the principle of habeas corpus protects the individual from unlawful imprisonment by requiring a prisoner be brought before a judge to hear the charges leading to imprisonment, and to determine whether there are sufficient grounds for the individual to be held; or whether the prisoner must be released;
WHEREAS habeas corpus is protected in the US Constitution in Article One, Section 9: "The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public safety may require";
WHEREAS the Sixth Amendment, in further support of that principle, assures that "the accused shall enjoy the right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him"; and
WHEREAS the Bush Administration has attacked the right of habeas corpus and poses serious threats to our Freedoms as guaranteed under the Constitution, by: Enacting the Military Commissions Act of 2006 (Oct. 17, 2006) under which the President is given the power to declare any non-citizen an "unlawful enemy combatant" and put the person into a system of military tribunals with severely limited rights, including suspension of the right of habeas corpus; and Extending the reach of potential abuses allowable under the Military Commissions Act of 2006 to citizens and non-citizens alike;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats endorse the restoration of habeas corpus for all persons and call upon Washington Congressional Representatives and Senators to actively support its full restoration.
Submitted by the 36th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS armed private security contractors were reported to have been operating on public property and thoroughfares without restraint or under the jurisdiction of local law enforcement during the Hurricane Katrina disaster response;
WHEREAS there has been increasing use of armed private security contractors to provide security in publicly-accessed places such as shopping malls, sports arenas and public universities;
WHEREAS actions by members of these armed private security contractors can spill over onto adjacent publicly-owned properties, facilities and thoroughfares; and
WHEREAS the rights of citizens to access records of interactions between themselves and members of these armed private security contractors are unclear in civil law;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon the Washington State Delegation to the 111th (2009) Congress to pass laws banning all armed private security contractors from receiving any Government contracts for providing security to publicly-owned properties, facilities, and thoroughfares within the borders of the United States.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the decision to obtain an abortion is often one of the most difficult decisions women face;
WHEREAS the general right to obtain an abortion was affirmed by the United States Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade and reaffirmed in Planned Parenthood v. Casey;
WHEREAS President Obama campaigned as a pro-choice candidate;
WHEREAS Bart Stupak, a member of Congress from Michigan, and several other members of Congress conditioned their support for health care reform on strengthening prohibitions on using federal funds for abortion;
WHEREAS President Obama signed an executive order that ensures "that Federal funds are not used for abortion services (except in cases of rape or incest, or when the life of the woman would be endangered)";
WHEREAS the 32nd Legislative District Democratic Organization is previously on record in opposing the Hyde Amendment;
WHEREAS the Hyde Amendment and President Obama's executive order directly hinder the choice and ability of large numbers of women to obtain a safe and legal abortion, especially women who are economically disadvantaged;
WHEREAS the Hyde Amendment and President Obama's executive order increases the feminization of poverty; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Convention believes abortion should be safe, legal, and rare;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges President Obama to rescind his executive order relating to the implementation of abortion restrictions in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party shall ask each federal candidate if they will introduce or cosponsor legislation repealing the Hyde Amendment; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to President Barack Obama and the Washington State Congressional Delegation along 2010SCRES - 118 - 100626 - PASS - CIV - Reproductive Rights (32nd).doc with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS it is now the policy of the United States government to perform electronic eavesdropping and collect electronic information from corporate databases and domestic telecommunications traffic such as internet browsing and electronic mail, targeting residents and businesses in Washington State without their knowledge and without a warrant, and such actions constitute an illegal search and seizure, and provide means for the United States government to infringe upon the free speech of citizens;
WHEREAS technological advances have enabled new methods of spying, monitoring, and observing private citizens; for example drone aircraft and electronic eaves-12 dropping;
WHEREAS it is the policy of the United States government to subpoena the private records of individuals and corporations without a warrant and that victims of this policy are being persecuted for seeking legal assistance in defending themselves against such illegal searches and seizures;
WHEREAS it is the policy of the United States government to perform criminal acts of physical and mental abuse against persons in violation of state, federal, and international law, such acts having been performed on citizens of this and other countries; and
WHEREAS having suspended the right to a writ of Habeas Corpus it is now the policy of the United States government to detain indefinitely citizens of this and other countries without a warrant or due process of law;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon Washington's Congressional Delegation to enact all such laws, including a requirement for properly executed search warrants, as are necessary to protect U.S. residents and businesses from all unlawful searches, seizures and invasions of privacy by agents of any government, foreign or domestic.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. 2012SC - 007 - 120602 - PASS - CIV - Ban Illegal Electronic Searches Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) is already on record as being opposed to certain provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012, having adopted "Resolution Opposing Indefinite Detention Without Due Process" (No. 557) at its meeting in Shelton, Washington on January 28, 2012, as submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democratic Organization;
WHEREAS President Barack Obama issued a signing statement questioning these same provisions when he signed the NDAA bill, HR 1540, into law;
WHEREAS presidential signing statements are not binding on present or succeeding administrations; and
WHEREAS Congressperson Adam Smith has introduced HR 4192 in the United States House, and Senator Mark Udall has introduced the companion bill S 2175 in the United States Senate to amend the objectionable parts of Section 1021 and to repeal Section 1022;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we support HR 4192 and S 2175 to amend HR (NDAA of 2012), the "Due Process and Military Detention Amendments Act of 2012" to make certain that under no circumstances will American citizens or legally resident aliens be subject to indefinite detention without due process and ensuring them of the constitutionally protected right to a writ of habeas corpus;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we send our thanks to Washington State Congressmembers Adam Smith, Jay Inslee, Rick Larsen, Jim McDermott, for sponsoring this legislation; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we send copies of this resolution to all the members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation and ask those who have not yet signed on to become co-signers.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012) 2012SC - 013 - 120602 - PASS - CIV - Supporting Due Process Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS today, at a time when many in Congress and throughout the nation have stated their intent to repeal equal pay legislation, to overturn Roe v. Wade, and to sacrifice women's health to political expediency, women need a Constitutional guarantee of equality;
WHEREAS a sitting Supreme Court Justice recently stated that he believes the Constitution does not prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, reaffirming the need for an ERA to ensure equality for women in all areas of their lives;
WHEREAS the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was first proposed in 1923 to affirm that women and men have equal rights under the law;
WHEREAS the ERA was passed by Congress in 1972 but is still not part of the U.S. Constitution because only 35 of the required 38 States have ratified the ERA;
WHEREAS it is a moral imperative that women be afforded all the protections of the Constitution;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on our Congressional Delegation to support removing the deadline for the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment, which will guarantee the following for all women: that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex; that Congress shall have the power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this ERA; and that the amendment shall take effect two years after the date of its ratification.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the 13 colonies that became the United States refused to go forward until freedom of the press was assured with the First Amendment of the Constitution, as Founder Thomas Jefferson noted: "Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost";
WHEREAS President Barack Obama's administration has employed the Espionage Act of 1917 six (6) times to prosecute and intimidate journalists who uncovered illegal actions or lies by the government, in contrast being used against journalists only three (3) times between 1917 and 2009;
WHEREAS the Obama Administration has never asserted in the six cases that the journalists have broadcast or published lies about U.S. government actions;
WHEREAS the Administration has indicted Edward Snowden for providing information that the U.S. government was spying on all its citizens without warrant, and is threatening further use of the Espionage Act to prosecute journalists Glenn Greenwald, Laura Poitras, Bart Gelman of the Washington Post, James Risen of the New York Times, and James Rosen of FOX News, and other journalists who dare shine the light of truth on ineffective, expensive, inappropriate and likely illegal government activities; and
WHEREAS the President has it within his power to put a stop to this serious overreach by simply ordering the Justice Department to more selectively enforce the Espionage Act for journalists doing the job prescribed by our Constitution;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats ask President Obama to urge the Justice Department to cease persecuting and prosecuting journalists under the Espionage Act of 1917.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. 2014SC - 070 - 140621 - PASS - CIV - End Abuse of the Espionage Act The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the right to practice one's religion under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment does not give the owner or operator of a business that serves the general public a right to refuse to serve a consumer due to the consumer's sexual orientation or gender identity;
WHEREAS Title II of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination by private businesses that are places of public accommodation, only prevents businesses from refusing service based on race, color, religion, or national origin, but neither it nor any other federal law prohibits private businesses from discriminating against consumers based on sexual orientation or gender identity;
WHEREAS, U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., has stated that "Less than half of all states have legal protections on the basis of sexual orientation";
WHEREAS, according to a 2014 CNN report five states have laws that specifically allow businesses to refuse to serve LGBT customers on the basis of the religious beliefs of the business owner, and such laws set precedents for permitting businesses to discriminate against other classes of people on the basis of the religious beliefs of the business owner; and
WHEREAS, according to a 2/26/2014 article in the Huffington Post and a 2/20/2014 article in Mother Jones, twenty-nine states have adopted Religious Freedom Restoration Acts (RFRAs), which block new laws that inhibit the free expression of religion and allow(s) a business owner to discriminate against different classes of people based on their (the owners) religious beliefs;
WHEREAS the Supreme Court has ruled in Jones v. Mayer that private businesses do not have a right to discriminate;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, ask the United States Congress to pass and the president to sign legislation to prohibit any business that serves the general public, from refusing to serve a customer (i.e., potential customer or client) on the sole basis of the consumer's sexual orientation or gender identity; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, ask the Washington State legislature to pass and the governor to sign legislation that amends RCW 49.60.030 (Freedom from discrimination - Declaration of civil rights) as follows: modify section (1) to read: "The right to be free from discrimination because 2014SC - 071 - 140621 - PASS - CIV - LGBT Protections of...sexual orientation or gender identity..." and add sub-section (1) (h) to state "the right to the full use of any services offered by a business to the general public without discrimination."
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the President's Panel on Liberty and Security was appointed by President Barack Obama in the wake of disclosures by Edward Snowden that the United States government has engaged in massive spying, without Court orders, on United States citizens and others communicating with U.S. citizens;
WHEREAS the President's Panel on Liberty and Security has recommended 46 actions which the President and Congress should take to end the current massive illegal search of personal communications records and prevent future abuse of Constitutionally-11 guaranteed rights; and
WHEREAS the recommendations include these: that the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) be a Senate-confirmed position; that civilians be eligible to hold that position and that the President appoint a civilian as the next NSA Director; that the NSA should be clearly designated as a foreign intelligence organization and missions other than foreign intelligence collection should be re-assigned elsewhere; and that the head of the military unit, US Cyber Command, and the NSA Director should not be one individual;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge President Barack Obama to enact the recommendations of his Panel on Liberty and Security through his executive powers, and that the Washington State delegation to Congress to introduce legislation to enact the recommendations into law.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS much of the USAPATRIOT Act is unconstitutional and deprives Americans of their rights under the Bill of Rights;
WHEREAS the USAPATRIOT Act is a direct attach on the rights of the American people in principle and actual fact.
WHEREAS the USAPATRIOT Act contravenes Amendments IV, V, VI and VIII of the Constitution;
WHEREAS in the words of Patrick Henry "The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government - lest it come to dominate our lives and interests." And the USAPATRIOT Act violates this basic American principle and as such is in violation of the Constitution of the United States and the rights of the people protected by said Constitution; and
WHEREAS the present Supreme Court cannot be counted on to remedy this travesty, the legislative branch must enact a remedy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of the State of Washington direct the Congressional delegation, and state legislators to work diligently and publically to repeal the repugnant USAPATRIOT Act.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the 4th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable search and seizure;
WHEREAS the National Security Agency (NSA) has willfully violated the 4th Amendment by collecting massive information from personal communication, mostly without reasons nor by first seeking permission available through FISA procedures;
WHEREAS the NSA has falsely claimed that such mass spying programs stopped 54 terror incidents but has only been willing to admit to a single valid case where a San Diego cab driver was convicted of sending $8,500 to a Somali terrorist group;
WHEREAS the federal Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLB) and the President's hand-picked Surveillance Review Group have found that the massive phone records program added no unique value to the many surveillance programs already in existence;
WHEREAS the PCLB has determined that the NSA did not obtain any information it could not have acquired using targeted surveillance with legal warrants;
WHEREAS the mass spying by federal agencies was hidden from the American public and from the Congressional intelligence committees responsible for legislation protecting the United States from terrorists, while continuing to be responsible for protecting us against government threats to American democracy; and
WHEREAS the USA Freedom Act has been proposed to end wholesale US government spying on Americans, and is co-sponsored by Washington members of Congress Suzan DelBene, Rick Larsen and Jim McDermott;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the mass collection of Americans' records be ended;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress also amend the 2008 FISA Amendments Act to require that government agencies obtain court orders before using information about Americans collected during foreign intelligence operations;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that communications providers be allowed to disclose the number of surveillance orders they receive, that the information be published, and that all FISA court opinions should be made public immediately; 2014SC - 074 - 140621 - PASS - CIV - Restore the 4th Amendment
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a public advocate position be created to advise the secret FISA surveillance court;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State delegation to Congress join the other 21 U.S. Senators and 134 members of Congress in co-sponsoring and working for passage of the USA Freedom Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge President Barack Obama to enact those principles through his executive powers immediately, and that the Washington State delegation to Congress introduce legislation to enact the recommendations into law.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS in 1923 Alice Paul first proposed the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to guarantee that women and men have equal rights under the law;
WHEREAS the ERA was introduced into every Congress between 1923 and 1972, when it was passed and sent to the states for ratification with a June 30, 1982 time limit for passage set by Congress;
WHEREAS the ERA is still not part of the U.S. Constitution because only 35 of the required 38 States have ratified the ERA;
WHEREAS on Nov 7, 1972, WA State voters approved Article XXXI to the WA State Constitution assuring that women in WA state are full and equal partners in our state;
WHEREAS, On March 22, 1973, WA State's Legislature ratified the ERA for inclusion in the US Constitution;
WHEREAS passage of the ERA would finally formalize the equal rights of women, rights that they are fully entitled to as human beings; and
WHEREAS two different types of ERA legislation have been introduced in the 2013-23 session of Congress: Traditional legislation to ratify the ERA by the Constitution's Article V ratification process, and A "Three-state strategy" legislation to remove the time limit on the ERA's ratification process and declare it complete when three-fourths (38) of the states ratify, thereby retaining the existing 35 state ratifications as viable;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party recognizes that women are full and equal partners in our civil society and deserve all the rights and privileges afforded to all others under and that an Equal Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution must be passed to guarantee these rights; 2014SC - 110 - 140621 - PASS - CIV - Pass the ERA
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WA State Democratic Party supports passage of the Equal Rights Amendment by either the traditional process outlined in Article V of the Constitution, requiring passage by a two-thirds majority in the Senate and the House of Representatives, followed by ratification by legislatures in three-quarters (38) of the 50 states, and ratification in three more of the 15 state legislatures that did not ratify the ERA during the 1972-82 ratification campaign;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to WA State's Legislative Delegation asking them to pass a memorial to Congress for passage of ERA legislation;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on all members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives in the 113th Congress to co-sponsor, support, and pass into law joint resolutions for both the traditional Article V ratification process (S.J. Res. 10, H.J. Res. 56) and the "three-state strategy" process (S.J. Res. 15, H.J. Res. 43); and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we affirm our strong support of the Equal Rights Amendment and our commitment to participate in effective legislative and advocacy actions at federal and state levels in order to put the ERA into the Constitution.
Submitted by the 1st LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) The Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS, the Democratic Party Platform upholds the ideals of equal justice under the law, racial justice, and human dignity for all;
WHEREAS, the recent deaths of Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice, and too many others, compel questioning of whether or not equal justice under the law is possible for Black people;
WHEREAS, these deaths are indicative of a growing social-economic division that threatens the current and future well-being of Black people;
WHEREAS, we express our outrage, frustration, and grief at the deaths of unarmed Black people;
WHEREAS, we express our solidarity with tens of thousands of protesters throughout the nation who are peacefully demonstrating their support for Black Lives Matter; and
WHEREAS we believe that all Black lives matter;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Democratic Party demands equal justice under the law, including racial justice;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Democratic Party rejects institutional racism in all aspects of our national life;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Democratic Party shall stand with other labor and community groups calling for creating a national model for community policing, and ending all remnants of institutionalized racism in the justice system; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that all Black lives matter.
Submitted by the Grant County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the very first amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America enshrines Americans' religious freedom, including the right to practice any religion or none at all;
WHEREAS President Barack Obama, in his first inaugural address, proclaimed "We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus, and nonbelievers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this earth;"
WHEREAS Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's opinion in Lynch v. Donnelly observed that state endorsement of religion "sends a message to non-adherents that they are outsiders, not full members of the political community;
WHEREAS Democrats stand for an open and respectful dialogue about faith in society, embracing people of all faiths or none at all;
WHEREAS the Democratic Party brings together people of many different faiths, united by shared values and a deep-seated commitment to tolerance, compassion, charity, and the well-being of others;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party states on its website: "We believe in the values of community, empathy, equality, tolerance, opportunity, and the common good of the interdependent world we share. These values provide the basis for our ideals and are supported by our state and federal Constitutions";
WHEREAS recent studies by Pew Research show that almost 20% of Americans and 24% of Democratic-leaning registered voters report that they are unaffiliated with any religion; and
WHEREAS any gathering (meeting, convention, etc.) undertaken by the Washington State Democratic Party at any level (precinct, legislative district, county, congressional district, State Central Committee or state), that intentionally or unintentionally excludes any group of Americans based on religious faith, is inconsistent with the Party's values and beliefs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party and its affiliates will not support actions, proclamations or policies at Party events that would have the effect of excluding, intimidating or otherwise alienating any group, including nonbelievers and the religiously unaffiliated, just as the Party does not support action that excludes any group by characteristics such as race, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation; 2016SCRES - 012 - 160618 - RECPA - CIV - Freedom of Religion
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that neither the Washington State Democratic Party nor any of its affiliates (with the exception of special-interest caucuses) will endorse any sort of prayer, faith-based invocation, or religious activity of any kind at a Democratic Party event; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution recognizes and preserves (i) the right to organize, around religion, within the State Democratic Party, a caucus or special-interest group to advance their specific political concerns, (ii) Party social activities such as holiday parties, and (iii) the ability to conduct meetings or other Party business at any location, including churches.
Submitted by the King County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS religious freedom is guaranteed to all Americans by the Constitution and laws of the United States;
WHEREAS a diversity of religious beliefs, traditions, and heritages brings strength to our country;
WHEREAS American Muslims believe in the right and freedom of all U.S. citizens to live and worship in their own way;
WHEREAS American Muslims share the same American values and freedoms that we all cherish, and American Muslims uphold the Constitution and laws of the United States;
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Dept. of Defense, over 10,000 American Muslims serve in our nation's armed forces, and many, including U.S. Army Specialist Kareem Khan, U.S. Army Major James Ahearn, U.S. Army Specialist Rasheed Sahib, and U.S. Army Captain Humayun Khan, are among the thousands of U.S. military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country while serving in combat missions over the past 15 years;
WHEREAS our nation benefits from the estimated 50,000 American Muslim doctors nationwide who provide compassionate care, humanitarian services and save American lives;
WHEREAS American Muslims give back to our local communities as volunteers in fire departments, PTAs, food banks and many other organizations;
WHEREAS never before in our nation's history have anti-Muslim hate crimes been as high in number or severity as in 2015, when an average at least one daily report of a hate crime targeting an American Muslim or someone perceived as Muslim was received by civil rights organizations; and
WHEREAS, in times like these, fair-minded leaders across our nation have a duty to publicly and vocally affirm American values of religious freedom;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party reaffirms its long-standing support for religious freedom; 2016SCRES - 014 - 160618 - RECPA - CIV - American Muslims (King)
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party stands strongly for the principle that American Muslims deserve the same opportunities as all Americans - to build better futures for their families and children; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party condemns any legislation or statements that run contrary to this principle.
Submitted by the King County Convention, as originated by the Council on American-51 Islamic Relations. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the United States was the first country to incorporate the concept of a free press in its founding documents;
WHEREAS many nations took note of what the United States had done and incorporated the idea of a free press in their governing principles;
WHEREAS the international organization Reporters Without Borders conducts an annual survey on how well countries foster a free press;
WHEREAS Reporters Without Borders' 2016 World Freedom Index ranks the U.S. 41st of 180 countries;
WHEREAS Reporters Without Borders note that the United States' relatively low rating is the result of the US government's 'war on whistleblowers who leak information about its surveillance activities, spying and foreign operations, especially those linked to counter-terrorism," and the lack of a federal "shield law" that would allow journalists to protect confidential sources.
WHEREAS the value of a free and unfettered press has been proven time and again by providing the American public, as well as its leaders, with important and accurate information that was contrary to official government pronouncements, policies, and actions;
WHEREAS often the most accurate and useful information about our government at home and abroad comes to us by fearless, perceptive journalists: the Vietnam war, Weapons of Mass Destruction in Iraq, and the governments' cavalier handling of Americans' privacy exposed by Edward Snowden and others;
WHEREAS Federal prosecutors regularly neuter whistleblower laws by resorting to the Espionage Act, which is thoroughly inappropriate for addressing freedom of the press issues, and which allows no nuance (You wrote it, or said it: you are guilty; no extenuating circumstances necessary or accepted);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, call on the President, Congress, and the Justice Department to reinforce our tradition of a free press by protecting whistleblowers from retaliation and prosecution;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in whistleblower cases the President, Congress, and the Justice Department adopt positions of neutrality during the 2016SCRES - 016 - 160618 - RECPA - CIV - Restoring Press Freedom investigation until final conclusions are reached, in order to help assure an unbiased process;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress enact a comprehensive shield law to assure reporters (defined by their activities, not their employer) the uncontestable right to withhold the identities of their sources, thereby encouraging reporting of illegal, improper, or wasteful government activities; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the President, Congress, and the Justice Department make concerted and publicized efforts to restore the country's goal of having freedom of the press.
Submitted by the Pierce County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS we believe that systemic and structural racism, white privilege and supremacy, and other forms of oppression were woven historically throughout the political, economic, and cultural fabric of our state and nation;
WHEREAS we believe that these conditions persist in many forms to this day, in spite of the social progress we have made;
WHEREAS these persistent conditions can be seen today in the widespread disparities based on race and class associated with such social indicators as poverty, unemployment, family income and assets, incarceration, education, health, home and business ownership, and life expectancy;
WHEREAS our nation's white majority has for too long remained complacent in the face of overwhelming statistical evidence that our nation's struggle for racial and economic justice has not succeeded;
WHEREAS we can't fix social inequalities when we don't fully understand either their underlying historical roots or the ways they manifest in our society today;
WHEREAS the persistence of these unjust conditions has raised questions in many people's minds as to whether their lives matter as much as other's lives do, thereby giving rise today to new social movements such as Black Lives Matter; and
WHEREAS we believe that we as a society have a responsibility for, and a collective self-interest in, identifying, challenging, and eradicating these unjust conditions and their underlying causes;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges local Democratic Party Organizations in Washington state to support committed and authentic efforts at the local, state, and national levels to conduct a comprehensive investigation of, and develop recommendations to address, the continuing manifestations of systemic and structural racism, white privilege and supremacy, and other forms of disproportionality, inequality, and oppression in our local communities, our state and our nation.
Submitted by the Thurston County Democrats on 8/21/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended WSDCCRES - 832 - 170910 - PASS - CIV - White Supremacy and Oppression it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party states, in its 2016 Platform, in the section entitled "IV. Civil and Human Rights": "The inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all human beings are foundations of freedom, justice and peace. Our democracy rests on the rights and responsibilities set forth in the United States Constitution, the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, and the Washington State Constitution. We recognize that our nation and Party have long struggled to acknowledge and address the systemic and structural racism woven throughout its political, economic, and cultural history, and the fabric of our nation, and that persists in many forms to this day. Democrats remain at the forefront of the struggle to extend civil, political, economic, religious, and all legal and inherent rights to all persons...";
WHEREAS the "Unite the Right Rally" was a protest in Charlottesville, Virginia, on August 11 and 12, 2017, to oppose the removal of a statue of Robert E. Lee in Emancipation Park;
WHEREAS protesters, including white supremacists, white nationalists, neo-22 Confederates, neo-Nazis, and militias, participated in the gathering, some of whom marched and carried semi-automatic rifles, swastikas, Confederate battle flags, anti-24 Semitic banners, and engaged in physical violence with counter-protesters, leaving 14 injured;
WHEREAS on the morning of August 12, Virginia's Democratic governor Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency stating that public safety could not be safeguarded without additional powers. Within an hour, the Virginia State Police declared the assembly to be unlawful;
WHEREAS following the gubernatorial declaration, a man linked to white-supremacist groups rammed his car into a crowd of counter-protesters near the rally site, killing one person and injuring 19; and
WHEREAS Attorney General Jeff Sessions described the attack as domestic terrorism, and authorities began a civil rights investigation to determine if the suspect in the vehicular homicide will be tried in court under hate crime statutes;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats Central Committee condemn this violence, and such other acts of violence that are WSDCCRES - 833 - 170910 - PASS - CIV - Condemning Extremist Violence gratuitous and motivated by hateful and extremist ideologies, and urge and support the course of justice to be carried out in holding accountable and punishing those perpetrators who broke the law in the course of this demonstration; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Proponent of this Resolution, or the Washington State Democrats Central Committee, or their designee, shall communicate approval of this Resolution, and request advancement of this Resolution, upon approval, to the Democratic National Committee, in such timely and propitious manner for their next pending meetings taking place shortly, for consideration for approval, as allowed under the bylaws of the Democratic Party.
Submitted by the 29th LD Democrats on 8/21/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive order, issued by President Obama in 2012, has provided over 750,000 young people ("Dreamers") relief from deportation as well as the ability to obtain a driver's license, work permit, and social security number, and to travel abroad;
WHEREAS Dreamers have, in order to receive their DACA status, given our government in good faith their addresses, school records, fingerprints, and even DNA samples;
WHEREAS Dreamers were, by definition, brought into this country by their parents and have lived here at least since 2007, graduated from high school, and been law-14 abiding residents who call the United States their home, despite having been given no path to citizenship and no certainty regarding their long-term ability to live in this country;
WHEREAS the Trump administration has ordered the end of the DACA program by March 2018, and could use the Dreamers' registration information against them to deport hundreds of thousands of law-abiding immigrants; and
WHEREAS we fear for these Dreamers and their safety after deportation, because they are our friends, neighbors, co-workers, students, spouses, etc.;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests that our Senators and Representatives take the following actions: Use whatever means of persuasion that are at the disposal of Congress to ensure the Trump administration maintains the DACA program, until immigration law can be reformed to protect DACA recipients; Go on record in support of the newly introduced DREAM Act (S1615; H.R. 3440), and work toward its passage; If the DACA program is ended, demand that the Department of Homeland Security destroy its data on Dreamers to prevent the use of any of the data to pursue DACA recipients.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 8/25/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended the resolution and recommended it be passed. WSDCCRES - 846 - 170910 - PASS - CIV - Defend DACA Program and Recipients The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) hereby endorse the Initiative 1000 which concerns remedying discrimination and affirmative action;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urge all legislative and county district democratic organizations to endorse Initiative 1000 at their upcoming fall 2018 meetings; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges all 2018 legislative and congressional candidates endorsed by the Democratic Party to endorse Initiative if it goes to ballot in 2019.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Washington State has laws protecting citizens from workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, but most LGBTQ Americans do not live in a place where they are legally protected from discrimination in the workplace;
WHEREAS in the United States, 29 states have no law protecting its citizens against workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation;
WHEREAS 33 states have no law protecting its citizens against workplace discrimination based on gender identity;
WHEREAS nine out of ten Americans mistakenly believe federal law already protects LGBTQ people from workplace discrimination;
WHEREAS studies show as many as 43 percent of LGBTQ employees say they've experienced workplace discrimination;
WHEREAS 90 percent of transgender employees, say they've experienced workplace discrimination;
WHEREAS only 5 percent have reported it because there are so few protections against discrimination in the workplace against LGBTQ people and because they rightly fear repercussions;
WHEREAS 85 percent of Democrats across the country, 78 percent of Independents, and 70 percent of Republicans support LGBTQ workplace protections;
WHEREAS a recent study found that 57 percent of LGBTQ people claimed "equal employment rights" as the LGBTQ issue of greatest importance to them;
WHEREAS the United States Senate passed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) on November 7, 2013 with a bipartisan vote of 64-32 (including ten Republicans) after passing the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee overwhelmingly by a bipartisan 15-7 vote;
WHEREAS ENDA would provide basic protections against workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity ensuring no one can be denied employment or a promotion, or fired, simply for being gay or transgender; and WSDCCRES - 678 - 140913 - PASS - CIV - Supporting ENDA
WHEREAS ENDA exempts small businesses, religious organizations, and the military;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and asks constituents of Republican-led House Congressional Districts of Washington State to contact their representative and ask for their strong support on this historic legislation.
Submitted by the 30th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 5/30/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS all voters and communities deserve the opportunity to be represented by candidates of their choice;
WHEREAS many communities across the state of Washington have been unable to elect individuals due to being outnumbered in at-large voting systems;
WHEREAS people of color have historically faced significant barriers to voting in the United States and proactive steps continue to be necessary to address underrepresentation in elected bodies at all levels;
WHEREAS nearly all local elections in Washington use at-large voting systems and where polarized voting exists, an at-large system may prevent some voters from having a meaningful voice in local elections;
WHEREAS lawsuits addressing polarized voting have been successful in challenging exclusionary practices, but are expensive and time consuming;
WHEREAS local governments have the responsibility to remedy the widespread problem of voter exclusion in local elections;
WHEREAS the Washington State Voting Rights Act is modeled after the California Voting Rights Act, which was successful in improving fairness in elections in localities throughout that state; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Voting Rights Act provides an opportunity to address the issue of polarized voting in a way that avoids the need for lawsuits, and provides a uniform standard across the state, while still providing localities with the flexibility to find a solutions that fits their specific needs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon the State Legislature to address the problem of voter exclusion by passing the Washington Voting Rights Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon our legislators to actively support the Washington Voting Rights Act in the next legislative session and actively work to ensure its passage; and WSDCCRES - 741 - 150919 - PASS - CIV - Voting Rights Act
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we encourage the Chairs and Executive Boards of the Legislative Districts and County organizations throughout the State also pass resolutions in support of the Voting Rights Act and communicate that support to their representatives in the Legislature.
Submitted by the 34th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 7/14/2015)
Submitted by the 43rd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 8/25/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS Washington's transgender youth, adults, and their families have been protected by the state's nondiscrimination law since 2006 in areas of public accommodations, employment, housing, and fair contracting;
WHEREAS our state extended critical human rights protections to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people 10 years ago with the passage of the 2006 Anderson-9 Murray Anti-Discrimination Law;
WHEREAS transgender people are part of our families, workplaces, our neighborhoods, and our places of worship;
WHEREAS, to live and work safely in the state of Washington, transgender people need to be able to use public accommodations, such as restrooms, just like everyone else, without fear of harassment or discrimination;
WHEREAS transgender people are more likely to be victims than aggressors;
WHEREAS any legislation that aims to take away a basic protection afforded to any Washingtonian, particularly the transgender community, harms all Washingtonians;
WHEREAS the Charter of the Washington State Democratic Party calls for the protection of individuals' rights and civil liberties; and
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democratic Party states that discrimination in public accommodation, sexual identity, and gender identity and expression is wrong. In addition, the platform states further that "the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all human beings are the foundations of freedom, justice and peace in the world";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED Washington State Democratic Party opposes HB 2589, SB 6443 and any other bills that aim to repeal any section of 2006 Anderson-Murray Anti-Discrimination Law and urges all Washington Democrats and the Washington State Legislature to oppose these bills.
Submitted with the signatures of fifty members of the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/30/2016) WSDCCRES - 772 - 160130 - PASS - CIV - Supporting Transgender Rights The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS a hate crime in Washington state is defined in terms of malicious harassment: "A person is guilty of malicious harassment if he or she maliciously and intentionally commits one of the following acts because of his or her perception of the victim's race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or mental, physical, or sensory handicap: a) Causes physical injury to the victim or another person; b) Causes physical damage to or destruction of the property of the victim or another person; or c) Threatens a specific person or group of persons and places that person, or members of the specific group of persons, in reasonable fear of harm to person or property"
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Platform states "Washington State Democrats, as citizens of the planet, place the well-being of the people as our highest priority. We believe in the values of community, empathy, equality, tolerance, opportunity, and the common good of the interdependent world we share";
WHEREAS it further states that "the inherent dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all human beings are foundations of freedom, justice and peace";
WHEREAS the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights states "whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world";
WHEREAS, across the nation, there have been increases in hate crimes beginning with a spike of over one hundred fifty (150) on November 9th 2016; and it may be expected that, as the incoming federal executive comes into power, there may be spikes and other increases yet;
WHEREAS a racial slur was painted across the Martin Luther King Jr Center in Spokane as well as the van that transports the children; and hate and bias crimes still affect the lives of persons of minority populations in Seattle and across Washington;
WHEREAS mindsets of hate are communicated and reinforced through culture; and
WHEREAS a response to a shadowy culture of hate must publicly correct outbursts of hate and guide the community through healing action; WSDCCRES - 798 - 170128 - PASS - CIV - Hate Crime Response Plans
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee recommends each County and/or Legislative District Democratic Organization in coordination with stakeholders in the community will seek to establish a hate crime response plan consisting of: a) Two (2) from a list of participating political leaders (when possible of different parties) making public corrective statements, b) Public statements from two (2) participating community leaders (when appropriate of different spiritual leanings), and c) A communal and public act of reparation or healing with the affected community and the broader community. Actual responses must vary according to circumstances. Local Party Chairs are to report on progress to the SCC through Committee Members at the next Regular Meeting of the SCC.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats on 1/13/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America says, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof";
WHEREAS Reuters reported on 15 November 2016 that Kansas State Secretary of State and Trump's close advisor Kris Kobach has been advising the establishment of a Muslim Registry in order to implement an extreme vetting policy;
WHEREAS Washington state celebrates the rich cultural heritage and diversity of its residents, and freedom of religion and protection from persecution on the basis of religion is one of the founding ideals of the nation;
WHEREAS Washington must uphold the protection of religious freedom enshrined in the United States Constitution for all of its people, and the state has a moral obligation to protect its citizens from religious persecution; and
WHEREAS Senate Bill 5308 Limiting disclosure of information about the religious affiliation of individuals would prohibit an agency from providing or disclosing to federal authorities personal information regarding the religious affiliation of an individual that is requested for the purpose of compiling a database of individuals based solely on religious affiliation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, endorse and support the passage of SB 5308 - Limiting disclosure of information about the religious affiliation of individuals;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we forward this resolution to all of the members of the Washington State House, Senate and Governor Inslee.
Submitted by the Women's Caucus on 1/28/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS the Executive Order signed by President Trump on January 27, 2017, has banned travel from seven countries based solely on the fact of having a Muslim majority;
WHEREAS the practical result of this Executive Order is to ban all refugees for a period of 90 days and all Syrian refugees for a period of 120 days;
WHEREAS legal permanent residents and green card holders are being illegally being detained at airports and denied entrance to the United States;
WHEREAS persons seeking asylum and refugee status whom have gone through proper US and international procedure and law have been denied refugee status;
WHEREAS the denial of entry to the US can mean certain death of refugees if they are forced back to their home countries;
WHEREAS the rejection of refugees to the United States in the 1930s and 1940s, resulted in the death of hundreds of religious minorities;
WHEREAS Governor Jay Inslee has publically stated that the State of Washington will support and welcome Syrian refugees; and
WHEREAS the WSDCC Platform for 2016 declares opposition to "Policies that exclude or demean immigrants based on religion or country of origin";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call for the State Legislature to immediately pass legislation expressing support for the admittance of refugees who have obtained legal permission and face threats to their lives if forced to return to their countries of origin and not enter the United States;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we request that our elected representatives to enact legislation condemning the Executive Order, signed by President Donald Trump on January 27, 2017; and WSDCCRES - 810 - 170128 - PASS - CIV - Green Card Holders
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that we urge the State Legislature to enact legislation pursuant to the sovereignty granted in the United States Constitution allowing for refugees to peacefully reside within and emigrate to the State of Washington.
Submitted by fifty State Committee members on 1/28/2017. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS there have been racial harassment incidents on the Washington State University, Pullman (WSU Pullman) campus in 2005;
WHEREAS Students of Equity and Diversity (SED) at WSU Pullman have organized and demanded remedies;
WHEREAS SED have listed over 20 such incidents in the last 10 years that were inadequately addressed by the WSU Pullman administration which reveals an ongoing hostile environment on campus;
WHEREAS WSU President Rawlins criticized the complaining of students for their protest rather than addressing their concerns;
WHEREAS The Asian Pacific American Islander Community organizations wrote a joint letter expressing their concerns;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Washington State Democrats call upon our state elected officials to hold a legislative hearing in Olympia regarding racism at Washington State University, Pullman. Passed unanimously by the WSDCC Affirmative Action Committee on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco. Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS after 30 years of extensive debate, committee hearings and public input, the Washington State Legislature finally passed the Anderson/Murray Act to end discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity;
WHEREAS the Democratic Party Platform in Washington State has long-called for the adoption of this bill;
WHEREAS those who support discrimination of certain classes of people have made it clear that they intend to file a referendum to overturn this Act;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee unanimously supports the actions of our State Legislature in passing the Anderson/Murray Non-Discrimination Act fulfilling their duly elected positions of representing the will of Washington State citizens; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Central Committee adamantly oppose placing a referendum on the ballot to overturn this historic piece of legislation and ask all of our members to encourage Washington citizens not to sign any petition or support any referendum that would overturn the provisions of this act.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the Stonewall Democrats (Date Submitted 1/27/2006). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, the United States Constitution states, "We the People of the United States, in order to forma more perfect Union " and the Washington State Constitution says, "All political power is inherent in the people, and governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, and are established to protect and maintain individual rights." (Article I, Section 1);
WHEREAS, the preamble to Washington States Open meeting Act (RCW 42.30) explicitly states, "The people of this state do not yield their sovereignty to the agencies that serve them. The people, in delegating authority, do not give their public servants the right to decide what is good for the people to know and what is not good for them to know. The people insist on remaining informed so that they may retain control over the instruments they have created.";
WHEREAS, our State constitution upholds this right;
WHEREAS, the State of Washington has a diverse population of racial and ethnic cultures, immigrants, students and young people in general who need the political system to safeguard their rights as defined in our United States Constitution and Bill of Rights;
WHEREAS, the protection and preservation of the civil liberties guaranteed under these documents is absolutely necessary to the continuity of our democratic society;
WHEREAS, the "separation of powers is the central structure of our democracy with the three branches of government defined under those same constitutions;
WHEREAS, there exists the perception of the erosion of this "separation of powers" doctrine due to the increasing secrecy under which the present administration operates and the extension of "executive branch powers" because "we are at war";
WHEREAS, the executive branch appears to justify this secrecy by citing on past practices that were not always to the benefit of American citizens such as the treatment of various segments of our communities;
WHEREAS, the stereotyping, hatred and demonizing of individuals and various segments of our communities appears to be growing more rabid as evidenced by some of the rhetoric on the floor of Congress in the debate on the Immigration Bill;
WHEREAS, the efforts to criminalize the lives of thousands of people rather than treat them as human beings with "inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of WSDCCRES - 228 - 060929 - PASS - CIV - Civil Liberties happiness" that is the basic tenet of our democracy; and
WHEREAS, illegal immigration is a long standing problem that is overdue for an honorable, humane, just, honest, democratic solution;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party stand together, speak out AND WORK to support the following principles: Demand the concept of "government for the people, by the people and of the people" as embodied in the law of the land and explicitly stated in Washington State's Open Meeting Act as it appears in the first "whereas" of this document and carry it forward to the national government; Articulate strongly our fundamental rights as embodied in the United States Constitution at every opportunity and insist that our laws, all our laws, be followed by all our citizens at every level' Support Russ Feingold and other sensibly elected representatives in the United States House and Senate in their efforts to inject effective, sensible, humane and just safeguards to our civil liberties for all peoples while still protecting our freedoms and safety; Protect our democratic form of government by insisting on and speaking out on sensible, nonpartisan approaches to legislation that supports the "rule of just, humane laws" in these United States; and Support the efforts of our national legislators and the public in general that insist that President George W. Bush, his executive staff and some GOP elected representatives stop their partisan politics, their efforts to inflict their personal beliefs and religious extremism on the general public, their manipulations to gain partisan power, their damage to our image with our world allies, their less than stellar dealing in our foreign policy decisions and act in an ethical, just, moral manner that supports the democratic principles that form the basis of our democracy.
Submitted by the delegates of the Yakima County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its WSDCCRES - 228 - 060929 - PASS - CIV - Civil Liberties September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, non-heterosexual persons in our society are routinely subjected to discrimination in housing, employment, the right to marry, the right to adopt and raise children and to serve as foster parents as well as other aspects of everyday life which heterosexual persons enjoy;
WHEREAS, non-heterosexual persons form a group of people often are submitted to abusive, even violent treatment because they are not heterosexual;
WHEREAS, non-heterosexual persons possess the same rights as other persons under the Constitution of the United States of America;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Democratic Party shall support full equality under the law protecting persons of all sexual orientations, and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports marriage equality and equal rights for all regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The Washington State Democratic Party opposes all attempts to deny civil rights by initiative or Constitutional amendment. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party shall support no law being made that limits or restricts the full equality of non-heterosexual persons.
Submitted by the delegates of the Grays Harbor County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, people with disabilities are an underutilized human resource and are underrepresented in the educational, workforce and community support systems environments; and
WHEREAS, part of the solution to address the increasing shortage of skilled workers must be to include people with disabilities for success in the workplace; and
WHEREAS, for people with disabilities, they constantly face barriers and challenges which must be addressed and include some of the following: 1. Working-age people with disabilities, 20-64 years old, represent 58 percent of the state's population of people with disabilities, 4 percent less than the number of working people without; and 2. Only 51 percent of people with disabilities are in the labor force, compared to 87 percent of people without; and 3. Just over 54 percent of working age people with disabilities have some postsecondary education, compared to 70 percent of working people without; and 4. People with disabilities who participate in community and technical college job preparatory and worker retraining and adult basic skills programs tend to have lower hourly wages than those without; and 5. People with disabilities particularly in rural areas are less likely than those in urban areas to be actively engaged and supported by the educational, workforce and community support systems environment in a holistic manner; and
WHEREAS, increased efforts should be made to develop realistic solutions, in consultation with people with disabilities, for success in the educational, workplace and community support systems environment in a holistic manner;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party urges Democratic Party organizations at all levels, including the DNC, to increase efforts to be inclusive and respectful of all people with disabilities. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party take steps to address the inequities and disparities that confront people with disabilities by advocating for increased and equitable opportunity and successful participation in the educational, workforce, and community support systems environment, including healthcare systems.
Submitted by the delegates of the Yakima County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in WSDCCRES - 232 - 060929 - PASS - CIV - Disabled Americans Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, Existing privacy laws do not cover new vaults of online data such as web-3 based email on internet servers such as Hotmail, Google, etc.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Democratic congressional legislators support or initiate legislation to protect public internet privacy through explicit standards against government location tracking and surveillance of online data.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the Patriot Act un-necessarily contradicts the intent of the Bill of Rights by allowing infringement upon the rights of US citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the people of the Washington State Democratic Party that the Senate and the Assembly of the State of Washington are hereby directed to, jointly, enact appropriate and effective measures by the State of Washington to combat terrorism and affirm its commitment that the campaign not be waged at the expense of essential civil rights and liberties of citizens of this country contained in the United States Constitution and the Bills of Rights; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party also urges all its congressional representatives to work to repeal any provisions of the U.S.A. PATRIOT Act that limit or impinge on rights and liberties protected equally by the United States Constitution and the Washington Constitution and to oppose any pending and future federal legislation to the extent that it would infringe on Americans' civil rights and liberties; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the State of Washington will ensure that no state resources be provided for any action that would violate the United States Constitution, or the Constitution of the State of Washington.
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Secretary of the Washington State Democratic Party shall transmit copies of this resolution to the President and Vice President of the United States, to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of the Senate, and to each Senator and Representative from Washington State in the Congress, the Attorney General of the United States, and to all federal and state law enforcement agencies.
Submitted by Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima. (Date Submitted 05/03/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 236 - 060929 - PASS - CIV - USA Patriot Act The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, terrorism is a current problem, and it is necessary for the safety of the citizens and the union to secure intelligence; and
WHEREAS, Congress has established laws allowing for surveillance of suspected terrorists and their associates that includes an established judicial oversight process to assure that surveillance is done within the law; and
WHEREAS, the President has chosen to circumvent this for three years with his own personal assumption that he has that right under the Patriot Act; and
WHEREAS, government infringement on citizens' civil liberties is against the safeguards of the constitution; and
WHEREAS, the President does not have the legal right to circumvent the country's established laws and constitutional protections; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party opposes the wiretapping and surveillance of United States citizens without the consent and legal warrants of the courts of jurisdiction.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party condemns domestic spying using electronic means by agencies of the federal government on U.S. citizens as illegal and unconstitutional;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports immediate Congressional action, such as the appointment of an independent counsel, to hold President Bush and those in his administration responsible for this illegal behavior and to be held accountable in a court of law as expeditiously as possible.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. WSDCCRES - 239 - 060929 - PASS - CIV - Government Surveillance The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the Bush administration has repeatedly denied U.S. citizens and other nationals the right to legally challenge arrests/incarcerations using the Military Commissions act; and
WHEREAS, this is totally contrary to our unbroken history dating back minimally 800 years of allowing arrested persons to challenge such arrest/incarceration in open court and to have such action justified;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee join other United States citizens in demanding the restoration of the right of Habeus Corpus in any and all court proceedings.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge that the Washington State Congressional delegation and the Democratic National Committee support this resolution.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham as amended by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee.
WHEREAS, the Bush Administration has illegally and repeatedly intercepted the phone calls and e-mails of U.S. citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we demand that the administration immediately cease such illegal activities and obtain legal warrants before proceeding with such surveillance.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge that the Washington State Congressional delegation and the Democratic National Committee support this resolution.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham as amended by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee.
WHEREAS, the so-called Patriot Acts I and II have eliminated many of the civil liberties and rights guaranteed US citizens in the Bill of Rights such as: right to due process, right to a speedy trial, right to know the evidence presented against you, right to be tried by a jury of your peers, right to freedom from unwarranted search, etc.; and
WHEREAS, torture is not a traditional American value and is in violation of the Geneva Convention;
WHEREAS, the principle of habeas corpus protects the individual from unlawful imprisonment by requiring a prisoner be brought before a judge to hear the charges leading to imprisonment, and to determine whether there are sufficient grounds for the individual to be held; or whether the prisoner must be released;
WHEREAS, habeas corpus is an integral part of due process and dates back to the 12th century in England and the Magna Carta;
WHEREAS, habeas corpus is protected in the US Constitution in Article One, Section 9: "The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public safety may require ".;
WHEREAS, the Sixth Amendment, in further support of that principle, assures that "the accused shall enjoy the right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him;"
WHEREAS, the Supreme Court has recognized the fact that "the writ of habeas corpus is the fundamental instrument for safeguarding individual freedom against arbitrary and lawless state action." (Harris v. Nelson, 1969), and that the writ of habeas corpus could not be denied to an individual by attempting to have military tribunals try civilians where civil courts were open and available, even during times of war (Ex parte Milligan, 1886);
WHEREAS, the Bush Administration's following attacks on the right of habeas corpus pose serious threats to our Freedoms as guaranteed under the Constitution such as: Alleging that "The Constitution doesn't say every individual in the United States or citizen is hereby granted or assured the right of habeas corpus; Being the major force behind the enactment of the Military Commissions Act of (Oct. 17, 2006) under which the President is given the power to declare any non-citizen an "unlawful enemy combatant" and put the person into a system of WSDCCRES - 351 - 070630 - PASS - CIV - Habeas Corpus military tribunals with severely limited rights, including suspension of the right of habeas corpus; Extending the reach of potential abuses allowable under the Military Commissions Act of 2006 to citizens and non-citizens alike, Providing Military commissions with sole authority and jurisdiction in matters subject to the Act, providing that no other court, justice or judge be able to review a case or even review the lawfulness of military commission procedures; and
WHEREAS, several bills (S. 185 and H.R. 1416, the Habeas Corpus Restoration Act of 2007; and S. 576, Restoring the Constitution Act of 2007) have been introduced in Congress in 2007;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorse the restoration of habeas corpus for all persons and that we work with our Congressional Representatives and Senators to restore habeas corpus.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support HB 1416 and SB 576 that clearly restore the rights of US citizens guaranteed in the Bill of Rights and Constitution including but not limited to: due process, Habeas Corpus, speedy public (not secret military) trials and eliminates the ability of executive authority to make their own rules on torture.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. (Date
Submitted 6/27/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS, disabled voters have long faced a history of obstacles in the exercise of their right to vote and ability to participate in political campaigns;
WHEREAS, people with disabilities have long been constructively disenfranchised from the electoral process;
WHEREAS, stereotypes have long assumed people with disabilities were either incapable of participating, or chose not to vote or participate; WHERAS, this disenfranchisement is a factor influencing the over 14 million disabled people of voting age that remain unregistered as voters (see http://www.michbar.org/journal/pdf/pdf4article1035.pdf, accessed January 2008); and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) has long supported the inclusion of people with disabilities in electoral politics and civic affairs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we, the WSDCC, call on each and every Democratic presidential campaign this year to ensure the physical accessibility of their offices in the state of Washington, including ensuring the ability of wheelchair users to access their offices (and office facilities) without requiring the assistance of others, regardless of legal obligation under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or otherwise;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, we, the WSDCC, call on each and every Democratic presidential campaign to ensure and indicate the physical accessibility of their officially sponsored events in the state of Washington (that are held outside of private residences), including ensuring the ability of wheelchair users to access event premises - including facilities and main event programs - without requiring the assistance of others;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the WSDCC shall communicate this resolution to each Democratic presidential campaign, including especially campaigns considered both viable or likely to open offices in the state of Washington, by the end of the month of February 2008, by electronic or postal mail with a copy to the WSDIC Chair below. WSDCCRES - 382 - 080126 - PASS - CIV - Access to Campaigns and Events
Submitted by the Washington State Disabilities Issues Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/26/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS in the wake of imposition of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Policy on a reluctant military leadership, a Defense of Marriage Act was enacted and signed into law in 1996 (P.L. No. 104-199, 110 Stat. 2419), (a) limiting federal recognition of marriage and attendant federal benefits to unions involving one man and one woman, and (b) providing, contrary to the Full Faith and Credit Clause (U.S. Constitution, Article IV), that no state need treat as valid a marriage between persons of the same sex, even if valid under the laws of the state where the marriage was performed;
WHEREAS said Act, commonly known as "DOMA," (a) was based on the manifestly fallacious notion that heterosexual marriages in the United States are endangered by the prospect of same-sex couples marrying, and (b) deprives same-sex couples of the opportunity to be accorded a vast array of rights and benefits available under federal law to heterosexual couples;
WHEREAS since the enactment of DOMA, several states have, by legislation or court decision upholding equality of rights under law, enabled same-sex marriage and accorded full validity thereto under the laws of those states;
WHEREAS our President was elected on a program including the assertion that "Obama also believes we need to fully repeal the Defense of Marriage Act and enact legislation that would ensure that the 1,100+ federal legal rights and benefits currently provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples . . ." (campaign website, 2008);
WHEREAS the Platform of the 46th District Democrats, adopted July 26, 2008, declares that "We support [e]very adult couple's right to marry and be afforded all civil rights associated with marriage, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity";
WHEREAS the Platform of the King County Democrats, adopted April 13, 2008, declares that "The rights and responsibilities conferred by marriage should be available to all committed adult couples regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity";
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democratic Party, adopted July 14, 2008, declares that "We believe [m]arriage is a human right and should not be restricted by sexual orientation or gender identity"; and WSDCCRES - 487 - 100130 - PASS - CIV - Repealing DOMA
WHEREAS the Platform of the National Democratic Party, adopted August 25, 2008, declares that "We oppose the Defense of Marriage Act and all attempts to use this issue to divide us";
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that DOMA should be repealed without further delay, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that our Senators and Congressional Representatives be notified of this Resolution and queried as to their intended actions in furtherance thereof.
Submitted by the 46th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/21/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS President Franklin Delano Roosevelt detailed his planned but never enacted "Second Bill of Rights," to amend the US Constitution that recognizes economic truths [that have] become accepted as self-evident -- the rights of Americans to a job, a home, adequate health care, and an education. "For unless there is security here at home, there cannot be lasting peace in the world." (FDR);
WHEREAS "It is our duty now to begin to lay the plans and determine the strategy for the winning of a lasting peace and the establishment of an American standard of living higher than ever before known. We cannot be content, no matter how high that general standard of living may be, if some fraction of our people-whether it be one-third or one-fifth or one-tenth-is ill-fed, ill-clothed, ill-housed, and insecure";
WHEREAS "This Republic had its beginning, and grew to its present strength, under the protection of certain inalienable political rights-among them the right of free speech, free press, free worship, trial by jury, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures. They were our rights to life and liberty";
WHEREAS "as our nation has grown in size and stature, however-as our industrial economy expanded-these political rights proved inadequate to assure us equality in the pursuit of happiness";
WHEREAS "we have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without economic security and independence Necessitous men are not free men. People who are hungry and out of a job are the stuff of which dictatorships are made"; and
WHEREAS "in our day these economic truths have become accepted as self-evident we have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all-regardless of station, race, or creed " - [Excerpt from President Franklin D Roosevelt's January 11, 1944 message to the Congress of the United States on the State of the Union]; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington's United States Senators and members of Congress move to include FDR's second Bill of Rights, which are: The right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries, shops, farms or mines of the nation; The right to earn enough to provide adequate food, clothing and recreation; WSDCCRES - 488 - 100130 - PASS - CIV - Second Bill of Rights The right of all farmers to raise and sell their products at a return which will give their families a decent living; The right of every businessperson, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad; The right of everyone to a decent home; The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health; The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, send this resolution to Washington State's Democratic Congressional representatives and our United States senators, requesting them to initiate the inclusion of FDR's second Bill of Rights (above) into the United States Constitution via provisions in Article V of that document.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 12/8/2009)
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/30/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS between 3% and 5% of the females in custody in local jails and state and federal prisons in the United States are pregnant at the time of their incarceration;
WHEREAS the Washington State Department of Corrections has a policy against the routine use of physical restraints on women during labor and delivery;
WHEREAS it has been shown to be commonplace not to follow that policy;
WHEREAS the United States District Court for the District of Columbia found the practice of shackling a woman in labor to be cruel and unusual punishment in violation of her Eighth Amendment rights;
WHEREAS the Federal Bureau of Prisons, in 2008, banned shackling of pregnant women during transportation, labor and delivery;
WHEREAS the Human Rights Committee of the United Nations recommends prohibiting the shackling of detained women during childbirth;
WHEREAS there are currently at least six states with laws restricting the use of physical restraints on women in the later stages of pregnancy, in labor or childbirth none have documented any increase in escapes or threat to the safety of staff assisting delivery; and
WHEREAS even though there is state policy against the shackling of pregnant women being assisted during childbirth there is no state law that supports that policy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats express their opposition to the use of physical restraints, except in the most extreme circumstances, on prisoners during the labor and delivery phases of their pregnancy by calling upon our elected state representatives and senators to draft, sponsor and work to pass legislation in 2010 of a law to end the unlawful state practices violating the Eighth Amendment rights of incarcerated pregnant women in Washington.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 12/8/2009) WSDCCRES - 489 - 100130 - PASS - CIV - Shackling Prisoners
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/30/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS President Obama just signed into law HR 1540, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012 despite provisions that will allow the military to indefinitely detain American citizens without due process, defying basic principles of justice and due process in perhaps the most extreme respect our nation has ever seen;
WHEREAS Section 1022, MILITARY CUSTODY FOR FOREIGN AL-QAEDA TERRORISTS. of HR 1540, despite its revised title which formerly was Section 1032, REQUIREMENT FOR MILITARY CUSTODY of the NDAA of 2012, is tantamount to the illicit suspension of habeas corpus, in violation of the Constitution, because while it does not require the military to enforce the provisions for indefinite detention without due process against U. S. citizens, neither is the military forbidden to do so, nor, by other provisions, is the president; and
WHEREAS Senator Diane Feinstein has introduced legislation to undo these provisions of the NDAA, in the form of The Due Process Guarantee Act;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) strongly oppose Section 1022 of HR 1540, as it applies to "UNITED STATES CITIZENS AND LAWFUL RESIDENT ALIENS" because it is on its face a violation of Article I, Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution which proscribes the suspension of the Writ of Habeas Corpus as follows: "The privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public Safety may require it.";
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC support The Due Process Guarantee Act of 2011 introduced by Senator Diane Feinstein which amends the Non-29 Detention Act of 1971 by providing that a Congressional authorization for the use of military force does not authorize the indefinite detention-without charge or trial-of U.S. citizens who are apprehended domestically; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that upon adoption the WSDCC shall send this resolution to President Obama, to the members of the Washington State Congressional delegation, to Senator Diane Feinstein, and to daily and weekly newspapers in Washington State.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/20/2012) WSDCCRES - 557 - 120128 - PASS - CIV - Opposing Indefinite Detention The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS Governor Gregoire has requested the Legislature pass a bill legalizing Same-Sex Marriage; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee believe in ending all forms of discrimination;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on members of the Washington State Legislature to take on a leadership role in assuring passage of any bill legalizing Same-Sex Marriage.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/12/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS natural (real) persons existed well before the creation of the corporation;
WHEREAS corporations are artificial entities created by natural persons specifically for the benefit and welfare of natural persons;
WHEREAS the concept of "corporate personhood" was created by the actions of a few people for the sole benefit of corporations and a few select people at the expense of all natural persons and is, therefore, illegitimate;
WHEREAS owing to the fact that corporations never die, whereas natural persons do, corporations have accrued over time unequal access to wealth, unequal access to power, unequal access to the commons and unequal influence over the judiciary, the legislatures, the executives of our governance;
WHEREAS corporations do not pay their fair share of taxes but more benefits accrue to these artificial entities than to natural persons from the proceeds of our tax dollars;
WHEREAS corporations now have more privacy rights than natural persons;
WHEREAS corporations are not held responsible for their crimes in the same way that natural persons are held; and
WHEREAS there are many other instances of artificial-entity malfeasance causing the deaths and incredible suffering of natural persons;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the concept of corporate personhood be stricken from the laws of the United States;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that artificial entities which cause death or great suffering to natural persons be instantly dissolved and the assets of these artificial entities shall be distributed amongst survivors and sufferers; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Democratic Party, as a champion of natural persons, act to protect natural persons from the malfeasance and evils done by artificial entities, and that letters be sent to the Washington State Congressional Delegation and the Presidential nominees urging such action. 2008SCRES - 007 - 080614 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Powers Resolution
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS many U.S. companies enjoy off-shore tax havens in foreign countries; and
WHEREAS "corporate personhood" brings into question the allegiance of such "persons" to foreign interests above U.S. interests;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will request the Washington State Democratic delegation to the United States Congress work to create and pass legislation which will both close loopholes to companies/corporations that result in shipping jobs overseas, and expose and disallow corporate tax havens that have contributed to the ruination of the U.S. economy.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the systematic neglect of the public sphere/infrastructure is a contributing factor to the ruination of the U.S. economy;
WHEREAS the ideology is held by the Bush Administration both creates disaster and uses natural disaster in order to privatize public responsibilities; and
WHEREAS publicly-owned resources have been and are being destroyed by the corporate theft of our resources, specifically water;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request its elected officials to develop and pass legislation to stop unjustified privatizing of public resources; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS corporate entities are known polluters of both greenhouse gases and environmentally toxic wastes; and
WHEREAS, the cost to remediate environmentally degrading problems caused by corporate polluters, including both cleanup costs and health problems to citizens, should not be borne by the American taxpayer;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that corporate entities be held accountable monetarily for all costs of cleanup, remediation, and health care costs incurred as a result of their actions. All corporations whose production methods produce greenhouse gases and/or toxic wastes as a natural by-product shall be mandated to place and hold in trust at least five percent of their gross profits to be used for remediation purposes; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature, and the Governor.
Submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/26/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled in Citizens United vs. the Federal Election Commission against the free speech interests of individuals in favor of corporations' rights to give as much money as they want to influence election campaigns and the decisions and actions of the elected officials that they sponsored;
WHEREAS this decision potentially is disastrous regarding the ability for every U.S. citizen to have equal access to their elected representative's or elected official's ear and could result in further erosion of voter trust and confidence, reduced voter turnout and citizen involvement, increased cynicism and apathy and the total corruption of the democratic process;
WHEREAS this country is at great risk of being engineered and controlled by enormously wealthy corporations, which can "buy" the votes of those elected officials who owe them "favors";
WHEREAS these corporations do not have the same interests as true persons and have historically shown this by their lack of regard for clean air, clean water, and other ecologically sustainable practices in their quest to make as large a profit from the smallest outlay of cash possible;
WHEREAS under our current system our candidates and elected officials are forced to spend the majority of their time seeking money to run their campaigns at the detriment of their ability to focus their full attention on the job they were elected to do;
WHEREAS the both the U.S. Senate and U.S House of Representative have crafted a bill to address this inequity by advocating for public financing of campaigns called The Fair Elections Now Act ( Senate bill S 752 and the House of Representative bill HR 1825 );
WHEREAS this bill has wide support of citizens in general and also among concerned Senators and Representatives and advocates for public financing of campaigns for candidates that meet the required support threshold of number of contributors and small donations; and
WHEREAS The Fair Elections Now Act (FENA) has multiple co-sponsors, including Senator Maria Cantwell, Congressmen Jim McDermott and Adam Smith among others;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the passage and enactment of The Fair Elections Now Act, and call on the remaining members of the Washington State Democratic Congressional delegation to become co-41 sponsors and work for passage of FENA into law; 2010SCRES - 032 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood (Pierce)
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WA State Democrats call for an amendment to the Constitution to abolish corporate personhood and return our democracy, our elections, our communities back to America's human persons, and to thus reclaim our sovereign right to self-governance;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WA State Democrats support education to increase public awareness of the threats to our democracy posed by corporate personhood, and encourages lively discussion to build understanding and consensus to take appropriate community and municipal actions to democratically respond to these threats; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/20/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS government of, by, and for the people has long been a cherished American value, and We The People's fundamental and inalienable right to self-govern, and thereby secure rights to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness as stated in Declaration of Independence and secured by the US Constitution;
WHEREAS President Abraham Lincoln warned late in his administration that "corporations are enthroned ..An era of corruption in high places will follow and the money power will endeavor to prolong its reign by working on the prejudices of the people ..until wealth is aggregated in a few hands .and the Republic is destroyed;"
WHEREAS democracy means governance by the people, only natural persons should be able to participate in the democratic process; corporations are not mentioned in the Constitution; The People have never granted constitutional rights to corporations, nor have We decreed that corporations have authority that exceeds the authority of We The People of the United States;
WHEREAS Justice Stevens stated, "corporations have no consciences, no beliefs, no feelings, no thoughts, no desires. Corporations help structure and facilitate the activities of human beings, to be sure, and their "personhood" often serves as a useful legal fiction. But they are not themselves members of "We the People" by whom and for whom our Constitution was established";
WHEREAS the wrongful interpretation of the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution by the Supreme Court in Santa Clara v. The Southern Pacific Railroad Co. to include corporations in the term persons has long wrought havoc with our democratic process by endowing corporations with constitutional privileges intended solely to protect the citizens of the United States or natural persons within its borders;
WHEREAS the Court's ruling in citizens United v. FEC allows corporations to participate in and contribute to political campaigns as a means of free speech will now unleash a torrent of corporate money in our political process unmatched by any campaign expenditure totals in United States history; that presents a serious and direct threat to our democracy;
WHEREAS five members of the United States Supreme Court in January 2010 have transformed the First Amendment into a powerful tool for corporations seeking to evade and invalidate democratically-enacted reforms; 2010SCRES - 033 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood (Whitman)
WHEREAS the Judicial Branch of the United States Government continues, in disregard of the stare decisis principle, to move toward the endowment of Corporate Entities with certain of the inalienable rights guaranteed by the Constitution to People;
WHEREAS the ability of citizens to establish laws to protect the health, safety, and welfare has been diminished by the exercise of constitutional privileges by corporations;
WHEREAS large corporations have used their so-called 'rights' to overturn democratically enacted laws passed at municipal, state and federal levels, aimed at curbing corporate abuse, thereby rendering local governments ineffective in protecting their citizens against corporate harms to the environment, to health, to workers, to independent business, to local and regional economies;
WHEREAS an effective remedy to the anti-democratic effects of Corporate Personhood is urgently needed if People are to retain their Constitutionally-sanctioned primacy in American polity; and
WHEREAS, the people of the United States have previously used the constitutional amendment process to correct those egregiously wrong decisions of the United States Supreme Court that go to the heart of our democracy and self-government;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, reject the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Citizens United and recommend legislative action or Constitutional Amendment to firmly establish that human beings, not corporations, are persons entitled to constitutional rights; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) 2010SCRES - 033 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood (Whitman) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the U.S. National Debt, is clearly unsustainable and slowing economic recovery and growth;
WHEREAS each citizen's share of the this debt is now in excess of $41,000 and ultimately will be repaid by our children and grandchildren through increased taxes;
WHEREAS interest payments to service the publicly held portion of this debt (two-10 thirds of the total) amounted to $187 billion in 2009, nearly half of which was paid out to foreign investors, and hence represent deadweight losses for the U.S. economy;
WHEREAS the U.S. Treasury expects to pay out more than $400 billion in net interest in and more than $650 billion by 2020 as a result of increasing debt and rising interest rates, all of which will hamper any new social programs;
WHEREAS the money the government lends to itself each year in the form of Government Account Securities comes from the Social Security Trust Fund and will need to be paid back as early as 2010, as Baby Boomers continue to retire, through new sources of revenue;
WHEREAS the U.S. had a securities transaction tax from 1914 to 1966 (The Revenue Act of 1914) that levied a 0.2 percent tax on all sales or transfers of stock, which helped the financial recovery during the Great Depression;
WHEREAS a transfer tax of a 0.25 percent assessed on the sale and purchase of financial instruments such as stocks, options and futures could raise approximately $150 billion a year to pay down the National Debt and thereby reduce its obligated interest payments; and
WHEREAS such a tax on Wall Street would have a negligible impact on the average investor and pension funds;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, call upon our U.S. Congressional Delegation to immediately sponsor and pass legislation, which would enact such a securities transaction tax and have its revenue dedicated entirely to reducing the National Debt; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, 2010SCRES - 035 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Financial Regulation (Island) listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the United States and the rest of the world are currently struggling to recover from the Republican-led Great Recession, the worst economic debacle experienced in the United States since the Republican-Hoover Great Depression of 1929-5 1933;
WHEREAS a major contributor to the current Great Recession was the dismantling of many financial regulatory laws enacted under the leadership of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Democratic Congress of 1933-40 during the years of the New Deal; and
WHEREAS enforcement of those financial regulatory laws which were not foolishly repealed since 1981 were ignored by federal regulators under the administrations of President Ronald Reagan and all his successors until 2009, or those regulatory laws were interpreted in irrational ways by regulators, with the exception of the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, passed in the wake of the Enron collapse;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges President Obama to direct full enforcement of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, which holds corporate senior executives to take personal responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of their financial reports;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports Obama Administration support for and Congressional passage of the strongest possible financial reform laws, based on the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2009, HR 4173, the House of Representatives bill, and currently being considered by the Senate; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urge the Washington delegation to Congress work to include these provisions in the final legislation: Creation of a free-standing Consumer Financial Protection Agency, with broad powers to write and enforce rules for banks, credit unions and other financial companies. Gives shareholders a right to nominate corporate directors using company proxy ballots Gives shareholders an advisory vote on compensation and 'golden parachute' severance packages, and requires that compensation committees be composed entirely of independent directors. Require companies to rescind executive compensation when it is found to be based on inaccurate financial statements. 2010SCRES - 038 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Financial Regulation (Pierce) Directs regulators to restrict banks from proprietary trading and from investing in or owning hedge funds and private equity funds Requires hedge funds and private equity funds with more than $100 million to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and to provide information about their trades and portfolios. Merges the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, which supervises federally chartered banks, with the Office of Thrift Supervision, which supervises savings and loans. Establishes a Financial Services Oversight Council to detect and assess risks to the financial system. Imposes stricter standards and regulations, including high capital and liquidity requirements, on financial services companies that are big enough or interconnected enough to put the entire economy at risk. Calls for the president of the U.S. to appoint the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to a five-year term, instead of having the New York Fed board - which includes member banks - to make the appointment. Subjects the Federal Reserve Bank to greater auditing requirements and oversight by the Government Accountability Office, the investigative arm of Congress. Imposes tighter restrictions on the largely unregulated derivatives market, requiring most derivatives to be traded through exchanges or clearinghouses, monitored by the SEC and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission Creates an Office of Credit Ratings in the SEC to oversee credit rating agencies Requires creditors to retain at least 5% of the credit risk associated with any loans that are transferred, sold or securitized. Requires lenders to retain a portion of the risk they generate in order to provide some market discipline for underwriting decisions; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/20/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) 2010SCRES - 038 - 100626 - PASS - CORP - Financial Regulation (Pierce) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS America was born of a struggle for freedom from tyranny, not establishment of a corporate haven;
WHEREAS the U.S. Constitution, as amended, describes the rights and freedoms granted to people and to enshrine democratic self-government, and makes no mention of corporations;
WHEREAS the First Amendment is intended to protect free speech rights of human beings, not corporations;
WHEREAS corporations are legal creations only, chartered by law and given "privileges" to engage in commerce and civic affairs deemed necessary for the public good; corporations are not natural persons and should not have automatic or inalienable rights as natural persons;
WHEREAS corporations may be owned, in whole or in part, by foreign interests that should have no influence over elections, lawmaking or public policy in the US;
WHEREAS in recent years a divided United States Supreme Court has repeatedly affirmed that spending money is equivalent to speech, transforming the First Amendment into a powerful tool for corporations and great wealth to evade and invalidate democratically enacted reforms;
WHEREAS the corporate claim of the right to free speech reached an extreme conclusion in the Supreme Court ruling Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission;
WHEREAS the Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United overturned longstanding precedents prohibiting corporations from spending their funds for electioneering to influence campaigns and election results;
WHEREAS recent Supreme Court rulings, based in part on Constitutional interpretations, have allowed alarming levels of spending by corporations and wealthy individuals to influence campaigns and election results, unmatched by any campaign spending in U.S. history;
WHEREAS these recent rulings by the Supreme Court present a serious threat to democratic self-government by people, by empowering money and wealth to shout louder than the peoples' voice; and 2012SC - 022 - 120602 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood V
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby call upon the Washington State Legislature to enact a joint resolution to the U.S. Congress in support of a Constitutional amendment to establish that corporate entities shall not be considered natural persons eligible for rights accorded to human beings under the U.S. Constitution, and the use of money to influence elections or the acts of public officials shall not be considered protected speech, and, to protect the inalienable right of self-50 governance by the people, Congress and the states shall be permitted to appropriately regulate contributions and expenditures for campaigns, elections, ballot measures and electioneering.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby call upon Democrats of the Washington State Congressional Delegation to seek a constitutional amendment establishing as law that a corporation shall not be considered a person eligible for rights accorded human beings and the use of money to influence elections or the acts of public officials shall not be considered a protected form of speech and, to protect the inalienable right of self-governance by the people, Congress and the states shall be permitted to appropriately regulate contributions and expenditures for campaigns, elections, ballot measures and electioneering.
Submitted by the 36th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 5/3/2012)
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012)
Submitted by the 45th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 5/3/2012)
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power, Education, Labor, and Media Reform at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 022 - 120602 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood V 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Roberts Court has revealed itself to be the most activist and the most corporate friendly Court in modern history;
WHEREAS the Roberts Court has elevated the "rights" of corporations to be in many instances on the same level as the actual people who created them;
WHEREAS the granting of these new rights have made effective regulation of corporations all but impossible in many areas;
WHEREAS this can only be corrected by amending the constitution in a way that leaves no room for an activist court to countermand the will of the people;
WHEREAS it is necessary to clearly establish, with no loopholes, that an activist court can exploit, that money is not speech, corporations are not people, all corporations are subject to regulation, and that all campaign contributions will be disclosed; and
WHEREAS the privileges of artificial entities shall be determined by the People, through Federal, State, or local law, and shall not be construed to be inherent or inalienable;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Convention promptly ask our Senators, Maria Cantwell and Patti Murray, to prepare and submit a companion bill to H.J. Res. 29: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing that the rights extended by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons only.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Corporate Power amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Corporate Power recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Corporate Power at their May 31st meeting. 2014SC - 077 - 140621 - PASS - COR - Corporate Personhood (Jefferson) The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS, Corporations make significant political contributions and expenditures to support and oppose political candidates, political parties and political causes; and
WHEREAS, Corporations acting through their boards and executives are obligated to conduct business for the best interests of their owners, whose interests are not necessarily in the public's best interest; and
WHEREAS, the public has no means of addressing the political activities of corporations and the corporate boards and executives that use corporation funds to support and oppose political candidates, and other actions that effect the best interests of the public; and
WHEREAS, Corporations should be accountable for their public actions affecting the larger community; and
WHEREAS, Political candidates, parties and causes should not accept corporate contributions and expenditures as they are in the business of supporting, regulating and governing the common good and the rights of the public;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: 1. The Washington State legislature shall enact laws to revoke corporate personhood. 2. The Washington State Legislature shall enact laws to make it unlawful for a for-profit corporation to, directly or indirectly, make any political contribution or expenditure for political activities or for an officer or director of a corporation to consent to any political contribution or expenditure by a corporation; and 3. It shall be made unlawful for any candidate, political party, committee, or other person knowingly to accept or receive any political contribution or expenditure from a for-profit corporation or its directors.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its June, 2006 Convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/03/2006 by Whatcom County Democrats) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. WSDCCRES - 206 - 060929 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Political Account The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, unlike internet radio, traditional radio does NOT pay royalties to record labels or artists for songs performed over the air;
WHEREAS, on March 2, 2007, after intense lobbying by the RIAA (the record industry), the Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) issued a ruling that imposes bizarre and unsustainable royalties and huge fees on internet transmission of audio. It will end the industry;
WHEREAS, on April 16th, 2007, the CRB declined a unified industry request to hear any additional testimony;
WHEREAS, the CRB ruling imposes a per channel fee of $500 and huge increases in royalties that are retroactive to Jan 1, 2006 and go into effect on May 15, 2007;
WHEREAS, the CRB declared that the 2002 Small Webcaster Settlement Act (SWSA) would not be extended despite the arrangements with BMI, ASCAP, and Small Webcaster contracts SoundExchange offered on the SoundExchange website and signed with Small Webcasters for 2006 and 2007;
WHEREAS, without Congressional action the majority of webcasters will go bankrupt and silent on May 15, 2007;
WHEREAS, this is a matter of free speech and urgent immediate action is required; THREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the WSDCC respectfully requests that our US Senators and Congressional Representatives address this issue by working to get Congress to: 1. Reinstate the Small Webcaster Settlement Act. 2. Stop the retroactive, ex post facto royalty payments for 2006 mandated by the CRB, until all appeals have been heard. 3. Create a level playing field by bringing the Internet radio per performance rates into parity with traditional and satellite radio.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 4/21/2007) WSDCCRES - 334 - 070428 - PASS - CORP - Internet Radio The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS the US Constitution, as amended, describes the rights and freedoms granted to people, and makes no mention of corporations;
WHEREAS legal entities such as corporations are neither born nor naturalized in the US, and are therefore not entitled to the privileges or immunities of US citizens;
WHEREAS the First Amendment is designed to protect free speech rights of human beings, not corporations;
WHEREAS there is a profound difference between human beings with an inalienable right to self-expression and what a human being may possess, such as money or property;
WHEREAS multi-national corporations may be owned, in whole or in part, by foreign interests that should have no influence on elections in the US;
WHEREAS over the last 3 decades, a divided United States Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that money equals speech, transforming the First Amendment into a powerful tool for corporations seeking to evade and invalidate democratically enacted reforms;
WHEREAS the corporate takeover of the right to free speech reached its extreme conclusion in the US Supreme Court ruling Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission;
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. F.E.C. overturned longstanding precedents prohibiting corporations from spending their general treasury funds in our elections;
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. F.E.C. has unleashed a torrent of corporate money into our political process unmatched by any campaign expenditure totals in US history; and
WHEREAS this decision fundamentally threatens the integrity of our democratic process; WSDCCRES - 515 - 110430 - PASS - CORP - Resolution on Corporate Personhood (1)
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby call on the Washington State Legislature to pass a joint resolution urging the US Congress to pass and send to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment to establish that a corporation shall not be considered a person eligible for rights accorded to human beings under this Constitution, as amended, and the use of money to influence elections or the acts of public officials shall not be considered a protected form of speech; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Democratic National Committee and the other state Democratic Party organizations for their review and support.
Submitted by the 31st Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 1/20/2011)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/21/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the US Constitution, as amended, describes the rights and freedoms granted to people, and makes no mention of corporations;
WHEREAS legal entities such as corporations are neither born nor naturalized in the US, and are therefore not entitled to the privileges or immunities of US citizens;
WHEREAS the First Amendment is designed to protect free speech rights of human beings, not corporations;
WHEREAS there is a profound difference between human beings with an inalienable right to self-expression and what a human being may possess, such as money or property;
WHEREAS multi-national corporations may be owned, in whole or in part, by foreign interests that should have no influence on elections in the US;
WHEREAS over the last 3 decades, a divided United States Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that money equals speech, transforming the First Amendment into a powerful tool for corporations seeking to evade and invalidate democratically enacted reforms;
WHEREAS the corporate takeover of the right to free speech reached its extreme conclusion in the US Supreme Court ruling Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission;
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. F.E.C. overturned longstanding precedents prohibiting corporations from spending their general treasury funds in our elections;
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. F.E.C. has unleashed a torrent of corporate money into our political process unmatched by any campaign expenditure totals in US history; and
WHEREAS this decision fundamentally threatens the integrity of our democratic process; WSDCCRES - 559 - 120128 - PASS - CORP - Corporate Personhood
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby call on the Washington State Legislature to pass a joint resolution urging the US Congress to pass and send to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment to establish that a corporation shall not be considered a person eligible for rights accorded to human beings under this Constitution, as amended, and the use of money to influence elections or the acts of public officials shall not be considered a protected form of speech; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Democratic National Committee and the other state Democratic Party organizations for their review and support.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date
Submitted 1/20/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS terms and legal agreements on credit cards are written in small print and language that is not clear;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the U.S. Congress pass laws that require credit card agreements to be written in large print and in a language that is easily understood by the user; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS American taxpayers are outraged that the U.S. Government awarded a $40 billion contract to European based Airbus to build the U.S. Air Force air refueling tanker;
WHEREAS a union member-built Boeing tanker would have provided over 9000 jobs in Washington State, over 44 thousand family wage jobs in America and $400 million to our state's economy;
WHEREAS the loss of the tanker contract to Airbus affects America's aerospace industry future and with the loss of America's aerospace manufacturing capacity our nation will have to rely on foreign countries to provide the military hardware needed to defend our nation;
WHEREAS the U.S. Air Force switched the section criteria after the contract bids were submitted and that change better suited the Airbus bid and disadvantaged the Boeing proposal;
WHEREAS the Airbus tanker's larger airframe will require billions of dollars in additional construction costs including expanding air bases, landing strips and new hangers;
WHEREAS the Boeing tanker would require 24% less fuel (an estimated $10 billion saving to taxpayers) and create 30% less greenhouse gases with a significant lessening of a global warming impact;
WHEREAS Airbus has not yet built tankers in cooperation with Northrop/Grumman, the factory in Alabama has yet not been built, nor have 1500 skilled workers been hired or trained, workers needed to finish the Airbus tanker; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Government has filed charges against the European governments for illegal subsidies which gave Airbus an unfair pricing advantage over Boeing;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee go on record in support of withdrawing the appropriation for the Airbus tanker and a new contract competition be commenced which will factor in the American economy, American jobs, national defense implications, the strategic importance of an American aerospace industry, the impact of additional long-term operating costs to taxpayers, the impact on the environment, the illegal European subsidies to Airbus, and will create a fair and consistent selection criteria; and 2008SCRES - 001 - 080614 - PASS - ECON - Tanker Contract
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the US President, the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature and the Governor.
Submitted by the 6th Legislative District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 3/19/2008)
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008)
Submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/26/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the security of the nation is of the utmost importance, and our ports are of great issue;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that any US port should be run by the US Government or a US Company; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS terms and legal agreements on credit cards are written in small print and language that is not clear;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the U.S. Congress pass laws that require credit card agreements to be written in large print and in a language that is easily understood by the user; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS millions of lower and middle income families are in danger of losing their homes because they are unable to make their house payments as the variable rate of their home loans increases sharply;
WHEREAS the loss of homes causes tremendous suffering to those who lack resources to buy or rent another home;
WHEREAS foreclosure and eviction lead to a drastic decline in the value of other homes in the area, as empty houses deteriorate and invite vandalism and illicit use;
WHEREAS the inability of large numbers of homeowners to pay their loans, threatens the solvency of lending institutions; and
WHEREAS the federal government has already invested billions in subsidizing lending institutions directly;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Congress support a bill which provides funds at a lower interest rate through the FHA to states and cities so they can enable those in danger of losing their homes and able to make reduced house payments, to keep their homes. This in turn would prevent the deterioration in value of other homes in the neighborhood, and would stabilize the lending institutions;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Congress enact legislation which provides for much more stringent regulation of lending institutions; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Walla Walla County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/28/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the insurance industry and certain other businesses have adopted the practice of setting rates based on credit scores derived from data submitted to credit reporting agencies by banks, credit card companies, and other sources;
WHEREAS the use of such scores can be shown to unfairly discriminate against certain classes of individuals by increasing the rates paid by lower credit scorers (minority groups, non-credit users, people subject to financial devastation from medical emergencies, natural disasters, foreclosure, and so forth);
WHEREAS predatory lending practices, such as sub-prime mortgages and easily available (but high-interest) credit cards, have caused economic difficulties for millions of Americans, with a consequent increase in low credit scores and therefore windfall profits for insurance and other businesses whose rates are tied to such scores; and
WHEREAS the scientific models and date used by businesses to establish an actuarial relationship between credit scores and claims (or costs) are proprietary and not subject to independent and objective verification;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on each and every one of our state's United States representatives to support legislation prohibiting the practice of employing credit scores to set insurance rates or any rates other than those directly related to the use of credit such as the interest rates on loans and credit cards; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the US tax code is unfair to middle class families;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to amend the Alternative Minimum Tax to reduce its impact on the middle class; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS high usury (interest) rates have caused immeasurable loss of assets and financial suffering;
WHEREAS financial institutions and other issuers of credit instruments in the State of Washington have instituted credit practices which are usurious;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional Delegation to sponsor legislation limiting the maximum interest rate to 12% per annum inclusive of fees of any kind and nature; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Democratic State Legislators be urged to amend the Revised Code of Washington, Chapter 19.52.020 - Highest rate permissible - Setup charges.1., to read "Any rate of interest shall be legal so long as the rate of interest does not exceed twelve percent per annum. No person shall directly or indirectly take or receive in money, goods, or things in action, or in any other way, any greater interest for the loan or forbearance of any money goods, or things in action."
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress and the Washington State Legislature
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the United States of America faces a recession and possible collapse of our financial system because of the ill-advised and reckless fiscal policies of the Bush Administration;
WHEREAS the Bush Administration lavished tax cuts on the top 2% of the wealthiest Americans;
WHEREAS our banking and mortgage lending systems are extremely troubled due in great measure to lax oversight and predatory lending that has cause thousands of Americans to lose their homes to foreclosure;
WHEREAS the illegal and badly mismanaged war in Iraq will burden American taxpayers for generations to come, siphoning away resources from necessary programs and repair of our crumbling infrastructure; and
WHEREAS the rapidly widening gap between the wealthiest and the poorest Americans threatens to obliterate the middle class;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call on our state's U.S. Representative and Senators to promote repeal of the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans, work to restore a progressive tax system, establish effective oversight of banking practices, and support a return to fiscally responsible policies. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee is directed to forward copies of this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS electric utilities are in many ways natural monopolies operating in a business where competition among many companies would be inefficient and wasteful of natural resources;
WHEREAS the public has a vital long term interest in the integrity and financial strength of the owners of electric utilities, as well as the owners' responsiveness to the public and its government;
WHEREAS electric utility facilities under the control of private investors with little connection to our community, its values, goals and objectives are less likely to be managed in the best fashion consistent with the public's long term interests;
WHEREAS public ownership enhances local government's capacity to pursue the goals of security, justice, equity, environmental objectives and community service obligations;
WHEREAS public ownership ensures against a focus on short-term profits at the expense of long-range investment that will benefit our community's future, and discourages lavish rewards for top management that have impaired the efficiency and honesty of many unregulated corporations in other industries;
WHEREAS public ownership prevents undue political influence by top management of the electric utility in a manner contrary to the public interest;
WHEREAS greater public ownership strengthens community involvement in utility decision making and governmental oversight;
WHEREAS public ownership is more conducive than corporate ownership to services at reasonable prices in rural as well as urban areas, a matter of high concern given Skagit County's geographical diversity;
WHEREAS electricity generated by the nation's rivers should benefit the public, and, in particular, the communities located within those river systems;
WHEREAS climate change will increasingly place a premium on our community's water and sustainable energy resources, amplifying pressure by foreign corporate interests to secure those resources for their own profit-making opportunities;
WHEREAS it is in our interest to ensure that our community maintains adequate oversight and control over our water resources, our river systems, and our sources of sustainable energy; - SCRES - XX - 447 - 05 - SUB - Oppose Sale of PSE
WHEREAS numerous public utility districts within the State of Washington have safely and reliably provided hydroelectric power to their communities for many decades, at rates far more competitive than the national average; and
WHEREAS the Democratic Party has historically supported public ownership of critical public utility infrastructure such as that held by electric utilities for many of the reasons described above;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support a feasibility study of public ownership of Puget Sound Energy, including the impact of the proposed Macquarrie acquisition; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Governor Christine Gregoire is urged to lobby the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission regarding docket #U-072375 to delay consideration of "The Matter of the Joint Application of Puget Holdings, LLC and Puget Holdings, LLC and Puget Sound Energy, Inc," until the completion of the feasibility study.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/27/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 13, 2008 meeting in Spokane. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the US tax code is so unwieldy that even IRS employees and legal experts often interpret sections of the code differently;
WHEREAS interest and dividends are taxed at different rates depending on by whom they are paid; and
WHEREAS earned income is taxed differently from unearned income, while most unearned income, interest, dividends, capital gains, gifts, are taxed at other rates;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the WA State Democrats, continue to support a progressive tax structure and support a revision to the IRS code to classify all income equally; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the State of Washington has one of the most regressive tax systems any state in the U.S. (Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy), thus placing too high a burden on the poor and working poor;
WHEREAS a Washington resident earning less than $20,000 currently pays approximately 17% of earnings on state and federal taxes while someone earning $537,000 currently pays approximately 3% of earnings in taxes;
WHEREAS without an income tax, the state's reliance on revenue from sales tax revenue makes the state budget extremely sensitive to recessions, economically unstable, and budgetarily unreliable; and
WHEREAS Senate Leader Lisa Brown has offered a solution to tax imbalance, i.e. when lawmakers pass a state sales tax, it will be coupled with an income tax on individuals earning $200,000 and couples earning $400,000;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon our legislators to explore reforms that would create a more equitable and progressive tax system that is less dependent upon a single source of revenue; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon members of the State Senate and State House to introduce and co-24 sponsor a proposal to remove the state sales tax on all goods and services except for liquor, tobacco products, fossil fuels and petroleum products and to institute a fair, graduated state income tax as a companion remedial measure to correct the aforementioned inequities; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) 2010SCRES - 048 - 100626 - PASS - ECON - Tax Structure (Whitman I) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS orderly development is necessary for the economic growth of each community and the state as a whole;
WHEREAS currently, urban growth zones are designated by counties for areas outside city limits;
WHEREAS cities are encouraged to accept these urban zones by annexation; and
WHEREAS cities acquire these annexed areas without input into zoning and building regulations that create the urban developed areas;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Democratic State Convention, urges additions and amendments to the State Growth Management Act requiring coordination between county designated urban development zones and the potential annexing cities such that this coordination be required as part of any county designated urban development zone; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to Governor Chris Gregoire, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, and Speaker of the House Frank Chopp along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Washington residents are experiencing serious and depressing economic conditions brought about by reckless financial speculation by Wall Street and exacerbated by shamefully irresponsible lack of enforcement of existing national banking and investment laws and regulations;
WHEREAS abandonment of 1930s era federal banking regulations have resulted in the demise of many Washington state banks and of national and regional banks formerly headquartered in Washington state, and the loss of their savings and investments in those banks by Washington residents;
WHEREAS the Washington economy and residents would benefit from a State bank similar to the Bank of North Dakota, established in 1919; and
WHEREAS a publicly owned Bank of Washington State would act as a central banker and participate in commercial loans, thereby expanding commercial credit in the state;
WHEREAS a Bank of Washington State would have the ability to self-fund capital projects, keep money local, and absorb debt capacity, thereby allowing the State to keep more people in their homes and on their farms;
WHEREAS once established, the Bank of Washington State will not only foster economic development but it will pay its own operating costs and any profits can be given as dividends to the State;
WHEREAS a Bank of Washington State will partner with community banks; participation in secondary markets is a direct boost to community banks that could raise our state's bond rating; and
WHEREAS a Bank of Washington State opens up revenue options without taxation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democrats of Washington State endorse HR (creation of a Washington State Bank) and HCR 4224 (constitutional amendment authorizing the creation of a State Bank). The State Bank will be overseen by the State Treasurer who will be allowed to fund the bank with state monies and funds; and will have the same authority to operate as a private bank chartered under Washington state law; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, 2010SCRES - 051 - 100626 - PASS - ECON - Washington State Bank (36th) listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 36th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 3/15/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Presidential Candidates have been talking about the need for jobs nationwide; and
WHEREAS the need for a national jobs program is real and important to the welfare of our nation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our federal legislators and our President to establish a Civilian Conservation Corps-type program that makes "full employment" a national policy.
Submitted by the 45th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 caused the greatest speculative bubble and recession since the Great Depression by repealing most of The Banking Act of 1933, known as the Glass-Steagall Act, which separated relations of banks, stock brokers, and insurance companies;
WHEREAS the recession has left millions of homes in foreclosure;
WHEREAS the recession has cost the loss of millions of jobs;
WHEREAS the recession has put severe financial strains on states, counties, and cities exacerbating unemployment and loss of civil services;
WHEREAS the Federal Reserve Banking System has failed to do anything but "bail out" the speculative bankers, brokers, and insurers who caused the depression; and
WHEREAS the SEC, CFTC, FDIC, and other regulatory bodies failed their duty to protect American citizens from the ravages of speculation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats urge our federal legislators to call for the repeal of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and further implementation of separation of financial companies along with stronger regulation of financial services in all sectors.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Social Security System depends upon the payroll tax for funding;
WHEREAS the payroll tax was reduced to help of the recovery process; and
WHEREAS Congress will be reexamining this issue and readjusting the cut-off income for paying the tax;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Congress restore the payroll tax and make the Social Security System secure for generations long into the future.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the population in rural communities can no longer depend only upon agriculture and timber industries as the sole source of employment, and new sources of employment are needed to expand to other ways of sustaining rural life; and
WHEREAS to maximize existing opportunities and to create new opportunities, rural development will only increase depending on the available information infrastructure;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our state and federal elected officials to work to ensure expanded access to information infrastructure services, such as broadband internet, in the rural areas of Washington State and the nation.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS many of the goals listed below, appearing in the "Second Bill of Rights" presented to Congress in 1944 by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, remain unmet The right to a useful and remunerative job; The right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation; The right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living; The right of every businessman, large and small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad; The right of every family to a decent home; The right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health; The right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment; The right to a good education;
WHEREAS Skagit County Democrats and Washington State Democrats both support the "Second Bill of Rights";
WHEREAS Party Platforms seldom include specifics about how to achieve the goals included in the "Second Bill of Rights";
WHEREAS the Congressional Progressive Caucus has presented its "Better Off Budget" that when enacted will meet the goals of the "Second Bill of Rights"; and
WHEREAS the Congressional Progressive Caucus consists of one U.S. Senator and seventy five members of the U. S. House of Representatives, and is the largest caucus in Congress, and therefore represents a huge constituency;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats go on record in support of the "Better Off Budget"; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on lawmakers to support and fight to enact both the intent and spirit of the "Better Off Budget".
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) 2014SC - 037 - 140621 - PASS - ECN - Better-Off Budget The Subcommittee on Economic Justice and Development recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Economic Justice and Development at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Congress let the sales tax exemption expire on January 1, 2014 in the Federal Tax Code;
WHEREAS according to the most recent census, roughly 20 percent of Americans live in states that don't have an income tax;
WHEREAS nine states that have no general income tax are Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wyoming and Washington;
WHEREAS like states that have income tax, states with sales taxes instead of income taxes also fund government services with those taxes; and
WHEREAS with the expiration of the sales tax deduction in the Federal Tax Code, nine states will pay more taxes than states that have state income tax with the result that 20% of the nation's population will pay a larger share of the federal income tax burden;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to permanently alter the Federal Tax Code to treat sales and/or state income taxes similarly; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our elected federal official to pursue the reinstatement of the sales tax deduction.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Economic Justice and Development recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Economic Justice and Development at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS unemployment statistics do not include persons who are underemployed;
WHEREAS the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) unemployment figures do not include persons who have given up seeking employment; and
WHEREAS BLS does not include persons who have exhausted their benefits;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Convention, ask the Bureau of Labor Statistics and our Congressional Delegation to support the revision of unemployment statistics to include these affected individuals.
Submitted by the Snohomish County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the Glass Steagall Act was law from 1933-1999 and worked to prevent banking crises like that of the 1929 stock market crash and Great Depression; and,
WHEREAS the repeal of Glass Steagall in 1999 led to the creation of a massive financial bubble amounting to trillions of dollars, and that bubble burst in 2007-8 causing the loss of $10 trillion plus in financial wealth of the American public and the foreclosure of millions of homeowners, and the loss of tax revenues to cities and states; and,
WHEREAS Goldman Sachs became a "bank" in one weekend after having been an investment bank;
WHEREAS past legislation to restore Glass Steagall has been endorsed by the AFL CIO, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, the Bricklayers, and numerous state and local AFL CIO affiliates, Americans for Financial Reform (including 250 organizations such as the United Auto Workers et al), Public Citizen, LULAC; and over 30 state legislatures have filed resolutions in support of the Congressional legislation; and
WHEREAS the outbreak of a new and more devastating financial and economic crisis is now unfolding, threatening again the banking system and livelihoods of American citizens; already over $2 trillion has been wiped out of the US Stock Markets as of February 11, 2016;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention hereby endorses the restoration of the Glass Steagall Act, and urges the Washington State Congressional Delegation to pass "Glass Steagall" type bills in the 115th Congress.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS corporate business-as-usual is deepening economic, political, and cultural inequalities and injustices; eliminating jobs, eroding wages, increasing pollution, undermining critical environmental and health protections, especially harming lower-5 income families and people of color;
WHEREAS in the U.S. since the 1970s, and especially since 2007, those who control the dominant mega-corporations continually make decisions that undermine the goal of raising the standards of living for the vast majority of people;
WHEREAS computerization, automation, and the export of jobs are altering the long-term supply-and-demand balance of labor power, and long-term real wage stagnation has set in;
WHEREAS these same factors have contributed to steadily rising productivity, but fast- deepening income and wealth inequality, punctuated by economic recessions;
WHEREAS although working people spend much of their lives at work, they have little or no decision-making power on the job;
WHEREAS the workers of an enterprise are usually more knowledgeable about their business than absentee-owners who often reside far away from that business;
WHEREAS for real Democracy, the decision-making power usually assigned to corporate boards of directors and major shareholders, must be transferred to working people in general. Workers' self-directed enterprises (WSDEs) embody economic democracy by locating it first and foremost inside the enterprises producing the goods and services upon which society depends;
WHEREAS WSDEs, in offices, factories, farms, and stores, support and encourage democratic decision-making, in which the employees democratically perform the following key enterprise activities: (a) determine what is to be produced, how it is to be produced, and where it is to be produced, and (b) decide on the use and distribution of the resulting output and/or revenues;
WHEREAS while corporations offshore jobs, pollute our air and water, and worsen climate change; WSDEs anchor businesses in, are responsible for, and are more responsive to, the needs of the local communities in which they operate, while supporting better jobs and a safer environment, and prioritizing the needs of working 2018SCRES - 164 - 180616 - PASS - ECON - Workers' Self-Directed Enterprises people and their community's environment ahead of corporate profits;
WHEREAS there are many past and present examples of worker and producer cooperatives, ranging from small to large, found in many countries;
WHEREAS WSDEs are not about some future, utopian possibility, but rather the extension of a model that has attracted workers in many different circumstances, and has been proven successful around the world and as exemplified by Pacific Northwest Companies such as Pacific Cabinets Incorporated and Bob's Red Mill; and
WHEREAS worker cooperatives align well with other sorts of cooperatives (consumer cooperatives, sales cooperatives, credit unions, and property-owning cooperatives such as REI and Puget Consumer Co-op) in a generalized cooperative economy, and their growth and proliferation represent the mechanism to transition to a far better future system;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats promote the concept of Workers' Self-Directed Enterprises and support the conditions needed for successful worker cooperatives to form and grow.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS corporate banks are making record profits while their customers are paying higher fees, causing many people to seek financial institutions that will help them save money;
WHEREAS corporate banks took on many more risks than credit unions during the housing bubble, and were far more likely to fail as a result;
WHEREAS credit unions are just as safe as banks and federally-insured credit unions, National Credit Union Administration (NCUSIF) coverage protects member-owners with the full faith and credit of the U.S. government;
WHEREAS credit unions function as nonprofits, owned by their members, and their CEOs are democratically elected by their members;
WHEREAS while corporate banks operate for profit and distribute net proceeds to absentee investors, credit unions use earnings to increase interest rates on their members' deposits and to decrease the rates on loans made to members;
WHEREAS since credit unions operate as nonprofits, credit unions on average: Charge lower fees on ATM withdrawals, loan closing costs, and for overdrafts, Pay higher rates on savings accounts, CDs, and money markets, and Charge lower rates on home equity loans, auto loans, and sometimes mortgages;
WHEREAS many traditional banks have rigorous fees, surcharges, and withdrawal and deposit requirements for clients to maintain certain services like free checking. These surcharges boost the profits of banks, but can add up to major losses to their customers. Credit unions tend not to have such requirements;
WHEREAS while banks are corporations owned by stockholders, credit unions are financial cooperatives owned and operated by their members. An initial membership deposit makes one a part-owner of the credit union and gives one a say in the credit union's decisions on a one-person, one-vote basis;
WHEREAS expanding member-owned cooperatives like credit unions means anchoring businesses, jobs, wealth, and economic activities in local communities;
WHEREAS because credit unions are smaller and member-focused, they tend to offer personal assistance to members encountering unexpected issues when applying for a loan or credit; and
WHEREAS bank customers often lack information regarding both personal and community 2018SCRES - 168 - 180616 - PASS - ECON - Supporting Credit Unions advantages provided by credit unions and therefore may fail to consider moving their accounts to a credit union;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats advocate for credit unions as a positive alternative to corporate banks, increase public awareness regarding the advantages credit unions offer to individuals and the communities in which we live; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Democratic Party organizations keep their funds in credit union accounts, instead of corporate bank accounts.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the bipartisan "Business Broker Bill" H.R. 477, the Small Business Mergers, Acquisitions, Sales, and Brokerage Simplification Act of 2017 is a small business bill which was unanimously passed in the U.S. House of Representatives in December 2017 with a 426-0 recorded vote;
WHEREAS recognizing the importance of Merger & Acquisition brokers ("M&A brokers") and business brokers in the business community and whose activities are the focus of this bill, House Financial Services Chairman Jeb Hensarling's staff and Ranking Member Maxine Waters' staff came together to make this bill a true bipartisan effort;
WHEREAS support for the bill exists among both Democrats and Republicans and includes organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA);
WHEREAS NASAA adopted a model state M&A Broker rule predicated on the text of this bill;
WHEREAS 10 states have either adopted NASAA's model rule or issued interim no-21 action relief expressly referencing this pending federal legislation;
WHEREAS adoption of this federal legislation would be beneficial to the owners of small businesses, as well as to the M&A/business brokers who represent them when the owners wish to sell their businesses;
WHEREAS H.R. 477 would amend the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 to create a limited SEC broker-dealer registration exemption for M&A/business brokers, yet the proposed legislation does not affect the SEC's jurisdiction or anti-fraud prohibitions applicable to brokers or more generally to others, and also includes multiple investor protection provisions; and
WHEREAS M&A/business brokers would be subject to applicable state regulations adopted by the respective State Securities Regulators, such as NASAA's model state M&A Broker rule;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats recommend U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell support and, if possible, co-sponsor legislation in the United States Senate corresponding to H.R. 477, either as a stand-alone Senate bill or as a part of other appropriate legislation to be acted upon by the Senate in 2018; and 2018SCRES - 204 - 180616 - PASS - ECON - Supporting HR
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats recommend U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell encourage their colleagues in the Senate, especially those who are members of the Senate Banking Committee, to join also in support and co-sponsor legislation in the U.S. Senate corresponding to H.R. 477.
Submitted via delegate signatures to the 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Washington and its various taxing jurisdictions have the most regressive state and local tax systems in the country, punishing poor and middle class residents;
WHEREAS non-elderly residents in Washington pay the following percent of their family income in state and local taxes: below $21,000 pay 16.8%, between $21,000 and $40,000 pay 11.7%, between $40,000 and $65,000 pay 10.1%, between $65,000 and $103,000 pay 8.5%, between $103,000 and $197,000 pay 6.6%, between $197,000 and $507,000 pay 4.6%, and in excess of $500,000 pay only 2.4%;
WHEREAS in Washington, the property tax share of family income varies from 4.7% for the lowest 20% of incomes to 2.6% for the middle 20% to 1.2% for the top 1%;
WHEREAS the Washington State Supreme Court's 5 to 4 decisions in 1933 and 1935 have been interpreted to mean that non-uniform (e.g., progressive) statewide or local taxes, whether on income or property, violated Article VII, Section 1 of the Washington State Constitution;
WHEREAS local taxes based on income are levied by both counties and cities, in 4,943 jurisdictions in 17 states as of August 31, 2011, encompassing over 23 million Americans;
WHEREAS in a democratic society the people should have the flexibility of determining what tax structure is acceptable to them without being restricted by the state constitution; and
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democratic Party calls for a progressive tax system;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge Washington's state legislators to introduce or support legislation that amends Article VII, Section 1 of the Washington State Constitution to permit the implementation of a non-uniform tax structure within the boundaries of any jurisdiction levying such taxes if two-thirds of its voters approve such a tax.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/12/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) does hereby recognize the Economic Equity Caucus as a full and functioning caucus; and THERFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Caucus receives and acts on input from other state party caucuses and naturally allied groups to define and advocate for repairs to sources of systemic inequity in our economy, society, and state party.
Submitted via 50 signatures on September 14, 2018. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
WHEREAS, the Legislature passed and the Governor signed SB5726, the Insurance Fair Conduct Act, which would encourage the insurance industry to treat its customers fairly, and
WHEREAS, our lawmakers passed the Insurance Fair Conduct Act because it protects consumers from unfair treatment, as evidenced by an estimated 4,100 complaints of insurance industry misconduct filed every year with the Office of Insurance Commissioner ranging from severely delayed claims to wrongly denied, legitimate claims, and
WHEREAS, the insurance industry has sponsored Referendum 67 in an effort to repeal the action of our Legislature and Governor, and
WHEREAS, the Insurance Fair Conduct Act represents the most important consumer protection law enacted in the State of Washington in more than 20 years, and
WHEREAS, protections of the Insurance Fair Conduct Act and its incentives for fair treatment by the insurance industry is of paramount importance to the citizens of Washington,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee resolves and endorses a "yes" vote for approval of Referendum 67 in the event that it qualifies for the ballot for a vote by the electorate of the State of Washington, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the voters of the State of Washington to decline to sign petitions intended to qualify Referendum 67 for the ballot.
Submitted by the Executive Board of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. (Date Submitted 6/29/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its meeting on June 30, 2007 in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS, on April 2, 2009, the U.S. Senate voted 51-48 to pass an amendment to President Obama's budget to raise the estate tax exemption from $7 million to $10 million and lower the top estate tax rate from 45% to 35%;
WHEREAS, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the changes would cost over $750 billion in lost revenue over 10 years, or at least 77% as much revenue as would be lost with a full repeal of the estate tax; and
WHEREAS, nearly all small-businesses and family-farm estates are already shielded from having to pay estate tax;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon all members of Congress to oppose this amendment when the budget is considered in a Conference Committee.
Submitted by the 36th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 4/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS when governmental entities acquire land, that land is removed from the County property tax rolls, and in turn and virtually without exception that lost revenue is then made up by the governmental entity by a payment called "PILT" (Payment in Lieu Taxes) which can be over ten times higher than had the land been left in private hands;
WHEREAS currently in the case of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) PILT money is sent directly to Counties by the Department of the Interior according to the United States Code Title 31 Subtitle V Chapter 69 Section 6902 of this Chapter which sets forth the uses of this PILT money by the unit of general local government with no further demand made to share with Junior Districts (i.e. Counties for any governmental purpose);
WHEREAS some County Board of Commissioners have chosen not to pass on to Junior Taxing Districts (such as fire districts, hospitals, ambulances and search and rescue services) all or part of the BLM PILT monies from the acquired lands whose taxation revenues prior to acquisition were shared according to the levy values for each junior district;
WHEREAS some County Board of Commissioners can and do retain these PILT monies in their courthouse "current expense" account from which their and other elected official's salaries and recent salary increase are derived; and
WHEREAS Junior Taxing districts are in need of these lost revenue monies to fund the expanding cost and expenses associated the ever expanding land holdings of BLM and public utilization of these BLM lands for recreation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOVLED that if a County is not sharing PILT monies on a pro rata bases as current property tax levies with its Junior Districts, we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on each and every State Legislator to put forth Legislation, requiring County receivers of BLM PILT monies to provide and bear all costs for all fire protection, search and rescue, ambulance and hospital services occurring on or caused by activities on BLM lands; furthermore BLM lands on which Fire Districts do not receive a pro rata current property tax levy based share of total PILT payments shall be excluded from the Fire District boundaries. WSDCCRES - 440 - 090926 - PASS - ECN - PILT Monies
Submitted by the Lincoln County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 8/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the Earned Income Tax Credit (E.I.T.C.) credit was put into the Internal Revenue Code in order to help the working poor;
WHEREAS many members of the working poor have benefitted from the E.I.T.C.;
WHEREAS the E.I.T.C. is currently limited to persons between 25 and 65 who have children;
WHEREAS significant numbers of seniors continue to work after age 65;
WHEREAS age 65 is no longer the "full retirement age," because the Social Security Administration now regards a later age as that of "full retirement";
WHEREAS many members of the "working poor" are above the age of 65, with or without children;
WHEREAS some seniors who continue to work after age 65 have low-income jobs and are very much in the ranks of the working poor;
WHEREAS low-income seniors have the same needs as other low-income persons, and often additional needs as well; and
WHEREAS it is unfair and discriminatory for seniors who are part of the working poor to be excluded from the E.I.T.C. solely because of their age;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on Congress to amend the Internal Revenue Code so as to allow low-income working seniors to take the Earned Income Tax Credit; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be sent to our entire Congressional delegation for appropriate action.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the United States Postal Service (USPS) has shown a deficit since the passage of a 2006 bill that required that the USPS pre-fund its workers' pensions 75 years in advance - a standard not seen in any other industry;
WHEREAS to make up this artificial fiscal emergency within the USPS, the Postmaster General, Patrick Donahoe, has proposed closing post office branches, reducing hours, ending Saturday delivery, and cutting over 125,000 jobs - the sharpest drop in USPS history - with nearly 100,000 more slated by 2015;
WHEREAS almost every developed nation in Europe and East Asia, including Israel, France, Switzerland, Russia, South Korea, and South Africa, operates a postal banking system, with the world's largest savings bank being Japan Post;
WHEREAS the United States Postal Savings System, which paid depositors 2 percent annual interest, existed between 1911 and 1967;
WHEREAS the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation shows about 10 million households are "unbanked," with no access to traditional financial services and another million are "underbanked," meaning they have a bank account but still use alternative services like check cashing stores, pawnbrokers or payday lenders. The unbanked and underbanked represent over one in four households in the U.S.;
WHEREAS, according to the Postal Service IG report, the average household spends $2,412 a year on interest and fees for alternative financial services, which amounts to one-tenth of their gross income going straight into the corporate accounts of unscrupulous and predatory operations; and
WHEREAS the semi-autonomous Postal Service Board of Governors, composed of nine members appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, currently has five vacancies on the nine-member board, with President Obama not having successfully placed a single appointee on it during his entire tenure in office and the four existing members all being appointed by George W. Bush;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on President Obama to appoint five (5) qualified individuals that support postal banking and other means of preserving the USPS without cutting its services to fill the vacancies on the Postal Service Board of Governors and Senators Murray and Cantwell to push the United States Senate to move expeditiously to confirm those appointments; and WSDCCRES - 681 - 140913 - PASS - ECN - Supporting Postal Banking
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on Washington State's Congressional delegation to join Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren in support of the USPS providing basic, non-46 predatory banking services to help both the unbanked and underbanked communities as well as providing additional revenue to the USPS.
Submitted by the 30th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 5/30/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS during the November 2013 special session the Washington State Legislature passed ESSB 5952, AN ACT Relating to incentivizing a long-term commitment to maintain and grow jobs in the aerospace industry in Washington state;
WHEREAS ESSB 5952, contingent upon the decision by the Boeing Company to build the 777X wing and final assembly in Washington state, provides an $8.7 billion tax incentive by extending until 2040 the current preferential aerospace tax rates due to expire in 2023;
WHEREAS ESSB 5952 declares, "the legislature further finds that the industry continues to provide good wages and benefits for the thousands of engineers, mechanics, and support staff working directly in the industry throughout the state";
WHEREAS many of 1350 aerospace and aerospace related firms involved in manufacturing pay wages as low as $10-$13 per hour; and
WHEREAS since the November 8th, 2013 passage of ESSB 5952 and said bill was signed into law, The Boeing Company announced 2000 engineering jobs would be transferred outside Washington state;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party supports enactment of a bill referred to as the Aerospace Tax Incentive Accountability Act ensuring the tax breaks given to the aerospace industry provide the return on investment to the citizens of Washington with the stated legislative outcome of preserving jobs; and additionally;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party supports proposed legislation to include engineering, machinists and support personnel employment and benefit levels related to aircraft deliveries using the employment and benefit levels of November 2013 as a benchmark for accountability purposes; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party make passage of the Aerospace Tax Incentives Accountability Act a priority for passage during the 2015 legislative session.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/13/2014) WSDCCRES - 701 - 140913 - PASS - ECN - Aerospace Tax Incentives Accountability Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the State of Washington must fulfill its constitutional duty to fully fund basic education by 2018, and the state Supreme Court has ruled that such funding must be accomplished by means of dependable and regular tax sources;
WHEREAS the citizens of the State of Washington have approved Initiative 1351, requiring lower class sizes, which will require new state spending;
WHEREAS the state has significantly reduced its contribution to rising higher education costs, making post-secondary education less accessible to its people;
WHEREAS state spending for social services has not kept pace with need, to the detriment of citizens who most need help;
WHEREAS state support for mandated local government functions has declined, and county governments can raise only limited funds locally, resulting in further reduction of government services;
WHEREAS state spending has not kept pace in many other areas, including salaries, wages, and benefits of employees providing public services;
WHEREAS our state has the most regressive tax structure in the nation, amplifying the growth of income inequality; and
WHEREAS many individuals and businesses have attained great financial success and have accumulated great wealth, having benefitted from services and infrastructure provided by the State of Washington, and are in a position to contribute toward the common good in proportion to their means;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge Governor Jay Inslee and our legislators to develop and support new, dependable revenue measures sufficient to fully fund basic education; to reduce class sizes; to ensure affordable public higher education; and to provide for other needs of the state's citizens, local governments, and employees; and
THEREFORE FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge these elected officials to adopt new revenue measures that are progressive in nature, such as those specified in the State Party Platform. WSDCCRES - 705 - 150124 - PASS - ECN - Washington State Revenue
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 11/21/2014)
Submitted by the 24th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/11/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS Washington ranks high in studies on consumer protections for consumers on payday loans;
WHEREAS Washington's payday lenders have lost three-quarters of their business in the five years since a tough new state law restricting the high-cost loans marketed to poor families took effect;
WHEREAS the industry, led by Seattle-based Moneytree, is lobbying state lawmakers to revamp the law. Lenders are backing legislation - SB 5899 and HB 1922 - to eliminate traditional two-week payday loans and replace them with "installment loans" that would stretch repayment out for up to a year;
WHEREAS anti-poverty and consumer-advocacy groups are opposing the legislation, arguing new fees would undermine the state's 2009 reforms and ensnare more people in a debt trap. "You can't say with a straight face this is good for consumers," said Bruce Neas, an attorney for Columbia Legal Services;
WHEREAS state Attorney General Bob Ferguson came out against the proposal in a letter to legislators, saying Washington's payday-lending system includes important safeguards for consumers "and does not need to be overhauled";
WHEREAS this new system will leave low-income borrowers paying more. Payday lending was illegal until 1995. It took 15 years to get good reforms. Washington has an average APR that is third-lowest in the nation and a default rate of 19 percent - Colorado is 38 percent;
WHEREAS protections in the payday lending statute provide an off-ramp from the cycle of debt and no such protections exist in this bill;
WHEREAS active military is prohibited from using this type of debt which begs the question as to why this product is deemed unsafe for the military but perfectly safe for other citizens;
WHEREAS a recent study from the Harvard Business School finds short-term credit increases the rate by which people overdraw their accounts; and
WHEREAS this is an unproven expensive loan product proposed to be put on the market with little study. Installment lending would result in worse outcomes for low-41 income people; WSDCCRES - 737 - 150418 - PASS - ECN - Payday Lending Legislation
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Washington State Democratic Central Committee that we oppose SB 5899 and HB 1922 which serve to weaken Washington State's hard-won consumer protection laws relating to payday loans.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/18/2015)
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/18/2015)
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/18/2015) Supported by the Stonewall Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/18/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the taxpayers of Washington state have demanded greater accountability and wiser use of the taxes they pay to benefit Washingtonians, not Wall Street;
WHEREAS a state bank owned by and for the people of Washington State would meet those demands by using taxpayer dollars to invest in infrastructure, student loans, create jobs, increase access to capital for small businesses by supporting local community banks, absorb debt capacity, generate revenue, avert long term debt payments to Wall Street, and keep taxpayers dollars in Washington state;
WHEREAS Senate Bill 5553 - Creating the Washington Investment Trust (2015) would streamline and create efficiencies of the State's numerous existing revolving loan programs and leverage their capacity to work for the people of Washington State while lowering overhead and exercising efficiencies of scale, paying its own operating costs, and returning profits back to the state;
WHEREAS recent Washington State legislative sessions have exposed a serious lack of resource and bonding capacity to deal with the state's overwhelming capital and infrastructure needs;
WHEREAS a state bank can grow in capacity to be an unparalleled resource for future generations of Washingtonians;
WHEREAS a successful model of public banking is the Bank of North Dakota, which was first established in 1919 and is controlled by the people for the benefit of the people and economy of North Dakota; and
WHEREAS public banking is a bedrock of social development in most high achieving global economies like Germany, Japan, Brazil, Russia, India and China;
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democrats supports creation of a publicly owned State Bank, which shall be governed by an independent public Commission that is accountable and transparent to the people;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the concept of an initiative on this subject, and encourage our members to work with allies such as the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO to convene a study group to examine the possibility of sponsoring an initiative of the people for the purpose of creating a publicly owned state bank; and WSDCCRES - 742 - 150919 - PASS - ECN - State Bank
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor and House and Senate leadership.
Submitted by the 11th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 8/26/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS crude oil from the Bakken Formation and oil extracted from the tar sands of Alberta are the products that will be transported and stored in the proposed oil terminal facilities to be built in Hoquiam;
WHEREAS there have been many accidents, spills, and explosions associated with this type of crude oil;
WHEREAS the adverse effects of extraction and consumption of this type of crude oil have been widely documented;
WHEREAS many cities and towns along the rail corridor for this product have made resolutions opposing this type of crude oil transportation through their communities;
WHEREAS many elected and appointed officials of Grays Harbor County and the Quinault Indian Nation have taken a stand against the proposed storage and transportation facilities in Hoquiam;
WHEREAS any employment and economic benefits that may be created by these projects are dwarfed by the real dangers to existing employment and economic operations; and
WHEREAS Grays Harbor is a unique cultural and environmental asset which must be protected by its citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats are opposed to storage and transportation of this type of crude oil in Grays Harbor; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats communicate this opposition to the Governor of the State of Washington.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 8/28/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS no one who works full time should live in poverty;
WHEREAS the national Democratic Party has called for a $15 an hour minimum wage;
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democratic Party calls for an incremental increase in the state and federal minimum wage, with a living wage as the goal;
WHEREAS according to the Economic Opportunity Institute, the living wage for a single-parent household, the situation in which 29% of Washington's children live, ranges from $13.23 in Pend Oreille County to $24.04 in Snohomish County, with over 97% of Washingtonians living in a county where the living wage for such a household is at least $15;
WHEREAS had the federal minimum wage been adjusted for inflation and gains in productivity since 1950, it would currently be close to $22 per hour;
WHEREAS there is a widespread belief that raising the minimum wage in a single step without a phase-in would be detrimental to the economy;
WHEREAS despite the lack of evidence for such a belief, its prevalence is likely to make passage of a minimum wage bill without a phase-in unlikely;
WHEREAS the severity of this low-wage problem necessitates that the minimum wage be raised as quickly as possible; and
WHEREAS inflation of just over 1% annually, a conservative estimate, will cause $15 today to be worth the same as $15.50 in three years;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for a state law that will raise the minimum wage in Washington with a phase-in that takes no longer than 30 months from the date on which it is signed into law to reach $15.50; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be transmitted to Governor Jay Inslee, Lieutenant Governor Brad Owens, and all members of the Democratic caucuses of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the 25th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 11/06/2015) WSDCCRES - 758 - 160130 - PASS - ECN - $15 Minimum Wage The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS, the taxpayers of Washington state have demanded greater accountability and wiser use of the taxes they pay to benefit Washingtonians, not Wall Street;
WHEREAS, a state bank owned by and for the people of Washington State would meet those demands by using taxpayer dollars to invest in infrastructure, student loans, create jobs, increase access to capital for small businesses by supporting local community banks, absorb debt capacity, generate revenue, avert long term debt payments to Wall Street, and keep taxpayers dollars in Washington state;
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 5464 - Creating the Washington Investment Trust would streamline and create efficiencies of the State's numerous existing revolving loan programs and leverage their capacity to work for the people of Washington State while lowering overhead and exercising efficiencies of scale, paying its own operating costs, and returning profits back to the state;
WHEREAS, recent Washington State legislative sessions have exposed a serious lack of resource and bonding capacity to deal with the state's overwhelming capital needs;
WHEREAS, a state bank can grow in capacity to be an unparalleled resource for future generations of Washingtonians;
WHEREAS, a successful model of public banking is the Bank of North Dakota, which was first established in 1919 and is controlled by the people for the benefit of the people and economy of North Dakota; and
WHEREAS, public banking is a bedrock of social development in most high achieving global economies like Germany, Japan, Brazil, Russia, India and China;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses creation of a publicly owned State Bank, which shall be governed by an independent public Commission that is accountable and transparent to the people;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee should work with others to convene a study group to examine the possibility of sponsoring an initiative to the people for the 2018 general election for the purpose of creating a publicly owned state bank; and WSDCCRES - 800 - 170128 - PASS - ECN - State Bank
THEREFORE BE IT FINALY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor, House and Senate leadership, and other civic minded stakeholders for further dissemination to, and education of, the general public.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 1/12/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS credit unions are defined as "not-for-profit organizations owned by all of [their] members credit unions focus on helping their members save and borrow and receive affordable financial services";
WHEREAS community banks are defined as those that "serve businesses and consumers throughout the country, in both rural and urban areas, and are leading providers of credit to small businesses. In general, community banks can be defined as those owned by organizations with less than $10 billion in assets;" and
WHEREAS the Global Alliance for Banking on Values ("GABV") is a "global movement of banking change makers ... Members and partners understand that profit is a consequence of doing the right thing and not an overarching objective. Dignity, social, economic and environmental focus and close connectivity to communities are a standard lens through which GABV members and partners view the world";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we support credit unions, community banks, and members of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge candidates for elected office, elected officials, and political committees to place their campaign funds with a credit union, or community bank, or a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values.
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats on 4/2/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS the White House Office of Management and Budget's 2018 spending blueprint released on March 16th 2018 seeks to cut $4.7 billion from the USDA's discretionary spending budget, a reduction of nearly 21% from 2017;
WHEREAS these proposed cuts would eliminate funding for activities of USDA's Rural Business and Cooperative Service (RBCS), which offers programs to support business development and job training for rural residents in Washington State and throughout the country; and
WHEREAS USDA's RBCS programs help provide the capital, technical support, educational opportunities and entrepreneurial skills that can help rural residents start and grow businesses or access jobs in agricultural markets; and
WHEREAS RBCS programs create economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for rural communities by facilitating sustainable renewable energy development; developing regional food systems; generating and retaining jobs through recreation and natural resource restoration, conservation, and management, and; increasing access to broadband; and
WHEREAS RBCS programs provide much-needed capital to rural areas in the form of loan guarantees, direct loans and grants to individuals, rural businesses, cooperatives, farmers and ranchers, public bodies, non-profit corporations, Native American Tribes and private companies;
WHEREAS RBCS activities represent a total of only $95 million or 0.42% of the 2017 USDA discretionary spending; and
WHEREAS investments made through USDA's Rural Business and Cooperative Service support Washington State's and the nation's long-term prosperity by ensuring that rural communities are self-sustaining, repopulating and thriving economically;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports continued funding of USDA's Rural Business and Cooperative Service at current levels through the 2018 Federal fiscal year; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution will be sent by WSDCC to all Washington State Members of U.S. Congress and U.S. Senators. WSDCCRES - 821 - 170422 - PASS - ECN - Rural Business
Submitted by the Agriculture/Rural Caucus on 4/22/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) call on the State Legislature to affirm housing as a human right and to codify that right into law;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC call on the State Legislature to pass tenant protections including Just Cause eviction protection which requires landlords to provide a legitimate reason for terminating a tenancy; extended notice to vacate for terminations with cause; relocation assistance; eviction reform to allow tenants more time to catch up on late rental payments; 60-day notice to increase rent; the right to organize without retaliation; installment payments for move-in costs; notification to tenants of landlords' open code violations; and distribution of tenant rights by landlords to tenants;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC call on the State Legislature to repeal the state preemption on rent control;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in accordance with HB 1493 the WSDCC and the State Legislature to authorize municipalities to increase the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) for low income housing by up to 0.5% and to establish a progressive REET that would be collected statewide and distributed in block grants;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC call on the State Legislature to allow local communities to retain a portion of the state's sales tax to invest directly into low income housing;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC call on the State Legislature to create a statewide enforcement agency to uphold landlord tenant law and the human right to housing;
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution shall be transmitted to Governor Inslee and the Pierce County legislative delegation; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that this resolution shall be edited to conform to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) rules for resolutions and submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at their January meeting.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 25, 2019 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/16/2019) The Resolutions Committee recommend a "DO PASS as amended". 1/25/2019 The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January 27, 2019.
WHEREAS, the banking and business communities share a standard set of practices within the State of Washington; and
WHEREAS, members of the banking and business communities are dependant upon customers to facilitate trade; and
WHEREAS, according to the Federal Reserve, since their introduction in 1997, debit cards have increased in use by 24% (as opposed to credit cards increasing by 7% and checking decreasing by 4%); and
WHEREAS, individual merchants' policies are responsible for placing "holds" on debit card transactions; and
WHEREAS, these holds on debit card transactions are not generally disclosed at the point of purchase; and
WHEREAS, both the banks and the debit cards holders are at risk for non verifiable "holds" placed on accounts for two or three days; and
WHEREAS, the debit card holders often become victims to overdraft charges from their banks; and
WHEREAS, the non verifiable transactions may then take weeks to correct because a debit card transaction may involve a minimum of five parties (purchaser, retailer, payment processor, debit card network affiliated with a bank or credit union, and the actual bank or credit union):
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the development of a consumer protection policy be referred to the appropriate legislative committee for consideration in the legislative session.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the Asotin County Democrats (3/23/05) Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. WSDCCRES - 025 - 050917 - PASS - ECON - Consumer Protection Policy Referred to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS the Bankruptcy "reform" bill (S. 256) recently passed by the United States Senate would reduce drastically the options for financially distressed Americans to seek Chapter 7 bankruptcy relief;
WHEREAS recent academic studies have indicated that a leading cause of bankruptcy is medical necessity;
WHEREAS each and every attempt to reduce the effects of this legislation on elderly homeowners, active military personnel, victims of crime, and medically distressed families was defeated in the Senate by the Republican majority and a few Democrats;
WHEREAS the special interest lending community (banks, credit card companies, "payday" lenders) have not demonstrated any serious losses from existing bankruptcy legislation, but continue to extend credit to known bad risks, demanding that the taxpayers insulate them from risk;
WHEREAS the Republican leadership has demanded that the Senate version of this "reform" be passed through the House of Representatives without amendment, and without a Conference Committee;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on each and every one of our state's United States Representatives to oppose this legislation, and work actively for its defeat.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the 34th District Democrats (Ivan Weiss - 34th LD Chair) (3/26/05) Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Party 2004 Platform Labor and Economic Justice plank states that economic justice for working families is essential for the realization of a democratic society and that we oppose profiteering and predatory lending;
WHEREAS, the largest credit-card lender's profits exceed those of Wal Mart, Microsoft, City Bank and McDonalds;
WHEREAS, Americans pay over $50 billion per year in finance charges for credit cards while the U.S. household deficit is more than $350 billion;
WHEREAS, credit card lender interest rates as high as 40%, late payment fees as high as $39 and penalty interest rates seven percentage points higher than the average regular annual percentage rate, disproportionately affect the most economically vulnerable families;
WHEREAS, the Federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has failed to protect consumers from deceptive and exploitative credit card company practices, while acting to keep local governments from taking actions to protect consumers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington Sate Democratic Central Committee urge our state and federal legislators to investigate the practices of the credit-card companies;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the WSDCC urge our federal and state legislators to sponsor and support legislation that would 1. Prohibit "universal default" interest rates. 2. Limit the interest rate companies may charge cardholders. 3. Ban changes to the interest rate on past purchases. 4. Require at least a three (3) billing cycle advance notice for changing terms of the credit-card agreement. 5. Require the credit card holders permission to change the terms of the credit-34 card agreement.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women (9/16/2005). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee did not take action on this resolution at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. It will readdress this resolution at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. WSDCCRES - 055 - 060128 - PASS - ECON - Credit Card Companies The resolution was not brought to the floor of the WSDCC meeting for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee referred this resolution back to the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. The Resolution was not brought to the floor of the WSDCC meeting for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Resubmitted as amended to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women. (1/20/06) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, International Speedway Corporation through their subsidiary company, Great Western Sports, Inc., has proposed building a major motorsports racing facility in south Kitsap County, partially on property in the South Kitsap Industrial Area (SKIA); and
WHEREAS, the funding of this facility is proposed as a public-private partnership which would obligate state bonding authority in the amount of $166 Million backed by state sales tax credit, and a further $13 Million backed by a 5% admission tax on races. Said bonding would have a term of 25 years; and
WHEREAS, this bonding obligation, once committed, due to the limited amount of bonding a state can obligate, could not be used for traditional needs such as school construction, infrastructure upgrades on bridges, roads, or environmental projects; and
WHEREAS, the pay off of these bonds is projected, but not guaranteed, based on sales and admission taxes from two "major" race events and one regional race event; and
WHEREAS, the sales taxes used to pay off the construction bonds would be obligated from only three counties (Kitsap, Mason, Pierce) with projected regional related event spending of $102.6 M; and
WHEREAS, International Speedway Corporation has proposed building another motorsports facility in New York without any public financing involvement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrat Central Committee strongly oppose any public financing or use of public credit for a major motorsports facility in the 35th Legislative District as currently proposed.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the 35th Legislative District Democrats (Date Submitted 1/19/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, the unimpeded operation of our ports is critical to the United States economy and well being; and
WHEREAS, additional funds are necessary to adequately secure our ports; and
WHEREAS, operation of our ports by foreign interests and foreign governments leaves our ports vulnerable to terrorist attacks;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports legislation that prohibits ownership or operation of our ports by foreign governments or foreign entities, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon the Washington State Congressional delegation to support full funding of port security operations.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, everyone in our state, regardless of their income, has a right to fair and reasonable consumer protections when they borrow money; and
WHEREAS, the payday lending industry engages in predatory loan practices, targeting low income communities and people of color, charging consumers unfair and unreasonable fees and interest rates (according to the state's own studies the typical loan carries a 390% annual percentage rate of interest) driving people in our state deeply into debt; and
WHEREAS, the payday lending industry in Washington has grown by 113% since 2000 in the dollar amount of loans made, and issued over 3 million loans in 2004 totaling over $1.6 billion; and
WHEREAS, the Center for Responsible Lending (a national credit union based think tank) found that Washington law on payday lending codifies 8 out of 9 abuses of predatory loans; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Defense has identified payday lending as one of its top ten issues for state policy and the U.S. Navy Northwest Region considers Washington's payday lending laws to represent a threat to military readiness;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party finds that a lack of fair and reasonable consumer protections on payday loans threatens the financial well-being of the people of Washington state.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports the passage of payday lending reform legislation to provide fair and reasonable consumer protections for Washington payday consumers.
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports reforms such as longer minimum loan periods and installment payments for consumers, caps on annual percentage rates of interest, banning payday lending through the internet to prevent out of state lenders from getting around Washington law, and further banning mandatory arbitration clauses in payday lending contracts.
Submitted by the 36th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date
Submitted 04/22/2006) WSDCCRES - 266 - 060929 - PASS - ECON - Consumer Protection The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the federal government is obliged to aid America's poor and to protect America's environment and natural and human resources, but funding to do so is nearing depletion; and
WHEREAS the tax cuts targeting America's riches 1-2% have been enacted for a temporary period do to automatically expire in the year 2010; and
WHEREAS the above-referenced tax cuts place an increased tax burden on the other American citizens, especially the poor and middle class at a time when the federal government is spending more than ever in history; and
WHEREAS the current Republican federal administration considers America to be in a protracted war against terror for an indefinite period, a circumstance that traditionally requires all segments of the country's population to sacrifice for the common cause according to their means; and
WHEREAS the poor and middle class families of America have family members in the armed forces of the United State in disproportionate numbers compared to the families of America's richest 1-2%, and are sacrificing these family members as well as paying a disproportionate share of federal tax; and
WHEREAS the current Republican federal administration has increased the national debt to an all-time high contrary to a consensus of professional advice that paying down the national debt should be a high priority; and
WHEREAS to continue its huge spending for an ill-advised military adventure in Iraq the current Republican federal administration has borrowed money from countries it has identified as a potential future threat to American interests, with the result that such countries could hold the American economy and foreign policy hostage; and
WHEREAS future generations of Americans will be burdened with an enormous debt to which the current Republican federal administration has committed them; and
WHEREAS advocates of giving a tax cut to America's richest 1-2% claim that this would increase their investment in the economy, but these same people work toward a world market while investing, to a large and growing extent, in more profitable foreign markets at the expense of the American economy; and
WHEREAS the beneficial effects any investment of these private individuals might make to the American economy is diluted by the "trickle-down" method rather than going to programs that aid the poor and middle class directly; and WSDCCRES - 267 - 060929 - PASS - ECON - Tax Cuts for the Richest
WHEREAS it is difficult to track any beneficial economic effects of private investment to specific groups of citizens who most desperately need assistance or to find how much, if any, such investment has "trickled down" to this population; and
WHEREAS the rich citizens who have benefited directly from these tax cuts convert their financial power to political power and arrange many ways to further avoid taxes; and
WHEREAS the greater spending power of those rich citizens who have benefited directly from these tax cuts results in an inefficient use of common national and world resources, causing greater consumption of these resources, pollution and degradation of the environment; and
WHEREAS the current Republican federal administration and its rich supporters advocate a "pay-as-you-go" approach to national services, and common resources whereby an individual pays for the service or resource as they use it, but the group of citizens effecting the greater environmental and cultural impact pay a disproportionately smaller share of the real cost to the environment and natural resource depletion; and
WHEREAS common sense and normal morality dictate that those who can most afford to pay their share and who take a disproportionate advantage of federal services and consume a disproportionate share of natural resources should pay a greater share of our common costs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State federal Congressional Delegation to exercise every effort in opposing a proposal to make permanent the tax cut for the country's richest 1-2% of its citizens.
Submitted by Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 05/03/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS credit card interest rates can be seen as excessive; and
WHEREAS interest usury laws have been somehow made non-applicable to credit card operations; and
WHEREAS many additional ways have been found to increase rates and/or add card charges; and
WHEREAS a new and recent rule involves the disclaimer, i.e., " we reserve the right to apply all payments received to the lowest interest bearing account"; and
WHEREAS this procedure automatically compounds other charges because interest on them does not get "paid";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the United States Congress enact a law that declares payments made on credit card accounts shall apply first to all current interest accrued.
Submitted by the Clallam County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 1/18/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the current financial crisis is the culmination of 28 years of deregulation by a compliant Congress and the rising cult of the infallibility of "free markets" to manage risks;
WHEREAS key executives at the largest of these private financial services company have performed incompetently and recklessly and have put the American and world economies at risk while rewarding themselves with unconscionable personal wealth;
WHEREAS we the common taxpaying Americans are left to repair this destruction through bailouts while having our financial security seriously compromised and in many cases destroyed completely through job losses, home foreclosures, and the erosion of retirement savings resulting from the unmitigated greed and arrogance of these self-anointed oligarchs;
WHEREAS these same executives have maintained close ties and excessive influence with our democratically elected representatives through lobbying and campaign contributions and still remain in power at the institutions now being bailed out;
WHEREAS these same executives are not forthcoming in exposing the risks that they have created while securing their balance sheets and refusing to lend appropriately out of loyalty to their shareholders and their own self-interest; and
WHEREAS the government and Congress in the past has failed their responsibility to enforce existing regulations and oversight;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC urge that our elected Washington State Congressional delegation support an Independent commission to thoroughly investigate the failed banks and investment houses for fraud, corruption, malfeasance and unethical behavior; the unlawful acts to be prosecuted by the Justice Department and the unethical acts to be clearly and prominently repudiated in public hearings; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we direct the same Congressional delegation to draft and/or support banking regulations designed to separate and safeguard vital lending functions (ala Glass-Steagall) necessary for a modern democratic economy including provisions to limit the size of these banks so that they are no longer "too big to fail" and so that their executives can never again use the American taxpayer to subsidize their excessive risk taking and self-congratulatory salaries and bonuses. WSDCCRES - 439 - 090926 - PASS - ECN - Financial Justice in America
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 5/6/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the House of Representatives passed HR 4173, called the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2009;
WHEREAS the Glass-Steagall Act of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Administration was repealed by the Republican Congress and Senate in 1999 and that repeal was signed into law by President Clinton;
WHEREAS the Gramm, Leach, Bliley Act, the Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999, allowed commercial and investment banking interests to merge, a direct precursor to the current recession; and
WHEREAS for more than sixty years the Glass-Steagall Act (June 16 1933) had separated the risks of investment banking from the day to day issues of commercial banking (small loans for inventory, capital improvements, etc.);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge our US Senators and Representatives to re-enact the Glass-Steagall Act in its entirety in this session of US Congress.
Submitted by the Asotin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 1/23/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS a no-new-revenue state budget would gut core services to the poor and suspend programs such as all-day kindergarten as a way to close a projected $2.6 billion budget shortfall;
WHEREAS major cuts include a sharp reduction in financial aid for college students and eliminating state-subsidized Basic Health insurance for thousands of low-income workers, as well as $339 a month and medical eligibility to people who can't work because of disabilities General Assistance - Unemployable ("GA-U");
WHEREAS many transitional housing programs depend on GA-U for a significant part of their budgets, and eliminating GA-U would threaten their continuing existence;
WHEREAS half of the GA-U recipients have a diagnosis of mental illness and removing them from Medicaid would cause thousands to become homeless, without medication;
WHEREAS Gov. Gregoire stated, "This document is not true to the values I believe in and which have guided me through a 30-year career in public service";
WHEREAS Democratic leaders in the House and Senate joined the Governor recently in calling for new taxes to help close the budget gap;
WHEREAS our platform states Democrats value: health care for all, high-quality public education and fighting poverty and ending homelessness;
WHEREAS non-performing tax exemptions cost the state billions in lost revenue; and
WHEREAS the State has the most regressive tax system in the country, where the lowest income people pay 17% of their income in federal, state and local taxes, while the highest income people pay only 2.9% of their income in federal, state and local taxes and this violates the principle of economic justice;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Legislature to repeal non-performing tax exemptions, beginning with the largest, and sunset all tax exemptions every 10 years;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Legislature to implement a state income tax on high-income earners; and WSDCCRES - 476 - 100130 - PASS - ECON - Raising State Revenues (1)
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Legislature to raise at least two-thirds of the budget gap in revenues, balanced by one-third or less in cuts to services.
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/7/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS our platform states that Democratic values include health care for all, high-4 quality public education, the elimination of poverty, the end of homelessness and the achievement of justice for all;
WHEREAS Washington State is facing a $2.6 billion shortfall in the 2010 supplemental budget;
WHEREAS cutting another $2.6 billion from the 2009-2011 bi-annual budget would result in: Over 65,000 people losing access to affordable health insurance; 16,000 children losing health insurance coverage; Over 20,000 people unable to work due to disability losing financial and medical assistance; 12,300 students from lower income families losing an important source of financial aid; 10,000 working families per month losing child care assistance; 1,500 three-year-olds losing access to early learning opportunities;
WHEREAS the damage from cutting another $2.6 billion to our education system, health care infrastructure, public safety, and environmental protections would impact all Washingtonians;
WHEREAS when presenting her "all-cuts" budget Gov. Gregoire stated, "This document is not true to the values I believe in and which have guided me through a 30-27 year career in public service"; and
WHEREAS Democratic leaders in the House and Senate joined the Governor in calling for new taxes to help close the budget gap;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the legislature and Gov. Christine Gregoire to explore all revenue solutions, and to find a revenue solution to the $2.6 billion shortfall in the 2010 supplemental budget; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any regressive revenue solution be accompanied with a mechanism to mitigate the adverse effects such an increase would have on low income families and individuals. WSDCCRES - 478 - 100130 - PASS - ECON - Raising State Revenues (3)
Submitted by the 37th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/21/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the existing legal definition of "blight" includes social factors such as high unemployment, juvenile delinquency, crime, and poverty which allows a city to designate entire areas as blighted so long as a few parcels are blighted and condemn said parcels for redevelopment;
WHEREAS the Community Renewal Law encourages the use of private enterprise to redevelop blighted areas;
WHEREAS the Law does not address the needs of the families who are unnecessarily displaced even though their property was not blighted and who although compensated at current property use value, are often not compensated enough to buy back into their own community, or to buy elsewhere;
WHEREAS the broad applications of blight designations for entire areas are an affront to the peace and welfare of Washington State families and to their basic property rights; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party believes that eminent domain should only be used to condemn truly blighted specific properties, not entire areas which often include non-blighted properties as often is the case with "planners blight" and some other blight designations; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on all Legislators to support passage of legislation to support narrowing the definition of "blight" in the Community Renewal Law so that findings of blight shall be parcel specific instead of entire areas.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/22/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS in the US Supreme Court case of Kelo v. City of New London the City condemned Ms. Kelo's home for economic development where Pfizer wanted to build a manufacturing plant;
WHEREAS the US Supreme Court held that economic redevelopment is a public use under the Fifth Amendment of the US Constitution;
WHEREAS Washington's Constitution expressly prohibits taking private property for private uses and several notable cases have allowed condemnation for private uses;
WHEREAS if we let stand the Supreme Court's decision that economic redevelopment is a "public use" then Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's observations as a dissenting judge in the Kelo Case holds true: "The specter of condemnation hangs over all property. Nothing is to prevent the State from replacing any Motel 6 with a Ritz-Carlton, any home with a shopping mall, or any farm with a factory";
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party believes that private property should not be taken by another private party simply because the new owner's use might generate more taxes, jobs, or economic growth, etc.; and
WHEREAS reforms are necessary to preserve the peaceable enjoyment of private property; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on all Legislators to support such legislation which prohibits the use of eminent domain for economic redevelopment for private profit and defines "public use" as substantial use by the public.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/22/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS the Constitution of the State of Washington states: Article 2, Legislative Department, Section 9 Rules of Procedure, "Each house may determine the rules of its own proceedings";
WHEREAS the Constitution of the State of Washington states: Article 2, Legislative Department, Section 22 Passage of Bills "No bill shall become a law unless on its final passage the vote be taken by yeas and nays, the names of the members voting for and against the same be entered on the journal of each house, and a majority of the members elected to each house be recorded thereon as voting in its favor." [emphasis added];
WHEREAS the Constitution of the State of Washington states: Article 7, Revenue and Taxation, Section 1 Taxation: "The power of taxation shall never be suspended, surrendered or contracted away";
WHEREAS the Constitution of the State of Washington cannot be amended by initiative, Article 23, Amendments;
WHEREAS I-1053 contravenes Articles 2, 7 and 23 of the Constitution cited above;
WHEREAS I-1053 impairs the authority and functioning of the Washington State Legislature to fulfill its Constitutional responsibilities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that, because I-1053 violates on its face Articles 2, 7 and 23 of the Washington State Constitution, and because adhering to the provisions of I-1053 impedes the ability of the Washington State Legislature to function as the Constitution specifies, there is no valid legal reason for the Washington State Legislature to abide by the provisions of I-1053 until the constitutionality of I-1053 is determined by the Washington State Supreme Court;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of the Washington State Legislature be urged to treat I-1053 as not applying to the restoration of normal tax rates to those entities that have been granted special tax reductions in the past;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of the Washington State Legislature be urged to review and remove all special corporate tax reductions that are no longer justified or appropriate in the current economic circumstances; and WSDCCRES - 519 - 110430 - PASS - ECON - Tax Exemptions (2)
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that, upon its adoption by the WSDCC this Resolution be sent by the WSDCC to every member of the Democratic caucuses of the Washington State Legislature, as well as to the Lieutenant Governor and the Governor.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/14/2011)
Submitted by the 31st Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/21/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS an effective and stable banking system is essential to the functioning of our economy;
WHEREAS from 1933 to 1999 the Federal Banking Act laws (also known as "Glass-7 Steagall") did protect the public interest by separating and regulating commercial banking, investment banking, insurance companies and securities firms;
WHEREAS the lack of such protection since 1999 has encouraged financial industry segments to exploit the financial system for their own gain, in violation of the public interest and to the severe detriment of the economy and general welfare:
WHEREAS the U.S. Congress and Senate have attempted to restore the Banking Act of 1933/Glass-Stegal laws by means of S.2886 Banking Integrity Act (now under the jurisdiction of the Senate Banking Committee), Senate Amendment 3884, H.R. Glass-17 Steagall Restoration Act, H.R. 4377 Return to Prudent Banking Act, and H.R. 4461 Banking Integrity Act to benefit our nation and people;
WHEREAS on April 12, 2011, H.R.4377 was reintroduced as H.R. 1489 Return to Prudent Banking Act stating, to repeal certain provisions of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and revive the separation between commercial banking and the securities business in the manner provided by the Banking Act of 1933, the so called Glass-Steagall Act and for other purposes;
WHEREAS Representative McDermott (WA-07) has cosponsored H.R. 1489;
WHEREAS in 2009 Senator Maria Cantwell proposed amending the Banking Integrity Act (S. 2886) to reinstate the Glass-Steagall regulations;
WHEREAS on April 12, 2011 Kansas District Federal Governor Thomas Hoenig recommended reclassifying government subsidized financial institutions as Government Sponsored Enterprises for the purpose of preventing them from engaging in activities not prescribed under Glass-Steagall standards; and
WHEREAS the Financial Crisis inquiry Report, issued January 2011, finds that our financial system is, in many respects, still unchanged from what existed on the eve of the crisis and the U.S. financial sector is now more concentrated than ever in the hands of a few large, systematically significant institutions; WSDCCRES - 542 - 110917 - PASS - ECON - Reinstating Glass-Steagall (2)
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge our representatives in the Unites States Congress and Senate, in order to prevent American taxpayers from having to bail-our financial institutions, to enact legislation to reinstate the Banking Act laws of 1933 to prohibit commercial banks and bank holding companies from investing in stocks, underwriting securities and investing in or acting as guarantors of derivatives transactions.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/6/2011) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS the Washington State tax code is currently riddled with 567 tax exceptions and other tax expenditures, many of which favor narrow special interests;
WHEREAS, unlike budget items, which are regularly scrutinized during the budget-6 writing process, these exemptions commonly continue unexamined session after session;
WHEREAS the problem is getting worse. In the last decade alone, 116 new tax breaks were enacted, costing the taxpayers $1.6 billion over the next two years; and in the 2011 session, confronting a $5 billion revenue shortfall, legislators from both parties proposed still another 35 tax breaks that if enacted would drain an additional $97 million from available revenues in Fiscal Year 2013; and
WHEREAS the multi-billion dollar revenue shortfall caused by the current deep recession was addressed by the Legislature with an all-cuts budget, severely damaging essential programs and the overall quality of life in our state;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support legislation mandating that each such tax expenditure carry an expiration date, so that each may be reviewed and renewed or not renewed on a regular basis;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that fiscal management be improved by allowing any tax expenditure to be modified or eliminated by a simple majority vote;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the interests of accountability, minimum reporting requirements be established for any business receiving a tax subsidy, to the end that those among the 567 tax expenditures that are unwarranted will no longer rob the state of essential revenue; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC send copies of this resolution to all members of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/6/2011)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 9/9/2011) WSDCCRES - 544 - 110917 - PASS - ECON - Tax Exemptions The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS the state-owned Bank of North Dakota, created in 1919, has for more than years served to stabilize the economy and meet the banking needs of the people and businesses of North Dakota;
WHEREAS during the current severe economic recession, the state of Washington and other states have experienced revenue shortages of billions of dollars, compelling them to make drastic cuts in human services and other essential programs, causing widespread suffering among the people;
WHEREAS during this recession, North Dakota alone of the 50 states has been an island of economic stability;
WHEREAS since the year 2000, North Dakota's gross domestic product has grown 43%; its wages have risen 34%; it currently has a $1 billion budget surplus; and it has the nation's lowest unemployment rate at 3.4%;
WHEREAS over the last decade, the Bank of North Dakota, in a state of 600,000 population, has provided a third of a billion dollars to the state's general fund; and
WHEREAS legislation introduced in the 2011 session of the Washington State Legislature called for the establishment of a State Investment Trust, an institution with a mission and a method of operation patterned after that of the State Bank of North Dakota;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses and urges our State Treasurer to support and our legislators to pass legislation to create a State Investment Trust.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/6/2011)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 9/9/2011) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats Platform supports the Joint Memorial Addressing Deficit Reduction and Jobs; and
WHEREAS this joint memorial is presently being addressed in Senate Joint Memorial 8083, having been introduced by Senator Chase and Senator Tom, and House Joint Memorial 4013, introduced by Representative Hasegawa and supported by Representatives Santos, Kenney, Goodman, Ryu, Appleton , Dunshee, Pollet, Ormsby, Pettigrew, Stanford, Takko, Dickerson, Reykdal, Hunt, and Moscoso;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses the Joint Memorial as written and modified by the House and Senate. *The full text of the Joint Memorial is attached to this resolution.
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/11/2012)
Submitted by the 45th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/12/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. WSDCCRES - 560 - 120128 - PASS - ECON - Deficit Reduction and Jobs A Joint Memorial Addressing Deficit Reduction and Jobs TO THE HONORABLE BARACK OBAMA, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, AND TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AND TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES, IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED: We, your Memorialists, the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Washington, in legislative session assembled, respectfully represent and petition as follows: Whereas, our State, as most others, faces the most severe economic crisis since the Great Depression; and Whereas, the unemployment rate in the State of Washington as of August 2011 reached 9.3%; and the poverty rate 11.7%; and Whereas, eleven counties in the State of Washington are experiencing unemployment rates between 9.9% and 13.5%; and Whereas, since FY2001 taxpayers in the State of Washington have paid $26 billion toward the total spending for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; and Whereas, taxpayers in the State of Washington will pay an additional $3.5 billion toward total Iraq and Afghanistan war spending for FY2011; bringing the total war spending bill for Washington State taxpayers to $29.5 billion; and Whereas, one year of taxpayer war spending dollars could have alternately built our state infrastructure by creating 48,461 school teacher jobs, or hiring 45,205 firefighters, or creating enough jobs to convert 1.3 million households to solar energy, or creating 42,585 new police or sheriff's patrol officer positions, or providing 113,000 four year university scholarships; and Whereas, 11.7% of soldiers that fought in Iraq and Afghanistan are unemployed, with many having inadequate support to adjust to civilian life; and Whereas, counties with military facilities are experiencing the highest foreclosure rates in Washington State, and the already high number of homeless veterans is increasing; and WSDCCRES - 560 - 120128 - PASS - ECON - Deficit Reduction and Jobs Whereas, in February of 2011 the State Legislature passed House Bill 1432 relating to veterans' relief by permitting private employers to exercise a voluntary veterans' preference in employment; and Whereas, for every $1 billion spent on the military 11,600 jobs are created, yet for the same billion dollars 17,100 jobs are created by investments in clean energy; or 19,600 jobs are created by funding health care; or 29,100 jobs are created from spending on education; and Whereas, the Pentagon budget was $297 billion when President Clinton left office, and the proposed 2012 fiscal year Pentagon budget is more than double that amount at $703 billion, with military spending by other agencies raising that total to more than $1 trillion; and Whereas, adjusting for inflation, the level of funding proposed for the base defense budget in the FY12 request comprises over 60% of the national discretionary budget, the highest level since World War II; and Whereas, the United States military budget presently represents 43% of worldwide military spending; distantly followed by China (7.3% of world share), UK (3.7%), France (3.6%), and Russia (3.6%); and Whereas, the Washington State Governor and Legislature have had to cut nearly $10.5 billion from current and projected spending with another $1.4 billion in reductions looming, resulting in significant job losses and cuts to vital programs; Whereas, projected revenues for Washington State continue to plummet, wiping out our state reserves; and Whereas, this drain on the public treasury is bleeding our state and forcing increasingly severe cuts in vital social programs and public services, resulting in the inability of state government to support job creation and meet the most basic needs of our people, while producing ever greater debt that will be borne by future generations;
THEREFORE, Your Memorialists respectfully call upon: Congress and the President to change course by ending the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, dramatically shifting our national priorities to create stable jobs at living wages for all who seek employment; restoring vital social programs and public services; rebuilding our nation's deteriorating infrastructure; and putting our nation on an environmentally sustainable, ecologically responsible path that addresses the challenge of climate change and environmental degradation while reinvigorating jobs and our economy. WSDCCRES - 560 - 120128 - PASS - ECON - Deficit Reduction and Jobs BE IT RESOLVED, that copies of this Memorial be immediately transmitted to the Honorable Barack Obama, President of the United States, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives of each state's legislature of the United States of America, and each member of Congress from the State of Washington.
WHEREAS the State of Washington has a $2 billion budget deficit that needs to be addressed in the 2012 legislative session; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Supreme Court in the recent McCleary ruling made it clear that a lack of stable revenue sources was the principal reason for the State not meeting its paramount duty to fully fund basic education;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the following principles when considering the current budget crisis: 1. revenue over cuts; 2. progressive taxation over regressive tax policy; 3. an emphasis on diversity of revenue sources; 4. elimination of special interest loopholes;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the following measures to address our state's $2 Billion budget shortfall (in order of preference): 1. sunset of all non-performing tax exemptions after five years; 2. a tax on capital gains; 3. a personal income tax on high income earners; 4. a tax on net business profits; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats expect that our legislators will represent their districts by taking progressive leadership positions in revenue negotiations at the state level. We, the members of the Washington State Democrats, are prepared to hold our elected leaders accountable when considering nominations for office in 2012 and beyond.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/12/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS the obligation under current state law for the 2013-15 biennium is more than $1.2 billion more than projected revenue during that period; and
WHEREAS the Joint Task Force on Education Funding created by the State Legislature determined that an additional $1.4 billion is needed during this biennium, and an additional $4.5 billion by the 2017-19 budget cycle, to fulfill obligations outlined in the Washington State Supreme Court's McCleary decision requiring full funding of K-12 basic education; and
WHEREAS Washington State was again rated in 2013 as having the most regressive state and local tax system in the U.S. with those with the lowest income paying 17% of their income in state and local taxes, while the 1% with the highest income pay only 3%; and
WHEREAS Washington is one of only seven states that does not tax capital gains, dividends or interest and in 29 states capital gains tax rates are greater than 5%; and
WHEREAS no other currently proposed single source of funding can come as close to closing the budget deficit; and
WHEREAS capital gains are highly resistant to downturns in the economy with the Dow Jones Industrial Average growing by 47% during the period from 2009 to 2011, while personal consumption expenditures only grew by 9% and wages and salaries grew by less than 2% during that period; and
WHEREAS fewer than 12% of Washingtonians have taxable capitals gains income, but only 3% of Washingtonians have annual capital gains income greater than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for married couples; and
WHEREAS a flat 5% capital gains tax on those 3% of Washingtonians would generate more than $1 billion during the 2013-15 biennium; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call upon the Washington State Legislature to pass a capital gains tax both to fill our budget deficit and to meet our obligations ordered in the McCleary decision; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges each member of the Washington State Legislature to pass a state capital gains tax to make our taxes fairer and to fund necessary programs.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan (submitted 4/19/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS the extracted fuel exemption is a tax preference allowing companies to avoid paying use taxes on fuel which they produce and burn at the same facility; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature created the extracted fuel exemption to benefit sawmills that used wood scraps ("hog-fuel") to power their equipment; and
WHEREAS five oil refineries that produce fuel on-site and use that fuel to refine oil today receive 98 percent of the benefit of the extracted fuel exemption; and
WHEREAS oil refineries did not exist in Washington State in 1949 when the exemption was enacted by the Legislature; and
WHEREAS of 29 states with oil refineries, only one other state, Alabama, has an extracted fuel exemption; and
WHEREAS Alabama's rule is more narrowly defined for petroleum products; and
WHEREAS the exemption represents $41 million in lost revenue to the State of Washington over the next biennium; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Supreme Court has stated that the Legislature is "not on target" to implement the court-ordered mandate to meet its constitutional obligation to fully fund basic education; and
WHEREAS HB 2038 would have eliminated a big oil tax preference, but stalled in the State Senate in 2013;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge the Washington State Legislature to eliminate the "hog fuel" tax preference for oil companies and invest in K-12 basic education during the 2014 legislative session.
Submitted by the 31st Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/23/2014) WSDCCRES - 654 - 140201 - PASS - ECON - Big Oil Tax Loophole The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Washington State relies on the sales tax, the Business & Occupation Tax, and property taxes to fund state government (see A Citizen's Guide to the Washington State Budget); and
WHEREAS sales taxes are regressive - meaning that the middle class and the poor pay a higher proportion of their income in sales tax than do the well-to-do; and
WHEREAS the Business & Occupation tax is also regressive, because it taxes revenue, not profit, and thus favors profitable corporations over struggling small businesses; and
WHEREAS the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy says that Washington State has the most regressive tax system in the nation: the poorest 20% of the non-elderly Washingtonians pay 17% of their income in state taxes; the richest 1% pay under 3% of their income in state taxes. (source); and
WHEREAS the state desperately needs a reliable source of funds to pay for education pursuant to the State Supreme Court decision in the McCleary case, which declares that the legislature is underfunding K-12 education; and
WHEREAS in recent years the state has had to slash funding for social services and for higher education, causing suffering among vulnerable people, threatening our prosperity and safety, and drastically raising the cost of a college education; and
WHEREAS when voters in 2010 rejected I-1098, the initiative to establish a high earners' income tax in Washington State, most voters were voting against their own self-interest, because only the richest 2% of citizens would have seen their taxes rise; and
WHEREAS our political leaders are averse to discussing the issue, and only a few advocacy groups have spoken up about it; and
WHEREAS as of November 18, 2013, over 3800 people have signed the MoveOn.org petition Let's Fix Our Unfair Tax System in Washington State, and WSDCCRES - 656 - 140201 - PASS - ECON - WA Tax System hundreds of those signers wrote passionate comments which you can read here; and
WHEREAS there are proposals under discussion to institute a carbon tax, a capital gains tax, and a tax expenditure budget; and
WHEREAS the last time the governor and the legislature undertook a thorough investigation of the tax system was in 2002, with the Gates Commission hearings; and
WHEREAS a tax study commission that holds hearings around the state and makes recommendations to the governor and legislature would raise awareness of these issues and increase the likelihood of action being taken to fix our unfair tax system;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the legislature to create a new tax study commission and asks Governor Inslee and the legislators to address the issue of fair taxation in speeches, in newsletters, and via legislation.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/12/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its February 1, meeting in Vancouver. This resolution was passed by the WSDCC at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. A Citizen's Guide to the Washington State Budget http://www.leg.wa.gov/Senate/Committees/WM/Documents/2013 CGTB.pdf Gates Commission http://dor.wa.gov/content/aboutus/statisticsandreports/wataxstudy/final_report.htm Let's fix our unfair tax system in Washington State http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/educate-washingtonians tax expenditure budget http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/tax-loophole-reform
WHEREAS we support a quality education for every child by providing funding needed for all students to achieve educational excellence; and such an education requires adequate and equitable funding from public tax sources for schools to obtain the resources (e.g., personnel, programs, materials, buildings, and technology) to meet the needs of all students; and
WHEREAS we support the concept that public monies should not be provided for students to attend sectarian schools or other institutions in order to obtain educational services available to them in public schools to which they have reasonable access; in addition, we believe that any private school or agency that receives public funding through voucher plans, tax credits, or other funding/financial arrangements must be subject to full accountability through measures and regulations as required for equivalent public schools;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire, Washington State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Washington State Speaker of the House Frank Chopp to ensure that sectarian schools receiving public funding through voucher plans, tax credits, and other funding or financial arrangements be subject to full accountability through measures and regulations as required for equivalent public schools.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/22/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS community colleges in Washington complete up to 60% of the higher education in the state while utilizing only 44% of the higher education budget; and
WHEREAS Washington community and technical colleges have lost 33% of the value of their wages since 1970; and
WHEREAS Washington State 2-year college faculty are paid nearly 20% below the average of the Top 7 comparable peers in the state "Global Challenge" program as indexed and asserted by the Governor's Washington Learns Study;
WHEREAS public teaching employees of Washington 2-year colleges are unique in that their wages are strictly confined to state legislative appropriations for approval and the only faculty that are legally bared from negotiating for fair compensation; and
WHEREAS the Democratic Party of Washington supports fair and equal labor and bargaining rights for the working people of this state;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon Washington State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Washington State Speaker of the House Frank Chopp to produce legislation in the 2009 legislative session to equalize the bargaining rights of 2-year faculty with their educational colleagues in K-12 public schools and 4-year state colleges and universities by providing community and technical college faculty bargaining units the right to bargain for compensation commensurate with their counterparts in other state-run educational institutions.
Submitted by the Kitsap County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS higher education is essential to the prosperity and safety of our nation;
WHEREAS the cost of higher education has skyrocketed several folds over inflation for the past two decades putting such education out of reach for many qualified and deserving people; and
WHEREAS people are burdened with enormous college debt with no end in sight;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Governor Christine Gregoire and the Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature to lower student loan costs by placing ceilings on the interest charged;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call upon these policy-makers to forgive student loans through voluntary student participation in national public services such as military, Peace Corps, Teach America, public school teaching;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the initial cost of a college education can be lowered by mandating that all colleges (public, private) apply a set annual percentage of their endowments toward student tuition and fees or face losing their not for profit status and be taxed; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we call upon Governor Gregoire and the Washington State Legislature to make college education more affordable by reinstating federal grants and extending Opportunity Grants to lower and middle income Americans.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/3/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS annually, more than 6,000 teens are killed on our nation's highways;
WHEREAS billions of dollars are lost in our nation's economy due to "accidents" that could be prevented if we had better-trained drivers;
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature, in the 1960s, enacted RCW 28A.220 in order " to provide the financial assistance necessary to enable each high school district to offer a course in traffic safety education " and sustained it for nearly forty years;
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature, enacted RCW 43.08.250 which created a funding source for traffic safety education that was non-taxpayer based, called the Public Safety and Education Account, which derives its revenue from traffic fines;
WHEREAS in 2001 and 2002 the Washington State Legislature cut the funding for Traffic Safety Education, while at the same time leaving the legislative mandates in place;
WHEREAS due to the loss of funding, most public high schools have since outsourced or dropped their Traffic Safety Education programs, while others have raised fees and cut the quality of the program in order to sustain it;
WHEREAS the consequent lack of access to an affordable public school program has adversely impacted low-income families and students living in rural areas where private sector driver education courses are either unavailable or too costly; and
WHEREAS due to the lack of a publicly-funded course in Traffic Safety Education, many students receive no driver education, and are driving illegally and/or waiting until age 18 to get their license, creating a public-safety hazard as untrained drivers whose presence endangers the lives of all who use our highways;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports the restoration of funding for Traffic Safety Education, and calls upon the Governor and the State Legislature to include such funding in the state budget.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. 2008SCRES - 397 - 080614 - PASS - EDU - Traffic Safety Education Funding The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Federal Government of the United States has mandated by law that all states comply with the strict federal guidelines for Education and student graduation success;
WHEREAS Article IX of the Washington State Constitution stipulates that public education is the state's paramount duty;
WHEREAS less affluent communities and communities with weak property tax base are at grave disadvantage when schools rely on levy revenue to fund education;
WHEREAS Washington's public schools were 46th out of 50 states in 2008 for class size, 42nd in educational spending per pupil, and last among the five West Coast states for teacher salaries; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Supreme Court ruled in Federal Way District 210 v. Washington State that the Legislature must provide funding ample to maintain a general and uniform system; and
WHEREAS education is and will continue to be the most important component in individual and national success and growth;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports full state and federal government funding for public education, pre-school through post-secondary, including college, as this is in the best interest of both the people of the state and the nation as a whole; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an electronic copy of this resolution be sent to all members of the State Legislature and to the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Clallam County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) 2010SCRES - 056 - 100626 - PASS - EDU - Education Funding (Clallam) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the Texas Board of Education has made a decision to rewrite history with a narrow point of view replete with scientific inaccuracies and historical bias;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats strongly oppose public schools purchasing or the use of historically inaccurate teaching materials; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an electronic copy of this resolution be sent to all members of the State Legislature and to the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS our nation's future well-being depends on a high-quality public education system that prepares all students for college, careers, citizenship and lifelong learning, and strengthens the nation's social and economic well-being;
WHEREAS our nation's school systems have been spending growing amounts of time, money and energy on high-stakes standardized testing, in which student performance on standardized tests is used to make major decisions affecting individual students, educators and schools;
WHEREAS the overreliance on high-stakes standardized testing in state and federal accountability systems in undermining educational quality and equity in U.S. public schools by hampering educator's efforts to focus on the broad range of learning experiences that promote the innovation, creativity, problem solving, collaboration, communication, critical thinking and deep subject-matter knowledge that will allow students to thrive in a democracy and an increasingly global society and economy;
WHEREAS it is widely recognized that standardized testing is an inadequate and often unreliable measure of both student learning and educator effectiveness;
WHEREAS the over-emphasis on standardized testing has caused considerable collateral damage in too many school, including narrowing the curriculum, teaching to the test, reducing love of learning, pushing students out of school, driving excellent teachers out of the profession, and undermining school climate;
WHEREAS high-stakes standardized testing has negative effects for students from all backgrounds, and especially for low-income students, English language learners, children of color, and those with disabilities; and
WHEREAS the culture and structure of the systems in which students learn must change in order to foster engaging school experiences that promote joy in learning, depth of thought and breadth of knowledge for students;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls on the governor, state legislature and state education boards and administrators to continually re-examine public school accountability systems in this state, and to develop a system based on multiple forms of assessment which does not require extensive standardized testing, more accurately reflects the broad range of student learning, and is used to support students and improve schools; and 2012SC - 040 - 120602 - PASS - EDU - High-Stakes Testing
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon our state's congressional delegation to draft and sponsor legislation to overhaul the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (currently known as the "No Child Left Behind Act"), to reduce the testing mandates, promote multiple forms of evidence of student learning and school quality in accountability, and not mandate any fixed role for the use of student test scores in evaluating educators.
Submitted by the Lincoln County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power, Education, Labor, and Media Reform at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS our nation's future well-being depends on a high-quality public education system that prepares all students for college, careers, citizenship and lifelong learning, and strengthens the nation's social and economic well-being;
WHEREAS our nation's school systems have been spending growing amounts of time, money and energy on high-stakes standardized testing, in which student performance on standardized tests is used to make major decisions affecting individual students, educators and schools;
WHEREAS the overreliance on high-stakes standardized testing in state and federal accountability systems in undermining educational quality and equity in U.S. public schools by hampering educator's efforts to focus on the broad range of learning experiences that promote the innovation, creativity, problem solving, collaboration, communication, critical thinking and deep subject-matter knowledge that will allow students to thrive in a democracy and an increasingly global society and economy;
WHEREAS it is widely recognized that standardized testing is an inadequate and often unreliable measure of both student learning and educator effectiveness;
WHEREAS the over-emphasis on standardized testing has caused considerable collateral damage in too many school, including narrowing the curriculum, teaching to the test, reducing love of learning, pushing students out of school, driving excellent teachers out of the profession, and undermining school climate;
WHEREAS high-stakes standardized testing has negative effects for students from all backgrounds, and especially for low-income students, English language learners, children of color, and those with disabilities; and
WHEREAS the culture and structure of the systems in which students learn must change in order to foster engaging school experiences that promote joy in learning, depth of thought and breadth of knowledge for students;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls on the governor, state legislature and state education boards and administrators to continually re-examine public school accountability systems in this state, and to develop a system based on multiple forms of assessment which does not require extensive standardized testing, more accurately reflects the broad range of student learning, and is used to support students and improve schools; and 2012SCRES - 040 - 120602 - PASS - EDU - High-Stakes Testing.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon our state's congressional delegation to draft and sponsor legislation to overhaul the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (currently known as the "No Child Left Behind Act"), to reduce the testing mandates, promote multiple forms of evidence of student learning and school quality in accountability, and not mandate any fixed role for the use of student test scores in evaluating educators.
Submitted by the Lincoln County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power, Education, Labor, and Media Reform at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS it is imperative that the United States have a well-educated population if we are to remain economically competitive;
WHEREAS it is in both the moral interest, and the long-term financial interest, of both the Washington State and Federal Governments to educate children with disabilities to the fullest extent of their functioning, and with the goal of a life as independent of outside assistance as possible;
WHEREAS there are students who require an education that includes both Gifted and Special Education; and
WHEREAS according to the McCleary decision, the primary goal of Washington State is to educate its children;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, urge our Congressional delegation to encourage congressional action to fully fund Special Education; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the Washington State Legislature to fully fund both Gifted and Special Education so that local school districts do not disproportionately bear the cost of these comprehensive services.
Submitted by the 48th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/16/2014) The Subcommittee on Education amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Education recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Education at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS kindergartners are expected to spend a significant amount of their school day sitting at desks, listening attentively, completing assignments and other such academic pursuits;
WHEREAS to be successful it is highly valuable for each kindergartner to have attended a preschool; and
WHEREAS many parents are unable to get their four-year-olds enrolled in a preschool;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington Democrats call upon the Washington State Legislature to reintroduce the intent of 2012 bills SB 6449 and HB 2448 to create the High Quality Early Learning Act.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Education amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Education recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Education at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS higher education not only a personal benefit, but is an investment the community makes in a well-prepared, diverse and growing workforce;
WHEREAS student debt now totals $1.2 trillion, second only to mortgage debt;
WHEREAS the Federal government and Sallie Mae, by charging exorbitant interest rates on these loans, are profiting unconscionably from this debt, half of which is paid to predatory for-profit colleges and technical schools;
WHEREAS half of student debt is incurred with for-profit schools that inflate their degree completion and job placement rates, leaving students with huge debts and no viable degree;
WHEREAS student debt is limiting our economic recovery by slowing savings, marriage, household formation, mobility, new business start-ups and first-home purchases;
WHEREAS at the University of Washington, tuition increased 118% from 2002 to 2012, and taxpayer support went from 70% to 30% of the cost of a degree;
WHEREAS, in Washington, the average amount of debt a college student carries is about $23,000, according to the Project on Student Debt; and
WHEREAS today's students did nothing to cause this inequity, yet due to disinvestment in higher education, we taxpayers have shifted the burden from public support to personal debt;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we Democrats urge our legislative and congressional candidates to commit to making reduction of student debt a campaign priority by supporting the following policy proposals: Reverse the 2006 Federal bankruptcy law that excludes student debt from discharge orders regardless of circumstances; Reduce interest rates on federally-backed loans to their cost and limit the profit Wall Street banks can make on servicing them; Double Pell grant funding and eliminate bank transaction fees on Pell grants withdrawn with debit cards; Make tuition affordable for state residents by returning to state support (provide 70% of the cost of higher education [i.e., 2002 tuition levels)]) to levels which enable tuition to be reduced so it does not exceed 10% of the average Washington family's income; 2014SC - 115 - 140621 - PASS - EDU - Student Debt Relief Adopt Pay it Forward programs (both state and federal, which enable people to attend college without paying tuition in exchange for their paying a small percent of their post graduate income into a pool to pay for the next generation to attend college; Proactively close and prosecute for-profit schools that lure students to take on huge debt with inflated graduation rates and job placement promises; Forgive tuition for advanced professional degrees in teaching or primary care in exchange for 10 years of service.
Submitted by the 46th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) The Subcommittee on Education amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Education recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Education at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS public education is the cornerstone of our American Democracy, open to all children, and growing strong neighborhoods and communities;
WHEREAS all children deserve opportunities to learn and achieve in a K-12 public education program that prepares them for careers, college, and life. Basic education includes real reforms to Washington's basic education program that are currently in implementation and must support success for both students and educators;
WHEREAS early learning programs nurture children and families so they are ready to learn throughout their K-12 school years and beyond;
WHEREAS post-secondary access and affordable at community and technical colleges, universities, and apprenticeship and certification programs are key to preparing the innovative and skilled workforce and productive community citizens to ensure that all Washington families thrive; and
WHEREAS education investments in our state are neither sufficient nor stable;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports ample and sustainable funding for our state's public K-12 basic education program (HB '09, HB 2776 '10, and the McCleary court decision);
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support adequate funding for early learning programs and post-secondary programs that improve opportunities for more of Washington's children and families;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats values education investments as one part of Washington states' budget investments. WSDCC values people of all ages and abilities, community needs in infrastructure, health and safety, and an environment that preserves our quality of life; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats supports the additional state revenues and a revised tax structure to fund education AND to fund investments in our values.
Submitted by the 41st LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) 2014SC - 116 - 140621 - PASS - EDU - Investments in Education The Subcommittee on Education amended this resolution at their May 31st meeting. The Subcommittee on Education recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Education at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS President Obama has proposed making the first two years of community college free;
WHEREAS Tennessee and Oregon have already passed legislation creating "promise" programs offering free tuition and fees for their state's high school graduates;
WHEREAS the federal Pell Grant, when initially created in the early 1970s, fully covered the costs of attending community college and now covers just 60% of the total cost of attendance;
WHEREAS costs for community college have increased by 28 percent since 2000;
WHEREAS community colleges provide many important unfunded programs and services, such as veterans education and transition services;
WHEREAS community colleges play an essential role in higher education, in no small part because they serve as a pathway to postsecondary education;
WHEREAS close to half of all students who completed a degree at a four-year institution in 2013-14 had enrolled at a two-year institution at some point in the previous 10 years;
WHEREAS community colleges are an especially important educational resource for students from low income families, as well as for adults returning to school to obtain additional training or credentials that promote workforce development;
WHEREAS there is a gap in the supply of American workers prepared adequately for middle-skills jobs-those that require more education and training than a high school diploma but less than a four-year college degree - and this lack is hurting the U.S. middle class, as well as U.S. global competitiveness; and
WHEREAS the Washington Promise Program, helps to make the first two years of college affordable and accessible to the state's citizens by offering a tuition waiver for eligible students enrolled in associate degree or certificate programs offered by the state's community and technical colleges;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call upon Washington State House and Senate legislators to pass the legislation creating the Washington Promise Program; and 2016SCRES - 022 - 160618 - RECPA - EDU - Washington Promise
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call upon Washington State legislators to ensure that appropriations are approved to fully fund the Washington Promise Program.
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the WA State Constitution mandates "it is the paramount duty of the State to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders;"
WHEREAS the WA State Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that the State is violating its constitutional paramount duty to "amply provide for the education of all Washington children;"
WHEREAS the State Legislature has been ordered to fully provide that ample funding by no later than the 2018 school year, and the Supreme Court repeatedly ruled the State in contempt of court since 2014 for the legislature's repeated failure to produce the court-ordered ample funding plan;
WHEREAS Washington cannot fund basic education through cuts to other essential state services;
WHEREAS Washington has the most regressive tax system in the country with our lowest income earners paying the highest percent of taxes and our highest income earners paying a lower percent of taxes;
WHEREAS the recent education funding deal approved by the legislature fails to fully fund K-12 education, for example, it will leave Seattle Public Schools with a shortfall in the hundreds of millions of dollars by 2020, including at least a $40 million shortfall for special education;
WHEREAS the recent education funding deal relied on regressive taxes, including a sizable property tax increase, without passing new progressive revenue;
WHEREAS cutting staff at schools and cutting needed services is highly disruptive to the stability of school communities, impacting our most vulnerable populations in greater proportion;
WHEREAS Washington students, parents, and teachers should not be forced to go through this disruption because of the State's ongoing failure to amply fund basic education per their constitutional paramount duty;
WHEREAS Governor Jay Inslee suggested legislators could revisit this education funding deal in the 2018 legislative session; and WSDCCRES - 827 - 170910 - PASS - EDU - NEW EDUCATION FUNDING
WHEREAS Washington State gives away approximately $30 billion in tax breaks per biennium and has no state capital gains tax on the top 1 percent of earners;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests that our State Officials promptly and fully comply with the Supreme Court's orders in McCleary and pass a new education funding plan that actually and amply funds basic education with progressive taxation, such as closing corporate tax loopholes on the wealthiest corporations and implementing a capital gains tax on the top 1 percent, in order not to increase the burden on the state's lowest income earners or cut other social services or education programs.
Submitted by the 36th LD Democrats on 8/17/17. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports and urges the teaching of critical thinking skills in K-12 through college;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee encourages the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction to increase the emphasis of critical thinking skills across their policy and curriculum recommendations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all Washington State Legislators and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. ____________________________________________________________________________
Submitted by the 23rd LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 16, 2018 meeting in Spokane, Washington. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the education associations across the state in their right to bargain for the just and fair compensation they deserve and their bargaining efforts; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee pledges to support local education associations' community organizing and implore local school districts and administrations to negotiate agreements that attract and retain the highest quality educators in our communities.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our state legisla-4 tors take action in this legislative session to prevent cuts and further fund our public schools as detailed in HB 2157, potentially including but not limited to passing legislation to achieve the following: 1. A capital gains tax, with revenues going to fund our public schools 2. Lifting levy caps so that public schools can collect the funds voters approved 3. Funding to meet the needs of special education students.
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to our legislators. Resolution submitted by the 36th LD Democrats to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7, meeting in Pasco. (Date submitted 3/20/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7, 2019
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School district has a nation-wide reputation for excellence in special education; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington's paramount duty is to educate all the children living within its borders, and the State of Washington has defined basic education to include basic education for children with developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline school district cannot meet new state and federal standards without the financial support to pay for them, including No Child Left Behind and WASL, while at the same time continue to offer the rich educational program that the community and parents expect; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District receives payment from the state for special education students up to 12.7% of total enrollment; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District averaged 1298 special education students in the 2004-2005 school year which results in some 65 students enrolled above the state level of support; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington's DSHS and OSPI have placed an additional 28 special education students in a private institution with capacity for placing an additional 8 special education students in the same facility, the total education cost of which will be over one million dollars of local levy money for the unfunded mandate; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District has a long history of successful partnership with the Fircrest School to provide educational services for the students who reside at the school, and when the students from Fircrest School attended Shoreline Schools, the state pays the extra money for their care; and
WHEREAS, there is no shortage of facilities available for developmentally disabled children as Fircrest School is licensed for some 284 beds, only 100 of which are funded by the state, resulting in a surplus of some 184 beds and living quarters available to care for developmentally disabled individuals within the Shoreline School District; WSDCCRES - 068 - 050917 - PASS - EDU - Shoreline School District.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee: 1. Castigate DSHS and OSPI for shifting the education costs for their clients off the state budget and onto the local school district as an unfunded mandate, and for ignoring the Interagency Agreement which called for "OSPI-DSHS Special Program Agreement" or "Program Agreement" which would specify services provided to children, coordinating duties and allocating resources between the program and OSPI and/or LEAs (local school districts), and, 2. Commend the Shoreline School Board and Superintendent for joining with the other 11 school districts and 25 other friends of the court in court action to fill the gap of more than $100 million between what the state pays for special-56 education services each year, and what those services cost districts, and 3. Recommend that the Shoreline School District do not use local levy dollars, which are designed to fund enrichment programs such as art and music, to fill the funding shortage for the special education programs, and 4. Recommend that the Shoreline School District continue to pursue safety net funds and other DSHS funding such as that which would be available were these students to reside in the vacant cottages at Fircrest.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Washington State Progressive Caucus of the Democratic Central Committee (9/16/2005). Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS more than 1,000,000 students attend public schools in Washington State, comprised of about 80,000 students at each grade level;
WHEREAS only 60,000 students graduate from Washington high schools each year, leaving about 20,000 annually who have not received the help they need to graduate - in part because our state has consistently provided among the lowest levels of education funding as a percent of income and maintains the highest class sizes in the nation;
WHEREAS this shortfall in funding for public education has repeatedly been ruled by our State Supreme Court to be a violation of our State Constitution, meaning that those struggling students have already been deprived of their Constitutional right to a quality education;
WHEREAS, in the past, more than 11,000 of those annual "high school dropouts" (i.e., more than half of the 20,000 students who did not graduate) eventually earned a High School Equivalency (HSE) certificate, more commonly called the General Education Development certificate or "GED certificate," by taking and passing a specific test therefor;
WHEREAS having a high school diploma or GED certificate is a requirement to attend college and often to get a good job;
WHEREAS lack of a high school diploma or GED certificate is often associated with an increased risk of taking drugs, committing crimes, and ending up in prison - meaning that for many young adults, the GED test is not merely a second chance at a productive life, it is their last chance;
WHEREAS in January 2014 a new and dramatically more difficult GED test was introduced, designed by Pearson Testing Service (a for-profit entity), resulting in the pass rate dropping from 50% to less than 10% between January and April of 2014;
WHEREAS the Pearson GED test costs about twice as much as the previous version;
WHEREAS a substantially better high school equivalency test called the "HiSET" is now available, at a significantly lower cost, from the (nonprofit) University of Iowa's College of Education; and
WHEREAS the HiSET has already been adopted as a high school equivalency option in eleven States; WSDCCRES - 683 - 140913 - PASS - EDU - GED Equivalency
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge our Governor and State Legislature to restore fairness and hope for high school dropouts by allowing them the opportunity to take the non-profit Iowa HiSET High School Equivalency Test rather than the for-profit Pearson GED High School Equivalency Test.
Submitted by the 31st LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/2/2014)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the copyrighted (and therefore unchangeable) Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a set of controversial top-down K-12 academic standards that were promulgated by wealthy private interests without research-based evidence of validity and are developmentally inappropriate in the lowest grades;
WHEREAS, as a means of avoiding the U.S. Constitution's 10th Amendment prohibition against federal involvement in state education policy, two unaccountable private trade associations--the National Governors Association (NGA) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO)--have received millions of dollars in funding from the Gates Foundation and others to create the CCSS;
WHEREAS we are in favor of standards, in particular the former Washington State standards set by educators, parents and students;
WHEREAS the U.S. Department of Education pressured state legislatures into adopting the Common Core State Standards and high-stakes standardized testing based on them as a condition of competing for federal Race to the Top (RTTT) stimulus funds that should have been based on need;
WHEREAS as a result of Washington State Senate Bill 6669, which passed the State legislature on March 11, 2010, the Office of the Superintendent of Instruction (OSPI) adopted Common Core State Standards (CCSS) on July 20, 2011;
WHEREAS this adoption effectively transfers control over public school standardized testing from locally elected school boards to the unaccountable corporate interests that control the CCSS and who stand to profit substantially;
WHEREAS the Washington State Constitution also calls for public education to be controlled by the State of Washington through our elected State legislature, our elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction and our elected local school boards;
WHEREAS plans for implementation of CCSS assessments in K-12will result in private student data being transmitted to and stored by private corporations;
WHEREAS implementation of CCSS will cost local school districts hundreds of millions of dollars to pay for standardized computer-based tests, new technology, new curricula and teacher training at a time when Washington is already insufficiently funding K-12 Basic Education without proven benefit to students; and WSDCCRES - 706 - 150124 - PASS - EDU - Opposing Common Core Standards
WHEREAS for these and other reasons, some states have already withdrawn from CCSS;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we Democrats call upon the Washington State legislature and the Superintendent of Public Instruction to withdraw from the CCSS and keep K-12 education student-centered and accountable to the people of Washington State.
Submitted by 32nd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2015) Given no recommendation by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS Congressman Jim McDermott (WA-7) recently introduced H.R. 1131, the Fairness in Student Loan Lending Act;
WHEREAS this bill would save students and parents thousands of dollars by allowing student loan borrowers to refinance their student loans and allow holders of private student loans to discharge their debt in bankruptcy;
WHEREAS this bill is similar to H.R. 1434 the Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act, which has been introduced by Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-2);
WHEREAS one in five U.S. households currently holds college debt, and over half of outstanding student loans are presently in deferral, delinquency or default;
WHEREAS many student loans have interest rates of seven, nine, or even eleven percent;
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democrats calls for "partial student loan forgiveness and loan consolidation" and opposes "the escalation of tuition at institutions of higher learning";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the Fairness in Student Loan Lending Act and the Bank on Students Emergency Loan Refinancing Act, and call for passage of these or similar bills; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon our Washington State Democratic members of Congress to support these bills.
Submitted by the Young Democrats of Washington to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/12/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the State Supreme Court of Washington, in September of 2015, ruled that the provisions of Initiative 1240, which would have authorized charter schools violate our state constitution and are against the law; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature for four years has refused to respect our state's constitution, which specifies that it is our state's paramount duty to provide ample funding for our public schools, as reaffirmed and required by the Supreme Court's McCleary decision of 2012;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the membership of the Washington State Democrats stand in strong support of the Washington Supreme Court's McCleary decision, requiring full funding of our public schools, and their ruling of September against charters.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats. (Date Submitted 3/11/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the Multi-Ethnic Think Tank (METT) issued in 2002 a position paper "Equitable and Culturally Competent Education";
WHEREAS a Low Socio-Economic Think Tank was part of METT;
WHEREAS the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) and other assessment tools continue to reveal a systemic failure to provide equitable academic achievement;
WHEREAS a coalition of Tribal Councils have taken the position paper "off the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction shelf" seeking full implementation;
WHEREAS State Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos has agreed to be principal sponsor of such legislation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the WSDCC supports legislative implementation of the 2002 METT position paper "Equitable and Culturally Competent Education";
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that students with disabilities and English Language Learners be included in such legislation.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 29, 2005 meeting by the King County Democrat Central Committee (1/25/05) Passed by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School district has a nation-wide reputation for excellence in special education; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington's paramount duty is to educate all the children living within its borders, and the State of Washington has defined basic education to include basic education for children with developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline school district cannot meet new state and federal standards without the financial support to pay for them, including No Child Left Behind and WASL, while at the same time continue to offer the rich educational program that the community and parents expect; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District receives payment from the state for special education students up to 12.7% of total enrollment; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District averaged 1298 special education students in the 2004-2005 school year which results in some 65 students enrolled above the state level of support; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington's DSHS and OSPI have placed an additional 28 special education students in a private institution with capacity for placing an additional 8 special education students in the same facility, the total education cost of which will be over one million dollars of local levy money for the unfunded mandate; and
WHEREAS, the Shoreline School District has a long history of successful partnership with the Fircrest School to provide educational services for the students who reside at the school, and when the students from Fircrest School attended Shoreline Schools, the state pays the extra money for their care; and
WHEREAS, there is no shortage of facilities available for developmentally disabled children as Fircrest School is licensed for some 284 beds, only 100 of which are funded by the state, resulting in a surplus of some 184 beds and living quarters available to care for developmentally disabled individuals within the Shoreline School District; WSDCCRES - 068 - 050917 - PASS - EDU - Shoreline School District
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee: 1. Castigate DSHS and OSPI for shifting the education costs for their clients off the state budget and onto the local school district as an unfunded mandate, and for ignoring the Interagency Agreement which called for "OSPI-DSHS Special Program Agreement" or "Program Agreement" which would specify services provided to children, coordinating duties and allocating resources between the program and OSPI and/or LEAs (local school districts), and, 2. Commend the Shoreline School Board and Superintendent for joining with the other 11 school districts and 25 other friends of the court in court action to fill the gap of more than $100 million between what the state pays for special-56 education services each year, and what those services cost districts, and 3. Recommend that the Shoreline School District do not use local levy dollars, which are designed to fund enrichment programs such as art and music, to fill the funding shortage for the special education programs, and 4. Recommend that the Shoreline School District continue to pursue safety net funds and other DSHS funding such as that which would be available were these students to reside in the vacant cottages at Fircrest.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Washington State Progressive Caucus of the Democratic Central Committee (9/16/2005). Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS Washington's Public schools are under funded, yet our academic standards are among the highest in the nation. Article IX of the Washington State Constitution makes public education the state's "paramount duty"; It's time to take the lead and ensure that our public schools receive the funding they need to educate all children;
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools are 46th in class size out of 50 states and Washington D.C.; and
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools are 42nd in education spending per student, adjusted for regional cost differences; and
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools have $2 billion less to spend because funding hasn't kept pace. Twenty-five years ago, Washington spent 50.4 percent of the state operating budget on K-12 schools; now we spend just 42.1 percent; and
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools are spending $548 less per student compared to 1992; and
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools are dead last in teacher pay among the five West Coast states; and
WHEREAS, Washington's public schools, regardless of location or population, must have the resources to allow every child the opportunity to succeed;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party require our elected leaders to restore Washington's commitment to quality education by increasing funding for public schools so that all children receive the well-rounded education they need to compete for good jobs in the global high-tech economy.
Submitted by the 2006 Clallam County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/04/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 128 - 060929 - PASS - EDU - Public Education The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the federal government has mandated the states comply with strict federal guidelines for education and student graduation and success; and
WHEREAS, the United States is in danger of losing its technological and competitive place in the world or at the very least stagnating; and
WHEREAS, education is and will continue to be the most important component in individual and national success and growth; and
WHEREAS, the Washington state Constitution requires that schools be adequately and equitably funded; and
WHEREAS, poorer communities and communities with a weak property tax base are at a grave disadvantage when schools rely on levy revenue for education services; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party support full state and federal government funding for public education K through College, as this is in the highest interest of the people and the nation.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the federal and state government have the authority to legislate, and do legislate, costly and complex changes in K-12 education; and
WHEREAS, such legislation frequently does not include funding for the changes required; and
WHEREAS, in order to comply with such legislation, local school districts are required to place the financial responsibility of such legislation onto the local taxpayers;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that any new state and/or federal legislation affecting K-12 education must provide for funding for any of its mandates before being imposed on local school districts.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/26/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, Washington State community and technical college faculty pay is the lowest of any West Coast state; and
WHEREAS, Washington State community and technical college faculty has lost 33% of its value since 1970; and
WHEREAS, Washington State community and technical college faculty pay has been driven down by the extraordinary use of low-wage, part-time teachers; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party direct the state legislature to reverse the deterioration of Washington State community and technical college faculty pay; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Washington State Democratic Party supports a 10% Washington State community and technical college faculty pay raise, automatic annual increment funding and regular and consistent cost of living adjustments mandated by the voters in I-732; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party call on the State Legislature to take measures to substantially reduce Washington State community and technical college reliance on part-time teachers and to remunerate part-time faculty using the principle of equal pay and benefits for equal work. ______________________________________________________
Submitted by the 2006 Kitsap County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, in today's K-12 education institutions many students and ethnic minority students are faced with cultural marginalization and academic isolation, and for students who are able to maneuver the academic challenge quite often it is at the expense of their cultural identity, self esteem and mental/psychological well-being; and
WHEREAS, in response to this crisis a Multi-cultural Education Think Tank (METT) was created by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction as an alliance of the Asian Pacific Islander American, African American, Hispanic, Native American and low socio-economic communities in pursuit of an equitable and culturally competent education system to address the Academic Achievement Gap; and
WHEREAS, the METT proposes steps to create an equitable and culturally competent education system that honors all students in a holistic manner - accounting for their various world views, learning styles, multiple intelligences, and cultural heritage; and
WHEREAS, strategies for addressing the achievement gap are: changed beliefs and attitudes, cultural responsiveness, greater opportunities to learn, effective instruction and increased family and community involvement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports the METT recommendations to address the Academic Achievement Gap and enhance the Washington State Student Goals as follows: 1. Read with comprehension, write with skill, and communicate effectively and responsibly in a variety of ways and settings that respect and value the diversity among all people. 2. Know and apply the core concepts and principles of mathematics, social, physical, and life sciences; civics and history; geography; arts; and health and fitness in ways that are culturally inclusive. 3. Think analytically, logically, and creatively in a cross cultural and appropriate manner, and integrate this diverse experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgments and solve problems. 4. Understand the importance of work and how performance, effort, decisions and effective personal communication with diverse people, directly affect career educational opportunities. 5. Understand, accept, and demonstrate the value of various cultures and heritages; become responsible and respectful citizens in multicultural settings; and use one's cultural knowledge as a foundation to achieve personal and academic success. WSDCCRES - 137 - 060929 - PASS - EDU - Academic Achievement Gap
Submitted by the delegates of the 4th Congressional District and the Yakima County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "No Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg because the Washington State Democratic Party Platform can not be amended by resolution. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, World War II Ken Burns Documentary excluded Native Americans and Hispanics and undermined the unity of our country's effort of WWII and ignored the patriotism, sacrifices, proud and honorable dedication and contributions to our country's 500,000 Hispanic military service men and women of WWII;
WHEREAS, the Hispanic community, Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Individual members of Congress, Texas and California Legislatures, National Council of the La Raza, National Hispanic Media and the American G. I. Forum an Hispanic veterans organization, chartered by Congress. Complained and condemned the omission of Hispanic Veterans. PBS response was not to interfere with Ken Burns's artistic freedom;
WHEREAS, the WWII Documentary CD its accompanying book and educational material will be part of schools' education of WWII and has omitted the true history of WWII and should be corrected;
WHEREAS, President and CEO Ms Paula Kerger Public Broadcast System and Ken Burns' Florentine Production Company finally relented and shall assemble a production team to include Hispanic contributions to WWII war effort and shall have a Hispanic producer;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee applaud the efforts of the coalition named Defend the Honor that made PBS CEO Paula Kerger and Ken Burns see the light to do what is historically correct and proper and honorable for our Hispanic WWII contributions, and the Chair will send a letter to PBS and Ken Burns urging an integral Hispanic and Native American component within this documentary.
Submitted by the Washington State Hispanic/Latino Democratic Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/25/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "TABLED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC took this resolution off the table and "PASSED" it at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS Latinos are the fastest growing population in the United States and the State of Washington;
WHEREAS Latinos now influence every sector of the economy;
WHEREAS voting trends suggest that the 2008 elections in western states like Washington, with large Latino populations helped to secure both the nomination and the eventual presidency for President Barack Obama;
WHEREAS the two major universities of the State of Washington have world class research facilities;
WHEREAS the need for in depth research with regard to this population, would be invaluable to the Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS the Governor appointed Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs has supported the creation of such a research Center;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby go on record as supporting the creation of a Latino research center;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to pass a bill creating a Latino Research Center; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the chair of the Washington State Democratic Party is directed to send a copy to the Governor and the Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Hispanic Latino Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "TABLED" this resolution at its September 26, meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "AFFIRMED THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE'S DECISION TO TABLE" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. WSDCCRES - 462 - 100130 - PASS - EDU - Latino Research Center The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats specifically opposes publicly funded charter schools;
WHEREAS the voters of Washington State have defeated charter school measures three times;
WHEREAS charter school operators have "become increasingly hostile to unions";
WHEREAS teacher turnover is higher in charter schools than in traditional public schools, and increases administrative and training costs, creates organizational disruption, and makes it difficult to maintain a high level of instructional quality;
WHEREAS peer-reviewed research shows that 83% of charter schools perform no better than public schools;
WHEREAS charter schools overall serve far fewer children with special needs than comparable public schools, and especially children with the most severe disabilities;
WHEREAS charter school populations are more segregated and less diverse than public schools;
WHEREAS charter schools often shift publicly funded district moneys to private interests; and
WHEREAS charter schools represent a privatization of public schools;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to oppose any charter school bill; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, upon passage, this resolution be communicated to the Washington State Democratic Legislative Caucuses.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/12/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS there is scientific consensus that increased concentrations of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide in the atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels are raising the mean global temperature and increasing the acidity of the oceans;
WHEREAS this scientific consensus is documented in the 4th Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and endorsed by signatory countries to the United Nations Framework on Climate Change, including the United States of America;
WHEREAS the projected impacts of climate change pose real and imminent threats to the health, welfare, and security of Washington State, the nation, and the world, including disruptions in world food and water supplies, rapid sea level rise, accelerating melting of land and sea ice masses, increasing likelihood of extreme weather events, increasing wildfires, increasing insect and pathogen disease threats, and increasingly likelihood of extinction for many plant and animal species;
WHEREAS such threats must be treated as urgent crises and a top priority by the next U.S. President and our elected federal and state representatives;
WHEREAS over-use of fossil fuels contributes to climate change, pollutes the air, damages our health, threatens our economic well-being, and reduces our national security;
WHEREAS the window of opportunity to forestall climate chaos is rapidly closing;
WHEREAS the potential for global climate disruption threatens to undermine our ability to achieve critical Democratic Party goals including economic prosperity, national security, social justice, and a healthy environment; and
WHEREAS new, existing, and developing technologies and industries can create clean, renewable sources of energy and achieve energy conservation and efficiency and, in turn, decrease greenhouse gas emissions while providing new economic opportunities and jobs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon our Governor, our Senators, our Congressmen, and our State Legislature to create, support, and enact climate change and energy policies on the federal, state, and local levels to combat climate change that include: Ratifying the Kyoto Protocol and adopting more stringent goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% below 1990 levels by the years 2020, and by at least 80% below 1990 levels by year 2050; 2008SCRES - 092 - 080614 - PASS - ENV - Climate Change Resolution Enacting the New Apollo Energy Act of 2007, which will revise this nation's energy policies and greatly increase investment in energy technology research and development with a goal of making solar, wind, wave, tidal and other "green" power, including conservation, viable energy sources; Instituting carbon pricing with full revenue recycling, both to enhance efficiency and to offset regressive impacts on lower-income people and small businesses; Creating a federal tax credit for the installation of residential and commercial energy-efficient systems including drain water heat exchangers, solar hot water heating systems, and ground source heat pumps; Increasing fuel efficiency standards for all vehicles and encouraging alternative fuel technologies such as plug-in-hybrids; Development of alternative transport systems such as bike paths and mass transit options; Investing in New Deal-like work projects that create green collar jobs, including a Clean Energy Corps to increase energy efficiency in buildings by 20% by 2015; Protecting and preserving wildlife habitat for threatened and endangered species including acting vigorously to halt deforestation and other activities that threaten biodiversity; and Providing global leadership by helping developing nations find pathways out of poverty using clean technologies developed here and around the world.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Northstar liquefied national gas terminal at Bradwood Landing would harm the local economy;
WHEREAS the LNG tankers carry the explosive power 55 times greater than the Hiroshima nuclear bomb;
WHEREAS the US Coast Guard has determined that high-risk LNG tankers and the intense security measures that surround them would restrict all traffic in large areas of the Columbia;
WHEREAS "Due to a narrow shipping channel, numerous navigational hazards and the proximity to populated areas," the Coast Guard would require a 1,500 foot wide security zone around any LNG tanker in the estuary;
WHEREAS the Columbia shipping channel is only 600 feet wide at best, this exclusion zone would effectively shut the Columbia down to one-way river traffic when LNG tankers were in the river and effectively force other boaters, fisherman and shippers to margins of the river all together;
WHEREAS the Coast Guard also said it would prohibit all ships from passing slow-22 moving LNG tankers from behind creating a daily bottle-neck in Columbia River traffic that would seriously impact all river users;
WHEREAS with several inbound and outbound tanker trips a week LNG tankers would be a dominant new feature on the river the Coast Guard report makes clear that free passage on the Columbia would come to an end with the arrival of LNG tankers;
WHEREAS commercial and recreational fisherman, recreational boaters, and commercial river traffic would be hard hit; and
WHEREAS the Coast Guard concludes that there were not adequate existing security, fire, or emergency response capabilities, in local communities, state agencies or even the Coast Guard to protect the public from LNG;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC issue letters to our state and federal authorities and elected representatives opposing allowing LNG tankers past the Columbia Bar.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008) 2008SCRES - 176 - 080614 - PASS - ENV - LNG Tankers on the Columbia The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS science has shown that many chemicals and other hazardous waste materials released into or left in the environment, in rivers and other water sources as well as dumps long since buried and forgotten, are carcinogenic;
WHEREAS these items have contaminated larger areas as the items deteriorate, and runoff goes into the rivers, as with Hanford waste into the Columbia River, backing into formerly pristine coastal bays; and
WHEREAS the incidences of cancer and cancer related deaths have been shown to be on the increase;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that more thorough research and sampling be done, including checking health and death records of persons and families still living in these areas and those who have left the area but still have contacts in said area, to get an accurate determination of true numbers;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that these areas be cleaned up and if the source of contamination can be determined, that source shall be held responsible for the cost of cleanup; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party encourages our Governor, our Senators, and our Representatives to create, support, and enact such policies and legislation as needed to bring about this research and cleanup.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/28/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS over a million gallons of high-level nuclear waste have leaked from tanks at Hanford, and the contamination is spreading towards the Columbia River;
WHEREAS Hanford is the most contaminated area of nuclear waste in the Western Hemisphere; and instead of cleaning up the contamination, the Bush Administration continues to fight to use Hanford as a national radioactive waste dump and to rename and abandon high-level nuclear waste in leaking tanks;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats supported Initiative 297, requiring cleanup of Hanford before more waste can be dumped, and which the voters of Washington State passed in 2004 with the highest vote ever in state history; and
WHEREAS the federal Energy Department is nonetheless suing to overturn the will of Washington's voters in order to use Hanford as a national radioactive waste dump for waste from nuclear weapons plants, and to avoid emptying and cleaning up high-level nuclear waste tanks;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party supports (a) implementing the principle that existing wastes need to be cleaned up and in compliance with sound safety standards before Washington State allows more waste to be disposed of at Hanford, and (b) continued defense of Initiative 297 in the courts; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon our Governor, our Attorney General and our State and National Senators and Representatives to enact legislation on the principle that the clean up of existing wastes must be completed, and undertaken using sound safety standards, before Washington State allows the disposal of additional waste at the Hanford site and for their continued support in defense of Initiative 297 in the courts.
Submitted by the Walla Walla County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/28/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS Washington State does not have a deposit-refund system for recycling beverage containers;
WHEREAS costs of deposits are borne by manufacturers and distributors, who in turn pass on some costs to consumers, which should encourage consumers to be aware of the costs to recycle and importance to environment;
WHEREAS recycling, first, protects and expands Washington State and US manufacturing jobs, second reduces the need for land filling and incineration, and lastly saves energy and prevents pollution caused by the extraction and processing of virgin materials and the manufacture of products using virgin materials;
WHEREAS the deposit-refund system combines a special front-end surcharge (the deposit) on a particular substance or product with a refund payable to the consumer when quantities of the substance or product in question are turned in for recycling or proper disposal. This increase in beverage container prices can reduce the volume of waste that is reaching the landfills and incinerators; and
WHEREAS deposit-refund systems can assist regulatory agencies in accomplishing their enforcement and compliance program objectives by reducing the need for additional regulatory resources while simultaneously augmenting agency efforts;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Chairs of our State Senators and House of Representatives to propose that Washington State establish a deposit-refund system for all beverage containers; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the amount of refund be established through economic study and Washington State legislative council.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS since the decision to shut down Yucca Mountain, Nevada as the nation's nuclear waste storage site, Washington is left with 53,000,000 gallons of nuclear waste with no place outside Hanford for storage;
WHEREAS substantial nuclear waste has already leaked at Hanford; and
WHEREAS the nuclear waste from the rest of the United States has no designated location for safe storage;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support a search for a site for the safe storage of nuclear waste to begin immediately; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the search for and construction of a suitable nuclear storage site and vigorously urge the Department of Energy to begin said search for a nuclear waste storage site; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Walla Walla County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS regulated electric power monopolies are guaranteed an annual rate of return by the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission;
WHEREAS the State of Washington favors increasing the share of renewable power generated by distributed sources;
WHEREAS distributed power sources need to sell significant amounts of power to a utility company in order to make power generation economically feasible;
WHEREAS moving power from the primary utility to another buyer is costly;
WHEREAS at least one Washington regulated utility operates in the State of Oregon, where it must buy up to 10 megawatts of power from any one distributed source;
WHEREAS it is unfair to our distributed sources to bear tighter restrictions than competitors in Oregon; and
WHEREAS for-profit utilities have insufficient incentive to encourage distributed sources to generate significant amounts of renewable energy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party ask Governor Gregoire and our delegation of legislators in the State Senate and the House of Representatives to urge the Utilities and Transportation Commission to raise the minimum purchase of power from a distributed source and to provide for the moving of power so that a distributed source has reasonable access to the market for renewable power; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 3/23/2010)
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 3/23/2010) 2010SCRES - 063 - 100626 - PASS - ENV - Renewable Energy (Multiple) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS we have a need to create jobs and move our economy toward a sustainable energy future;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats direct our State Legislature and Federal Representatives to support programs that will create jobs in the fields of renewable energy, educational opportunities and energy efficiency retrofits for homes, businesses, schools and other government buildings; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency asked agencies that have a role to play in groundwater management to apply their collective resources to providing recommendations and solutions to the complex nitrate problem in the Yakima Valley;
WHEREAS the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has indentified manure fromCAFOs (concentrated animal feedlot operations) as a significant source of groundwater nitrates and has announced plans to publish point-source findings later this year;
WHEREAS the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency selected Yakima Valley as a demonstration region for Environmental Justice;
WHEREAS the 2009 Report of the President's Cancer Panel found that nitrates are linked to a variety of cancers;
WHEREAS the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production found that CAFOs are serious threats to water quality; and
WHEREAS the American Public Health Association has called for a moratorium on the construction of CAFOs due to the adverse impacts they have on public health including the contamination of drinking water;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats vigorously encourage Governor Gregoire and our state legislature to ensure enforcement of current laws and regulations, with complete reviews by the Washington State Health Department of permits for new or expanded CAFOs;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support the Environmental Protection Agency's demonstration region for Environmental Justice in the Yakima Valley; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted with appropriate signatures by the Yakima County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 5/27/2010) 2010SCRES - 151 - 100626 - PASS - ENV - Correcting Groundwater Contamination Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/25/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS climate change is already causing stronger storms, droughts, and floods, and threatening habitats on which our ecosystems depend, and is expected to create more damage as greenhouse gas emissions increase;
WHEREAS these threats to our physical environment in turn threaten the social, political, and economic environment through secondary effects, including displacement of populations, resource conflicts, loss of crops, and more;
WHEREAS these effects will cause the most harm to vulnerable populations, including young people, the elderly, and those who have historically been excluded from sources of power;
WHEREAS numerous scientists from a wide range of disciplines have warned of the imminent threat of climate change and the urgent need to act now to prevent the worst outcomes;
WHEREAS the nations that have contributed the most to global warming have a responsibility to reduce their emissions dramatically;
WHEREAS fossil fuels are the most significant cause of greenhouse gas emissions;
WHEREAS the development of alternative energy requires significant investment;
WHEREAS a simple but effective method to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to impose a fee on fossil fuels at their source, which may discourage consumption while encouraging investment in non-carbon alternatives;
WHEREAS a dividend can redistribute some or all of the revenue from this fee to consumers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party encourages its Congressional Delegation to support legislation in Congress, such as H.R. 3242, the Save Our Climate Act of 2011.
Submitted by the 36th Legislative District County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 5/3/2012) 2012SC - 047 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Carbon Fee and Dividend Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Washington State is currently blessed with abundant fresh water resources; and
WHEREAS fresh water resources in Washington and in neighboring states are in danger of being depleted by inefficient use, increased population pressure, pressure for increased agricultural production and pressure for increased industrial uses;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for the State of Washington, at the direction of the Governor, form in 2012 a long-term, state-wide Fresh Water Task Force charged with the responsibility of assessing the current fresh water supply situation, emerging water supply and water usage patterns and trends and develop a long-range freshwater conservation strategy and plan extending through 2075.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS many areas within Washington watersheds have become heavily-4 developed in recent years;
WHEREAS increased development using traditional building methods produces large volumes of stormwater runoff into our waterways;
WHEREAS high volumes of stormwater runoff damages streams by scouring out gravel beds needed by salmon to spawn, and by depositing layers of silt from erosion which smothers salmon eggs as well as the aquatic flies and insects that live in the streambeds and form the base of the stream food chain;
WHEREAS high volumes of stormwater runoff result in periodic stream and lake flooding causing millions of dollars in property damage;
WHEREAS storm runoff carries a variety of pollutants from roadways, parking lots and yards that are harmful to fish and all other animals that live in and around streams;
WHEREAS low impact development techniques, such as pervious concrete and asphalt, rain gardens, bio-swales, green roofs, low profile foundations, and retention of native soils, capture stormwater where it falls, eliminating or greatly reducing runoff into streams and lakes;
WHEREAS low-impact development has been shown to be effective in a wide range of soil and site conditions by Washington State University and other agencies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, support measures by Washington State, Washington counties, and Washington local jurisdictions to promote the general use of low-impact development building techniques in development and redevelopment projects.
Submitted by the 46th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 051 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Low-Impact Building Techniques 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the General Mining Law of 1872 continues to govern hard-rock mining of metals like copper, uranium, silver and gold, with a resultant massive giveaway to giant mining companies, including international companies, totaling tens of billions of dollars;
WHEREAS Congress's failure to update our 140-year-old mining law is one of the most egregious, expensive, and destructive failures in federal land management;
WHEREAS under the General Mining Law of 1872: mining leases can be purchased at 1872 prices of $2.50-$5.00 an acre, companies can mine publicly owned mineral resources without paying any royalties, and federal land managers must prioritize mining over all other land uses, and there are NO environmental protections-which has led to the pollution of more than 40% of Western U.S. watersheds and left American taxpayers holding the bill for an estimated $30+ billion in mine cleanup and reclamation;
WHEREAS Congress has twice tried and failed to reform the law;
WHEREAS the Obama administration included provisions in its FY 2012 budget that would require the mining industry to pay a reclamation fee on the production of hardrock minerals based on the volume of material mined and would establish a leasing system for hardrock mineral mining similar to such leasing fees required for oil and gas production operating on federal lands;
WHEREAS the National Forest Service has said it has no choice but to approve the proposed copper and silver mine on Chicago Peak (a holy place for the Salish and Kootenai native tribes, located in Western Montana's Cabinet Mountains Wilderness Area) that will provide $20 billion dollars worth of publicly owned minerals to Canadian company Revett Minerals for free; and
WHEREAS Revett has stated that it plans to commence its Chicago Peak mining operations as early as 2013, and neither amendment of the mining law nor enactment of budgetary provisions is likely to occur before such mining begins;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on the National Forest Service to immediately rescind approval of the Revett Minerals lease for copper and silver mining on Chicago Peak, and we call on the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the President of the United States to facilitate such action; and 2012SC - 052 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Mining Act of
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on our Congressional delegation to lead the effort to enact an updated mining law that allows land managers to protect Wilderness Areas and other unique public lands from mining, implements strong environmental standards for mines, collects funds for mining reclamation, and puts a fair royalty on the extraction of these publicly owned resources.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012)
Submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012)
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012)
Submitted by the 46th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012)
Submitted by the Stevens County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012)
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS a marine terminal, the "Gateway Pacific Terminal", has been proposed for development at Cherry Point on the US mainland northwest of Bellingham and 10 miles north of Orcas Island, by Pacific International Terminals, Inc., a subsidiary of SSA Marine, which would provide storage and handling for up to 54 million metric tons of commodities per year, primarily coal from Wyoming and Montana;
WHEREAS this coal would be transported in open rail cars on trains more than a mile long, measuring a total of about 30 miles daily, with substantial exposure to coal dust and train diesel fumes along the route, and the increased train traffic from coal trains is likely to interfere with existing key Washington industries that rely on rail to move parts and products;
WHEREAS there are potentially significant health impacts of this project, including respiratory illness, noise exposure from train whistles, mercury and heavy metal pollution, and potential to delay emergency medical responses and increase vehicle-18 train accidents along the train route;
WHEREAS coal from these miles of open rail cars would be offloaded onto bulk carriers, heavy polluters of diesel fuel, and which have historically had a high rate of structural failures and safety incidents, and oil spills from these ships would be devastating to our marine environment;
WHEREAS if the project is approved, there will be a stockyard at Cherry Point 80 to 105 acres in area for storage of uncovered piles of coal which must be rotated regularly to avoid spontaneous combustion;
WHEREAS the proposed terminal would be adjacent to the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve, so designated to protect an important native ecosystem, and the release of coal dust, which is difficult to control, would endanger eelgrass beds and herring, a keystone species that provides food for Chinook salmon, sea lions, porpoises, and indirectly, orca whales which feed on salmon;
WHEREAS degradation of areas with high levels of recreational boating would decrease economic support for the surrounding coastal communities from recreational boating and fishing, while sustainable improvements to our marine environment will increase commercial fishing-related employment, historically an important source of income for our Puget Sound communities; 2012SC - 063 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Transport of Coal VI
WHEREAS substantially increased ship traffic from bulk carriers may delay ferry crossings in north Puget Sound, especially in bad weather, affecting the work opportunities of residents who commute by ferry;
WHEREAS most jobs created by this project would be temporary construction jobs, creating the opposite of a stable and sustainable economy, and while the estimated permanent jobs created by this project would number 2 to 4 hundred, the project may have a net negative offset to the currently projected 10,000 jobs that will come to Washington in the next 10 years if environmentally degrading projects such as the one described here are avoided;
WHEREAS fossil fuels burned anywhere in the world contribute to global climate change, and China, the planned destination for the millions of metric tons of coal, is already a frontrunner in the production of solar energy products and should be encouraged to use sustainable energy practices; and
WHEREAS one purpose of government is to regulate commerce to protect the environment, health, and livelihoods of our people, as clearly stated in the Washington State Democratic Platform, while the proposed terminal and its associated activities would make large profits for a few large corporations at the expense of the people of Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges Congressman Rick Larsen, Senator Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell, the Governor of Washington, and Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark to strongly oppose the proposed terminal; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party recommends that in light of the many known and expected adverse effects of the proposed Pacific Gateway Terminal on our environment, health, and economy, that its development not be allowed to proceed.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 063 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Transport of Coal VI 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Democratic National Committee states, "Democrats are committed to protecting America's natural resources and ensuring the quality of our air, water, and land for future generations";
WHEREAS the DNC further states, "From protecting endangered species to restoring our ecosystems and investing in clean-energy solutions, the Obama Administration and Democrats are working to address our biggest environmental challenges";
WHEREAS Democrats have made great strides in weaning our energy use from coal, the greatest contributor to climate change; and
WHEREAS it is not known what impacts the shipment of coal from existing and proposed coal terminals on our coast, and related activities such as shipping and rail transport, will have on the environmental, economic, and human health of our state;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, oppose the permitting of coal terminals in Washington unless and until it is proven that there will be no net negative impact to the environment, human health, and economy of our state;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on permitting agencies at the state and federal level to conduct Programmatic Environmental Impact Statements (PEIS) that measure the cumulative impacts of coal terminals currently proposed or which may be proposed in the future in Washington State or on the West coast;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on permitting agencies at the county, state, and federal level to include a comprehensive Health Impact Assessment and Economic Impact Assessment in any EIS conducted under the State or National Environmental Policy Acts; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats calls on all permitting agencies to scope impacts on all communities affected by any activities directly related to the mining, rail transport, storage, and shipment of coal from Washington State and on the West Coast.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/1/2012) 2012SC - 112 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Transport of Coal VII Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' as submitted by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS many public school facilities in the United States are antiquated or in physical disrepair and or causing health issues for students and staff as well as promoting decreases in learning efficiency and productivity;
WHEREAS those public school buildings are extremely energy inefficient costing school districts nation-wide enormous sums to maintain;
WHEREAS by initiating measures such as energy audits schools can benefit by appropriate retrofitting or upgrading including the installation of new lighting, heating and cooling systems, and where applicable renewable energy systems;
WHEREAS these measures would result in substantial energy savings per school which may improve instruction budgets which may facilitate the hiring of additional teachers, staff, reduce class sizes, and support programs for students;
WHEREAS schools could transfer excess energy back to the Grid to credit a funding pool created specifically for generating opportunities to help other schools become energy efficient;
WHEREAS these measures would result in creating construction jobs in every community where there are public schools; and
WHEREAS possible sources for funding this program could be derived from unused federal stimulus dollars, bonds, and grants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats vigorously urge the Washington State congressional delegation to enact federal legislation and provide funding for investment in public education through energy self-sufficiency.
Submitted with the signatures of forty delegates to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/22/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Platform Committee at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 114 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Energy Self-Sufficiency in Schools 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Democratic National Committee states, "Democrats are committed to protecting America's natural resources and ensuring the quality of our air, water, and land for future generations";
WHEREAS the DNC further states, "From protecting endangered species to restoring our ecosystems and investing in clean-energy solutions, the Obama Administration and Democrats are working to address our biggest environmental challenges";
WHEREAS Democrats have made great strides in weaning our energy use from coal, the greatest contributor to climate change; and
WHEREAS it is not known what impacts the shipment of coal from existing and proposed coal terminals on our coast, and related activities such as shipping and rail transport, will have on the environmental, economic, and human health of our state;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, oppose the permitting of coal terminals in Washington unless and until it is proven that there will be no net negative impact to the environment, human health, and economy of our state;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on permitting agencies at the state and federal level to conduct Programmatic Environmental Impact Statements (PEIS) that measure the cumulative impacts of coal terminals currently proposed or which may be proposed in the future in Washington State or on the West coast;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on permitting agencies at the county, state, and federal level to include a comprehensive Health Impact Assessment and Economic Impact Assessment in any EIS conducted under the State or National Environmental Policy Acts; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats calls on all permitting agencies to scope impacts on all communities affected by any activities directly related to the mining, rail transport, storage, and shipment of coal from Washington State and on the West Coast.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/1/2012) 2012SCRES - 112 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Transport of Coal VII.doc Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' as submitted by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS many public school facilities in the United States are antiquated or in physical disrepair and or causing health issues for students and staff as well as promoting decreases in learning efficiency and productivity;
WHEREAS those public school buildings are extremely energy inefficient costing school districts nation-wide enormous sums to maintain;
WHEREAS by initiating measures such as energy audits schools can benefit by appropriate retrofitting or upgrading including the installation of new lighting, heating and cooling systems, and where applicable renewable energy systems;
WHEREAS these measures would result in substantial energy savings per school which may improve instruction budgets which may facilitate the hiring of additional teachers, staff, reduce class sizes, and support programs for students;
WHEREAS schools could transfer excess energy back to the Grid to credit a funding pool created specifically for generating opportunities to help other schools become energy efficient;
WHEREAS these measures would result in creating construction jobs in every community where there are public schools; and
WHEREAS possible sources for funding this program could be derived from unused federal stimulus dollars, bonds, and grants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats vigorously urge the Washington State congressional delegation to enact federal legislation and provide funding for investment in public education through energy self-sufficiency.
Submitted with the signatures of forty delegates to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/22/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Platform Committee at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SCRES - 114 - 120602 - PASS - ENV - Energy Self-Sufficiency in Schools.doc 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve has become the most visited Benton County park with almost 200,000 visits during 2013;
WHEREAS the Benton County's Comprehensive Parks Plan envisions a connected ridge trail system from Badger Mountain, over Candy Mountain, over Red Mountain to the Yakima River;
WHEREAS the Candy Mountain land owners have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Friends of Badger Mountain (FOBM) to sell their land to create a new Candy Mountain Preserve;
WHEREAS the Benton County Commissioners have approved applying to Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office for a matching grant for the purchase of land for the Candy Mountain Preserve; and
WHEREAS the Friends of Badger Mountain have started a fund raising campaign to collect the required matching funds for the purchase of land for the Candy Mountain Preserve;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the Candy Mountain Preserve and Ridge Trail Project to establish a natural open space park for public non-motorized outdoor recreation such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the most recent major geological event in Washington State, the Oso landslide, resulted in major loss of life and of property;
WHEREAS many regions of Washington State are subject to natural hazards such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, volcanic eruptions, and forest fires, with high probability of occurrence long term;
WHEREAS certain development or land use activities such as clear-cutting the forest can change the potential of an adverse geological event to occur;
WHEREAS more and more property is being developed or built in regions at higher risks of experiencing adverse geological events; and
WHEREAS Washington State real estate disclosure laws are thorough and strict, but are focused primarily on the immediate building structures, and do not require disclosures of known or likely environmental hazards beyond the property itself which could damage the property, or insurability against same, except in narrow instances such as being on a flood plain;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State of Washington real estate transaction disclosure code (RCW Chapter 64.06) be amended to require disclose of potential natural hazards which could impact a property, especially those which have occurred around a site in the past and are likely to occur again;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that disclosure statements include statements about insurability of properties with regard to natural hazards;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that disclosure statements of specific risks as "unknown" or "not insurable" be acceptable, because in many cases events of natural are not precisely predictable or well known; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that jurisdictions responsible for land use and zoning actively encourage developments toward safer regions, and discourage developments in the more hazardous regions of their jurisdictions.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) 2014SC - 048 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Disclosing Natural Hazards The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS hydraulic fracturing for oil and gas wells, also known as 'fracking,' presents unknown hazards to public and environmental health, particularly water and air quality;
WHEREAS fracking to create one well can require more than one million gallons of water; and may require up to six million gallons, as much as 60,000 people use in one day;
WHEREAS chemicals used in fracking are shielded from public scrutiny, so that health and environmental effects are therefore beyond the reach of impartial scientific research;
WHEREAS fracking was exempted from the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Clean Air Act by Congress in 2005, in an amendment known as the Halliburton Loophole at the behest of then Vice President Richard Cheney;
WHEREAS fluids used in fracking, which flow back to the earth's surface and may flow into nearby drinking water wells and bodies of water, not only contain unknown chemicals, but may also contain methane, radioactive substances such as uranium, radium, radon and thorium;
WHEREAS medical treatment of people exposed to chemicals used in fracking has been severely hampered by the unwillingness of fracking companies to identify the chemicals;
WHEREAS seismic activity in fracking areas has increased exponentially over 20th century seismic levels, including a 4.0 magnitude earthquake in 2011 in Youngstown, Ohio; and
WHEREAS Representatives Derek Kilmer and Adam Smith are co-sponsors of H.R. 1921, the relevant federal legislation; and S. 1135, a companion bill, has been proposed in the Senate;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call repeal of the oil and gas industry's exemption from the Safe Drinking Water Act and other environmental laws; to require that proprietary information on chemicals used in fracking be disclosed for medical diagnosis, treatment or emergency response; and that other measures to protect public and environmental health be instituted; 2014SC - 049 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Ending Hydraulic Fracturing
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the other Washington members of Congress and senators be urged to join in co-sponsoring the legislation;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges Governor Jay Inslee and Commissioner of Lands Peter Goldmark to direct the relevant State agencies to examine Washington's readiness to protect public health and environment in the event of oil and gas industry interest in fracking; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges Governor Inslee to declare a moratorium on fracking until federal safeguards are enacted, and State readiness has been documented.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS global climate change is a product of the burning of fossil fuels;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our legislature and Congress to terminate all fossil fuel subsidies and impose a carbon tax with all deliberate speed.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS President William J. Clinton, by Memorandum of Direction dated June 9, to the Secretary of Energy, directed the Secretary to manage the ecological resources of central Hanford to allow for the possibility of adding lands, as they are remediated, to the Hanford Reach National Monument;
WHEREAS while a portion of central Hanford lands is needed for the Department of Energy's continuing mission, much of the remaining central area contains unique and vanishing shrub-steppe habitat and other objects of scientific and historic interest that must be preserved;
WHEREAS the Department of Energy's Comprehensive Land Use Plan Environmental Impact Statement designated much of central Hanford as conservation and preservation lands, suitable for transfer to the Hanford Reach National Monument;
WHEREAS Rachel Jacobson, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior, by letter dated February 26, 2014, requested of the Acting Assistant Secretary for Environmental Management, Department of Energy a meeting to discuss final disposition of central Hanford remediated lands; and
WHEREAS the Department of the Interior further stated in their letter of February 26, "[we] treasure this landscape and we are deeply invested in the existing monument lands and the conservation values that will be realized as central Hanford area lands are remediated and preserved for the benefit of future generations";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, request that Senator Patty Murray and Senator Maria Cantwell support inclusion of additional central Hanford remediated lands in the Hanford Reach National Monument, as envisioned by President Clinton; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, request that Senator Patty Murray and Senator Maria Cantwell urge President Barack Obama to secure by presidential proclamation additional central Hanford lands in the Hanford Reach National Monument.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) 2014SC - 052 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Hanford Reach National Monument The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS coal and oil producers east of Washington state are proposing to build export terminals on the western shores of Washington to receive coal train-shipped bulk cargo for export to the Pacific basin;
WHEREAS Washington's rail system's most fuel efficient bulk shipping route follows the Columbia River and then from Vancouver, Washington to Vancouver, B.C. corridor, through most of Washington population and business areas;
WHEREAS Washington's rail system, primarily owned by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and Union Pacific (UP) rail corporations, was not initially created for the projected loads and daily frequency of 16 to 18 (9 loaded, 9 returning) coal trains or more, each approximately 1-1/2 miles in length, made up of 125-150 cars, depending on car size and type, constraining passenger rail travel and adversely affecting the transport of freight other than coal;
WHEREAS there is currently no cap on the number of trains possible, should the proposed terminal expand capacity in the future;
WHEREAS, for safety reasons, coal cars are open-topped, allowing, by BNSF admission, each car to lose between 500 pounds and one ton of coal dust en route, which degrades the ballast of the rail lines, and can be a cause of derailments;
WHEREAS bulk petroleum rail cars are subject to explosion and fire in derailment, endangering proximal life and property, against which most municipal fire departments are not equipped to fight, and which cause serious greenhouse gas and particulate pollution while burning, and further cause serious ground and groundwater pollution from spilled petroleum;
WHEREAS, while adverse effects of coal dust from mining and combustion on human health are well-documented, the effects of coal dust blowing and/or leaching from coal cars on human health and on local water safety are as yet unknown; 2014SC - 058 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Opposing Coal Transportation (Pierce)
WHEREAS Washington State manufacturers and agricultural shippers are being priced out of the rail market by high-volume shippers such as BNSF giving preference to intermodal and coal contracts, squeezing out Washington's industrial (lumber, wood product producers, manufacturers, waste management, and mining) and low-density agricultural product (apples, wheat, other fruit, potatoes) shippers, forcing them to consider other options of delivery like trucking, which could negatively impact the cost and quality for the consumer, increase air pollution, and even force businesses out of state;
WHEREAS increases in rail traffic have the potential to result in economic losses as a result of traffic delays, with adverse effects including increased risk of accidents, impacts to cities' levels of service, decreased ability to provide effective emergency response times, and possible interference with the local freight delivery systems affecting the local economy;
WHEREAS both the means of transporting coal and the coal itself present potential air quality challenges due to diesel particulate matter emitted by the coal trains and ships, fugitive coal dust from the trains and from storage at the port site, and the toxins that blow over the Pacific to the West Coast of the US from coal combustion in Asia; and all are cause for concern with regard to regional air quality and the resultant health effect on humans who breathe that air; and
WHEREAS transport of over 150 million tons of coal via uncovered train car across the Pacific Northwest poses a direct risk to already struggling orca populations from train cars emitting coal, and other toxic pollution heading into the Puget Sound and Columbia River Gorge will pour harmful chemicals into the ocean water upon which southern resident orcas rely;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington's executive departments and Legislature create a plan for an immediate and concerted effort to eliminate or mitigate the increase in coal and oil train traffic through Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington's executive departments and legislature create and fund an accident safety plan for rail traffic and pass the expense to the carriers in the form of required insurance fees per ton shipped;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that bulk carbon fuel transport car structural specifications be reviewed, and federal minimal standards be continually updated and enforced;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that federal standards be set and enforced for coal dust, and reviewed and strengthened for diesel engine particulate and gaseous emissions; and 2014SC - 058 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Opposing Coal Transportation (Pierce)
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the State Democratic Party urges our elected and appointed state officials to pursue a preventive and protective approach to managing bulk carbon rail shipping to protect the daily and long-term resources for all living things in Washington.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS recent geologic and oceanographic work has shown that the Pacific Northwest coast is quite vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis, as a result of regional plate tectonics;
WHEREAS archaeological work in the 1990s revealed that on January 26, 1700, a magnitude 9.5 earthquake with epicenter off the coast of Washington triggered a massive tsunami which devastated the coast from northern California to southern British Columbia, and was observed and noted in temple records in Japan; and
WHEREAS the tsunami of 1700 affected only a few thousand people, but a tsunami of that magnitude happening tomorrow would affect millions of people and cost billions of dollars in lost infrastructure;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State of Washington establish January 26 as an annual memorial day to remind us that Washington State citizens need to be mindful of and prepared for earthquakes and tsunamis; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the State of Washington make it a high priority to plan for early warning, effective evacuation, and effective mitigation of the effects of earthquakes and tsunamis.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Canadian Tar Sands (also known as bitumen and diluted bitumen) are transported by tanker through Georgia Strait, Boundary Pass, Haro Strait, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca;
WHEREAS Kinder Morgan has submitted an application to Canada's National Energy Board for their Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project, increasing the amount of Canadian Tar Sands exports from 300,000 barrels per day to 890,000 barrels per day; and
WHEREAS Kinder Morgan's annual tanker transits through Georgia Strait, Boundary Pass, Haro Strait, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca will increase from an estimated 142 in to up to 816 if the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion project is approved; and
WHEREAS the United States Coast Guard Vice Admiral Paul Zukunft says technology lacking to clean up tar sands spills;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, oppose the existing and any increases in the vessel transport of Canadian Tar Sands bitumen and diluted bitumen until there is an additional rescue tug stationed in Haro Strait and spill response technology and trained personnel capable of cleaning up a spill of bitumen and diluted bitumen are ready to respond; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days of receipt, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment at their May 31st meeting. 2014SC - 108 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Tar Sands and Bitumen The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the treaties of Medicine Creek, Neah Bay, Olympia, Point Elliott and Point No Point were entered into in 1854-55 and guaranteed, to a dozen or more Western Washington tribes, that their "right of taking fish, at all usual and accustomed grounds and stations, is further secured to said Indians, in common with all citizens of the territory";
WHEREAS those treaties were entered into in the context of territorial Governor Isaac Stevens' memorable assurance that "I want that you shall not have simply food and drink now, but that you may have them forever," an intent that was upheld and applied in U.S. v. Washington (1974), a/k/a "the Boldt decision";
WHEREAS salmon stocks in Western Washington have declined since statehood was attained in 1889;
WHEREAS the principles of the Boldt decision were applied by another U.S. District Judge in March 2013, in a subproceeding of the same case involving tribes on both sides of the Cascades, holding that the State of Washington has a duty "to refrain from building or operating culverts under State-maintained roads that hinder fish passage and thereby diminish the number of fish that would otherwise be available for Tribal harvest";
WHEREAS the 2013 decision found that,"[d]espite past State action, a great many barrier culverts still exist, large stretches of potential salmon habitat remain empty of fish, and harvests are still diminished"; and
WHEREAS the 2013 decision concluded that "when[ever] the State elects to block rather than bridge a salmon-bearing stream with a roadbed, [t]he roadbed crossing must be fitted with a culvert that allows not only water to flow, but which insures the free passage of salmon of all ages and life stages both upstream and down"; and ordered that those standards be met on existing barrier culverts in accordance with a time schedule ranging from October 31, 2016, through March 29, 2030;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention supports the decisions in U.S. v. Washington and requests that the Attorney General assure timely compliance with the requirement of replacing barrier culverts across the State; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to Attorney General Bob Ferguson and Governor Jay Inslee, with a request for a response as to their specific intentions regarding enforcement of the 2013 decision. 2014SC - 122 - 140621 - PASS - ENV - Culvert Replacement
Submitted with the signatures of 25 delegates to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 6/16/2014) The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 20th meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS customers of manufacturers are becoming more interested in assessment of the impact on carbon emissions of manufactured products across the entire product life cycle, and large retailers are requesting more information from their suppliers about product-level environmental impacts, including carbon footprints;
WHEREAS Washington's network of hydroelectric power plants is the largest in the nation and contributes to combined retail and industrial electricity prices across all sectors that are among the lowest in the nation;
WHEREAS about 75 percent of the state's electric power comes from energy resources including hydropower, solar, and wind generation which generate near-zero carbon emissions at the source;
WHEREAS Washington State provides a number of incentives for manufacturers, including business and occupation tax rate reductions, credits, exemptions, and deductions; sales and use tax exemption sand deferrals; property tax exemptions; and low-interest, tax-free industrial revenue bonds administered by the Washington Economic Development Finance Authority;
WHEREAS the U. S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates Washington's manufacturing employment at 289,800 employees, or about 8.6% of total employment in November 2015;
WHEREAS Washington State could assist manufacturers in staying competitive by assisting them in making their manufacturing processes less carbon-intensive, and by creating an attractive business climate for low-carbon manufacturing; and
WHEREAS SB 6545, creating a clean energy task force to explore these issues on behalf of the people of Washington State, was reintroduced into the State Senate in 2016;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Legislature establish a task force to make recommendations to the Legislature for modernization or enhancements to the state's energy, environmental, regulatory, and tax policies to enhance the health and competitiveness of Washington's manufacturing sector following SB 6545.
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. 2016SCRES - 024 - 160618 - RECPA - ENV - Clean Energy Task Force The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS methane along with carbon dioxide and water vapor are the three major greenhouse gases;
WHEREAS methane gas is produced when carbonaceous materials are digested by bacteria, called anaerobic bacteria, in the absence of oxygen;
WHEREAS methane is produced in piles of household garbage, in feedlots and in the guts of animals and humans;
WHEREAS methane from prehistoric ages, called methane hydrate, has been trapped in permafrost in the tundra and under the oceans; and
WHEREAS methane is up to twenty five times more disruptive as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide: methane will remain in the atmosphere for twelve to fifteen years and when methane naturally breaks down it produces carbon dioxide which remains as a greenhouse gas for up to one hundred years;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on Congress and governmental agencies to identify and adopt the policies that will discourage fracking for natural gas in the US and other countries and prevent methane gas from otherwise entering the atmosphere.
Submitted by the Skagit County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS President William J. Clinton by Memorandum of Direction dated June 9, to the Secretary of Energy directed him to manage the ecological resources of central Hanford for the possibility of adding lands to the Hanford Reach National Monument as they are remediated;
WHEREAS while a portion of central Hanford lands is needed for the Department of Energy's continued mission, much of the remaining central area contains unique and vanishing shrub-steppe habitat with sensitive bird species and objects of scientific and historic value that must be preserved as part of our environmental heritage;
WHEREAS the Department of Energy's Comprehensive Conservation Plan Environmental Impact Statement, for central Hanford, designated much of these lands for conservation and preservation which make them suitable for transfer to the Hanford Reach National Monument;
WHEREAS central Hanford lands have been remediated of contaminates and are ready for other uses;
WHEREAS Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Rachel Jacobson, for the United States Department of the Interior by letter dated February 26, 2014, requested of the Secretary of Energy a meeting to discuss final disposition of these central Hanford remediated lands;
WHEREAS the Department of Interior further stated in their letter of February 26th, that they " treasure this landscape and we are deeply invested in the existing monument lands and the conservation values realized in central Hanford lands are remediated and preserved for the benefit of future generations";
WHEREAS Deputy Assistant Secretary for Site Restoration, Mark A. Gilbertson, for the United States Department of Energy by letter dated March 11, 2016, stated that they " look forward to working with all interested parties in the evaluation of future uses for the Hanford Site";
WHEREAS by Congressional language in the 2016 Appropriation Bill which has designated Historic Sites in central Hanford to be managed by the National Park Service, it is now only prudent and desirable to complete the process and preserve the integrity of the land by having the remaining adjacent shrub-steppe lands moved into the Hanford Reach National Monument; 2016SCRES - 027 - 160618 - RECPA - ENV - Hanford Reach National Monument
WHEREAS the preservation lands of the Hanford Reach National Monument have been identified as important core wildlife habitat and linkage zone by the Columbia Plateau Arid Lands Initiative (ALI). The goal of ALI is to conserve and restore a viable, well-connected system of eastern Washington's arid lands and related freshwater habitats, sustaining native plant and animal communities, and supporting compatible local economies and communities; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats recognize the Yakima Nation's right of first refusal with regard to the Hanford Reservation lands;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Honorable Senator Patty Murray and the Honorable Senator Maria Cantwell to support inclusion of these additional central Hanford lands into the Hanford Reach National Monument as envisioned by President Clinton by memorandum dated June 9, 2000 and requested by the Department of the Interior in its letter dated February 26, 2014; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support, and encourage county and legislative district organizations to do the same, urging the Honorable Senator Patty Murray and the Honorable Senator Maria Cantwell to request of President Barack Obama that by Presidential Proclamation he adds additional remediated lands to the Hanford Reach National Monument without delay.
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS an historic agreement to combat climate change was reached by 195 nations, including the United States of America, at the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) in Paris on December 12, 2015;
WHEREAS the agreement's main aim is to keep a global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius and to drive efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels in order to avoid the worst impacts of a changing climate;
WHEREAS the agreement requires actions to: reduce greenhouse gas emissions support the development of "clean energy" alternatives be transparent on actions taken and accomplishments strengthen the ability to protect against and recover from climate change impacts; and
WHEREAS the agreement will enter into force after 55 countries that account for at least 55% of global emissions have deposited their instruments of ratification at the United Nations in New York;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on all levels of U.S. government, federal, state, and local, to work towards meeting the requirements of COP21 and thereby ensure a sustainable energy future; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on the Washington State Governor and the Legislature to lead by example in abiding by the spirit and intent of COP21.
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS we support state laws requiring cleanup of Hanford and protection of the Columbia River; and
WHEREAS existing laws must be enforced before any more nuclear waste is stored at the site;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, oppose any changes to current classification of high-level waste or allow its abandonment; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to ensure that no changes are made.
Submitted by the Snohomish County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS unmitigated use of fossil fuel for the worlds energy needs has, over the past years, since the beginning of the industrial revolution, increased the amount of carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere from about 280 parts per million to over 400 parts per million;
WHEREAS excess carbon dioxide becomes absorbed into the oceans of the world and creates carbonic acid (CO2+H2O H2CO3) causing the oceans to become acidic;
WHEREAS the oceans have absorbed at least half of the CO2 emissions that have occurred since, the beginning of the industrial revolution, about 1750 AD;
WHEREAS acidification of the oceans adversely affects marine animals and marine ecosystems by dissolving coral reefs, the exoskeletons of oysters, shellfish, corals and other marine animals, thereby diminishing the food supply for fish and other marine animals indigent to local ecosystems and to other animals and humans who belong to the larger world ecosystem; and
WHEREAS by burning the coal, natural gas and petroleum oil that Earth sequestered millions of years ago, as fossil fuel, humanity has added so much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere that merely reducing the amount of carbon we are putting into the atmosphere is not enough. The only way to help the planet return to a state of normalcy is to actively begin removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party adopt the following statement to be included in the Energy and Environment sections of Democratic Party Platforms for county, state and national Democratic Party organizations, to wit: We support legislation that will enhance the development of and the construction of a new infrastructure that will remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere not merely reduce the amount of carbon dioxide being emitted into the atmosphere.
Submitted by the Skagit County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS agricultural production is critical to human survival; and,
WHEREAS agricultural pollinators are critical to the production of over 80% of our food sources; and,
WHEREAS scientific evidence has emerged that our pollinators are being negatively affected and impacted by neonicotinoids, systemic chemicals absorbed in plants, making the plants toxic to all types of pollinators; and,
WHEREAS the neonicotinoid danger has even been recognized by the U.S. Congress, in the introduction of the 2013 Save America's Pollinators Act, which would "suspend the use of neonicotinoid pesticides until a full review of scientific evidence and a field study demonstrates no harmful impacts to pollinators;
WHEREAS pollinators are crucial and critical to human survival and our agriculture;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that with scientific evidence mounting that neonicotinoids, "systemic chemicals that are absorbed by plants, transferred through the plant's vascular system, making the plant itself toxic to insects" and pollinators; and, "neonicotinoids can be present in pollen and nectar, making these floral resources toxic to the pollinators that feed on them," that Washington State ban all neonicotinoids until testing by the appropriate, unbiased Federal and State agencies show that these chemicals are safe for our environment, human health and welfare, and our agricultural pollinators;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call for legislative action at the state and national level immediately banning the use of neonicotinoid pesticides until such time as they are proven to be safe and not harmful to pollinators.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS fossil fuels contribute to approximately 85 % of carbon dioxide emissions in Washington State and will continue to impact its economy and public health
WHEREAS the current price of fossil fuels does not adequately incorporate externalities of their consumption (for example, their deleterious impact on climate and human health)
WHEREAS 40 countries and 20 sub-national jurisdictions have already committed to carbon pricing, and Washington could lead the U.S. through enacting the first state-12 level carbon tax
WHEREAS fossil fuel companies now appear to favor transparent, market-driven carbon pricing policies (as opposed to regulations) as a tool to curb emissions and enable a just transition to cleaner energy
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge their elected officials to encourage, promote, propose, and pass legislation placing a price on carbon usage within Washington State
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Democratic Party at all levels commit to holding Washington State members of Congress accountable for abiding by the clear demands of their constituents to address the climate change crisis.
Submitted by the 8th Legislative District and Benton County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS every year over 35,000 cubic yards of sediment fill Capitol Lake creating high water temperatures, algae blooms, and stagnant water caused by the Fifth Avenue Dam, violating the Clean Water Act, providing habitat for invasive species and harming salmon;
WHEREAS the Fifth Avenue Deschutes Dam is obsolete, serves no practical purpose as a dam, and provides a narrow inadequate transportation corridor risking pedestrians and bicyclists safety;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services, the Governor, the Washington State Department of Ecology, and the Washington State Department of Natural Resources take immediate steps to remove the dam and replace it with a bridge, consistent with the multi-modal transportation goals of the City of Olympia, that enhances pedestrian safety;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature actively promote Deschutes Dam removal, estuary restoration, and construction of a new bridge without delay.
Submitted by the Thurston County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS scientific consensus has established that climate change is occurring;
WHEREAS scientific consensus has established that climate change represents a clear and present danger to the health of our environment and the well-being of our nation;
WHEREAS scientific consensus has established that the primary cause of climate change is man-made emissions of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels;
WHEREAS the majority of electrical power generation (66%) in the United States comes from burning fossil fuels;
WHEREAS to reduce carbon dioxide emissions we must find new sources of electric power generation;
WHEREAS our national economy depends on a reliable, sustainable supply of electricity to power our factories, homes, and transportation system;
WHEREAS the Pacific Northwest, like Iceland which derives all of its electricity from geothermal power sources, has abundant geothermal resources;
WHEREAS generating electricity from geothermal sources does not emit carbon dioxide or other gasses responsible for climate change; and
WHEREAS geothermal power production causes minimal disruption to the surrounding environment;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our legislators to support the research and development of safe, carbon-free, geothermal generating facilities in the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS, public accustomed to abundant seafood, nearly 5 billion edible pounds of seafood consumed yearly according to U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), and apathetic to plight;
WHEREAS, the demand for edible seafood has increased while the yields have declined or remained stagnate since 1989;
WHEREAS, illegal fishing and unsustainable harvesting (overfishing) plague the industry by removing wildlife from our oceans and seas at rates too high to replace themselves;
WHEREAS, "biodiversity" is declining at accelerating rates, and a study published in in the journal Science predicts all fisheries will collapse by 2048, but fisheries for many seafood species we consume have already collapsed (i.e., Orange Roughy, Chilean Sea Bass and Bluefin Tuna);
WHEREAS, with the collapse of the these populations large commercial fleets have resorted to a method called "fishing down" where these fleets are fishing in deeper waters, and upsetting the already vulnerable balance of our oceans and seas;
WHEREAS, fishing populations naturally fluctuate, but fishing rates tend to increase when populations are most vulnerable thus preventing populations from stabilizing;
WHEREAS, overfishing exacerbates the threat to vulnerable systems already plagued by habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and acidification; and
WHEREAS, peer-reviewed studies have shown proper management of ocean wildlife and commercial fisheries result in ecological and economic benefits;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED we, the Washington State Democratic Party are urged to actively write, support and promote legislation to: 1. Increase fisheries management by implementing zones off limits to human activity, and designating other areas for recreation, research, and fishing, and implementing "fishing seasons" which will differ for each species, but will give the fish populations time to stabilize. 2. Better enforcement of laws governing catches and stock restoration (or stock enhancement). Research and management for new enhancements, 2016SCRES - 140 - 160618 - RECPA - ENV - Overfishing and reform ineffective ones. Protect the wild population from pathogens and the integrity of the wild population. 3. Increased use of tribal and state-supported hatcheries; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED we, the Washington State Democrats, work with the legislature to write, support and promote legislation to work with local and tribal governments to protect, promote and enhance natural and artificial propagation of anadromous (e.g., salmon, steelhead and sturgeon) fish local and reservation streams and rivers.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the Columbia Generating Station, located at the Hanford Nuclear Site, is the only commercially operated nuclear station in the Northwest;
WHEREAS Columbia's now obsolete design, BWR-5 with a Mark II containment structure, was initially built and licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in to operate until December 2023;
WHEREAS the Columbia Generating Station produces approximately 10% of Washington State's electricity demands;
WHEREAS reactor owners, Energy Northwest, have received a 20 year extension of the operating license effective until December 2043. The Columbia Generation Station continues to operate despite its aging design and infrastructure;
WHEREAS the U.S. Geological Survey has shown that active faults of the Puget Sound Region are connected to ridges in the Mid-Columbia by faults that cross the Cascades;
WHEREAS there is no projected date for operations of a national long-term nuclear waste storage facility, the solution for spent nuclear fuel at the Columbia Generating Station remains an onsite solution, a combination of short term pool storage and dry casking; and
WHEREAS economic analysis data, conducted by energy economist Robert McCullough, states that the Columbia Generating Station plant replacement would save ratepayers $1.7 billion over the next two decades. The operating costs of the plant exceed the market value of the power it produces;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, urge elected officials to encourage owners Energy Northwest and facility operators Bonneville Power Administration to cease operations at the Columbia Generating Station, to be replaced by green power production.
Submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. 2016SCRES - 143 - 160618 - RECPA - ENV - Columbia Nuclear Generation The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the World Health Organization (WHO) gas declared glyphosate to be a possible carcinogen (2015);
WHEREAS 27 European Union (EU) member states agree on the European Food and Safety Authority's (EFSA) conclusion on the carcinogenicity of glyphosate;
WHEREAS glyphosate is the main ingredient in the nationally and most widely used herbicide, Monsanto's Roundup ;"
WHEREAS California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (CEHHA) concurs in the findings that glyphosate is known to cause cancer;
WHEREAS as of January 2017, the California Supreme Court has ruled that the herbicide Roundup requires labeling as possibly cancer causing;
WHEREAS when used on agricultural crops it is absorbed by the plants and/or leaves an indelible and toxic residue on the produce, is harmful to people, wildlife, and bees (which are essential for pollination); and
WHEREAS the ever increasing and excessive use of pesticides contaminates soil and water sources, causes loss of biodiversity, and diminishes the nutritional value of food;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request federal and state level legislation to ban the herbicide Roundup and any other herbicides containing glyphosate until studies show that it does not cause cancer and is not a threat to human health.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the overwhelming scientific consensus is that climate warming trends over the past century are due to human activities, and most of the world's leading scientific organizations have issued public statements endorsing this position;
WHEREAS we are already experiencing the warming of the planet at a dangerously rapid rate, primarily as a result of our reliance on carbon-based fossil fuels, deforestation and other human activities that have caused a dramatic increase in the global level of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases;
WHEREAS according to the Congress of South African Trade Unions, there were already, in 2011, 150 million climate refugees around the world, with more certain to follow because "it is the working class, the poor and developing countries that will be most adversely affected by climate change";
WHEREAS unless we curb the emissions that cause climate change, average temperatures in the United States could be at least 3 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit higher by 2100, with potential consequences including sea-level rise of at least 3 to 6 feet, more powerful hurricanes, more powerful tornadoes, prolonged drought, larger and more frequent wildfires, much more severe winter storms in some areas, reduction to agricultural productivity with resulting food shortages and famine, spread of disease, and plant and animal extinctions that threaten to eliminate up to half of all living species on earth;
WHEREAS scientists say that there may still be time to prevent the most catastrophic levels of global warming-if we eliminate the burning of fossil fuels worldwide within the next few years, which is perfectly feasible with existing technology;
WHEREAS emergency measures must be taken to prevent catastrophic increases in global warming that will trigger irreversible changes to our biosphere;
WHEREAS at the present rate of carbon emission and consequent global warming, we could reach that tipping point by 2050 or sooner;
WHEREAS the global movement for climate justice is demanding urgent action by our governments, including an encyclical by Pope Francis that lays out the moral imperative for transforming our economy and social practices; 2018SCRES - 183 - 180616 - PASS - ENV - Renewable Energy
WHEREAS we will solve the climate crisis only when we put ourselves at the center of the climate justice movement;
WHEREAS there is no good reason why the richest nation in the world cannot fund protection for its workers as we move to minimize reliance on fossil fuels; millions of good jobs can be created by increasing energy efficiency, reliance on renewable energy, and the rebuilding of our infrastructure;
WHEREAS there are several bills before Congress to tax carbon pollution, such as the Climate Protection and Justice Act, which would use the funds to provide rebates to households making less than $100,000 per year; and
WHEREAS the Clean Energy Just Transition Act is an example of legislation that would protect workers whose jobs were lost because of the transition away from fossil fuels;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support a just transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will support legislation, administrative rules, or an initiative that enables a just transition for workers and communities directly affected by the transition to a renewable energy economy, providing income, benefit, wage insurance and retraining support for workers in the fossil fuel industries, and creates quality jobs in infrastructure, energy and efficiency, and the clean energy economy.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their May 20, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS it is known that climate change is a serious and real threat to the entire planet;
WHEREAS it is recognized that the Paris Climate Accord exclusively benefits future generations by enabling policies and practicing with the aim of reducing climate change; and
WHEREAS it is unacceptable that the United States has withdrawn from the Paris Climate Accord without a reasonable alternate plan for mitigating climate change;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for re-adherence to the Paris Climate Accord.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS in Washington State hundreds of thousands of jobs and billions of dollars of the state's gross domestic product depend on clean, oil-free water and beaches and abundant fish and wildlife;
WHEREAS the vast majority of Washington State's ocean wealth stems from fishing, aquaculture, tourism and recreation which benefits from a healthy ocean and coast;
WHEREAS offshore oil and gas drilling and exploration places coastal communities at economic and ecological risk from oil spills and the pollution brought by routine drilling operations and onshore industrialization, threatening the livelihoods of commercial and recreational fisherman and small businesses that rely on a clean and healthy ocean and beaches;
WHEREAS offshore drilling may require significant onshore infrastructure, such as pipelines or refineries, which would harm the character of Washington State's coastline and could exacerbate wetlands loss and storm surge and sea level rise impacts;
WHEREAS the harmful impacts from offshore oil and gas drilling and exploration anywhere along the Pacific coastline could extend far beyond immediately surrounding areas and severely impact communities that rely on the robust economy of the marine industry;
WHEREAS offshore drilling and exploration perpetuates our ties to dirty carbon pollution and contributes to climate change and the resulting sea level rise and extreme weather;
WHEREAS the current Administration has expressed interest in opening the Pacific Ocean to offshore oil and gas drilling and exploration, which includes the use of seismic airguns which fire intense blasts of compressed air that rank just behind military explosives as the loudest source of noise in the ocean, every 10-12 seconds, 24 hours a day, for months on end;
WHEREAS seismic airgun blasting to explore for oil and gas deposits has been proven to disrupt and displace marine life, such as whales and orcas which rely on sound to 2018SCRES - 186 - 180616 - PASS - ENV - Drilling Opposition find food and mate, and can impair the health of many fish and shellfish species, including those of commercial importance like rockfish, crab, and oysters; and
WHEREAS the Democrats of Pacific County recognizes that our communities, businesses, and industries depend on a healthy coastal environment for the benefit of current and future residents, property owners, and visitors;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for offshore oil exploration and extraction to cease and desist and that offshore waterways not be sold or leased to private entities.
Submitted by the 19th Legislative District Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS a Canadian company, HiTest Sands, Inc., is proposing to build a Silicon Smelter in a pristine and non-industrial area outside of Newport Washington;
WHEREAS HiTest Sands was asked by the State of Washington to review three other abandoned and available industrial sites that could be retrofitted and were close to roads that could manage heavy industrial use, but chose to go with the Newport site;
WHEREAS the proposed location does not have adequate infrastructure for roads, water or fire services and is in an area prone to wild fires;
WHEREAS the property, owned by the public utility and Pend Oreille County was sold well below its purchase price, and not offered to the public;
WHEREAS the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT), which consists of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Kalispel Tribe of Indians, The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, and the Spokane Tribe of Indians is deeply concerned about the smelter's potential to harm their sovereign interests in protecting the health of their people and natural resources; and
WHEREAS because of the record of the Canadian firm, Teck Cominco, operation at the headwaters of the Columbia River now pouring untreated sludge into the Columbia River and have been doing so for over 50 years, and the concern that the same thing will happen to rivers and streams around the proposed smelter;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats oppose the proposed development of a silicon smelter near Newport Washington.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the commons in the United States have shrunk considerably; much like the commons in England have as a result of the Enclosure Acts;
WHEREAS timber companies, and DNR and National forest and other public lands now require special passes and/or permits to be purchased for entrance to said land;
WHEREAS many people cannot afford these fees for access to land the people already own, and cannot afford the permits to enter private timber land, thereby American Citizens are denied access to land and activities enjoyed by generations of Americans;
WHEREAS we respect private ownership of all individual citizens, farmers and small timberland owners;
WHEREAS Washington State residents are the "owners" of the wildlife, and water that timber companies, DNR, and the National Forest deny access to;
WHEREAS timber companies enjoy property tax reductions, and fire protection placing unreasonable financial burden on the public;
WHEREAS timber companies activities negatively impact surrounding property, streams, people and air sheds causing further financial, environmental and health problems as well as other harmful effects on the public;
WHEREAS activities such as slash burning are not confined to the property of the timber company, as smoke permeates total air shed, causing health risks to people for which they are not compensated nor has their permission been given;
WHEREAS streams silted up from timber company activities such as vegetation removal and road building, resulting in harm to fish runs and water quality in bays and rivers; and
WHEREAS these various costs are born by the public in general, without compensation, and that outdoor recreation is a requirement for public health and a human right;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for timber companies to only receive tax reductions to the extent that the public enjoys the common good through public access, and government agencies such as the DNR, National forests and other public lands eliminate fees for public access to lands already owned by the people.
Submitted by the Cowlitz County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the commons in the United States have shrunk considerably; much like the commons in England as a result of the Enclosure Acts;
WHEREAS many people cannot afford the fees for access to public land they already own;
WHEREAS Washington residents are the "owners" of the wildlife and water that DNR and the National Forests deny access;
WHEREAS the Declaration of Independence, US Constitution and Washington State Constitution proclaim that "all men are created equal" and that the purpose of the government is, among other things established to promote the general welfare;
WHEREAS Article I Section I of the Washington State Constitution proclaims the powers of the state are derived from the consent of the governed and established to protect individual rights;
WHEREAS public access to public lands is a right to promote physical and mental health and welfare;
WHEREAS it is the duty of the state to raise revenue to support its obligations and it is incumbent upon the state to seek support from all the various peoples, groups, agents and corporate entities; and
WHEREAS the fees imposed upon the public to access the lands they already own deny equal access to all;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for government agencies such as the DNR, National and State forests, and other public lands eliminate fees for public access to lands already owned by the people, and that funds for upkeep, repair and so forth be provided from the State General Fund.
Submitted by the Cowlitz County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS various nations have already committed to prohibiting the sale of new vehicles powered by gasoline or diesel internal-combustion engines (the Netherlands, beginning in 2025; Norway and India in 2030; the United Kingdom and France in 2040, and China at a date to be determined);
WHEREAS the cities of London, Paris, Los Angeles, Barcelona, Quito, Vancouver, Mexico City, Cape Town, Milan, Auckland, Seattle, and Copenhagen have signed the C40 Cities Pledge that "a major area" of their cities will be "zero emission" by 2030, as a key step toward fossil-fuel-free streets generally;
WHEREAS Volvo's new vehicle models will be fully or partially battery-powered starting in 2019; General Motors will be introducing at least 20 new electric vehicle models by 2023; and Ford is planning for 70% of its vehicles sold in China to be hybrid or electric by 2025;
WHEREAS, in the face of the above trends, a failure to effect meaningful change in both U.S. automotive production and our domestic market would imperil the United States' competitive position worldwide;
WHEREAS gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles produced 55.9% of Washington's greenhouse gas emissions in 2015, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency, and cause 53,000 premature deaths nationwide every year, according to an M.I.T. study; and
WHEREAS Oregon, California and eight other states, representing 28% of the U.S. automobile market, have embarked on a multi-faceted joint effort based on California's ongoing low-27 emission vehicle program, to transform their own transportation sectors by incentivizing consumer choices of zero-emission vehicles and assuring the infrastructure necessary therefor, in order to attain an overall goal of 3.3 million zero-emission vehicles (including 15% of all new vehicles sold) on their roadways by 2025;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our Governor to enroll Washington in the multi-state, California-based October 24, 2013 Memorandum of Understanding regarding state "Zero-Emission" Vehicle Programs, thereby signaling our commitment to its 11-step "Action Plan" for transitioning to zero-emission vehicles on Washington roadways;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our State Legislature to promptly enact legislation that will: 1. prohibit, starting with model-year 2030 vehicles, registration of any new passenger 2018SCRES - 203 - 180616 - PASS - ENV - Electric-Powered Motor Vehicles vehicles fueled solely by gasoline or diesel; 2. provide for the rapid construction of fast-charging infrastructure for electric vehicles on the major highway corridors in the state; 3. enable affordable access to electric-vehicle charging infrastructure in multi-unit dwellings and rural and low-income areas; 4. provide financial incentives for low-income residents to purchase or lease electric vehicles; and 5. facilitate job retraining programs for workers displaced by the foregoing transition;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to enact such further legislation, and to facilitate regulations as necessary and appropriate, to move our state toward 100% non-gasoline- and non-diesel-54 powered passenger vehicles by 2040; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent promptly to each of our State Senators and Representatives, and to Governor Jay Inslee. ______________________________________________________________________
Submitted by the 43rd, 37th, and 32nd District Democrats, and by the Environment & Climate Caucus of the Washington State Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS our forests, waters, wetlands, grasslands, and other natural landscapes are the foundation of all life, and they are our most affordable, effective, and proven tools for carbon sequestration and climate change resiliency;
WHEREAS climate change is an urgent and existential threat to these ecosystems, the wildlife that inhabit them, and the human communities who rely on both for their survival;
WHEREAS an aggressive, comprehensive, innovative, and socially equitable climate change policy, I-1631, has been introduced as an initiative to the people of Washington State, and will be enacted into law if it receives a majority of votes in the November 6, 2018 elections;
WHEREAS I-1631 was formulated after an exhaustive six-month-long consultation process open to all Washington Tribes, which took the form of dozens of meetings, negotiations, conference calls, summits, and briefings, assisted by thousands of electronic communications amongst Tribes, their leaders, staff, and consultants;
WHEREAS I-1631 was co-written by Tribal leaders and experts, and has been introduced publicly with Washington Tribal leaders in a co-leadership role;
WHEREAS Tribal co-management is embodied at every level of the decision-making structure created by the initiative, with Tribal co-chairs of the most important committees;
WHEREAS I-1631 includes the most robust, detailed, and serious Tribal sovereignty and consultation platform ever proposed for State law, requiring "free, prior, and informed consent" for projects that impact Tribal lands or sovereignty for all Tribes that have consultation rights in Washington State, including those headquartered in neighboring states;
WHEREAS I-1631 provides for the relocation of coastal Tribes at risk of sea level rise, and for autonomous wildfire prevention, suppression, and recovery;
WHEREAS I-1631 invests more in the rehabilitation of rural economies and the conservation and stewardship of farms, fisheries, and tree farms than any other policy ever considered in state; and
WHEREAS the passage of I-1631 would be both a major leap forward towards a sustainable future for Washington State and true political equality and sovereignty for Washington's Tribes and their citizens;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats formally supports the passage of I-1631 this November; and 2018SCRES - 207 - 180616 - PASS - ENV - Supporting the Passage of I-1631
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats fully supports the continued co-management of the fight against climate change by Tribal leaders, the continued empowerment of their voices in the upcoming campaign, and the fight for the political equality of all peoples.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party Platform calls for "Immediate aggressive action to minimize climate change, as global climate change is the foremost threat to survival of Earth as we know it;"
WHEREAS President Trump has decided to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord, necessitating further climate action at a local level;
WHEREAS Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is Washington's largest energy provider and the largest owner of the Colstrip coal plant in Eastern Montana;
WHEREAS the Colstrip plant is the biggest single source of carbon pollution in the Northwest and the 3rd largest carbon polluter in the United States in 2015, releasing over 15 million metric tons of greenhouse gases annually, according to the EPA;
WHEREAS PSE's long-term plans currently call for Colstrip to be replaced almost entirely with new natural gas plants;
WHEREAS this gas would be produced via "fracking," a violent process used to extract gas deposits from shale rock formations, which contaminates drinking water and pollutes the air;
WHEREAS leakages of methane gas at all stages of extraction, production, and transport mean fracked gas could be as harmful to a stable climate as coal is;
WHEREAS prices for wind and solar energy continue to drop; and
WHEREAS investments in these technologies will contribute to the creation of thousands of green jobs in Washington State and provide price stability to PSE customers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for PSE to retire the remaining boilers at the Colstrip plant by 2025 and to commit to replacing them with 100% renewable energy and no new gas;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will inform the Washington State Democratic Congressional delegation of this position.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus on 9/9/17. WSDCCRES - 847 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Supporting Coal-Free PSE The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee referred the resolution back to the Resolutions Committee for consideration at the January 2018 meeting. The Environment and Climate Caucus submitted an updated version of this resolution for consideration at the Washington State Democratic Central Committee January 2018 meeting in Bellingham. The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS a mammoth, foreign-owned methanol facility has been proposed for construction on the east bank of the Columbia River in Kalama, Washington;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party Platform calls for "immediate aggressive action to minimize climate change, as global climate change is the foremost threat to survival of Earth as we know it," and Governor Inslee has affirmed his commitment to supporting the Paris Climate Accords;
WHEREAS the proposed Kalama Facility would be the largest methanol facility in the world, drawing 5,000,000 gallons of water daily from the Columbia and Kalama River aquifers and utilizing 320 million cubic feet of natural gas daily - more than all other gas-fired power plants in Washington combined;
WHEREAS 72 million gallons of flammable methanol would be stored on local soil that has a moderate to high risk of liquefying in an earthquake;
WHEREAS three to six tankers a month would be needed every month to haul methanol to China for use in manufacturing plastics there, an increase in ship traffic that would harm endangered salmon that are already stressed and produce ship strikes likely to kill or harm whales near the mouth of the Columbia;
WHEREAS the facility would emit more than a million tons of climate pollution per year as part of the manufacturing process, and shipping its output to Asia would generate hundreds of thousands of tons of additional climate pollution per year, while the methane emitted by fracking and pipeline transport to supply the facility would make greenhouse gas emissions rise even further;
WHEREAS at a time when we need to phase out reliance on fossil fuels and transition to clean energy, the project would encourage new gas drilling and fracking;
WHEREAS the proposed facility would not replace any coal-based methanol in China;
WHEREAS private property and historic cemetery land would be seized to make way for the three-mile long gas pipeline needed by the Kalama Facility; and
WHEREAS the proposed facility would produce no substantial domestic benefit, either locally or nationally, with only a few permanent low-wage jobs not necessarily filled from local communities; WSDCCRES - 848 - 170910 - PASS - ENV - Opposing Kalama Methanol Facility
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee firmly oppose construction of the proposed Kalama Methanol Facility, and urge the Governor and the State of Washington to reject it forthwith.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus on 9/9/17. The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed the resolution.
WHEREAS Columbia River salmon runs have been in decline since the construction of the four Lower Snake River Dams;
WHEREAS it is now known that salmon are practically the only food source for the Southern Resident Killer Whales that live in Puget Sound, the Salish Sea, and off the Pacific coast of British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon;
WHEREAS the Southern Resident Killer Whale population is also in severe decline;
WHEREAS a full range of options is needed to avert the extinction of certain Columbia River salmon runs and the Southern Resident Killer Whales;
WHEREAS Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA05) has introduced H.R. 3144, which would require an act of Congress before significant structural changes can be made to the Lower Snake River dams;
WHEREAS Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA05) has introduced H.R. 3144, which would further prevent any study, action, or engineering plan on the Columbia River Power System without an act of Congress;
WHEREAS passage of H.R. 3144 would inject needless delays and politicization into the urgent process of recovering the salmon and killer whale populations; and
WHEREAS H.R. 3144 would circumvent over two decades of court rulings;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee opposes H.R. 3144, and will inform the Washington State Democratic Congressional delegation of this position.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus on 9/9/17. The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee amended and passed the resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the Puget Sound and Salish Sea were exposed to needless damage and future harm due to the August 19, 2017 inadvertent release of non-native fish from the Cooke Aquaculture open net pen facility on Cypress Island in northern Puget Sound;
WHEREAS Cooke Aquaculture is responsible for the safe management of the facility, but did not notify authorities in a timely manner of the release when it happened;
WHEREAS Treaty Tribes in Western Washington are shouldering most of the cleanup burden after the escape of some 305,000 fish;
WHEREAS Cooke Aquaculture seeks to expand their aquaculture operations with the aim of making Puget Sound a global hub for Atlantic salmon open net pens;
WHEREAS open net pens pose a major threat to Puget Sound beyond accidental releases;
WHEREAS the State of Washington has regulatory system does not comply with many international standards, especially those that protect wild fish, and already spends hundreds of millions of dollars to support wild salmon recovery and management; and
WHEREAS Washington is the only U.S. state on the West Coast that allows Atlantic salmon farming in open net pens while all other states have banned Atlantic salmon open net pens to protect wild species, coastal economies, and communities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for restitution to the Tribes for costs associated with the release, including damage from contamination of wild stocks by viruses and parasites;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee firmly opposes the presence and proposed expansion of open net pen aquaculture in the waters of Washington State is in strong support of closing existing open net pens; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED this resolution shall be forwarded to the Governor, and to cognizant officials at the Department of Ecology and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, with appropriate releases to the press. WSDCCRES - 850 - 170910 - PASS - ENV - Opposing Certain Forms of Aquaculture
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus on 9/9/17. The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS Puget Sound Energy (PSE), a for-profit company owned by foreign investor Macquarie Group (Australia), has proposed construction of a massive, 18-story plant at the Port of Tacoma for the production, storage and distribution of liquefied natural gas (LNG);
WHEREAS PSE has illegally begun construction of its LNG facility despite a lack of required permits, has changed in the nature and scope of the project after the Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) was issued, has been required by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) to complete a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) with a full life-cycle analysis of the upstream and downstream impacts of the facility's greenhouse gas footprint, potentially compromising PSE's ability to secure a permit; and is in breach of the existing in blatant disregard of a Treaty with the Puyallup Tribe, a sovereign nation;
WHEREAS the Puyallup Tribe has not given its consent to PSE's project and has filed lawsuits against its construction, based on its significant threat to Treaty-protected fishing rights, and has subsequently garnered significant and broad support from both local community members and the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians;
WHEREAS reducing pollution from greenhouse gases is a critical policy objective of the State of Washington;
WHEREAS the Washington Democratic Party Platform calls for "immediate aggressive action to minimize climate change, as global climate change is the foremost threat to survival of Earth as we know it";
WHEREAS Governor Inslee has affirmed his commitment to supporting the Paris Climate Accords;
WHEREAS natural gas is now recognized as a powerful contributor to climate change, peer-reviewed studies having overwhelmingly found that emissions from fracking and leaks along the supply chain effectively override the otherwise lesser environmental impacts of gas usage;
WHEREAS the PSE facility would require an on-going supply of fracked gas from offsite wells, exposing communities near those wells to deadly toxins and carcinogens used in the fracking process, and to permanent pollution of their local waters; WSDCCRES - 862 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Opposing PSE LNG Plant
WHEREAS the siting of the facility in an area of the Cascadia fault zone that is at high risk of earthquakes and tsunamis, and will be regularly flooded by 2050 due to sea-level rise and seasonal inundation, would pose an extreme and unacceptable hazard to local residents;
WHEREAS the current and future financial impacts of the siting of a large LNG plant in an environmentally sensitive area have not been adequately calculated and made public during the decision-making process; and
WHEREAS the facility is sited adjacent to multiple Superfund sites and overlaps a Washington Department of Ecology Hazardous site, exposing thousands of people within a 3-mile radius to toxins and carcinogens during construction and operation, in violation of federal law and common morality, leading to increased risk of cancer, neurological disorders, birth defects, respiratory issues and other chronic health issues;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, firmly oppose construction of PSE's proposed LNG plant in Tacoma, and that we urge the Tacoma City Council, Tacoma Mayor, Port of Tacoma, the Governor, and all other relevant state, local and regional agencies to reject it forthwith; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED we urge all permitting agencies to immediately issue a Stop Work Order; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the Washington State Attorney General to conduct a thorough review of the SEPA permitting process for the project, including the many requests for a SEIS that have been made, and of the lawsuits that have been and will be filed for the failings that have thus far occurred; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to our Governor, Attorney General, Commissioner of Public Lands, and to our entire delegation in the State Legislature and any other relevant jurisdiction.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats, the Environment and Climate Caucus (ECC), and the Native American Caucus (NAC) for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Dates Submitted 32nd - 1/12/2018, ECC - 1/26/2018, NAC - 1/26/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats Platform calls for us to unite, as citizens of our planet, to "proactively address climate change as a crisis," and specifically urges the adoption of "a carbon tax at the source to reduce greenhouse gases by providing economic motivation for reduced fossil fuel use";
WHEREAS 195 nations signed the Paris Agreement, making a commitment to keeping global average temperature rise to a maximum of two degrees Celsius above pre-7 industrial levels;
WHEREAS in order to do our part to reach global climate stabilization levels by 2050 the State of Washington adopted goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, twenty-five percent below 1990 levels by 2035 and fifty percent below levels by 2050 as codified in RCW 70.235;
WHEREAS we are not currently on track to meet these codified standards and the best available science tells us that the standards don't go far enough and more aggressive reductions are needed to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement;
WHEREAS without legislation that puts a sufficient price on carbon, adapting to climate change and mitigating its impacts in the future are likely to impose unprecedented and catastrophic costs on the budgets of Washington State agencies and its cities and counties, creating a tax burden that will be felt by all Washingtonians;
WHEREAS there have been three carbon pricing bills introduced in the Senate for the current legislative session including SB 6203 by Governor Inslee which has sixteen co-25 sponsors; and
WHEREAS each of the bills as proposed would result in revenue being generated for the creation of new carbon reduction and impact mitigation funds, including funds for infrastructure and other carbon reduction projects as well as providing assistance for low-income populations, workers and those disproportionately impacted by climate change;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on the Washington State legislature to pass, and the Governor to sign, WSDCCRES - 868 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Supporting Carbon Pricing Legislation the carbon pricing legislation in the 2018 legislative session that 1) creates a "carbon pollution tax" of at least $20/metric ton beginning on July 1, 2019, increasing each year with no cap, with the cost linked to inflation, and reaching at least $30/metric ton by 2024; and 2) allocates at least 15% of revenue generated to a "carbon price impact assistance fund" to lessen the impacts felt by low-income households, vulnerable populations, and workers, including supporting a just transition to a renewable energy economy; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall be transmitted to all Democratic Washington State Legislators and to Governor Inslee.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/26/18) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS on August 19, 2017 an aquaculture operation managed by Cooke Inc. off the coast of Cypress Island in Skagit County, WA containing 305,000 farmed Atlantic Salmon failed and released tens of thousands of fish into the Salish Sea.
WHEREAS the Lummi Nation declared a state of emergency on August 24, 2017, deployed an Emergency Response Team, and caught over 43,000 Atlantic Salmon.
WHEREAS state agencies, as directed by Governor Inslee on August 26, temporarily halted permits for Atlantic Salmon net pens and urged the public to catch as many of the escaped Atlantic Salmon and report the locations of their capture.
WHEREAS Cooke Inc. assured the public that escaped fish would not survive and native fish were not at risk.
WHEREAS Atlantic Salmon were still being caught in the Skagit River on December 1, - three months after the failure.
WHEREAS numerous studies show the adverse impacts of Atlantic Salmon escapements in the marine and freshwater ecosystems, such as: Bisson 2006: Evidence of continual, unreported Atlantic escapes from the industry in Puget Sound. Fisher 2014: Atlantic salmon prevalence and occupancy in Canadian Pacific rivers. Morton 2017: Evidence of higher disease rates (PRV) in Atlantic salmon migrating through net pen waters. Morton, Volpe 2002: Description of farmed salmon captures in 2002. Naylor 2005: Overview risks of escaped farmed salmon. Volpe 2000: Evidence of reproduction in BC rivers. Volpe 2001: Competition study between juvenile Atlantics and natives, quote 'Recent evidence suggests that this species is now naturally reproducing in Vancouver Island rivers' and 'we suggest that Atlantic salmon may be capable of colonizing and persisting in coastal British Columbia river systems that are underutilized by native species, such as steelhead.'
WHEREAS Washington has a total of 7 active Atlantic Salmon operations in the Salish Sea (formerly 8 with the Port Angeles net pen which was recently shut down by Department of Natural Resources for aquatic land lease violations). British Columbia WSDCCRES - 873 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Requesting Non-Native Finfish Aquaculture has about 70 operations -- both native and nonnative finfish aquaculture -- at least a dozen of which are Atlantic Salmon.
WHEREAS California and Alaska have banned Atlantic Salmon aquaculture operations in open marine waters and Oregon doesn't have any.
WHEREAS the Whatcom County Democrats' platform makes the following values & policy statements regarding the environment and Tribal relations: Health of the physical environment directly impacts the short-term and long-49 term health of our citizens, communities, economy, and wildlife, and must be protected. Preservation of biological diversity, including endangered and threatened species, and restoration of previously extirpated species. Washington State, British Columbia: Clean up the Salish Sea and waters emptying into it, and enact new laws or regulations as needed to eliminate pollution at the source. Washington State, Federal Government, Whatcom County: Protect our critical environmental areas, including wilderness areas, old growth forests, wildlife habitat areas and corridor, wetlands, streams, the Columbia River, Salish Sea, coastlines, and Pacific Ocean, through vigilant monitoring and planned growth management. Concerted efforts to maintain and protect traditional species of marine, animal, and plant life that are critical to Native American cultures and economies. Federal government, Washington State, Whatcom County: Fully respect Lummi and Nooksack treaty rights against interference, including traditional fishing rights and sacred burial grounds.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, ask the Washington State Legislature to pass legislation before March 8, that accomplishes the following: Improve oversight, monitoring, and enforcement amongst the Washington state Departments of Natural Resources (DNR), Fish & Wildlife (DFW), and Ecology (DOE) for the remaining net pen operations in the Puget Sound until their aquatic land leases expire. Phase out existing aquatic lands leases and prohibit their renewal in the marine waters of Washington State. Direct the state to ban future non-native finfish aquaculture leases in open marine waters.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, ask the elected bodies of Whatcom County, the Port of Bellingham, WSDCCRES - 873 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Requesting Non-Native Finfish Aquaculture and cities of Blaine, Bellingham, and Ferndale to contact our 40th and 42nd Legislative District Senators and Representatives to urge them to pass legislation as outlined above.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 1/26/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS Edmonton, Alberta-based HiTest Sand, Inc. (HiTest) has started the permit process and intends to build a $325 million (USD) silicon smelter in Newport, Washington (Pend Oreille County) approximately eleven (11) miles southeast of the reservation of the Kalispel Tribe of Indians;
WHEREAS according to data provided by HiTest, the smelter would emit 320,000 tons of greenhouse gases, 760 tons of sulfur dioxide, and 700 tons of nitrogen oxides each year;
WHEREAS this amount of air pollution poses unacceptable risks to the health, culture, and natural resources of the Kalispel Tribe of Indians and all reservation residents as well as other residents of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho; and
WHEREAS these risks outweigh the speculative economic benefits of the smelter;
WHEREAS there are many other opportunities for economic growth in Pend Oreille County that will not harm our health, culture, and natural resources;
WHEREAS the 2016 Platform of Washington State Democrats provides that "all people, including future generations, have the right to clean air, water, and a healthy natural environment"; and
WHEREAS the 2016 Platform of Washington State Democrats calls for "recognizing the unique history and cultural relationships the lands, waterways, usual and accustomed areas in the state are valued among Tribal Nations;"
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee joins the Kalispel Tribe of Indians and the Spokane County Democratic Central Committee in opposing the HiTest silicon smelter project and calls on Governor Jay Inslee and the agencies and subdivisions of the State of Washington to do the same; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee joins the Kalispel Tribe of Indians in their commitment to helping Pend Oreille County attract new businesses that will revitalize the local economy without harming our state's health, culture, and natural resources.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 1/26/2018) WSDCCRES - 874 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Opposing Newport HiTest Silicon Smelter
Submitted by the Spokane County Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Native American Caucus and the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 01/20/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS, solar power is a critical part of a low-carbon renewable energy future, and is required to address global climate change, and
WHEREAS, solar power is poised for much-needed rapid growth as result of technological improvements and cost reductions in addition to federal and state incentive programs, and
WHEREAS, zoning regulations concerning siting of utility-scale solar projects do not yet exist in most areas of Washington State, and
WHEREAS, land currently occupied by agriculture is unfortunately most easily developable into solar facilities, and
WHEREAS, agriculture, and irrigated agriculture in particular, has inestimable value to local economies and to society, and
WHEREAS, farmland is irreplaceable, and conversion to utility-scale solar use risks damaging or otherwise permanently removing farmland from agricultural production, and
WHEREAS, the Growth Management Act requires preservation of prime farmland as defined by the USDA,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, in order to allow local codes to prepare for thoughtful management of utility-scale solar projects, the WSDCC calls for a state-wide moratorium on the development of prime farmland into utility-scale solar facilities or parts of utility-18 scale solar projects, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall be forwarded to the Governor and to chairs of House and Senate agriculture committees, with appropriate releases to the press.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 1/27/18) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed as amended. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS the treaties of Medicine Creek, Neah Bay, Olympia, Point Elliott and Point No Point were entered into in 1854-55 and guaranteed, to twenty Western Washington Federally Recognized Tribes, that their "right of taking fish, at all usual and accustomed grounds and stations, is further secured to said Indians, in common with all citizens of the territory";
WHEREAS those treaties were entered into the context of territorial Governor Isaac Stevens' memorable assurance that "I want that you shall not have simply food and drink now, but that you may have them forever," an intent that was upheld and applied in U.S. v. Washington (1974), a/k/a "the Boldt decision"; The United States Supreme Court has already reviewed the tribal treaty rights at issue in this case and has asserted them to be clear and valid (Washington v. Washington State Commercial);
WHEREAS culverts are a primary factor to the decline of salmon populations, as stated by the Division of Fish and Aquatic Conservation; "lack of access to high-quality upstream spawning and rearing habitat is one of the major challenges inhibiting restoration and recovery of the region's Coho, Chum, and Chinook salmon" (Connelly and Plumb, 2016);
WHEREAS Washington State Tribes negotiated in good faith with WA State for decades to resolve the issue before The US Government filed Washington v. U.S. on behalf of Washington State Tribes in 2001;
WHEREAS the 2016 United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit stated that "consequent reduction in tribal harvests has damaged tribal economies, has left individual tribal members unable to earn a living by fishing, and has caused cultural and social (and economic) harm to the Tribes";
WHEREAS the 2016 United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit found in US vs Washington et. all, that salmon stocks in the Case Area have declined "alarmingly" since the Treaties were signed, and "dramatically" since 1985. And that "a primary cause of this decline is habitat degradation"; In that 2016 decision Washington State is given an ample 17 years time to remedy the problem with specific guidelines;
WHEREAS the 2014 Washington State Democratic Party passed 2014 SC - 122 - 140621 The Resolution in Support of Culvert Replacement on June 21, 2014. And on page 41 of the 2016 Democratic Party's Federal Platform on tribal affairs "We call for: Recognizing that all Treaties signed under the authority of the United States, should be the supreme law of the land ... which secured specific rights and privileges to sustain the future of Tribal Nations"; Taking Washington State Tribes to the United States Supreme Court is not in alignment with the spirit of the 2016 Democratic Platform;
WHEREAS both the Federal and Washington State share responsibility for the implementation of poorly designed culverts, however, the State of Washington's responsibility is primary, and Washington State should act immediately and as is necessary to address the problem without further litigation. As and if the state pursues federal compensation, it should not delay the implementation of practices critical to salmon restoration; WSDCCRES - 876 - 180128 - PASS - ENV - Supporting Culvert Replacement
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party continues to support the decisions in U.S. v. Washington and thus requests that the Attorney General Bob Ferguson cease pursuit of the Supreme Court appeal announced. The Attorney General's Office should instead continue to negotiate a meaningful resolution, in good faith, with tribal representatives outside of court, informed by the directives of the Ninth Circuit, until such a resolution is achieved.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Governor Jay Inslee and all sitting Washington State House and Senate members.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/26/18) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS Secretary of the Interior Zinke, has proposed opening Washington's offshore region to oil drilling. In a expensive program that would dismantle the legacy of environmental responsibility of closing these sensitive waters in the Pacific Region since 1984 to drilling sales;
WHEREAS the U.S. Bureau of Oceans and Energy Management is holding a hearing on the decision on February 5, 2018, without opportunity for oral public comment;
WHEREAS the ecosystem of the offshore environment is increasingly stressed by pollution and climatic changes, fossil fuel spills pose a particular risk due to the growing sensitivity of offshore communities;
WHEREAS Noah Oppenheim, executive director of the Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations, pointed out factual inaccuracies in the interior Secretary's 380-page plan, including a graph stating that there is no commercial fishing;
WHEREAS areas opened to drilling about Olympia Coast National Marine Sanctuary and thus threaten the long-term viability of the Marine Sanctuary whose resource document explicitly prohibits "exploring for, developing or producing oils;"
WHEREAS the President of the National Resources Defense Council state "Offshore drilling would yield little cost or supply benefit, and yet it would pose serious long-19 term danger to our beaches and marine life;"
WHEREAS these operations would create undue economic burden on the State of Washington; and
WHEREAS Washington State Tribal Nations have rights to usual and accustomed offshore fishing and have not been consulted in Nation to Nation negotiations with the Federal Government.;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges all elected officials of Washington State to oppose attempts by the Federal Administration to open up Washington's coastal water to Offshore Drilling.
Submitted on January 27, 2018 via 50 signatures for consideration by the Washington State Democratic Central Committee at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge all Democratic candidates in Washington State to sign the No Fossil Fuel Money Pledge, which reads, "I pledge to not take contributions from the oil, gas, and coal industry and instead prioritize the health of our families, climate, and democracy over fossil fuel industry profits";
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Executive Committee of the DNC to pass a new resolution prior to the November Congressional elections reinstating the ban on corporate PAC contributions from the fossil fuel industry; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to Washington's congressional delegation and to the Governor. ____________________________________________________________
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus of the Washington State Democrats (ECC) for consideration by the Washington State Democratic Central Committee at its September 16, meeting in Spokane. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Legislature should amend RCW 43.19.648 to require our Department of Commerce to re-draft WAC 194-28 and WAC 194-29 (the rules issued in implementation of that statute) to (1) delete the word "practicability" and instead declare clear policy language for purchasing EVs wherever such vehicles can adequately meet the agency's genuine needs, and (2) provide accountability for failures to comply with RCW 43.19.648; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington Department of Commerce articulate in WAC 194- or 194-29 an unequivocal EV-first policy that expressly provides for purchases of EVs unless there is an actual and demonstrable need to purchase gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicles instead; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that both gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles be removed from the state master contract for vehicle purchases, wherever EVs are available as a practicable alternative; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that grant and loan funding for public entities to construct charging facilities and subsidize the initial outlays for purchasing electric vehicles be expanded to fully enable implementation of the transition contemplated by RCW 43.19.648; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to all of our State Senators and Representatives, and to the Governor.
Submitted by the Environment and Climate Caucus of the Washington State Democrats. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee strongly supports removal of Enloe Dam; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolutions shall be sent to the Governor and to the Democratic members of the State Legislature.
Submitted by 50 signers to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee at its September 16, 2018 meeting in Spokane. The resolution moves straight to the floor upon submission without recommendation from the Resolutions Committee. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that conventional rail development, expansion, improvement, and repair existing infrastructure in Washington and that it be recommended and prioritized in legislative planning concerning state and regional transportation funding and development and improvement projects, and transportation electrification projects, and that conventional rail be given high priority; THERFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party recommends the rapid development, improvement and implementation of conventional rail, including electrification where feasible, as an effective and efficient climate mitigation solution; THERFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to members of the Washington State legislature and the Governor urging them to consider conventional rail when planning budget and transportation legislation.
Submitted by Steve Verhey, Chair ECC, to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7th Meeting in Pasco (Date Submitted 3/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7, References: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/ https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-resolution/ Central/Eastern WA Rail Service and Development Project: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17U9j0vwqZqhZ3fBo3vB8ltryevIgCtjW/view
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC support adoption of the Green New Deal resolution in the United States Congress, and enactment of related legislation to respond to the climate emergency; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC support adoption of a statewide Green New Deal that emulates the federal version of the resolution; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC submit a copy of this resolution to the WA State LD state representatives, and the WA State members of the United States Congress, and request that they provide all relevant support and assistance to put this resolution into effect.
Submitted by the 5th LD Democrats to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date submitted 3/20/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS waste vegetable oil (WVO) has a certain value which can be utilized to increase our national energy security by reducing the need for imported petroleum;
WHEREAS millions of gallons of WVO are available in Washington State annually;
WHEREAS municipalities with wastewater treatment facilities struggle with maintenance costs related to keeping gauges, valves and pipes in treatment plants and the sewer system clear;
WHEREAS diverting this material and using it for beneficial purposes such as making it available to petroleum and bio-oil refineries would facilitate biofuel production and increase availability to consumers;
WHEREAS support of this renewable resource would provide a governing effect and help create a stronger market-based floor for biofuels;
WHEREAS the utmost importance when looking at creating policy is to minimize the effect of price volatility; not only for the consumers and end users, but also for the producers of commodities;
WHEREAS the cooking process has altered WVO so that the omega-3 fatty acids have been destroyed and WVO with a fatty-acid content less than eight percent has very little value as a feedstock;
WHEREAS improving water and air quality are important for the continued well-being of many residents of Washington State including the health of spawning beds for salmon and other living life forms;
WHEREAS creating new employment opportunities in the collection of this renewable resource can enhance economies by providing jobs in processing, transesterification, distribution and sales of biofuel derived from WVO;
WHEREAS the current list of eligible biomass needs to be expanded in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 with the inclusion of WVO;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee vigorously encourage the Washington State Congressional Delegation to actively support and advance language in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 to include waste vegetable oil; and WSDCCRES - 443 - 090926 - PASS - ENV - Waste Vegetable Oil.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to include waste vegetable oil with a fatty-acid content of less than eight percent as an amendment to the list of eligible biomass materials in TITLE 1-CLEAN ENERGY, Subtitle A-47 Renewable Electricity Standard, Section 610 of the Federal Renewable Electricity Standard, American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 9/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the trade agreement known as Trans-Pacific Partnership is being negotiated in secret, and opponents in the labor and environmental communities argue that it would give new enforceable monopolistic rights and privileges to multi-national corporations, and establish limits on sovereign governments' ability to regulate corporations' actions, including but not limited to the areas of intellectual and copyright provisions, prices, labor practices, environmental impacts, disclosure requirements, and safety issues;
WHEREAS according to public documents from the US Trade Representative, this agreement would allow multi-national corporations to sue governments through international tribunals, staffed by private-sector attorneys, which could force governments to pay compensation to corporations and investors if the challenged policies are deemed to hinder investors' future profits, even if those corporations are not abiding by the countries' laws and regulations; and
WHEREAS past trade agreements have had a detrimental impact on jobs and wages, the environment, and fair equitable trade, this agreement goes beyond what has been done before, and should not be pursued;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations, and calls for a new, more transparent paradigm for trade negotiations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward copies of this resolution to President Obama, the Office of U.S. Trade Representatives, United States Congressional Representatives, Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, and Governor Jay Inslee.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/18/2013) (This resolution is developed from Resolution 588) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS rapid and dramatic changes to oil transportation are creating serious threats to Washington State communities and waterways;
WHEREAS in 2014, approximately 2.6 loaded, mile-long trains carrying a total of 7.8 million gallons of crude oil travel through our state each day;
WHEREAS dangerous types of oil-volatile Bakken oil from the Midwest and toxic and heavy tar sands from Canada-pose unique dangers to public health and the environment;
WHEREAS more oil spilled from trains into rivers, lakes, and marine waters in 2013 than in the previous forty years combined;
WHEREAS since 2013 there have been nine significant oil train derailments, including the July 2013 tragedy in Lac Megantic, Quebec, where 47 people died in an oil train explosion;
WHEREAS oil spills take years to clean up and the affected area never fully recovers as remnants of the spilled fuels remain in the ecosystem;
WHEREAS our state laws are outdated and must be modernized to protect communities from today's threats and potential changes in the future;
WHEREAS more than 25 Washington cities, counties and other jurisdictions have adopted resolutions calling on the WA State Legislature to pass legislation to improve oil transportation safety;
WHEREAS at the request of Governor Jay Inslee SB 5087 and HB 1449 have been introduced in the State Legislature and would: Give the public information on how and what kind of oil is moving through WA Authorize oil spill prevention measures and increase the scope of hazardous materials inspections Ensure companies carrying oil, not WA taxpayers, pay for cleaning up all oil spills Provide funding to modernize our system to safeguard communities and waterways; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Attorney General has reviewed said legislation and found it to be enforceable in accordance with existing Federal regulations governing the transportation of goods across state lines; WSDCCRES - 710 - 150124 - PASS - ENV - Resolution on Oil Trains
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our representatives and senators in the Washington State Legislature to pass SB 5087 and HB 1449, Concerning Oil Transportation Safety, during the 2015 legislative session; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we send copies of this resolution to all county and legislative district Democratic Party organizations requesting that their members write or call their state legislators urging passage of SB 5087 and HB 1449.
Submitted to the WSDCC with the signatures of 50 committee members. (Date
Submitted 1/24/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our representatives and senators in the Washington State Legislature to pass SB 5087 and HB 1449, Concerning Oil Transportation Safety, during the legislative session; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we send copies of this resolution to all county and legislative district Democratic Party organizations requesting that their members write or call their state legislators urging passage of SB 5087 and HB 1449.
Submitted to the WSDCC with the signatures of 50 committee members. (Date
Submitted 1/24/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS our neighboring state of Oregon has conducted a study of the cost of noxious weeds, which determined that "25 of Oregon's most significant invasive noxious weeds cause an estimated annual loss of about $83.5 million to the state's economy," representing "about 1,900 jobs"; and "the estimated economic impact of the analyzed species would be between $1.5 billion and $2.4 billion personal income if infestation moved into the susceptible areas;" and the benefits of controlling these weeds far outweigh the cost of control; and
WHEREAS noxious weeds and other invasive plants in Washington degrade croplands, timberlands, rangelands, and native habitats for fish and wildlife, and it can be reasonably assumed they cost Washington's people, businesses and government tens of millions of dollars annually in lost revenue and expense to control the spread of these plants, as well as a loss of thousands of jobs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, ask the Washington State Legislature and Governor Jay Inslee to allocate $100,000 to fund an economic impact study to determine the economic costs to the government, businesses and residents in Washington of infestations from those 25 to 30 state listed Class A, B and C noxious weeds considered most damaging by the WA State Noxious Weed Control Board; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, recommend that this study be conducted by objective professionals selected from the private sector or Washington Academy of Science, supplemented part time, as needed, by staff selected from Washington Departments of Agriculture, Fish and Wildlife, and Natural Resources, the University of Washington, and/or Washington State University.
Submitted by the 24th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/18/2015)
Submitted by the Agriculture/Rural Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/24/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS the release of carbon dioxide and other pollutants is causing devastating and perhaps irreversible harm in our state and around the world, including increasing global temperatures; declining snowpack that reduces water supplies; more frequent and more destructive forest fires; acidification of our waters threatening shellfish populations; and a dangerous increase in asthma, particularly among children in low-8 income communities;
WHEREAS industries that emit huge amounts of carbon pollution face no financial responsibility for the damages they inflict on people and the environment;
WHEREAS establishing a price on carbon will encourage investment in less carbon-14 intensive alternative energies like solar and wind;
WHEREAS building a robust alternative energy sector will create living wage jobs for thousands of Washingtonians;
WHEREAS in 2008 the Legislature of the State of Washington enacted legislation to limit and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases consistent with the emission reductions established in RCW 70.235.020;
WHEREAS, at the request of Governor Jay Inslee, the Carbon Pollution Accountability Act (CPAA) was introduced in the State Legislature in order to achieve the carbon emission reduction goals established in 2008 under RCW 70.235.020;
WHEREAS the CPAA would create a market-based program that limits carbon pollution and requires major polluters to pay for their emissions;
WHEREAS the CPAA would decrease pollution limits gradually over time, allowing industry time to transition to cleaner technologies without undue loss of jobs and profitability;
WHEREAS the CPAA would generate approximately $1 billion dollars annually, for reinvestment by the State toward expanded public transit, education and our social safety net; and
WHEREAS the CPAA contains provisions to protect lower-income families from the financial impacts of transitioning to a clean-energy economy; WSDCCRES - 724 - 150418 - PASS - ENV - Regulating Carbon Pollution (31st)
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we whole-heartedly support our Governor's proposed program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly that embodied in the Carbon Pollution Accountability Act, and urge our State Legislature to adopt it forthwith; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we send copies of this resolution to Governor Jay Inslee and all Washington State legislators, and urge members of this organization to write or call their state legislators urging passage of the Carbon Pollution Accountability Act.
Submitted by the 31st LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 3/25/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS Washington is simultaneously enduring the hottest year on record, one of the worst droughts on record, and the worst wildfire season and the largest single wildfire in state history;
WHEREAS three firefighters were killed in the line of duty courageously fighting these wildfires on August 19th;
WHEREAS countless other Washington firefighters have fought valiantly this summer to protect Washington's communities and citizens;
WHEREAS when healthy, Washington's lush and plentiful forestlands naturally and efficiently sequester millions of tons of carbon every year and are resistant to catastrophic wildfires; and
WHEREAS the events of this summer demonstrate that climate change is already threatening Washingtonians' quality of life, the sustainability of our ecosystems, and the economic vitality of our rural communities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats offer our condolences to the communities affected by these fires and formally thank workers fighting the wildfires in our state for their heroic efforts;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats encourage improvement in forest management practices to minimize potential future wildfire impacts; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats renew their call for urgent action to prevent climate change and mitigate its effects.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/19/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS there are massive fires burning throughout Washington State;
WHEREAS state firefighters, volunteer firefighters and EMTs support the efforts of the personnel engaged fighting those fires;
WHEREAS firefighters in the state of Washington are fighting those fires; and
WHEREAS the fire fighters, volunteer fire fighters and EMTs have provided services vital to the safety of Washington residents;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recognize, commend and support all firefighters, volunteer firefighters and EMTs who are in Washington fighting fires.
Submitted with the signatures of fifty members to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/19/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the climate crisis poses a clear and present danger to life as we know it;
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democratic Party calls for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions;
WHEREAS it is estimated that in order to prevent the most catastrophic effects of anthropogenic climate change, at least 80% of known fossil fuel reserves must remain in the ground and unburned;
WHEREAS Sen. Jeff Merkley has introduced S. 2238, the Keep It in the Ground Act, which would prevent any new fossil fuel mining permits on federal land and revoke existing permits that are not being used; and
WHEREAS this Act is a significant step towards solving the climate crisis;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses S. 2238, calls on our Senators to cosponsor the bill, and calls on our Representatives to introduce a companion bill in the House;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be transmitted to the offices of the Washington Congressional delegation.
Submitted by the 25th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/14/2015)
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the marbled murrelet is a small seabird that nests in older coniferous forests up to 50 miles from marine waters in western Washington, including in Jefferson County;
WHEREAS the marbled murrelet's forest nesting habitat has been significantly reduced, due mostly to timber harvest practices;
WHEREAS the marbled murrelet population in Washington has been declining by approximately 7% per year for the past 10 years;
WHEREAS the loss of the marbled murrelet's nesting habitat is the primary reason for the decline of the species;
WHEREAS the marbled murrelet is listed as a Threatened Species under the Federal Endangered Species Act and a Washington State Threatened Species;
WHEREAS some of the highest quality marbled murrelet nesting habitat remaining in Washington is located on State Trust Lands in Jefferson County that are administered by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources;
WHEREAS Department of Natural Resources with agreement from the US Fish and Wildlife Service developed a Habitat Conservation Plan (1997) that included interim timber harvest policies to protect marbled murrelet nesting habitat with the understanding that these interim measures would be superseded by a science-based Long-Term Conservation Strategy;
WHEREAS the interim timber harvest policies on State Trust Lands do not provide adequate protection for marbled murrelet nesting habitat and have resulted in the loss of habitat that would have contributed to the survival and recovery of the marbled murrelet;
WHEREAS Department of Natural Resources developed a Science Report (2008) that includes recommendations for a Marbled Murrelet Long-Term Conservation Strategy;
WHEREAS the State Board of Natural Resources has not adopted a Marbled Murrelet Long-Term Conservation Strategy; WSDCCRES - 761 - 160130 - PASS - ENV - Marbled Murrelet
WHEREAS the absence of a Long-Term Conservation Strategy has hindered the Department of Natural Resources from delivering a predictable, sustainable, stable flow of timber revenue from State Trust Lands that would benefit Jefferson County;
WHEREAS Jefferson County and its residents derive multiple benefit from State Trust Lands and the existence of the marbled murrelet on those Lands; and
WHEREAS, support from Jefferson County may persuade the Board of Natural Resources to adopt a Marbled Murrelet Long-Term Conservation Strategy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on the Washington State Board of Natural Resources to immediately adopt a Long Term Conservation Strategy, based on the Department's 2008 Science Report recommendations for Jefferson County, which will fully meet the marbled murrelet protection agreed to in the Department's 1997 Habitat Conservation Plan; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee further call on the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners to immediately request that the Washington State Department of Natural Resources promptly implement the above referenced Long-term Conservation.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 12/07/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the Columbia Generating Station (CGS) is a publicly owned nuclear facility operated by a Washington State not-for-profit operating agency since 1984, capable of delivering 1,190 megawatts of continuously available power to the grid, sufficient for a million homes, while emitting virtually no greenhouse gases;
WHEREAS in 2016 a resolution to shut down the CGS was passed by the Washington State Democratic Convention, claiming that the value of the electricity generated is less than the plant's operating cost, pointing out that there is no national spent fuel storage repository, and that active geological faults in the Puget Sound area are connected to ridges at the Hanford site;
WHEREAS said resolution did not consider or even acknowledge any of the positive aspects of the CGS to be mentioned below;
WHEREAS CGS power is generated at a sustaining cost of 3.5 cents per KWh , competitive with natural gas and hydropower, and less expensive than wind and solar power;
WHEREAS the greatest part of the spent nuclear fuel from the CGS is safely contained in dry cask storage on site, and the CGS is currently building additional capacity to store thirty additional years' worth of spent fuel casks, so that the CGS could operate throughout its useful life without a national spent fuel repository;
WHEREAS recent evaluations conducted at the Hanford Site, for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission are concluding that the CGS facility including the spent fuel storage systems are at very low risk of failure due to credible seismic events;
WHEREAS the Nuclear Regulatory Commission was confident enough in the safety and security of CGS operation in 2012 to approve an extension of the CGS's 40-year license for an additional 20 years, thereby extending operation through 2043;
WHEREAS in 2014 the CGS is a significant power source, generating 8.2% of Washington's power;
WHEREAS CGS power is continuously available regardless of weather conditions, and is therefore well suited to support reliable power grid baseload and capacity demand, including backing up increasing levels of intermittent renewable wind and solar power; WSDCCRES - 786 - 160917 - PASS - ENV - Columbia Generating Station
WHEREAS shutting down the CGS would likely result in an immediate shift of 8.2% of our power to CO2 power sources such as natural gas to meet increasing power demands while supporting the power grid baseload; potentially doubling the state's CO2 emissions from natural gas, making attainment of Washington's greenhouse gas emission goals more difficult, and making Washingtonians pay more in carbon taxes;
WHEREAS local effects of shutting down the CGS could include the loss to Washington State of up to 1,500 direct jobs and three times that number of indirect jobs; and
WHEREAS while building a new nuclear power plant may be uneconomic in today's business environment, shutting down the CGS would be abandoning an investment in a large, continuously upgraded, and successfully operating low-carbon electrical power plant with a thirty-year expected remaining lifetime;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee desires progress to 100% renewable energy as soon as possible; we acknowledge the CGS as a critical part of low-carbon electrical power generation in Washington State and the Pacific Northwest, for the above reasons;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recognize the CGS as a critical facility for combatting carbon emissions-driven climate change; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to support the retention of the Columbia Generating Station nuclear power plant through its useful life.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/1/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the John Wayne Trail (JWT, also known as the Iron Horse Trail), which runs from Tekoa at its eastern terminus to North Bend in the west, is the longest rails-to-4 trails project in the state and is the centerpiece of the Washington Parks Department's biennium budget request;
WHEREAS the John Wayne Trail is used by horseback riders, bicycle riders, hikers, and many other groups and individuals and is the state's only non-motorized cross-state route;
WHEREAS many Eastern Washington towns benefit from revenue as a result of JWT tourism, and many users from across the state and beyond benefit from using the trail; and
WHEREAS the trail is in need of repairs to increase safety and to greatly increase user traffic, which is why Governor Inslee's budget includes $4 million for repairs and $2 million in capital budget requests;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports Governor Inslee's budget request for JWT repair and improvements, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all county and legislative district local party organizations are encouraged to contact their legislators to urge funding of repairs and capital plans for the John Wayne Trail in the state budget.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus on 1/28/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS in 2011 the Washington Legislature purchased 50,000 acres in the Teanaway River basin and created the state's first community forest;
WHEREAS the Teanaway Community Forest (TCF) is jointly managed by the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Fish and Wildlife;
WHEREAS the TCF is overseen by an Advisory Committee who have developed the TCF's Management Plan and are currently developing the TCF Recreation Plan; and
WHEREAS the goals of the Teanaway Community Forest are to provide for recreation, ensure ongoing working lands, improve forest health, facilitate fish and wildlife habitat restoration, and help fulfill watershed objectives of the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports Governor Inslee's budget request for the Teanaway Community Forest for $775,553 ongoing Operating Funding and $1,480,700 in one-time Capital Funding; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all county and legislative district local party organizations are encouraged to contact their legislators to urge funding of repairs and capital plans for the Teanaway Community Forest in the state budget.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus on 1/28/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS the Kinder-Morgan Trans Mountain pipeline expansion would bring 590,000 additional barrels per day of tar sands oil from Alberta to Vancouver, BC, and then transport it through the Salish Sea between Washington and British Columbia;
WHEREAS this shipping would result an increase in oil tankers in the area from 60 tankers per year to 408 tankers per year, a seven-fold increase;
WHEREAS such an increase unavoidably increases the likelihood of an accident that could lead to an oil spill in Salish Sea waters;
WHEREAS the 2015 Vessel Traffic Risk Assessment determined that the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion would result in an 800% increase in the risk of a 15,725 barrel or larger spill in a ten-year period in Haro Strait/Boundary Pass;
WHEREAS such a spill would have an enormous impact on Washington State's maritime economy which is worth $30 billion and supports 148,000 jobs;
WHEREAS the relatively heavy tar sands oil to be shipped from Kinder-Morgan facilities is far more difficult to clean up than the North Slope Crude spilled in the Exxon Valdez accident, and the Coast Guard has specified that its technology is less sophisticated for cleaning up the tar sands oil when spilled;
WHEREAS we have seen that even new vessels with no defects or deficiencies in their equipment will still spill oil, as in the 3,700 liter spill during the maiden voyage of the M/V Marathassa in Vancouver in 2015;
WHEREAS the value of coastal properties in Washington State's Skagit, San Juan, Jefferson, Island, Whatcom and Clallam counties would be sharply adversely affected by a spill of oil from shipping Kinder-Morgan tar sands oil, causing a proportionate reduction in tax revenue from these properties;
WHEREAS numerous First Nations and Native American Tribes have, since time immemorial, relied on the marine resources that would be harmed not only by a spill but also by the increase in vessel traffic noise and pollution, and such Nations and Tribes have a right to have these resources protected;
WHEREAS 59 British Columbia Tribes and First Nations along with 22 local governments have voiced their opposition to the Kinder-Morgan project; and WSDCCRES - 822 - 170422 - PASS - ENV - Kinder-Morgan Pipeline
WHEREAS the quality of life and the natural beauty and surroundings of the Puget Sound and Salish Sea areas is highly valued by the citizens, is part of what drives Washington State tourism that generates more than $1.8 billion in local and state tax revenues annually, and is something public officials and citizens alike proclaim makes the area a special place;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) opposes the Kinder-Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline Project; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC shall issue letters to Governor Jay Inslee and the Washington State Congressional delegation expressing this opposition and urging those officials to oppose completion of the Project and oppose the oil shipments anticipated by the Project.
Submitted by the Agriculture/Rural Caucus on 4/22/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, in order to stop the decline of the Southern Resident orcas, support the spirit of recommendations of the SRKWTF, which identify actions to be taken by Federal, state and local agencies and key partners; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that some of these proposed recommendations may have significant far reaching human impacts on communities, livelihoods, property owners, rural and agricultural interests, business interests, and other stakeholders. Those impacts must be fully considered along with alternative plans and/or mitigation where necessary; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge our legislators to adopt legislation to support the recommendations of the SRKWTF and that state funding be made available to fully implement those recommendations; and; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to Washington State legislators and Governor, so they are aware of our belief that people, fish, and orcas can all thrive together in our state. _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Submitted by Wahkiakum County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted March 20, 2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the WSDCC does not support Endorsement of I-976, and urges all of Washington's voters to oppose I-976.
Submitted by Steve Verhey, Chair ECC - to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7, meeting in Pasco (Date Submitted 3/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS, The Washington State Democratic Party accepts research indicating that motor vehicles are the largest source of air pollution in the state of Washington, and motor vehicles contribute approximately fifty-seven percent of criteria air pollutant emissions, eighty percent of air toxics emissions, and fifty-five percent of greenhouse gas emissions; and
WHEREAS, Air pollution levels routinely measured in the state of Washington continue to harm public health, the environment, and the economy; and
WHEREAS, Air pollution causes or contributes to premature death, cancer, asthma, and heart and lung disease; and
WHEREAS, Over half of the state's population suffers from one or more medical conditions that make them very vulnerable to air pollution; and
WHEREAS, Air pollution increases pain and suffering for vulnerable individuals; and
WHEREAS, Air pollution imposes several hundred million dollars annually in added health care costs for air pollution-associated death and illness, reducing the quality of life and economic security of the citizens of Washington; and
WHEREAS, Reductions of greenhouse gas emissions from transportation sources are necessary, and it is equitable to seek such reductions because reductions in greenhouse gas emissions have already been initiated in other sectors such as power generation; and
WHEREAS, Adopting the California motor vehicle standards will provide significant and necessary air quality benefits to residents of the state of Washington; and
WHEREAS, Adoption of the California motor vehicle standards will increase consumer choices of cleaner vehicles, provide better warranties to consumers, and provide sufficient air quality benefit to allow additional business and economic growth in the key air sheds of the state while maintaining conformance with federal air quality standards;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon the members of the Washington State Legislature to enact into law Clean Car Standards for the State of Washington embodying the principles contained in House Bill, HB-1397, and Senate Bill, SB-5397. WSDCCRES - 024 - 050402 - PASS - ENV - Clean Car Standards
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by John Miller - Chair of the Clallam County Democratic Central Committee and John Pollock - Clallam County State Committeeman (3/22/05) The Clallam County Democratic Committee unanimously passed this resolution at its meeting on March 19, 2005, and submits this resolution to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee Resolutions Committee for debate and adoption at the Washington State Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, cost-based public power is of great benefit to all Americans in keeping all power rates, public and private in line with costs; and
WHEREAS, examples such as Enron have demonstrated to the public that private power companies focus on private profit to the detriment of power reliability and reasonable cost; and
WHEREAS, any change to market-based rates will result in high and unstable power costs which will be detrimental to the economics and ratepayers of the Pacific Northwest and the country; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that all elected Democrats support the continuation of cost-based public power and oppose any change to market-based power costs.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the Okanogan County Democrats. (3/19/05) Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, for the past year or more, the Washington State Parks Department has been in behind-the-scenes negotiations with The Kirkbride Group, Inc, authorizing them to seek investors whom might potentially privatize some 10 - 12 State Parks; and
WHEREAS, a plan to privatize at least a portion of Saint Edward State Park was unexpectedly released to the public; and
WHEREAS, it appears to the Friends of Saint Edward Park that negotiations with Kirkbride have been intentionally hidden from public view; and
WHEREAS, The Kirkbride Group has found an interested party in McMenamins, an out-of-state company proposing a long-term lease and renovation of the Seminary Building at Saint Edward. This project is to include, "A McMenamins full service restaurant, conference, and recreational and lodging facility, and a pub/theater to be commercially open to the public." McMenamins proposes not only lease of the Seminary building, but includes approximately 20 acres of the immediate surrounding lands from within St. Edward State Park; and
WHEREAS, worst-case rumor states that this new Hotel/Brewpub/Conference Center Complex will take over not only the Seminary Building, but will also control the Gymnasium; the Swimming Pool; and the new playground. McMenamins proposes a roadway to the beach to service a marina on the shore of Lake Washington that will be built to compliment this facility. Indeed, in a letter from McMenamins Pubs and Breweries Chief Financial Officer, dated January 6, 2005, one of several issues needing resolution was McMenamins desire to have the WSPRC (at State expense) upgrade the Park Trail System and grounds including installing an irrigation system. Moreover, on the last undeveloped shoreline on Lake Washington, they requested construction of a public dock and moorage; proposed to put in a parking lot over the entire grassy knoll where the children run and roll in the grass where the 32nd District Democrats had their picnic; and immediately adjacent to the children's playground equipment proposed parking space for the visitors to the pub; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED: The WSDCC supports the Friends of St Edwards in seeking an open, community based planning process to decide whether any changes to St Edward Park are necessary. There must be other, better opportunities for Park development that should be explored. A Community Center is an option that might be considered. There are substantial grants to seek in this regard. With study, The Friends of St Edward believe other options would be open to us for better WSDCCRES - 052 - 050917 - PASS - ENV - Saint Edward State Park use of the Park assets than a brewpub and hotel. The WSDCC joins the Friends in the belief that in a matter so important and with such impact on so beautiful a public asset as Saint Edward State Park, there should be open dialogue between the parties and the public. Factual information must be shared from both sides and input presented for evaluation before any contract is signed; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT: The WSDSCC, The Friends of St. Edward Park and the public need to have more details about this proposal and equal time to provide better alternatives prior to State expenditure of even more tax dollars in pursuance of this controversial project. We call upon State Parks to fully and frankly explain their reasoning not only for the belief that St. Edward Park should be privatized, but also, why the public has not been included in seeking solutions, and,
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats (9/15/05) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Follow Up Information Brokered Partnership List DEVELOPED PROPERTY Green River Gorge Iron Horse/Lake Easton Manchester Olallie St. Edward UNDEVELOPED PROPERTY Elbow Lake (320 acres) Thurston County Haley Property (179 acres) Pierce County Hartstine Island (310 acres) Mason County Lake Newport (164 acres) Spokane County Nisqually Mashel (800 acres) Thurston County Packwood property (175 acres) Lewis County Wolfe property (134 acres) Jefferson County WSDCCRES - 052 - 050917 - PASS - ENV - Saint Edward State Park Here is the list of parks where private investment has been solicited. We contracted with The Kirkbride Group Inc., asking them to seek firms that might want to invest in the parks on the list. To date the sole proposal received is one by McMenamins to use the seminary building at St. Edward State Parks for a conference center, lodging and restaurant. At its August 4 meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission directed staff to assess the proposal made by McMenamins. We initiated a comprehensive planning process for the entire park to ascertain whether the proposal is one that merits approval, or not, by the Commission. The Commission has not approved any private investment at Saint Edward. We expect to complete the planning process in mid-2006 at which time the Commission will have a basis for addressing the specific McMenamins proposal. As background I'd like to identify several other parks with private investment in place. At Blake Island State Park http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Blake Island Tillicum Village http://www.tillicumvillage.com/ is privately owned and operated facility. At Mount Spokane http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Mount Spokane a concessionaire operates a ski facility http://www.mtspokane.com/. At Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Sun Lakes a concessionaire operates the Sun Lakes Resort http://www.sunlakesparkresort.com/. At Fort Worden State Park http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Fort Worden Centru109 m http://www.centrum.org/ brings in entertainment and schedule a variety of activities within the park. Without these examples of private investment within state parks the array of activities and facilities would be less that we currently make available to the public. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Bill Koss Manager, Planning and Research 360-902-8629 bill.koss@parks.wa.gov
WHEREAS, Washington State Democrats support the environmental protection of resources within state and federal waters to ensure that, wherever possible, sustainable use preserve these resources for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the various States exercise control to 3 miles offshore, beyond which the United States Government prevails out to 200 nautical miles from shore; and
WHEREAS, the waters off Washington State are part of a larger ocean ecosystem, and actions taken beyond three miles have consequences for the state's resources, fisheries, economy, and quality of life; and
WHEREAS, there are numerous concerns regarding the economic, social, health and environmental consequences of marine fish farming, both in Federal and State waters, including but not limited to: the spread of disease and parasites; contamination of and competition with wild fish stocks; degradation of water quality; contamination from fish wastes, dead fish, uneaten food and antibiotics; harmful interactions with birds, marine mammals and wildlife; conflicts with commercial and recreational activities; introduction of non-native species; and
WHEREAS, the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission passed a regulation in banning production of genetically engineered fish in Washington waters; and
WHEREAS, federal legislation, Senate Bill 1195, has been introduced that allows US and foreign entities to lease and develop fish farms within the US Exclusive Economic Zone, three to 200 miles offshore; and
WHEREAS, the placement of aquaculture operations in federally managed waters allows state laws and regulations to be circumvented; and
WHEREAS, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has been unwilling to submit a legislative environmental impact statement to Congress on Senate Bill 1195, as required under the National Environmental Protection Act;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party strongly urges our elected officials to respectfully request that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration prepare a legislative environmental impact statement, prior to any Congressional action; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall be sent to the Honorable Patty Murray, the Honorable Maria Cantwell and Washington's Congressional and State Legislative Delegation. WSDCCRES - 067 - 050917 - PASS - ENV - Senate Bill
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Washington State Progressive Caucus of the Democratic Central Committee (9/16/2005) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the National Aquaculture Act of 2005, S.B. 1195, has been introduced to Congress and allows industrial fish farms in our Exclusive Economic Zone, 3-200 miles off our coastline; and
WHEREAS, S.B. 1195 contains no significant environmental protection and places wild fish, marine water quality, and ocean integrity at risk; and
WHEREAS, a legislative environmental impact statement (LEIS) is required for any activity that impacts our human environment; and
WHEREAS, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is required to prepare an LEIS before Congress votes on S.B.1195;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) strongly urge our Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray to require that NOAA prepares the LEIS before Congressional action is taken on S.B. 1195.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores by the 32nd Legislative District and the Democratic Federation of Women (Date
Submitted 11/11/2005). Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed unanimously by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS, dependence on imported petroleum seriously compromises National Security and the environment, and combustion of petroleum is a major source of pollutants that contain critical components increasing global warming; and
WHEREAS, known world petroleum reserves are being depleted; and
WHEREAS, the need for environmentally safe products to ensure human health and continued production of food is increasing; and
WHEREAS, the economy of Washington State needs jobs and new industry, including our agriculture, technology, higher education, trade and manufacturing sectors; and
WHEREAS, petroleum-based fuel additives and pesticides are being removed from the market leaving limited viable alternatives available; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Renewable Fuel Standard and the Bioenergy Loan Program will enhance our energy security by reducing the importation of foreign petrochemicals, and will increase the development of multiple value-added and secondary products made in the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Renewable Fuel Standard and Bioenergy Loan Program will provide incentives for developing a bioenergy industry in Washington State which will provide rural and urban jobs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) supports the Washington State Renewable Fuel Standard and the Bioenergy Loan Program.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by Larry Armstrong (3rd LD SCM), Ian Graham (Spokane County SCM) and Dan Lambert (3rd LD PCO) (Date Submitted 1/19/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, the Columbia Basin Development League has established the water initiative to address the issue of the water level of the Odessa Sub-Area, which is in jeopardy;
WHEREAS, to supply long term support to assure more surface water will become available to the Columbia Basin Project by using surface water from the Columbia River to help replenish the water of the aquifers by replacing well water with surface water;
WHEREAS, the Columbia Basin Project originally authorized 1,095,000 acres using less than 6 % of water from the Columbia River, currently 650,000 acres are irrigated by the project;
WHEREAS, approximately 200,000 acres are irrigated from the Odessa Sub-Area ground water by the use of ground water from deep wells pumping water from the aquifers, causing drastically lowered water table;
WHEREAS, it would be an economic disaster for both the Columbia Basin and the State of Washington if the wells would have to be shut down and no replacement was devised;
WHEREAS, this would improve the environmental issues concerning the aquifers and enhance recreation and wildlife in the area;
WHEREAS, Governor Christine Gregoire has allocated $600,000 to continue the study of the project as matching funds from the Federal Government;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the only way to address the decline of the Odessa Sub-Area is to make more surface water available through the Columbia Basin Project to replenish this water. A large proportion of the project has already been studied and engineered from the planning of the original Columbia Basin Project.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support this important issue and request further support of the Legislative (both State and Federal) action to secure appropriate funding for the expansion of the Columbia Basin Project.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by 9th Legislative District and the Adams County Democrats (Date
Submitted 1/23/2006) WSDCCRES - 096 - 060128 - PASS - ENV - Columbia Basin Water Initiative Adopted by the Agricultural and Rural Caucus at its January 27, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the 26th Legislative District Democrats (Date Submitted 1/23/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, the Artic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) is a pristine wilderness area that is home to caribou, polar bears, musk oxen, arctic foxes, wolverines, grizzlies and snow geese, all of which depend on its fragile, unique ecosystem for survival; and
WHEREAS, ANWR represents the only protected area in the world that includes an intact arctic, sub arctic, and boreal ecosystem, thus retaining the natural dynamics that have existed for thousands of years; and
WHEREAS, the proposed oil and gas development would occur on the 1.5-million acre coastal plain found along the Beaufort Sea, which is the most sensitive area in the entire refuge and any habitat loss that occurs here will impact the entire Arctic Refuge. Its narrowness will limit the alternatives for animals displaced by industrial activity; and
WHEREAS, Geologists estimate that only a few months' supply of oil lies beneath the refuge and that it will take ten years of exploration and development before any reaches the market; and
WHEREAS, promotion of fuel efficiency and conservation would be cheaper and less environmentally damaging than drilling in ANWR; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports continued protection of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, including prohibiting drilling within the Refuge and any disruption to the animals or habitat therein, and establishment of a Wilderness designation to provide permanent protection to the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Submitted by the Chelan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The Committee replaced the "THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED" section of this resolution with the same section from resolution 143. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 142 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Drilling in ANWAR The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the mighty Columbia River is an international resource and its tributaries sustain life in this region by providing water for hydropower generation, agricultural irrigation, municipal and industrial water supplies, navigation, recreation, and anadromous fisheries; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia River is of cultural and religious significance to the native peoples who lived along its banks and fished its waters prior to the arrival of European settlers; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia River system is the 4th largest watershed in the U.S., with 17 million tons of annual cargo; and
WHEREAS, hydropower, our nation's largest renewable resource, accounts for over 90% of all electricity that comes from renewable resources (e.g, solar, geothermal, wind, biomass), hydropower is generated at only 3% of the nations's 80,000 dams; and
WHEREAS, hydropower accounts for 10% of our nation's power, but 80% of the electricity produced in the Northwest is from hydropower, enough to power 13.6 million homes at a very low cost and without the environmental hazards caused by other methods of electricity generation; and
WHEREAS, consumers in Chelan, Douglas, and Grant County enjoy the lowest electricity rates in the nation, and this clean, inexpensive and renewable energy source is a substantial boon to the quality of life and economy of this region, now and for future generations; and
WHEREAS, Governor Christine Gregoire stated in October 2005, "Agriculture is one of the main economic engines of our state and water is the lifeblood of central Washington's agricultural community"; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia Basin region produces 119 different crops, one third of all wheat exports, and Grant, Franklin and Adams counties are the first, second, and fifth largest potato producing counties in the U.S.; and
WHEREAS, the Waluke Slope near Mattawa was recently named a prime wine grape growing region because its soil and climate produce some of the world's best red wine grapes; and
WHEREAS, 2 years ago, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation rescinded a 1993 moratorium placed by the bureau and the state Department of Ecology on any additional water withdrawals from the Columbia River; and WSDCCRES - 144 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Columbia River
WHEREAS, the Columbia River Treaty with Canada will expire in 2024, and, due to many competing interests regarding the river, the Columbia River Task Force is working to find solutions that are acceptable to the public, the Bonneville Power Administration, the U.S. Corps of Engineers and Canada; and
WHEREAS, over 37% of American rivers are not safe for swimming, fishing, or other beneficial uses and the Spokane River, which flows into the Columbia at Roosevelt Lake, has been declared the 7th most polluted river in America; and
WHEREAS, the heart of every healthy community is a healthy river; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia River, which flows 1200 miles from its headwaters to the Pacific Ocean, was once a clean river teeming with fish, but today, its polluted waters violate federal standards for dioxins, heavy metals (including mercury, cadmium, arsenic and lead), temperature and bacteria; and
WHEREAS, the Columbia is contaminated with dangerous chemicals and radioactive waste from the Hanford Nuclear Site and other industrial polluters; and
WHEREAS, Columbia River native salmon are on the brink of extinction, and river fish contamination levels threaten human health; and
WHEREAS, powerful, politically-connected developers are currently attempting to shrink the buffer zone ("riparian management zone") along the Columbia River in Douglas county from the 250 foot width recommended by the state to a mere 50 feet in order to build golf courses and other development projects, which will have a significantly negative impact on wildlife and public access for many generations to come; and
WHEREAS, 170,000 acres of prime potato growing Eastern Washington farm land is currently threatened with losing its productivity due to the sharp decline of the Odessa aquifer caused by deep well drilling which occurred because the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's planned expansion of the Columbia Basin Project was never completed, leaving that area without the necessary irrigation canals; and
WHEREAS, although completing the Columbia Basin Project will be expensive, possibly costing up to $1 billion, it would reduce groundwater pumping dramatically, allowing the aquifer to recharge over time, while reducing the flow of the Columbia River less that 1%; and
WHEREAS, global climate change will increase the probability of winter floods and summer droughts in the Northwest, requiring significant water storage and conservation efforts to prevent shortages; and WSDCCRES - 144 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Columbia River
WHEREAS, water shortage will require off stream reservoirs to catch surface runoff in the winter and use this water for both in stream and out of stream uses and it will be necessary to develop aquifer storage and recovery (known as ASR technology) programs to recharge the basalt aquifers; and
WHEREAS, the 2003 Washington legislature approved $4 million to study the Black Rock project, which would store Columbia River water in a natural "bathtub" between the Columbia and the Yakima Valley, thus saving nearly 900,000 acre-feet of water that is currently being pulled out of the Yakima River, as well as improving fish habitat and providing for local municipal growth; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Legislature has approved a new Columbia River management plan that intends to build new storage reservoirs while preserving water for fish runs, and $200 million has been set aside for storage projects in Eastern Washington; and
WHEREAS, a $50,000 study is evaluating the viability of a new storage reservoir on Campbell Creek near Peshastin; and in Eastern Washington; and
WHEREAS, conservation of significant amount of irrigation water is possible through the use of improved equipment and technology, thus helping to preserve our streams and aquifers; and
WHEREAS, 100 years ago, Congress declared that our national forests must be managed to protect the source of water, as well as provide a steady flow of timber, but vast stretches of burned forests have not been replanted, nor has adequate thinning been done to prevent future fires; and
WHEREAS, attempting to slow down global warming tied to carbon dioxide emissions is essential if adequate mountain snow pack is to be maintained in this region; and
WHEREAS, Washington state lawmakers should carefully study California's 1300 page report, which proposes 50 strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including a proposal to create a market in which emission credits could be be traded between sources, and imposing a surcharge on gasoline to help pay for research into clean fuels; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats support restoration and protection of the water quality of the Columbia River and all life connected to it, from its headwaters to the Pacific Ocean; and
THEREFORE, LET IT BE FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats support water storage measures which would allow farmers to continue WSDCCRES - 144 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Columbia River growing their crops, while simultaneously protecting fish runs and restoring our aquifers; and
THEREFORE, LET IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats support creative, "out of the box" thinking about ways to cope with our future water supply issues caused by population growth and climate change.
Submitted by 12th Legislatvie District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/30/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, over a million gallons of High-Level Nuclear Waste has leaked from tanks at Hanford and the contamination is spreading towards the Columbia River;
WHEREAS, Hanford is the most contaminated area in the Western Hemisphere. Instead of cleaning up the contamination, the Bush Administration continues to fight to use Hanford as a national radioactive waste dump and to rename and abandon High-11 Level Nuclear Waste in leaking tanks;
WHEREAS, The Washington State Democrats supported Initiative 297, requiring cleanup of Hanford before more waste can be dumped, and which the voters of Washington State passed in 2004 with the highest vote ever in state history. However, the federal Energy Department is suing to overturn the will of Washington's Voters in order to use Hanford as a national radioactive waste dump for waste from nuclear weapons plants, and to avoid emptying and cleaning up High-Level Nuclear Waste tanks; and
WHEREAS, tens of thousands of truckloads of radioactive waste would come through our communities from Spokane to Vancouver to Bellevue if Hanford is a national radioactive waste dump;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Washington State Democratic Party that: The Washington State Democratic Party supports the implementation and defense of Initiative 297 adopted by Washington's voters to require cleanup of Hanford and protection of the Columbia River before more waste can be dumped; The Washington State Democratic Party supports the efforts of Senator Maria Cantwell to turn back the Bush Administration's legislation to rename and abandon High-Level Nuclear Waste in leaking tanks (for which she was named Columbia River Protector of the Year); and, the efforts of Washington's Democrats to ensure cleanup is funded The Platform of the Democratic Party of Washington supports the principles adopted by the voters in Initiative 297 that require cleanup of contamination and oppose dumping of more waste at Hanford and use of our State as a national radioactive waste dump. WSDCCRES - 145 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - WA as a Dump for Nuclear Waste
Submitted by the King County Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 05/24/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the National Forests are the property of the citizens of the United States and serve an important purpose in preserving forest ecosystems for planetary health, funding for the Secure Rural School Act; and
WHEREAS, the Bush administration has announced its intention to sell off more than 300,000 acres of national forest land to raise $800 million for rural schools in 41 states; and
WHEREAS, these sales will adversely affect the environment and health of the forest and its ecosystems; and
WHEREAS, a one time sale of assets is not a means to secure sustainable income and will result in an irrevocable loss; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party believes that if money is required to replace funds from the Secure Rural School Act they be obtained from new sources of income, not from one-time sales of public lands.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the national forests can best be managed on a local level;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the USFS/USDA work in an authentic, collaborative process with the local ranger district to bring about active forest restoration for fuel reduction and prevention of catastrophic wild fire.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS our National Forest lands are a treasure for our country and its citizens; and
WHEREAS they are irreplaceable, are an integral part of our national identity, and should be protected as intended when set aside as National Forests; and
WHEREAS 300,000 acres of National Forest land is being considered for sale to raise $800 million for rural schools in 41 states; and
WHEREAS the need for education funding can be met by enforcing a 3% tax on federal contractors and closing a loophole in federal contracts by withholding that 3% up front on federal payments for goods and services delivered by private contractors; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports Senators Max Baucus of Montana and Ron Wyden of Oregon in their plan that would raise $2.6 billion during the next 10 years by closing said tax loophole.
Submitted by Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/04/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the scarcity of crude oil on the world markets has caused wars and alarming increases in prices, which has caused economic hardships in all the countries and markets of the world; and
WHEREAS, the petroleum-based economy contributes to global warming and other degradations of the environment; and
WHEREAS, solar and wind energy can eventually replace the petroleum based economy and should be supported by government; and
WHEREAS, increasing biofuels production will support our farmers and extraction facilities will support our businesses; and
WHEREAS, hybrid vehicles and higher fuel efficiency standards can reduce our dependence on petroleum; and
WHEREAS, the world is fast approaching peak oil supply; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. consumes 20 million barrels of crude oil per day, 56 percent of which is imported;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports policies that explore "alternative/green" fuel sources and increase fuel efficiency, with the goal of converting the United States to 100% renewable and environmentally clean energy sources in the shortest time possible.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party believes the Kyoto Protocol must be accepted and followed by the United States.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we support the NRDCs campaign to move America beyond oil which includes incentives that will encourage American farmers to grow a new generation of biofuels made from plant materials and ensure that gas stations install pumps for these clean-burning fuels.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/08/2006) WSDCCRES - 150 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Alternative Energy and Fuel Efficiency The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, burning fossil fuel is harmful to the environment; and
WHEREAS, American's dependence on fossil fuels has increased our dependence on foreign sources of oil;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the State of Washington use part of its gas tax revenues to support funding of research into alternative energy resources; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the State of Washington use part of its gas tax revenues to support the development of alternative transportation options.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/26/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, oil production in the U.S. peaked in 1970, Natural Gas production peaked in 1974, and Global Oil production is forecast to peak between 2006 and 2015; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. consumes 25% of the worlds current production of petroleum while possessing only 2% of the world's remaining oil; and
WHEREAS, there is no alternative energy source waiting in the background that can replace depleting supplies of petroleum and natural gas; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. population will continue to increase and our need and dependence on energy will continue to increase;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that; 1. The U.S. government immediately convene a commission to determine the long-17 term carrying capacity of the country with the reduced availability of fossil fuels and lack of availability of alternative energy infrastructure to match our present consumption of energy. 2. The U.S. government immediately institute nationwide programs to prepare reduced energy availability; to include a) Rehabilitation of the U.S. railway network. b) Rehabilitation and expansion of mass transit in urban areas. c) Re-localization of agricultural production throughout the country. 3. The U.S. government immediately fund research, development and distribution of renewable energy resources with a clear understanding of the energy return on the energy invested (EROEI).
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 153 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Prepare for Energy Decline The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, unrecycled bottles and cans are a serious threat to our environment; and
WHEREAS, recycled bottles and cans provide for employment and is a good use of our resources;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party support state legislation for a "deposit law" for cans and bottles.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, including more than 2000 scientists world-wide in one of the largest peer-reviewed scientific collaborations in history, is warning that the burning of fossil fuels and release of carbon dioxide into our atmosphere is significantly intensifying global warming; and
WHEREAS, rapid global warming is causing devastating ecological instability as temperature changes outpace the capacity of plant and animal species to adapt; and is contributing to instability in agricultural production, and to increasing breeding rates and ranges of insects and micro-organisms that cause human disease; and
WHEREAS, rapid global warming is accelerating the melting of glaciers and ice sheets world-wide at rates faster than predicted by scientists, as evidenced by the accelerated melting of the Greenland ice sheet, and creating conditions for more frequent and intense storms and rising sea levels threatening to endanger and displace hundreds of millions of people; and
WHEREAS, positive feedback loops, including forest fires caused by increased temperatures releasing additional carbon dioxide and thawing of tundra releasing methane (another potent greenhouse gas), have the potential to further increase rates of global climate change; and
WHEREAS, the Kyoto Protocol objectives are now insufficient to the magnitude of the growing climate crisis, and scientists warn that modest changes in greenhouse gas emissions in developed countries could be swamped by emissions by rapidly developing countries, recommending an urgent global greenhouse gas emissions reduction of 70%; and
WHEREAS, technologies already exist to begin a rapid decrease in carbon emissions through implementing conservation and energy efficiency measures, and building renewable energy infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, economies around the world could be revitalized and enhanced with high quality and meaningful jobs in developing, manufacturing, installing and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, responding to the global climate crisis would also result in achieving the energy independence increasingly promoted by both Democratic and Republican elected officials;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Our WA State Congressional Delegation is urged to actively oppose any Energy Appropriations Bills that do not include a massive and WSDCCRES - 160 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Global Climate Change urgent shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to energy conservation and efficiency, and to renewable energy, including solar, wind, tidal, micro-hydro and non-GMO biomass fuels; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, Our WA State Congressional Delegation is urged to actively write, support and promote legislation to: 1) Reduce U.S. carbon emissions by 5% per year, first through implementing energy conservation and efficiency measures, and then by building renewable energy infrastructure; and 2) Implement a massive transfer of renewable energy technologies to the world's most rapidly growing economies dependent on coal, especially India and China, and to countries that currently derive their economic stability from fossil fuel production, especially countries of the Middle East which are especially suited to solar energy development; and 3) Implement solutions to global warming in proportion to the magnitude of our energy crisis, such as supporting the bipartisan H.R. 507 Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States, in collaboration with other international allies, should establish an energy project with the magnitude, creativity, and sense of urgency that was incorporated in the "Man on the Moon" project to address the inevitable challenges of "Peak Oil", and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Senate and the Assembly of the State of Washington are hereby directed to write and promote legislation for the immediate implementation of a Washington State Greenhouse Gas Action Plan, taking into account the practices and recommendations of other states which have already implemented such a plan.
Submitted by Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006, convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/03/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 160 - 060929 - PASS - ENV - Global Climate Change The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" at its September 29, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its meeting on September 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. From: Rena Patty [mailto:rena@rockisland.com] Sent: Tuesday, September 19, 2006 1:13 PM To: Jaxon Ravens Subject: For Sept 29-30 Resolutions Committee meeting, WSDCC - Resolution - 160 - REFSC - Global Climate Change - edited version Hi Jaxon, I am sending this to you to make certain that this comes through the official channels. In reviewing the work of the Sept 9-10 Resolutions Committee meeting, I noticed that this resolution that we recommended for passage, "WSDCC Resolution - 160 - Global Climate Change", needed some editing to remove excess words, plus a couple other minor "friendly" edits. I asked Jean Brooks about this, and she offered assurance that this is possible and that she would make time to consider these edits at our next meeting. Thank-you again for all your work! Rena Patty, San Juan County SCW
WHEREAS there is a global warming crisis and finite oil reserves; and
WHEREAS current rational political leadership is seriously lacking in this area;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party promote meaningful measures to address this problem to the Democratic National Committee, such as greatly improved CAFE (Corporate Automotive Fuel Standards) standards for all vehicles, tax breaks for hybrid and other low-emission and vehicles that use alternative fuels, and tax fuel inefficient vehicles heavily and;
THEREFORE BE IT ALSO RESOLVED that Washington State's elected officials should work aggressively to ratify our signing of the Kyoto accords. ______________________________________________________
Submitted by the Clallam County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the United States is the biggest user of oil in the world; and
WHEREAS, a major use of oil in the United States is for transportation; and
WHEREAS, there has never been a federal requirement for increased/improved mileage for pick-ups, SUVs and vans, similar to the requirement already in place for passenger cars;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, federal requirements be put in place mandating increased fuel efficiency for pick-ups, SUVs and vans, and that these federal requirements take effect by 2015. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, copies of this resolution are to be sent to our congressional Delegation to begin immediate efforts to obtain passage of such requirements.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-22 Cities. (Date Submitted 6/11/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS, the Republican-controlled Congress passed the 2005 Energy Bill, which granted the presidential-appointee panel at FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) the sole and exclusive authority to site LNG (liquefied natural gas) terminals in the United States, even over the objections of the affected states' governors;
WHEREAS, there are plans to site LNG terminals in the Columbia River estuary near Astoria, as well as at Coos Bay in order to supply California with vast quantities of natural gas after California's citizens and politicians united to adamantly oppose LNG in California's harbors and along their coastlines;
WHEREAS, a typical LNG tanker, which is over 3 football fields long and carries 35 million gallons of LNG--which is the equivalent of 20 billion gallons of natural gas-15 could explode with the energy of 55 Hiroshima bombs, engulfing nearby communities in an inferno;
WHEREAS, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report on Jan. 8, which states that LNG tankers are prime terrorist targets and the Coast Guard is stretched too thin to provide adequate protection for those tankers;
WHEREAS, LNG in the Columbia River estuary creates a threat to critical salmon habitat and each outgoing LNG tanker would take 20 million gallons of fresh water with it as dead weight to stabilize the empty ship ;
WHEREAS, due to the extreme risk of explosion, the Coast Guard requires a 1500-ft. 'safety exclusion zone' on each side of LNG tankers, which would force boaters, recreational and commercial fishermen to the margins of the Columbia River and 24 hour surveillance cameras would invade the privacy of ordinary citizens;
WHEREAS, the National Grange, the oldest farm and rural public interest organization in the United States, vigorously opposes LNG tankers, terminals and pipelines because they threaten public safety, degrade the environment and obstruct the movement of farm products down the Columbia River to market;
WHEREAS, Congressman Brian Baird (D), along with 19th Legislative District representatives Dean Takko (D-Longview), Brian Blake (D-Aberdeen) and state senator Brian Hatfield (D-Raymond) have announced their opposition to LNG in the Columbia River; WSDCCRES - 374 - 080126 - PASS - ENV - LNG and the Columbia River
WHEREAS, other governors have taken has taken a leadership role in fighting LNG, but Gov. Gregoire, Senator Murray and Senator Cantwell are, as yet, unwilling to oppose LNG in the Columbia River;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we, the Washington State Democrats call on each and every one of our Washington state and federal representatives and the Oregon Democratic Central Committee and United States Congressman Wu (D-OR) to oppose LNG in the Columbia River because importing even more foreign fossil fuels is a major step in the wrong direction and the Columbia River should not be exploited as the back door for California's natural gas imports. 1. http://timrileylaw.com/LNG_TANKERS.htm 2. http://www.oregonlive.com/oregonian/stories/index.ssf?/base/editorial/118854 255348196890.xml&coll=7
Submitted by the 12th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/14/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, in one of the largest peer-4 reviewed scientific collaborations in history, has warned that the burning of fossil fuels and the resultant release of carbon dioxide from such non-renewable resources into our atmosphere is significantly intensifying global warming; and
WHEREAS rapid global warming is causing devastating ecological instability via positive feedback loops, including forest fires exacerbated by increased temperatures releasing additional carbon dioxide, have the potential to further increase rates of global climate change; and
WHEREAS woody biomass is a renewable resource which sequesters carbon dioxide during its growth phase; and
WHEREAS our federally-managed forests are over-crowded due to the alteration of natural cycles and constraints on the tools used by resource managers to advance forest health objectives; and
WHEREAS our over-dense national forests increase risk of large-scale, catastrophic, habitat-destroying forest fires; and
WHEREAS technologies exist to collect, process, and utilize the excess woody biomass that has created conditions for forest disease, bug-related devastation, and catastrophic forest fire; and
WHEREAS many forest-based communities in the U.S.A. have been economically injured by harvest suppression; and
WHEREAS economies around the world could be revitalized and enhanced with high quality and meaningful jobs in developing, manufacturing, installing, operating, and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure and strategies involving direct use of woody biomass in electrical/thermal co-generation via established boiler technology; and
WHEREAS responding to the global climate crisis would also result in achieving the energy independence increasingly promoted by the Democratic Party's elected officials; WSDCCRES - 409 - 090425 - PASS - ENV - Renewable Energy from Woody Biomass
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation are urged to actively support and promote U.S. Senate Bill S. 636, which calls for amendment of the Clean Air Act both to define 'woody biomass' and to allow removal of this material from "National Forest System land and public lands"; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation are urged to actively support and promote the immediate addition of direct use of woody biomass in boiler systems and other suitable heating appliances to the federal Renewable Fuel Standard.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 4/14/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS waste vegetable oil (WVO) has a certain value which can be utilized to increase our national energy security by reducing the need for imported petroleum;
WHEREAS millions of gallons of WVO are available in Washington State annually;
WHEREAS municipalities with wastewater treatment facilities struggle with maintenance costs related to keeping gauges, valves and pipes in treatment plants and the sewer system clear;
WHEREAS diverting this material and using it for beneficial purposes such as making it available to petroleum and bio-oil refineries would facilitate biofuel production and increase availability to consumers;
WHEREAS support of this renewable resource would provide a governing effect and help create a stronger market-based floor for biofuels;
WHEREAS the utmost importance when looking at creating policy is to minimize the effect of price volatility; not only for the consumers and end users, but also for the producers of commodities;
WHEREAS the cooking process has altered WVO so that the omega-3 fatty acids have been destroyed and WVO with a fatty-acid content less than eight percent has very little value as a feedstock;
WHEREAS improving water and air quality are important for the continued well-being of many residents of Washington State including the health of spawning beds for salmon and other living life forms;
WHEREAS creating new employment opportunities in the collection of this renewable resource can enhance economies by providing jobs in processing, transesterification, distribution and sales of biofuel derived from WVO;
WHEREAS the current list of eligible biomass needs to be expanded in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 with the inclusion of WVO;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee vigorously encourage the Washington State Congressional Delegation to actively support and advance language in the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 to include waste vegetable oil; and WSDCCRES - 443 - 090926 - PASS - ENV - Waste Vegetable Oil
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to include waste vegetable oil with a fatty-acid content of less than eight percent as an amendment to the list of eligible biomass materials in TITLE 1-CLEAN ENERGY, Subtitle A-47 Renewable Electricity Standard, Section 610 of the Federal Renewable Electricity Standard, American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 9/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS current Washington State rules give the electrical inspectors of Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) electrical inspectors authority to not permit installation of electrical components that do not have an National Electrical Code (NEC) recognized laboratory certification such as UL (Underwriters Laboratory);
WHEREAS many electrical components such as direct current (DC) pumps and controllers do not have UL certificate listing because of the considerable expense involved;
WHEREAS these laboratory certification listings are generally not required in other states;
WHEREAS these electrical components have been installed around the United States and abroad without issue and have been operating safely for many years; and
WHEREAS conservation practices such as solar stock water pumps, temporary irrigation systems to establish tree and shrub plantings and other water pumping systems are now cost prohibitive because of the requirement to obtain component evaluation by Washington L&I approval for every electrical installation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Agriculture and Rural Caucus (ARC) & WSDCC shall work with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries and the Washington State Legislature to adopt rules and policies and enact legislation approving the use of non-listed DC pumps, their controllers, and wind generators that are installed according to applicable NEC and Washington State electrical codes.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date
Submitted 1/5/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS opportunities are limited for counties to collect revenue adequate for providing their required services and important social programs;
WHEREAS many counties in Washington State contain valuable resources such as timber and mineral deposits (of sand, gravel and hard rock);
WHEREAS counties with those mineral resources are denied significant sales tax revenue because so many of the sales are reported out of the county of extraction and the taxes from those sales go to the place of delivery;
WHEREAS by contrast, since 1972 the State Legislature has authorized a 5% tax on private timber harvest with 1% going to the state and 4% going to the direct benefit and use by the county of harvest;
WHEREAS in 1992 the timber harvest tax was extended to state and federal lands;
WHEREAS timber is a renewable resource as compared with sand, gravel and hard rock which are not;
WHEREAS Washington State does receive a minimal income from the "severance fee" it applies to the gross business revenue generated from the sale of sand, gravel and hard rock; and
WHEREAS counties would be more equitably compensated for the extraction and sale of their valuable and non-renewable resource if allowed to enact a local option for a severance fee applied to the extraction of sand, gravel and hard rock;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats and Central Committee submit this resolution and ask their state representatives to sponsor and enact state legislation that will authorize counties, as a local option, to implement a severance fee on sand, gravel and hard rock - to insure those counties are more adequately compensated for the minerals extracted and transferred out of those counties; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats support legislation to authorize counties to implement, as a local option, a severance fee - to insure those counties are more adequately compensated for the minerals that are extracted and subsequently transferred out of those counties. WSDCCRES - 499 - 101009 - PASS - ENV - Sand Gravel Severance
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/29/2010)
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 10/9/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS a lack of employment exists in rural areas of Washington causing poor economic conditions;
WHEREAS one reason this lack of employment exists due to a lack of a labor force trained in skills needed for new technologies;
WHEREAS green technology needs individuals trained to meet their needs; and
WHEREAS green technology also needs venues to set up training facilities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on the State of Washington to pursue any and all means to encourage industries in Green technology to partner with Community Colleges, Local School Districts, and Labor as training facilities for Green technology.
Submitted by the Asotin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/8/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature, for budgetary purposes, is considering integrating the Washington State Conservation Commission (WSCC) with another state agency or agencies; and
WHEREAS unlike other state agencies, the WSCC is nonregulatory, and has the ability, through conservation districts, to provide financial and technical assistance to private landowners without the threat of regulatory action or discipline;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee should work with legislators and the governor to keep the WSCC independent from other state agencies.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 29, 2011 meeting in Olympia. (Date
Submitted 12/18/2011) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 29, 2011 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS high levels of lead and arsenic are particularly dangerous to children, reducing school performance, growth and behavioral and health outcomes;
WHEREAS a number of public schools are rated as hazardous sites because they were built on land where orchardists used lead arsenate pesticide;
WHEREAS the Department of Ecology requested two million dollars in the 2012-13 biennial capital budget for Safe Soils Remediation - Central Washington; and
WHEREAS the Senate's 2011-13 capital budget includes three million dollars for Safe Soils Remediation - Central Washington (new section 3057);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon members of the Washington State Legislature to approve funds for the clean-up of school grounds as proposed in the 2012-2013 Washington State Biennial Budget.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 3/29/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the Yakima River Basin is affected by a variety of water resource constraints that adversely impact ecosystem functions for endangered fish and other aquatic species, and water supply for agriculture, municipal and domestic uses;
WHEREAS demand for irrigation water cannot always be met in years with below-8 average runoff, leading to reduced (pro-rationed) irrigation water for junior water-right holders that in turn reduces farm and related income, and put the basin's perennial crops at extreme risk;
WHEREAS dams, changes in water temperatures, other obstructions and inadequate stream flow block fish passage to Yakima tributaries and spawning grounds;
WHEREAS floodplain modifications and riparian habitat degradation prevent proper floodplain functions;
WHEREAS flow modifications and river operations have affected flows for smolt outmigration, rearing habitat for juvenile salmonids, and other key habitat functions;
WHEREAS surface water rights are fully appropriated in the basin, and groundwater pumping for irrigation, domestic and municipal uses can reduce surface water flows in many locations, and hydraulic continuity between groundwater and surface water in the basin creates uncertainty over the status of groundwater rights, with most of these right junior to surface water rights;
WHEREAS five drought years have occurred in the Yakima Basin since the early 1990s that have severely impacted the basin economy and ecosystem functions, and the potential for future climate change would likely increase the frequency and severity of future droughts;
WHEREAS in March 2011 after 21 months of planning, the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project (YRBWEP) Workgroup, comprised of representatives of the Yakama Nation, federal agencies, Washington State and local governments, an environmental organization (American Rivers ), a local business organization and five irrigation districts unanimously approved the Integrated Plan elements and actions;
WHEREAS the goals of the Integrated Plan are to protect, mitigate and enhance fish and wildlife habitat; provide increased operational flexibility to manage instream flows to meet ecological objectives; and improve the reliability of water supply for irrigation, municipal supply and domestic uses; WSDCCRES - 556 - 120128 - PASS - ENV - Water Resource Management Plan
WHEREAS the Integrated Plan includes seven elements collectively essential for realizing the plan goals: 1) fish passage, 2) structural and operation changes, 3) surface water storage, 4) groundwater storage, 5) habitat protection and enhancement, 6) enhanced water conservation, and 7) market-based reallocation; and
WHEREAS the Integrated Plan also includes an adaptive management framework to address potential future changes in water needs or hydrology, including potential climate change effects;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, endorse the Yakima River Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on our elected state and federal officials and government agency leaders to fully support authorization and appropriations necessary to implement the Integrated Plan, including associated environmental reviews, technical analyses, refinements to specific actions, project designs and program development/implementation, and project permitting and construction.
Submitted by the 14th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/17/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council (HAMTC) was chartered on June 23, to represent the maintenance, operations, fabrication, and laboratory workers on the Hanford Project in support of the newly created Atomic Energy Commission and decades later the United States Department of Energy; and
WHEREAS HAMTC represented employees who faithfully operated and maintained Hanford's numerous facilities in support of nuclear weapons production during World War II, the Cold War, and now the massive environmental cleanup presently underway on the Hanford Project; and
WHEREAS in performance of their jobs in support of the United States Federal Government massive clean-up efforts of America's nuclear legacy, HAMTC represented workers have been and continue to be exposed to some of the most dangerous and hazardous substances on Earth; and
WHEREAS the current Hanford contractors, in a collaborative effort with the United States Department of Energy, are engaged in a deliberate and malicious attempt to reduce, eliminate, modify, erode and undermine the wages, hours of work, benefits and working conditions of HAMTC represented employees; and
WHEREAS any reduction, elimination, modification, erosion, and undermining of, such wages, hours of work, benefits and/or working conditions will most assuredly have serious negative economic impacts to the entire Mid-Columbia region including but not limited to, the numerous small businesses located in and around the Washington State cities of Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Burbank, Finley, Benton City, Kiona, Prosser, Grandview, Sunnyside, Yakima and Selah; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats extend our solidarity to the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council and hereby denounce the collusive attempts demonstrated by the Hanford Contractors and the United States Department of Energy against the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council and its represented workforce; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee also extend their support of solidarity to the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council and hereby denounce the collusive attempts demonstrated by the Hanford Contractors and the United States Department of Energy against the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council and its represented workforce; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will do everything in their power to persuade the United States Department of Energy to cease and desist in their collusion with the Hanford Contractors and compel the Hanford Contractors to negotiate a fair and equitable contract with the Hanford Atomic Metal Trades Council. WSDCCRES - 609 - 130427 - PASS - ENV - Hanford Cleanup
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats and the 04th Congressional District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting. (Submitted 4/19/2013). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS several coal and transportation companies propose to ship millions of tons of coal to Asian markets from the Gateway Pacific Terminal at Cherry Point, Washington;
WHEREAS the proposal could result in more than 400 cape-class ships departing annually from Cherry Point through Washington state waters and on through the narrow Unimak Pass in the Aleutian Islands;
WHEREAS the proposed shipments would number at least 18 transits a day by trains 125-150 cars long and require up to 100 acres of storage for coal and machinery at the Cherry Point stockyard and an average of 5.3 million gallons of water per day to cool stockpiled coal;
WHEREAS the Cherry Point stockyard is located on a well documented 3,500-year-old Lummi village site and lies within an 1,100-acre archaeological project area, including a site (45WH1) listed on the Washington Register of Historic Places;
WHEREAS environmental risks are unavoidable in shipping coal in open railroad containers and in shipment through adjacent marine waters that are critical for crabbing and for herring and salmon fisheries, not only in the Salish Sea but throughout the Strait of Juan de Fuca;
WHEREAS vessel routes and associated risks represent unavoidable interference with treaty rights and all fishing in the Salish Sea and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, as well as neighboring Pacific Ocean waters, all involving the existence of more than 60,000 jobs in the commercial and sport fisheries;
WHEREAS one of the proponent companies, PIT/SSA Marine, agreed to a settlement in a lawsuit that established that the company had engaged in unpermitted bulldozing at the site for the sake of financial gain;
WHEREAS bunkering coal ships in Port Angeles Harbor would create mitigation expenses and present risks of environmental damage; and
WHEREAS we support protecting the natural environments of all ports not just Cherry Point and other areas would be affected. WSDCCRES - 646 - 130921 - PASS - ENV - Coal Trains
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party opposes permitting or siting to allow the transportation of any additional coal through the state of Washington or Cherry Point; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party opposes the Cherry Point proposal and requests our Washington state and federal elected officials to oppose transporting coal through the state of Washington for export at Cherry Point.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/21/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee had "NO RECOMMENDATION" on this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS the commercial and recreational salmon fishing activities are both providing economic benefits to Washington State;
WHEREAS millions of dollars (federal, state, local and tribal) have been spent during the past decade on projects addressing the coastal and inland waters of the state in efforts to protect native salmon stock listed as threatened or endangered by the Endangered Species Act;
WHEREAS hundreds of citizen volunteers have donated thousands of hours to restoration of native salmon runs, and tribes have invested millions in restoring and maintaining healthy salmon runs; and
WHEREAS the Puget Sound Partnership and its Action Agenda and other regional plans were created to expand and enhance the restoration efforts;
WHEREAS the task of the Puget Sound Partnership (PSP) is to "ensure" (as endorsed by former Governor Christine Gregoire in the preamble to the PSP) that the Sound will forever be a thriving, natural system with clean marine and fresh waters, healthy and abundant native species, natural shoreline and places for public enjoyment and vibrant economy that prospers in productive harmony with a healthy Puget Sound;
WHEREAS WAC-173-26-201 (3)(E)(iii) requires that County's Shoreline Master Programs "shall achieve no net loss of ecological function and address the cumulative impacts on shoreline ecological function that would result from future shoreline development and uses that are reasonably foreseeable";
WHEREAS all the environmental challenges to aquaculture listed in NOAA's Draft Aquaculture Policy (Feb 2011), to wit "nutrient and chemical wastes, water use demands, aquatic animal diseases and invasive species, effects on protected and sensitive marine areas, potential competition and genetic effects on wild species, effect on endangered or protected species, effects upon habitat for other species, and use of forage fish for aquaculture feeds", are all risks related to Atlantic Salmon Fish Farms;
WHEREAS WAC173-26-201 (2)(f) states that SMPs "be designed to achieve overall improvements to ecological functions over time when compared to the status upon adoption";
WHEREAS WAC 173-26-201 (3)(f)(111)(c) states that shoreline ecological functions in marine waters include "removing excessive nutrients and toxic compounds";
WHEREAS the indication of a highly contagious and lethal Infectious Salmon Anemia (ISA) virus has been discovered in juvenile Sockeye Smolt in British Columbia; WSDCCRES - 568 - 120128 - PASS - AGR - Moratorium on Fish Pens Page 2 of 2 WSDCCRES - 657 - 140201 - PASS - ENV - In-water Fin-Fish
WHEREAS that virus, discovered in Canada, tested positive to the European strain of ISA and suggests there is a likelihood of it having originated from Atlantic Salmon Fish Farms;
WHEREAS no country has gotten rid of the ISA virus once the virus arrives; and
WHEREAS Washington State Environmental Policy Act of 1971 (SEPA) RCW Chapter 43.21c states that: "Master Program shall indicate that, where required, mitigation shall be applied in the following sequence of steps in order of priority with (e)(i)(A) of this subsection being top priority - (A) avoiding the act altogether by not taking a certain action";
WHEREAS the WSDCC Resolutions committee revisited Resolution 568 at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver, WA;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, recognizing the significance and validity of the precautionary principle, submit this resolution and to urge the Governor to issue a moratorium on all new in- water fin fish net-pen aquaculture for Atlantic Salmon in the Coastal waters of Washington State until there is peer-reviewed evidence in place ensuring there is essentially no risk to native salmon runs.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/28/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Washington State has the most restrictions on voting by ex-felons in the nation, worse than any other state;
WHEREAS ex-felons in Washington State cannot vote until after they have paid in full all restitution and fees, resulting in more than 15,000 citizens being disenfranchised every year;
WHEREAS hundreds of felons who have paid their debts do not get their voting rights restored due to inadvertent bureaucratic errors;
WHEREAS the American Correctional Association (ACA) has called for ending the practice of withholding voting rights from parolees and people who have completed their prison terms;
WHEREAS current laws serve no correctional purpose and can contribute to recidivism by excluding ex-felons and their families from the civic mainstream;
WHEREAS requiring payment of all legal financial obligations (debts) prior to voting may be deemed a poll tax; and
WHEREAS other people with debt are allowed to vote;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Legislature enact laws restoring the voting rights of ex-offenders upon release from incarceration and completion of parole; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire and all members of the Democratic Caucuses in the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the cost of elections to public office have been escalating dramatically in Washington and the nation, including record-breaking spending on the last Washington Governor's race;
WHEREAS large contributions from corporate interests and the wealthy often create a conflict of interest and an appearance of ethical compromise for legislators in casting votes in a manner that best serves the people of their districts;
WHEREAS this constant need for more and more money to campaign undermines our system of government;
WHEREAS elected officials must now spend a great portion of their time soliciting contributions in order to finance their past and future campaigns;
WHEREAS many highly qualified and motivated people who could serve in office cannot compete with the incumbents or the rich;
WHEREAS the public is becoming increasingly disenchanted with the apparent effects of the current system on candidates for office;
WHEREAS publicly financed elections of Clean Money campaigns are currently in place and working well in Arizona, Connecticut and Maine;
WHEREAS the money it costs to pay for Clean Money Campaigns would be more than offset by stopping the hundreds of millions of dollars of taxpayer money wasted annually on benefits to special interests; and
WHEREAS the Clean Money system would make elected officials accountable to the people, not special interests;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee favors publicly financed elections, will press for their implementation, and will work with legislators and others to achieve this objective; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to Governor Christine Gregoire and all members of the Democratic Caucuses in the Washington State Legislature. 2008SCRES - 085 - 080614 - PASS - GOV - Clean Elections Resolution.doc
Submitted by the Lewis County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS much of the cost of the invasion and occupation of Iraq has been funded by emergency supplemental bills that are not included in the federal budget;
WHEREAS emergency spending is exempt from caps on discretionary spending, so that unrelated items are more easily added to the bills; and
WHEREAS tax cuts in effect during the war and occupation have reduced current government revenue so that the money spent on the Iraq war has essentially been put "on a credit card" to be paid for by future generations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on Congress to insist that all funding for the occupation of Iraq-and all future conflicts-be included in the federal budget so that the effects of such spending on the entire budget will be public and scrutinized; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation, all Democratic congressional candidates in Washington State, and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the 46th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS free and fair elections in which every vote is counted according to the voter's intent are a vital component of representative democracy;
WHEREAS performance auditing of records and complex equipment is standard practice for both business and research enterprises, but not for elections departments;
WHEREAS there is currently no national standard for mandatory auditing of vote tabulation equipment;
WHEREAS private ownership of voter registration data and election results is inconsistent with representative democracy;
WHEREAS Washington's 2004 gubernatorial votes were not recounted in Snohomish County because the data was proprietary (and there was no independent voter-16 verifiable record of ballots cast), even though there were many documented complaints from voters who had attempted to vote for Gregoire but had their votes switched to Rossi;
WHEREAS complaints about machine malfunctions tabulated in 2004 showed that 98% were complaints about attempting to vote for Kerry and having the vote switched to Bush; and
WHEREAS Minnesota, in 2006, successfully implemented a mandatory auditing system for its optically scanned paper ballots;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the use of proprietary software be eliminated and replaced by open-source software developed and owned by a public entity;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a mandatory system similar to that currently in use by Minnesota for auditing optical scanning machines by random hand counts be required nationally;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that direct electronic recording of votes be banned nationally and that paper ballots be the legal ballots of record; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that current systems for duplication of paper ballots in the event of rejection by centralized optical scanning machines be retained, rather than be replaced by electronic images which, when altered, eliminate the original data; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State 2008SCRES - 095 - 080614 - PASS - GOV - Resolution on Election Integrity.doc Congressional Delegation, Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire, Washington State Secretary of State Sam Reed and all members of the Democratic Caucuses in the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the 46th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS House Bill 808, to create a United States Department of Peace and Nonviolence, was introduced in the United State House of Representatives on Feb 5, 2007, and since then has won the sponsorship of at least 68 members of the House;
WHEREAS H.B. 808 provides for establishment of a cabinet-level department headed by a Secretary of Peace and Nonviolence, who will advise the President on issues both domestic and international in scope, giving peace a place, voice and budget at the highest levels of government;
WHEREAS current levels of violence are very costly to society in the United States, with 1,886,667 confirmed cases of children wounded and 2,917 children killed by abuse and neglect from March 2003 to April 2005, and an average of 15 young people (ages 10 to 24) killed daily by gang violence in 2004;
WHEREAS H.B. 808 will benefit this state and other states by (1) supporting existing programs and developing new programs to address and reduce the number and frequency of incidents of domestic violence, child and spousal abuse, school violence, gang violence, gun violence and hate crimes, (2) developing and distributing peace and nonviolence curricula to the states and their schools, and (3) encouraging and supporting development of conflict resolution and violence-prevention initiatives from within the community;
WHEREAS the proposed Department of Peace and Nonviolence will promote international peace and reduce military costs by (1) providing for exchanges between the United States and other nations to support domestic and international peace-based initiatives, (2) sponsoring conflict prevention and dispute resolution initiatives to address the root sources of conflict in troubled regions, and (3) providing training for personnel to administer post-conflict aid, demobilization and reconstruction in war-torn societies; and
WHEREAS many local governmental agencies, including 28 cities, have passed resolutions in support of the legislation to establish a Department of Peace and Nonviolence, as have many national and international organizations including, but not limited to, Amnesty International, Center for Nonviolent Communication, Institute for Multi-Track Diplomacy, Physicians for Social Responsibility, September 11 Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, Fellowship of Reconciliation, Pax Christi USA, School Mediation Center, Veterans for Peace, and Youth for Environmental Sanity;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge our Washington State Congressional Delegation to sponsor the Department of Peace and Nonviolence legislation in the United States Senate and to co-sponsor such legislation (H.B. 808) in the House of Representatives; 2008SCRES - 098 - 080614 - PASS - GOV - Resolution on the DoP.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge our Washington State Legislature to pass a resolution in support of legislation to establish a United States Department of Peace and Nonviolence, giving peace a place, voice and budget at the highest levels of government; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation, Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire and Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the 46th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the precinct is the primary organizational unit of the Democratic Party;
WHEREAS under RCW 29A.16.040 (3) "Precincts in which voting machines or electronic voting devices are used may contain as many as nine hundred active registered voters";
WHEREAS precincts as large as this are difficult, if not impossible for a single PCO to effectively canvass and organize;
WHEREAS precinct caucuses for precincts of this size easily become too large too allow meaningful discussion and debate, thus harming the democratic process and defeating much of the purpose of holding a caucus instead of a primary; and
WHEREAS the party building virtues of the caucus system make it desirable to continue using it to select presidential delegates;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party supports the amendment of RCW 29A.16.040 (3), replacing the language cited above with, "Precincts may contain as many as four hundred active registered voters"; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire, Washington State Secretary of State Sam Reed, Washington State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Washington State Speaker of the House Frank Chopp.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the Walla Walla County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/28/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party is committed to national and global security for the American people and the peoples of other nations AND to domestic needs for health, education, healthcare, and community and economic development AND to fiscal responsibility in the budgeting and appropriation of citizens' tax dollars; and
WHEREAS military expenditures by the U.S. and its allies continue to far outstrip those of potential adversaries; and
WHEREAS a foreign policy based on worldwide military domination is both inconsistent with fundamental American values and less cost-effective than a policy that would address the underlying causes rather than merely the symptoms of international and civil conflict; and
WHEREAS both our nation's security and our domestic needs are regularly shortchanged in the federal budget because, in part, of special interest demands for costly weapons systems, some of which were designed for Cold War use, some of which fail to fulfill their design expectations, and some of which are perpetuated primarily to provide jobs and win elections in states or Congressional districts; and
WHEREAS investing tax dollars in healthcare, education, mass transit, or home weatherization construction has been shown to create more jobs than investing an equivalent amount in military expenditures; and
WHEREAS Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, like many others, has called for "a dramatic increase in spending on the civilian instruments of national security-28 diplomacy, strategic communications, foreign assistance, civic action and economic reconstruction and development";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) calls for reapportioning federal budgetary allocations with particular regard to U.S. foreign policy by (a) working vigorously to eliminate unnecessary military expenditures, (b) refraining from deficit financing of military activities, (c) restoring and expanding our diplomatic assets, (d) supporting civilian conflict resolution, stabilization, reconstruction and reconciliation programs, (e) fully funding the United Nations for both its regular budget and its peacekeeping operations, and (f) providing adequate funding for the U.S. Institute of Peace; and 2008SCRES - 359 - 080614 - PASS - GOV - Rebalancing the National Security Budget.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to the Washington State Democratic Congressional Delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS we believe honest stewardship of the public money and credit is essential to social justice;
WHEREAS we believe a transparent government governs best, and a transparent monetary system is essential to a stable, sustainable economy that avoids squandering resources;
WHEREAS the Fed can enter into agreements with foreign central banks and foreign governments;
WHEREAS the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is prohibited from reviewing Fed agreements;
WHEREAS the Fed has refused legal requests to make a public accounting of the funds popularly known as TARP funds;
WHEREAS it recently became public knowledge that the Fed secretly bailed out investment bank Bear Stearns and kept it secret for two years;
WHEREAS by promoting open and transparent government, an audit of the Board of Governors of the Fed will promote trust in government and bring accountability to the Federal Reserve System;
WHEREAS HR 1207 "The Federal Reserve Transparency Act" has 319 bipartisan cosponsors, more than the majority needed to pass a bill through the House, and S 604 has 32 bipartisan cosponsors in the Senate;
WHEREAS the Constitution of the US gives Congress the sole authority to coin money and regulate its value and auditing the Fed will allow Congress to assert its Constitutional authority over monetary policy and to help protect the value of the US dollar;
WHEREAS the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (FED) is responsible for hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer monies appropriated as part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008;
WHEREAS the FED's deals with foreign central banks are not published in Congressional reports, and many assets and liabilities of the Federal Reserve Banks are not published anywhere; 2010SCRES - 087 - 100626 - PASS - GOV - Federal Reserve Audit (37th II).doc
WHEREAS auditing means the complete books, and all monies given as "bailouts" to any party, corporation, international bank, and government needs to be public information, including who received money, how much was received and on what it has been spent; and
WHEREAS the House of Representatives recently passed a financial reform bill that included a complete audit of the Federal Reserve (H.R. 1207), and the Senate passed a financial reform bill that did not include a full audit of the Federal Reserve, and the House and Senate versions of the financial reform bill must be reconciled, which will result in a one-time partial audit;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call upon Congress to immediately pass, and President Barack Obama to sign into law, S 604, which would require a full and complete audit of the Federal Reserve System, and that the results be immediately provided to Congress;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon completion of the audit, the results be immediately provided to the United States Congress and through the Congress to the People of the United States of America; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be transmitted to the members of Congress representing the State of Washington along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 37th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Foreign Policy, Government and Political Reform, and the Military. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the "top two" primary voting in Washington State has weakened political party identification;
WHEREAS the major political parties are the strongest organizations bringing information to the voters during the campaign season; and
WHEREAS the multi-party system has historically served the country well in promoting dialogue, bringing consensus on issues, and promoting majority rule in the legislatures;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will support efforts to include voluntary party identification utilizing a Democrat, Republican, or Other check-off at the time of voter registration or voter change of address; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Foreign Policy, Government and Political Reform, and the Military. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS corporations currently exert undue influence over elected federal and state officials and the legislative process due to campaign contributions by their officers, employees and PACs;
WHEREAS the recent Supreme Court Citizen's United decision will make corporate corruption of the system even worse by allowing corporations to fund unlimited advertising in support or in opposition to a candidate;
WHEREAS, when voters in November, 2008 exit polls were asked what issue was very important in determining their vote that day, the top answer-ahead of terrorism, the wars, healthcare, and the economy-was "ethics and corruption";
WHEREAS polling shows that 80% of Democrats, 78% of Independents, and 65% of Republicans support public funding of federal elections, as do all demographic and geographic subgroups;
WHEREAS polling also shows that voters believe that, under public financing, candidates will win office based on their ideas, not the money they raise, that politicians will more accountable to the voters instead of large contributors, and that the special interests will receive fewer favors, tax breaks and legislative concessions;
WHEREAS the Fair Elections Now Act, which would create an option system of public financing, is modeled after successful systems in Maine and Arizona that have provided an alternative to the "pay to play" systems for a number of political cycles and which have withstood constitutional challenges;
WHEREAS public financing in some form is used in virtually every other democracy on the planet;
WHEREAS the average cost of winning a Senate campaign is expected to exceed $8 million in 2010 and that of a House campaign is nearly $1.5 million, both historic highs;
WHEREAS the percentage of total contributions coming from small donors ($200 or less) in Congressional races has dwindled in each election cycle this past decade and hit an all-time low of 11% in 2008;
WHEREAS public office holders spend inordinate amounts of time raising funds to the detriment of governance and what they were elected to do; and 2010SCRES - 094 - 100626 - PASS - GOV - Public Financing of Elections (Benton).doc
WHEREAS Senator Maria Cantwell and 16 other Senators and more than half of the House Democratic caucus including Jim McDermott and Adam Smith are co-sponsors of The Fair Elections Now Act;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports the Fair Elections Now Act and commends Senator Cantwell and Reps. McDermott and Smith for their co-sponsorship;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon other members of our Congressional delegation (Murray, Larsen, Dicks, Baird and Inslee) to immediately co-sponsor the Act and push for its passage in the current legislative session;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a system for Public Funding of State-55 level campaigns be established with the active backing of the Washington State Democratic Party; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Foreign Policy, Government and Political Reform, and the Military. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the present rules of the United States Senate permit the threat of filibuster to delay or prohibit any proposed legislation lacking a 60 vote super-majority; and
WHEREAS Senator Tom Harkin is preparing legislation to reform this rule which would allow delay for a period of time, perhaps a month, but finally, a majority vote of would pass a bill;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Senator Murray and Senator Cantwell be urged to join Senator Harkin in writing and passing legislation to alter or abolish the filibuster rule so that majority rule is restored to the Senate; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Foreign Policy, Government and Political Reform, and the Military. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the United States of America public government is based on "one person, one vote";
WHEREAS it is alarming that recent aggressive actions have been taken to suppress voting in public elections;
WHEREAS many states have legislated unique similar rules that suppress and exclude certain voters and/or demographic groups; and
WHEREAS suppressive voting tactics need to be stopped by way of punishment for any person or group engaging in the unlawful practice of voter suppression,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party calls upon the Washington State Congressional Delegation to lead the effort to defend the freedom to vote by instituting a law to protect voters and their votes from voter suppression and to punish those who seek to interfere with the voting rights of U.S. citizens.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS local political office holders are chosen from electoral districts so as to adhere to the American ideal of representative democracy;
WHEREAS racial and ethnic minorities are under-represented in local elected office in some areas of the state where at-large voting systems are combined with racially polarized voting; for example, in the ten counties with the largest Latino population, Latinos are 33% of the population but only 4% of local elected officials; 99% of local elections in those counties are at-large and only 1% are single-district elections.
WHEREAS the Washington State Voting Rights Act, as proposed in HB 2612 and SB 6381, would provide protected classes of state voters with the ability to challenge an at-14 large voting system in Superior Court, where it can be determined whether that system is combined with racially-polarized voting so as to make it nearly impossible, statistically, for candidates of color to be elected to local office;
WHEREAS the Washington State Voting Rights Act provides for the creation of a district-based election system as the result of a successful challenge to an at-large voting system; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Voting Rights Act avoids recourse to the Federal courts, thereby providing local control and the opportunity to develop local remedies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats endorse the Washington Voting Rights Act and urge all members of our State Legislature to work for passage of the Washington Voting Rights Act.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Grand Coulee Dam is host to over 400,000 visitors annually; and
WHEREAS the current position of the statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt is hidden behind the dam;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Bureau of Reclamation at the U.S. Department of the Interior to relocate the statue of Franklin D. Roosevelt to a more prominent location at the Grand Coulee Dam.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Article 1 Section 8 Clause 7 of the United States Constitution empowers Congress to establish post offices and post roads;
WHEREAS the United States Postal Service is a vital component of this country's economic and communications infrastructure, handling and delivering 160 billion pieces of mail and generating more than $65 billion in revenues annually, while receiving no taxpayer funding;
WHEREAS the mailing industry, which employs 8 million Americans, generates over $1 trillion in annual revenues and represents approximately 7% of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP), depends on the U.S. Postal Service's invaluable mail processing, retail service and delivery networks six days a week;
WHEREAS the U.S. Postal Service is the only private company or federal agency required by Congress to pre-fund future-retiree health premiums for 75 years into the future per the Postal Accountability Act, and to do so within a 10-year period, thus entailing a crippling $5.5 billion annual payment which has led to service cuts;
WHEREAS states that vote almost entirely by mail, such as Washington, are especially dependent on full and reliable mail service for timely exercise of their voting franchise;
WHEREAS the Postal Service is the second largest employer of U.S. Veterans, who comprise over 22% of its present workforce;
WHEREAS rural communities, many of which do not have access to the Internet, remain dependent on the Postal Service for vital communications and for the shipment and receipt of goods; and
WHEREAS many Americans, particularly senior citizens, depend on the Postal Service for receipt of their prescription drugs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge and expect the Washington State delegation to Congress to support postal-reform legislation to stabilize Postal Service finances by reforming or eliminating the unique requirement of pre-funding future retiree health benefits, and thereby (1) secure the continuation of six-37 day mail delivery, (2) strengthen and protect the Postal Service's invaluable mail processing, retail service and delivery networks that together comprise a vital part of our nation's infrastructure, (3) retain door-to-door service for over 30 million households and businesses, and (4) preserve the United State Postal Service into the foreseeable future; and 2014SC - 083 - 140621 - PASS - GOV - Protecting USPS (multiple)
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to the President and Vice President of the United States, the Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate, the Washington State Delegation to Congress, the Postmaster General, the Post Office Unions.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats, the Kittitas County Democrats, the Pierce County Democrats, and the Skagit County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Government and Political Reform at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS we postmodern people are no longer dependent on natural light to do most of our work;
WHEREAS switching to and from Daylight Saving Time creates challenges and problems;
WHEREAS two other states have already eliminated Daylight Saving Time; and
WHEREAS businesses, farms, schools, etc. that want to get up or open up or stay up or close up earlier or later can easily change their business hours (as, for example, many churches change their hours of services in summer from the hours of services in winter);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State will eliminate Daylight Saving Time in 2017.
Submitted by the Grant County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS free and fair elections are essential to American democracy and effective self-governance;
WHEREAS in Citizens United versus Federal Election Commission, the United States Supreme Court held that independent spending on elections by corporations and other groups could not be limited by government regulation, a decision that allows for unlimited corporate spending in elections;
WHEREAS in reaching its decision in Citizens United, the Supreme Court interpreted the First Amendment of the Constitution to afford corporations the same free speech protections as natural persons;
WHEREAS the Citizens United decision has proven to be one of the Court's most controversial decisions and supersedes state and local efforts to regulate corporate activity in their campaign finance laws;
WHEREAS, in his eloquent dissent, Justice John Paul Stevens stated that "[c]orporations have no consciences, no beliefs, no feelings, no thoughts, no desires. Corporations help structure and facilitate the activities of human beings, to be sure, and their 'personhood' often serves as a useful legal fiction. But they are not themselves members of 'We the People' by whom and for whom our Constitution was established"; and
WHEREAS members of Congress are seeking to amend the Constitution in order to reverse the Citizens United decision and establish that corporations are not entitled to the entirety of protections of natural persons;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats respectfully disagree with the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution in Citizens United regarding the rights of corporations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on Congress to begin the process of amending the Constitution to provide that corporations are not entitled to the entirety of protections or "rights" of natural persons, specifically so that the expenditure of corporate money to influence the electoral process is no longer a form of constitutionally protected speech.
Submitted by the Grant County Convention. 2016SCRES - 042 - 160618 - RECP - GOV - Citizens United (Grant) The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court in Shelby County v. Holder, June 2013, destroyed the heart of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by overturning Sections 4 and 5, and enabling states and local governments to change their electoral laws without advance notification of the U.S. Department of Justice;
WHEREAS the Supreme Court ruling freed Arizona and eight other states and many counties and municipalities to adopt policies and practices which have had an inimical effect on the rights of eligible voters to exercise the franchise;
WHEREAS one outrageous result has been the purge of 126,000 Democratic voters from rolls in Kings County, New York, a jurisdiction which had been required to get federal approval prior to changing its voting changes, due to a history of voting discrimination;
WHEREAS another outrageous result was the Maricopa County, Arizona reduction of polling places from 200 locations in the recent past to 60 this year, mainly in mostly-18 Hispanic neighborhoods, resulting in voters having to wait in lines up to five (5) hours; and
WHEREAS the Voting Rights Act prevented these and other acts of malfeasance for every presidential election for 50 years;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention calls on Congress to reintroduce Sections 4 and 5 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, and make every effort to enact those sections into law and to restore protection for all voters throughout the nation.
Submitted by the Pierce County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the public's confidence in our elected political institutions is extremely low today, causing many to question whether their concerns are being heard or addressed by our elected representatives;
WHEREAS the public also lacks confidence in the electoral methods used to elect those representatives;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 2016 Washington State Democratic Party Convention calls upon the Washington State Democratic Central Committee to convene a work group within one year, incorporating members drawn from diverse ranks of the Democratic Party, with a broad mission to review various electoral system models, including Instant Runoff Voting (IRV), single-member versus multi-member districts, and proportional representation; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this work group will prepare a report on possible electoral structures and processes in Washington State that will increase public participation and confidence in elected governments in our state; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this report will be brought to the membership of the Democratic Party of Washington within two years of the convening of the work group.
Submitted by the Thurston County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS it is in our best interest to have a more comprehensive incorporation of all available electors;
WHEREAS a well-functioning democracy depends on the participation of its citizens;
WHEREAS many States have nevertheless attempted to implement measures of voter suppression; and
WHEREAS voter suppression measures can be counteracted by implementing broad voter recruitment and expanding voter rights;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, recommend that all citizens be automatically enrolled as voters when they go to the DMV to obtain or renew a driver's license or other form of government ID; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in order to safeguard individual choice, this measure would also allow citizens to opt out of registering at time of obtaining or renewing a driver's license.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the United States Congress held hearings after the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania, called the Joint Congressional Inquiry into 9/11, and released an 800 page report on those hearings;
WHEREAS the final chapter of that report, totaling 28 pages, was summarily classified by President George W. Bush;
WHEREAS that final chapter purports to establish the role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its associated charities, princes, and other participants in financing and orchestrating the 9/11 attacks;
WHEREAS former U.S. Senator Bob Graham (D-Fl) who chaired the Congressional hearings, and has demanded the declassification of the 28 pages, has stated to the press that the Saudis have been involved in spawning all of the Jihadi terror networks including Al Queda and ISIS;
WHEREAS there was a letter to President Bush in 2003 to declassify the 28 pages, and that letter was signed by 46 US Senators, including Tom Harkin, John Kerry, Joe Biden, and Hillary Clinton, and there are now two bills in the Congress to release the 28 pages, H.Res.14 with 42 bipartisan sponsors in the House, and S.1471 with 3 bipartisan sponsors in the Senate;
WHEREAS the call to release the 28 pages has been endorsed by the leaders of the 9/11 Commission, Gov. Tom Keane and Rep. Lee Hamilton, and has been endorsed by many other prominent leaders including Admiral John Lehman and Senator Bob Kerry, among others; and
WHEREAS we owe it to the families of the victims of 9/11 and to the victims themselves, as well as to the troops that have been sent into battle, to tell the truth once and for all as to who perpetrated the attack on our soil; therefore,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party hereby calls upon the Congress of the United States, both the Senate and the House, to pass H.Res.14 and S.1471, with all due haste, and to compel the de-classification of the 28 page chapter of the 9/11 report; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls for the de-classification of the 28 page chapter of the Congressional 9/11 Report. 2016SCRES - 096 - 160618 - RECPA - GOV - Declassify Congressional Joint Inquiry
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS Washington State Senate Bill 5553 proposes the establishing of a Washington Investment Trust (a publically owned state bank);
WHEREAS this Trust is patterned after the Bank of North Dakota, which receives deposits from the State of North Dakota, does most of its lending in partnership with local banks and credit unions, and which has successfully met the banking needs of the businesses and people of North Dakota since 1919;
WHEREAS in the proposed Bill, the Washington State legislature finds that there are significant unmet public infrastructure needs in the State;
WHEREAS the State of Washington currently deposits its revenue funds into a for-14 profit, out-of-state financial institution to meet its day-to-day obligations;
WHEREAS Washington State's funds, as well as fees paid to this account, can be used to benefit shareholders of the for-profit institution in ways that may or may not benefit the taxpayers of Washington State;
WHEREAS the State of Washington also pays interest to for-profit financial institutions to fund its debt obligations, and again, these interest payments may or may not benefit the taxpayers of Washington State;
WHEREAS a Washington Investment Trust (state bank) will avoid paying transactions fees to a for-profit bank and assure that money deposited in the Trust will benefit the taxpayers of Washington State;
WHEREAS the Trust could also allow taxpayers to make deposits into the Trust and allow these funds to be used to pay State financial obligations;
WHEREAS any interest earnings in excess of those necessary for the continued sound operation of the Trust could be deposited to the State's general fund; and
WHEREAS the mission of the Trust should be to use the money that Washington State currently deposits in a for-profit bank in ways to benefit the people and economy of the State;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention urges our state legislature to pass Senate Bill 5553 (creation of a Washington Investment Trust or state bank), to facilitate investment in and financing of vital public infrastructure. 2016SCRES - 099 - 160618 - RECPA - GOV - State Bank
Submitted by the Benton County Democratic Central Committee. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS there is no evidence that executions deter crime;
WHEREAS more than 150 men and women have been released from death row since 1978, having been proven to be innocent, and since 2014 it has been proven that at least four men were executed who were innocent;
WHEREAS as of Jan 1, 2016, there were 2,943 death row inmates;
WHEREAS a report from the General Accounting Office concluded that those who murdered whites are more likely to be sentenced to death than those who murdered blacks;
WHEREAS politics and the quality of legal counsel as well as location of the crime are often determining factors in the use of the death penalty;
WHEREAS 140 nations worldwide have abandoned the death penalty leaving the United States in the company of Iraq, Iran, North Korea and China as advocates and users of the death penalty;
WHEREAS 19 states in the U.S. and the District of Columbia have already abolished the death penalty and 4 have a governor-imposed moratorium on it;
WHEREAS a death penalty trial is 20 times more expensive than a trial seeking life without parole; and
WHEREAS many people believe the death penalty violates the 8th Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibiting cruel and unusual punishment however it is carried out;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention advocate for the abolishment of the death penalty and for commuting the sentences of people currently on death row throughout the United States and its territories to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. 2016SCRES - 128 - 160618 - RECPA - GOV - Abolish the Death Penalty The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS it is clear that the current Majority Senate leadership and majority members are on public record as opposing Article 2 of the Constitution to which they have sworn to uphold;
WHEREAS Article 2 states that "He (the President) shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, to make treaties, provided two thirds of the Senators present concur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States, whose appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by law: but the Congress may by law vest the appointment of such inferior officers, as they think proper, in the President alone, in the courts of law, or in the heads of departments"; and
WHEREAS there have been immediate and repeated public declarations of intent to oppose and refuse fulfillment of their duties to provide advice and consent of the said appointee(s) to the Supreme Court as prescribed in Article 2 of the Constitution of the United States;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Clark County Democrats send a letter thanking our senators, Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, for their willingness to provide timely advice and consent on President Obama's Supreme Court nominee.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that members of the Washington State Democratic Convention encourage all party members and citizens to write to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell at Washington Office 317 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, Phone: (202) 224-2541, reminding him of his responsibility to fulfill his duty under Article 2 of the Constitution of the United States.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS religious freedom is guaranteed to all Americans by the Constitution and the laws of the United States; and
WHEREAS a diversity of religious beliefs and heritages bring strength to our country;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon our Congressional Delegation to amend the Pledge of Allegiance by removing the phrase "Under God".
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS Washington State's "Top Two" primary can result in only one party being represented in the general election;
WHEREAS the "Top Two" can, and has, resulted in un-democratic outcomes of minority rule, where a majority of voters for candidates of a particular party can be disenfranchised if there are too many good candidates;
WHEREAS a system of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), where voters indicate all candidates they support in diminishing order, followed by an instant runoff should no candidate receive a majority of votes, ensures that the victor of an election has positive support by a majority of voters;
WHEREAS RCV systems reduce negative campaigning, and mitigates the problem of splitting a party's vote among several candidates;
WHEREAS RCV encourages ballot diversity and third-party candidacies by promoting voters' ability to vote for their first-choice candidate without fear of "throwing away one's vote,"
WHEREAS RCV is already implemented successfully in many major cities such as Berkeley CA, San Francisco CA, Minneapolis MN, St. Paul MN, and Santa Fe NM; and
WHEREAS there are several different systems of RCV voting;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our representatives and officials in Olympia to replace the state's "Top Two" primary with a Ranked Choice Voting system that will guarantee that our elected representatives have majority support.
Submitted by the 5th LD Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the voters of Washington approved I-502 in 2012 to tax and regulate marijuana for adult use;
WHEREAS marijuana has been a popular substance in our communities for decades worth billions of dollars in annual sales;
WHEREAS marijuana sales have traditionally benefited illegal dealers and violent drug cartels;
WHEREAS the foundation for the success of I-502 rests upon eliminating illegal marijuana sales by opening taxed and regulated marijuana retail stores in our communities;
WHEREAS the WA State Liquor and Cannabis Board recently estimated that the state's regulated marijuana stores have captured as little as 50% of the pre-existing illegal marijuana market;
WHEREAS dozens of cities and counties across Washington have banned regulated marijuana stores;
WHEREAS these bans on regulated marijuana stores have cut off 25% of the state's population from having local access to the legal marijuana market;
WHEREAS city bans on regulated marijuana stores are the single largest factor preventing greater elimination of the illegal marijuana trade;
WHEREAS legal marijuana sales in Washington are currently generating over $300 million in annual tax revenues;
WHEREAS diverting 100% of the existing illegal marijuana sales to the regulated and taxed retail stores could potentially double the state's annual marijuana revenues;
WHEREAS illegal marijuana dealers sell to minors and often carry other drugs than just marijuana;
WHEREAS cities that allow marijuana stores receive a portion of the state's marijuana revenues;
WHEREAS many thousands of people across our state with severe medical conditions rely upon access to medical marijuana for maintaining their quality of life; 2018SCRES - 202 - 180616 - PASS - GOV - Illicit Marijuana Market
WHEREAS banning regulated marijuana stores forces some of these medical patients to the illegal marijuana dealers; and
WHEREAS the existence of regulated marijuana retail stores in cities across the nation has not caused any problems for local communities or caused any significant increase in marijuana use;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats oppose the banning of legal marijuana stores by local jurisdictions, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon council members in any jurisdiction with a ban on regulated marijuana retail stores to urgently replace those bans with local zoning and regulation.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats and the King County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Washington State celebrates and acknowledges many holidays honoring and remembering civil rights leaders;
WHEREAS Cesar Chavez was a highly respected American Labor Leader and Civil Rights Activist who co-founded along with Dolores Huerta, the National Farm Workers Association which later became the United Farm Workers Union;
WHEREAS Cesar Chavez is a symbol of the concurrent struggle of both Farm Workers and Laborers everywhere;
WHEREAS Cesar Chavez is highly admired by both Latino Americans and the American Labor Movement; and
WHEREAS House Bill 1939 (HB1939) proposing that March 31st be recognized as Cesar Chavez Day, was passed by the Washington State House by an overwhelming majority yet voted against by most of the Republican representatives of eastern Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, do stand in solidarity with the farm workers, Labor, and Latinx communities of this state, by supporting the appointment of March 31st as Cesar Chavez day; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED Dolores Huerta be similarly recognized for her contributions to Latinx rights, labor and civil rights, concurrent with Cesar Chavez.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats on 8/24/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the Constitution of the United States, Article VI, paragraph 3, states, "The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States;"
WHEREAS the First Amendment to the Constitution states "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;"
WHEREAS our nation's third President, Thomas Jefferson, characterized these constitutional proscriptions as "building a wall of separation between Church & State;"
WHEREAS the executive branch of the Federal Government, under Donald J. Trump, has repeatedly and flagrantly expressed an intent to ignore these constitutional proscriptions;
WHEREAS the Trump administration has issued Executive Orders 13769, 13780, 13798, and 13815, as well as various memoranda, rules, and other instruments which have the intent or effect of favoring or disfavoring individuals, institutions, or groups, based on religious affiliation; and
WHEREAS every Legislator, Governor, and Justice sworn into office by any state has sworn an oath (or affirmed), as prescribed in Article VI, to support the Constitution of the United States, and such oath or affirmation must, of necessity, supersede any contrary executive order, rule, or other act, whether of the executive branch or any other branch of the Federal Government;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC), call upon the Legislature of the State of Washington, and upon Governor Jay Inslee, and upon the Washington State Supreme Court, to resist, oppose, and hold as constitutionally invalid all acts of the Trump administration which would erode, nullify, or eradicate the constitutionally established wall of separation between government and any institution of religion.
Submitted by the Separation of Church and State (SOCAS) Caucus, to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 26-28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 01/26/2018) WSDCCRES - 872 - 180128 - PASS - GOV - Opposing Trump Religious Encroachment The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS America's greatest strength is our Diversity, an asset which sets the United States apart from any other nation on earth;
WHEREAS According to Washington state's Office of Financial Management (OFM), as of 2017, Washington's population has grown to 7.3 million people of which 50% are women and over 30% people of color;
WHEREAS 20 years ago on November 3, 1998, Washington State passed Initiative 200, which banned Diversity programs to prevent discrimination against women, people of color in higher education, public contracting and public employment;
WHEREAS Washington state's demographic and economic forces have produced significant education and employment gaps, particularly for people of color, and if the Legislature fails to act soon, these gaps will likely worsen;
WHEREAS the Washington state Legislature has now received the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Disparity Study which documents rampant gender and racial discrimination against women and people of color in the transportation and construction industries; and
WHEREAS State Representative Sharon Tomiko-Santos and State Senator Maralyn Chase have introduced House Bill 1158 and Senate Bill 6406 to repeal I-200 and restore gender and racial Diversity in college admissions, public contracting and public employment;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby endorse legislation repeal I-200 and restore gender and racial Diversity in college admissions, public contracting and public employment, and THERFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges our state legislators to vote YES on such legislation in the 2018 Legislative Session, and we urge Governor Inslee to immediately sign this legislation into law.
Submitted on January 27, 2018 via 50 signatures for consideration by the Washington State Democratic Central Committee at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed as amended. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a legislative district or county party may disavow itself from candidates and elected officials upon unanimous vote of the committee's executive board. The candidate or official must have been given the opportunity to appear before the executive board to present his/her case in the last year; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our elected state officials to pass legislation requiring the Secretary of State, upon unanimous vote of a legislative district's or county's executive board, to add a disclaimer to the ballot and the candidate's profile in the voter pamphlet that says "the political party that this candidate identifies with does not endorse and denies affiliation with this candidate." _____________________________________________________________
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee. (Date Submitted 6/17/2018) The Resolutions Committee recommends this resolution for adoption as amended. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for the Washington State Legislature to enact legislation that would require the Secretary of State to obtain federal tax return information for state governor, governor candidates, or US presidential candidates of in order to determine possible conflict of interests, and to publicly release the tax returns; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if candidates for governor or US President do not disclose the requisite income tax return information as required by the Secretary of State shall disqualify such individuals from filing as candidates on the state ballot. _____________________________________________________________
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee. (Date Submitted 6/17/2018) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature to sponsor legislation that requires all concealed pistol license applicants to complete classroom weapons safety training, 1-2 hours of practical range instruction, and demonstrate proficiency in a live-fire exercise prior to obtaining a concealed carry permit;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urge the Legislature to require classroom training to include, but not be limited to: Laws that relate to weapons and the use of deadly force Handgun use and safety, including use of restraint holsters and methods to ensure the secure carrying of openly carried handguns Non-violent dispute resolution and anger management training Proper storage practices for handguns with an emphasis on storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child.
Submitted by the 18th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 16, 2018 meeting in Spokane. (Date
Submitted 8/25/2018). The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) supports state fair share funding of election costs, either HB 1481 or SB 5500 regardless of which bill ultimately contains this action and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, which a copy of this resolution shall be sent to all Democratic State Representatives and Senators.
Submitted by 50 signers to the January 27, 2019 meeting of the WSDCC in Olympia. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January 27, 2019.
WHEREAS, an honest transparent voting process that includes a paper record for each vote is in the best interest of the people of the United States of America;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Legislators support a voter-verified paper ballot for any electronic voting system.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 29, 2005 meeting in Olympia by the 12th Legislative District Democrats. Passed by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, in the recent presidential election some voters were reportedly required to wait in line for up to ten hours to have the opportunity to vote, and in at least one reported case, until 4 AM; and
WHEREAS, some polling locations were reported as opening late; and
WHEREAS, some polling locations had an inadequate number of poll workers to facilitate the number of citizens who arrived to vote; and
WHEREAS, some polling locations were reported as having an inadequate number of machines for voting; and
WHEREAS, some polling locations were reported as having equipment malfunctions with inadequate back-up equipment availability; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, it is hereby resolved by the Whatcom County Democratic Party request that the Washington State Democratic Party move to create a commission to improve the voting process at a local, county and state level. We demand that the Democratic national Committee establish standards to facilitate the voting process by enforcing the following: 1. the required wait to vote should be no longer that one hour 2. one voting machine should be required for every (X #) voters 3. one spare confirmed operational back-up voting machine should be available for every (X #) machines used 4. poll workers be trained to set-up their polling location in such a manner to facilitate the most effective use of space to allow the most efficient flow of voter traffic BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we request Democratic National Committee designate the appropriate funds for a National Voting Stands Commission within one year's time.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at is January 29, 2005 meting in Olympia by the Whatcom County Democrats (12/08/04) Passed by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the President of the United States is required by law to submit an annual budget consisting of estimates of spending, revenues, borrowing, and debt; policy and legislative recommendations; detailed estimates of the financial operations of federal agencies and programs; and other information supporting the President's recommendations; and
WHEREAS the Unites States Government has been actively involved in a military engagement in Iraq which is now entering its 3rd year and for which there is currently no time positive set for withdrawal of our military forces; and
WHEREAS the President has operated outside the budget process of the United States by submitting all funding requests for the military action in Iraq via certain Emergency Supplemental Budget Requests, the projected total of which has been determined by the Congressional Research Group to be exceeding $200 BILLION; and
WHEREAS the Department of Defense employs many capable military and civilian planners who should be able to provide the President with reasonable projections of the costs of continued military action in Iraq if for no other reason than they have had 2 years of actual experience with which to base those projections;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that The Washington State Democrats Central Committee strongly urges our congressional delegation to stand in opposition to any further funding for our military involvement in the sovereign country of Iraq unless and until such funding is brought before the congress as part of the official budget of the Department of Defense where such funds will be subject to the same congressional oversight as any other monies allocated to that agency and weighed against the same budgetary constraints as any other funding requests. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be transmitted both in print and electronically by the Secretary of this body to each member of our congressional delegation to include Senator Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell, Rep. Jay Inslee (1st CD), Rep. Rick Larsen (2nd CD), Rep. Brian Baird (3rd CD), Rep. "Doc" Hastings (4th CD), Rep. Cathy McMorris (5th CD), Rep. Norm Dicks (6th CD), Rep. Jim McDermott (7th CD), Rep. Dave Reichert (8th CD), and Rep. Adam Smith (9th CD).
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2,2005 meeting in Pasco by Chad Shue, Vice-Chair 38th LD (3/22/2005). WSDCCRES - 023 - 050402 - PASS - GOV - Opposition to Off-Budget Funding.doc This resolution was approved and endorsed by the Executive Board of the 38th LD Democrats and is endorsed by the following individuals: Jason Call Nancy Sosnove Elected PCO - Everett 20 (38th LD) Elected PCO - Everett 17 (38th LD) Vernon Huffman Martin Daniels Elected PCO - Everett 34 (38th LD) Elected PCO - Everett 37 (38th LD) Ada Santerre Carol Cates SCDCC Exec. Committee Rep Elected PCO - Lakeview Prec. (44th LD) Elected PCO - MLT 03 (1st LD) Jackie Minchew Dick McManus 2nd Vice-Chair - 44th LD Elected PCO - Everett 35 (44th LD) Elected PCO - Everett 38 (44th LD) Paul Benz Elected PCO - Everett 80 (44th LD) Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the Bush administration has failed the people of the United States by putting people in charge of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) who have no background in emergency management; and
WHEREAS the Bush administration has failed the people of New Orleans by repeatedly cutting the funding for flood control; and
WHEREAS the Bush administration has repeatedly ignored the recommendations of the Army Corp of Engineers to improve the levee systems; and
WHEREAS the Bush administration has ignored scientific evidence and hampered international efforts to address global warming; and
WHEREAS the Bush administration's poor planning in post-war Iraq has resulted in deployment of the National Guard far beyond expectation resulting in the Louisiana and Georgia guard units being overseas and unavailable to provide needed support; and
WHEREAS George Bush personally demonstrated his detachment from reality and his lack of concern for the legitimate needs of his constituents by remaining on vacation for several days after Katrina made landfall even though the extent of the disaster was predicted several days before; and
WHEREAS George Bush demonstrated again his inability to be truthful with the people of the United States by stating that "I don't think anyone anticipated breach of the levees" when in fact that very possibility had been mentioned in a report prepared by Louisiana State University for Bush's first term FEMA director Joe Allbaugh; and
WHEREAS the Bush administration's response to the emergency was completely inadequate in that they waited days before sending in needed supplies and personnel and repeatedly demonstrated complete lack of knowledge about the situation on the ground; and WSDCCRES - 041 - 050917 - PASS - GOV - Katrina.doc
WHEREAS the above failures have resulted in the deaths of United States citizens who might have been saved;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats do respectfully request that the Democratic Senators and Representatives from Washington State take a lead role in holding Bush's administration officials to account. Specifically we request that they: 1) Demand accountability from the administration officials responsible for emergency management 2) Hold responsible Republican lawmakers that cut funding for flood control 3) Highly recommend the initiation of termination proceedings for the Head of the Department of Homeland Security 4) Call for a special prosecutor to investigate whether the dereliction of duty evident in the Federal response to this disaster rose to the level of criminal misconduct We further request the Democratic Senators and Representatives from Washington State to take a lead role in presenting to the people of the United States an alternate vision for how the country should be run. Specifically, we request that they: 1) Present an alternative model for emergency management stressing competent management and effective planning 2) Present an effective plan for flood management based on recommendations ignored by the Bush administration 3) Recognize that poverty has been a contributing factor to this disaster and fund rebuilding efforts by rescinding Republican tax cuts aimed at the wealthiest 1% 4) Acknowledge that global warming will result in storms of increasing severity and present a plan for addressing global warming. We take these actions remembering the suffering of the storm victims and in the solemn hope that the severity of suffering can be averted in the future.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the 47th District Democrats (9/12/2005) WSDCCRES - 041 - 050917 - PASS - GOV - Katrina.doc Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, incoming mail could likely be delayed and processing of outgoing mail could get more expensive; and
WHEREAS, Olympia, Washington would become the only State Capitol without a first -class mail postmark indicating from the seat of our state government; and
WHEREAS, there is no proof of improved efficiency or cost savings by moving the cancellation process thirty miles north; and
WHEREAS, presently thirty-four million pieces of mail are processed every year through the Olympia plant; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) convey a timely message to Congressmen Adam Smith and Brian Baird in support of their efforts to stop the U.S. Postal Service efforts to move the Washington State Capitol postmark (Olympia WA) to Tacoma.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores by Zach Smith 22nd Legislative District State Committeeman (Date Submitted 11/11/2005) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS the Voting Rights Act of 1965 is one of the cornerstones of our democracy;
WHEREAS Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act provides for bilingual assistance so that all Americans, including those with limited English proficiency, may participate in the electoral process;
WHEREAS Section 203 will sunset in 2007 if it is not re-authorized by the United States Congress;
WHEREAS Section 203 currently requires four counties in Washington State to provide bilingual assistance and bilingual voting materials, including Chinese in King County and Spanish in Adams, Franklin and Yakima Counties;
WHEREAS Washington House Bill 2594 will codify Section 203 of the Voting Rights Acts to insure equal access for limited English proficient voters in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Central Committee fully support House Bill 2594 and the rights of all eligible citizens, regardless of their English proficiency, to fully participate in our democracy.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this statement be sent to all Washington State legislators, the Governor, the Washington Secretary of State and the Washington State Association of County Auditors for action.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the WSDCC Asian Pacific Islander Caucus (Date Submitted 1/27/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, election integrity has become a critical issue facing our democracy, both in Washington state and in the nation; and
WHEREAS, repairing voter confidence in elections is of utmost importance; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party assert that interference in elections or systemic efforts to obstruct them is a civil rights violation subject to all the penalties available as remedy.
Submitted by the 36th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/22/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS Washington State's system for determining which the eligibility of ex-felons is too complicated to ensure that the intent of the law is carried out; and
WHEREAS Washington State's system for allowing ex-felons to reacquire their voting rights is the most restrictive in the nation; and
WHEREAS restoring the right to vote to ex-felons is one of the most important things we can do to encourage a return to society and its obligations; and
WHEREAS in the Washington State Senate SB and its companion House Bill have been introduced when passed will simplify the record keeping in the State and County offices responsible for maintaining accurate voter files;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports automatic restoration of voting rights once a felon is released from prison, and calls upon the Washington State Democratic Legislators to sponsor and pass this legislation.
Submitted by the 26th Legislative District to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/11/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS: Areas devastated by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita are still without water or power. Although FEMA purchased numerous trailers, 11,000 are parked and unoccupied in Arkansas while hurricane survivors remain homeless. "When disaster strikes our own communities - as, sooner or later, it surely will - who will come to our aid? Will the federal resources that our paychecks support arrive in time - or will we suffer the same desperate fate that befell so many Americans in the wake of the storm and flood of 2005?" Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-MD); The devastation of Katrina and Rita require massive clean-up, and massive rebuilding of infrastructure. Inasmuch as this is true, and in as much Katrina and Rita destroyed huge numbers of jobs and much of the infrastructure of their respective regions, these should be targeted areas for the creation of living wage jobs and training programs which will put the citizens of these areas back to work in these areas;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: Democrats of Washington State call on all members of Congress to take all necessary steps to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita rebuild their lives and their homes as expeditiously as possible. Congress must also make an accounting of all the funds and expenditures to determine where the money has gone.
Submitted by 2nd CD delegates meeting, Anacortes, WA, May 25, 2006, to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/30/2006) (Contact: Nancy Ging, 360-758-2529, nancy@turtlehome.com ) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 247 - 060929 - PASS - GOV - Katrina Relief.doc Endorsed by the following Delegates to the Democratic State Convention 1. Lila Smith King County 32nd LD 2. Gloria Skouge King County 32nd LD 3. Christine Hoffman King County 32nd LD 4. Chris Glenn Snohomish Co. 1st LD 5. Joan Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 6. Hue Beattie Whatcom County 40th LD 7. Roni Beall Whatcom County 40th LD 8. Robbi Ferron Whatcom County 40th LD 9. Dianne Foster Whatcom County 40th LD 10. Nina Hodgson Whatcom County 40th LD 11. Patricia Santangelo Skagit County 40th LD 12. David Narsico Whatcom County 40th LD 13. Ann Davidson Whatcom County 40th LD 14. Michelle Fisher Whatcom County 40th LD 15. Richard Austin Skagit County 39th LD 16. Nancy Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 17. Alexandrina Patty San Juan County 40th LD 18. Judith Shattuck King County 45th LD
WHEREAS, government contracts in past years have been awarded on the basis of competitive bidding; and
WHEREAS, the current practice has changed to award many contracts with no bidding process of any sort; as was the case with Halliburton and the New Orleans contracts;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington state congressional delegation work to abolish no-bid government contracts---NO BACKROOM DEALS. All bidding shall be done in an open, fair and competitive manner with Congressional oversight in the case of national emergencies
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the people of the State of Washington are best served when the decisions of their judiciary are impartial and not subject to influence from the other branches of government or from private or political interests; and
WHEREAS, there has been an increasing amount of money spent on judicial campaigns by special interests across the nation that has politicized the courts, distorted justice, and increased the costs of campaigns in some states; and
WHEREAS, in 2006 this national trend appeared in Washington as over $4 million dollars was spent on three Supreme Court Positions including $2.73 million spent by state and national business groups "independently' of the candidates' campaigns; and
WHEREAS, Christine Gregoire, as Washington's Governor, recognizes that the huge amounts of private funds being spent on judicial candidates creates a danger of corruption, increases the perception of corruption, and undermines the public's confidence in their judicial system; and
WHEREAS, the 2007 Washington State Budget as proposed by Governor Gregoire contains the "Judicial Independence Act" to allow for public funding for qualified judicial candidates; and
WHEREAS, the public funding of judicial campaigns would stop the huge increase in private funds that undermines the impartial administration of justice and restore public confidence in an independent judicial system; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) support the "Judicial Independence Act" and urge all legislators to work for its passage.
Submitted by the 23rd Legislative District Democrats and the Kitsap County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. ( Date Submitted 1/15/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "PASS" on this resolution at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS we need a "clean elections" system that will help restore faith in our electoral government, and give political voice to many who feel they've never had it; and
WHEREAS, political campaigns are too expensive and candidates for office must take substantial private contributions from a select community of interests and individuals to keep up with the staggering costs required to compete in an election; and
WHEREAS we believe that Washington State has elected many good people to a bad system which pressures elected leaders to grant access to, and provide legislative "protection" for, those who have given large sums of money to their campaign or political party; and
WHEREAS "clean elections" laws in Arizona and Maine have been demonstrated to be effective in allowing their elected state officials who choose to "run clean" to better represent the interests of their constituents and to spend more time on their legislative duties and little or no time fundraising; and
WHEREAS an Arizona study shows that clean elections greatly expanded the universe of contributors by increasing the number of contributors as well as their geographic, economic and ethnic diversity; and
WHEREAS Clean Elections campaign reform would save taxpayers millions of dollars now wasted due to poor public policy decisions and corporate giveaways made, in large part, due to the influence of large campaign contributions.
WHEREAS the supporters of the Democratic Party would prefer to spend time on candidates, issues, and getting out the vote; and
WHEREAS the general public would benefit from a more level playing field in the development of public policy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge Washington State legislators and the Governor to support clean elections laws at the state level, for statewide judicial races and for other state offices, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats also urge Washington State legislators and the Governor to support a repeal of the ban on local options for local clean elections. WSDCCRES - 302 - 070127 - PASS - GOV - Clean Elections.doc
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. (Date
Submitted 1/25/2007) Susan C. Sheary, KCDCC Chair The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "PASS" on this resolution at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia with minor housekeeping changes. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution "WITH MINOR HOUSEKEEPING CHANGES" by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS, the Help America Vote Act required that accessible voting machines be made available for voters who are visually impaired or unable to mark a paper ballot in the 2006 election; and
WHEREAS, the Help America Vote Act required that all voters be informed of such machines and how to use them for the 2006 election for all counties that receive federal funds to purchase the machines; and
WHEREAS, Whitman County received $440,000 in federal funds to purchase five such machines and the county auditor did not inform voters of the machines in violation of the federal law; and
WHEREAS, state law RCW 29A.46.260 states that "Each county shall establish and maintain an advisory committee that includes persons with diverse disabilities and persons with expertise in providing accommodations for persons with disabilities. The committee shall assist election officials in developing a plan to identify and implement changes to improve the accessibility of elections for voters with disabilities" for all counties that chose to switch to an all vote by mail election; and
WHEREAS, Whitman County Commissioners voted to switch to vote by mail at it's December 2005 meeting and the county auditor made no effort to form such as committee in violation of the state law; and
WHEREAS, voting is a bi-partisan right and that approximately 2,000 voters of all party affiliations who could have benefited from the use of the voting machines in Whitman County were denied the benefit of the machines due to the violation of state and federal law; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls for a formal state government investigation of the actions of the Whitman County Auditor and appropriate legal actions be taken and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Secretary of State's office conduct an investigation of all county auditors to determine if these laws were violated in other counties throughout the state.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 4/18/2007) WSDCCRES - 322 - 070428 - PASS - GOV - Voting Rights.doc The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, the 2006 Clark County Democratic Convention adopted the following as its first resolution: "We strongly support public financing of campaigns at all levels of government. We call upon the Governor and the Democratic leadership of the House and Senate to pass comprehensive state-level Clean Elections legislation in 2007."
WHEREAS, all of Clark County's Democratic state legislators supported a 2006 bill, put forth by Washington Public Campaigns, allowing municipalities to choose to institute publicly financed elections, which passed in the Senate but did not come to the House floor for a vote;
WHEREAS, Governor Gregoire has proposed public financing for judicial elections and included funding for this in her proposed budget;
WHEREAS, in Maine, after the passage of public financing, the Maine legislature was able to pass a progressive health care reform bill over the heated and determined objections of the pharmaceutical industry;
WHEREAS, in Arizona, Governor Janet Napolitano has won twice as a "clean" candidate and has lauded the freedom that being a clean candidate gave her to spend the majority of her time talking with constituents and listening to their needs and desires, rather than spending most of her time dialing for dollars;
WHEREAS, in Washington State, a small group attempted to install their political ideologies into office by pouring large sums of money into the State Supreme Court races.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee commits itself to the public financing resolution adopted at the 2006 Clark County Democratic Convention;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we call on all local Democrats to join Washington Public Campaigns, educate themselves on the website http://www.washclean.org , and advocate for public campaign financing;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we support Governor Gregoire's proposal for public financing for judicial campaigns and request that she also consider supporting public campaign financing for legislative and statewide campaigns. WSDCCRES - 346 - 070630 - PASS - GOV - Campaign Finance Reform.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we call on all Washington State Democratic state legislators to further educate themselves on public campaign financing for legislative, executive, and judicial campaigns at the state level, and to consider supporting legislation to accomplish such reforms.
Submitted by the 17th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-50 Cities. (Date Submitted 3/26/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS, successful public financing of political campaigns existed in both Seattle and King County prior to the passage of Initiative 134 in 1992; and
WHEREAS, these programs are still on the books; and
WHEREAS, there is a strong grassroots movement and substantial support within the Washington State Legislature to renew authorization for such a local option; and
WHEREAS, even unopposed candidates spend substantial amounts of time raising money, often from special interests; and
WHEREAS, competition in fundraising has recently raised the cost of running for local public office to unforeseen and unconscionable levels; and
WHEREAS, the time spent raising money from large donors could be better spent communicating with voters and responding to their needs; and
WHEREAS, public campaign financing is optional and tends to level the playing field, favoring neither incumbents nor challengers; and
WHEREAS, we believe that public campaign financing is entirely in the public interest and an appropriate use of public funds;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democrats hereby appeal to the Seattle and King County Councils to enact legislation providing as follows: 1. Directing Council staff to conduct a study in preparation for the re-31 implementation of public financing of campaigns, specifically including: A. Review of the existing applicable local law, B. Review of the cost of recent campaigns for all elective local offices, C. Recommendations for updating the existing local law, D. Estimating the cost of implementation and oversight, E. Recommendations for funding public campaign financing as updated, and F. A report back to the Council by November 15, 2007. 2. Directing the Seattle and King County lobbyists to provide support for local option public campaign financing legislation by the Washington State Legislature. WSDCCRES - 350 - 070630 - PASS - GOV - Public Campaign Financing.doc
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. (Date
Submitted 6/27/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities.
WHEREAS, as the cost of federal campaigns and the political value of a seat in Congress has spiraled upward in recent years, our political system at all levels is increasingly dominated by the influence of large sums from special interests to finance electoral campaigns, whereby large donors have special political access to lawmakers, providing undue influence over federal budgets, earmarks, regulations, lawmaking and public policy in general; and Main Street concerns of ordinary citizens are too often trumped by the influence and expectations of political favors from large campaign donors and their lobbyists, such that real concerns of Americans on Main Street are often not addressed; and the high cost of campaigns combined with large sums from private special interests has a corrupting influence on the democratic process, in that large campaign donors in effect choose who can run a competitive campaign, well before any voter deliberation; and the need to raise huge sums privately for campaigns ("dialing for dollars") is onerous and needlessly time-consuming, and can have a corrupting influence on candidates who have entered public service with good intentions to serve their constituents (rather than big donors) and to spend time with voters on issues, instead of dialing for dollars; and the electorate is becoming increasingly cynical and resentful over the loss of their voice and power; and
WHEREAS, Maine, Arizona, Connecticut and other states have demonstrated that public financing of campaigns (a.k.a. "Clean Elections" or "Voter-Owned Elections") works well, enjoying widespread use by candidates and enthusiastic support of voters; and
WHEREAS, campaign finance reform would save taxpayers millions of dollars now wasted when tax, budget, and public policy decisions are skewed toward political favors for large campaign contributors and lobbyists for special interests; and
WHEREAS, the Fair Elections Now Act as a bi-partisan proposal is now under consideration in the United States Senate (as S-752, by Sens. Dick Durbin, D-Ill, and Arlen Specter, R-Pa) and in the House of Representatives (as HR-1826, by Reps. John Larson, D-Ct, and Walter Jones, Jr., R-NC), offering public campaign financing, similar WSDCCRES - 420 - 090425 - PASS - GOV - Fair Elections Now Act.doc to Clean Elections programs in Maine and Arizona, for campaigns for the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby proclaims support for public financing of campaigns for the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, as reflected in the Fair Elections Now Act; and hereby urges support from all federal legislators from Washington State, and from state and local public officials in conversation with federal lawmakers, to support and enact public campaign financing at the federal level; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to all U.S. senators and members of Congress from Washington State; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to Washington Public Campaigns, an organization in Washington State which is organizing support for the Fair Elections Now Act in Congress, and which accepts mail at: P.O. Box 70452, Seattle, WA 98127-0452, and which has a website address for more information: www.washclean.org.
Submitted by the 34th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 4/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the Presidential Inauguration is a memorable and historic event in the life of the nation and of the world;
WHEREAS all U. S. citizens should have the opportunity to participate in the Presidential Inauguration through the media;
WHEREAS, not all schools have appropriate technological capability to effectively provide participation for their students;
WHEREAS parents are the primary educators of their children and mutually interact with their children about civic responsibility;
WHEREAS adults require time off from work to participate in the Presidential Inauguration;
WHEREAS the students of Mr. Berger's 1st Period, 3rd Trimester History Class, West Valley Jr. High, Yakima WA, 2008-2009 school year, have requested that the Yakima County Democratic Central Committee support a National Holiday for the Presidential Inauguration; and
WHEREAS the Yakima County Democratic Central Committee endorsed this request on April 27, 2009;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support Inauguration Day as a National Holiday and that the WSDCC contact our state's United States Representatives and Senators to sponsor such legislation.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 4/27/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS 2010 is the Centennial Celebration for Women's Suffrage in Washington State;
WHEREAS the celebration of women acquiring the right to vote was a step to achieving women's political participation in the American political process; and
WHEREAS there remains many obstacles for full participation in the political process by women;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee dedicate 2010 as the year of Washington State Centennial Suffrage Celebration Recognition; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee does hereby proclaim 2010 as the year of Washington State Centennial Suffrage Celebration.
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/19/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the filibuster is a Self-Imposed Senate rule with no mention in the constitution;
WHEREAS it has been estimated that the threat of the filibuster is currently being used to obstruct 70% of major legislation;
WHEREAS Senators Harkin and Lieberman introduced a bill to curtail the use of the filibuster in 1995;
WHEREAS Senator Harkins intends to reintroduce this bill in 2010; and
WHEREAS the proposed rules allow for continued debate until a threshold of 51 Senators is obtained to end debate;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support passage of Senator Harkin's rule change; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats ask that Senators Cantwell and Murray also support this rule change.
Submitted by the 26th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/6/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Washington State's registered voters have the fundamental right to vote without the obstruction of cost;
WHEREAS in Fall of 2009, King County Election officers failed to provide most voters the ability to securely return their ballot without the cost of postage;
WHEREAS the 2009 General election provided just four drop box locations for the 2,700 King County square miles that previously provided 509 polling locations; and
WHEREAS Voters with disabilities, who have the right to vote in person on an accessible voting unit, are being discriminated against by the reduction of the voting center locations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request that counties provide prepaid return envelopes and/or additional secure ballot drop boxes and accessible voting units at every library for primary and general elections.
Submitted by the 5th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/22/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the current economic crisis is the worst in 80 years and has had a disproportionate impact on working and poor people;
WHEREAS the U.S. economic crisis can be traced to 1) $3.8 trillion in Bush-era tax cuts extending over 10 years, to investors, large corporations and the wealthiest households, with loopholes that allow many to avoid paying taxes; 2) reckless deregulation of the financial system that enabled irresponsible risks and produced economic catastrophe; 3) unchallenged military procurement spending; and 4) the estimated $3 to $5 trillion cost of ongoing unbudgeted wars (including costs of replacing equipment, interest, medical care for returning veterans and other residual costs);
WHEREAS the U.S. economy has become increasingly polarized and unjust, with 1) top executives earning as much in a day as minimum wage earners can take home in two years, 2) the fruits of increased productivity not shared with workers who bear the burden of increased work, 3) real unemployment exceeding 15% and, in many communities of color, more than 50%, 4) social supports such as education, libraries, parks, and public safety increasingly underfunded, and 5) a crumbling public infrastructure that goes unrepaired;
WHEREAS, under President Obama's leadership, Osama bin Laden has been executed and our troops are being withdrawn from Iraq and Afghanistan; and
WHEREAS the severity of the economic crisis has created, at all levels of government, budget shortfalls that call for a re-examination of the allocation of resources and national spending priorities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we support continuing and expediting the withdrawal of U.S. military and private security personnel from Iraq by year's end, as called for in the Status of Forces Agreement with the Iraqi government, and the simultaneous significant drawdown of military personnel from Afghanistan, with a firm date for total withdrawal as soon as that can be accomplished, but in no event later than the 2014 timeline previously announced by President Obama;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on the U.S. Congress to: a. Bring our war dollars home by making a substantial reduction in overall military spending and using those resources to meet vital human needs, promote job creation, rebuild our infrastructure, aid municipal and state governments, and develop a new economy based on renewable, sustainable energy and technologies; and WSDCCRES - 549 - 110917 - PASS - GOV - Budgetary Priorities (2).doc b. Reform the tax code so that the burden of taxation is fully progressive, removing loopholes and preventing methods by which wealthy individuals and multinational corporations avoid and evade taxes, so that 1) the effective top tax rate becomes an actual 35%, and 2) corporations can no longer avoid U.S. taxes by shifting revenues to foreign subsidiaries or tax havens; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we urge the Washington State Democratic Congressional delegation, and our own members to endorse and actively support and pass legislation designed to create a more just, equitable and sustainable economy and a world in which moral leadership is more important than military might and our security is determined by the welfare of our people rather than the size of our military budget.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 9/6/2011) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS unprecedented budget deficits and national debt threaten the stability of our economic and social systems, and have already resulted in sever cuts to essential government services at every level of government;
WHEREAS the U.S. military budget has essentially escaped such cuts and in fact is now more than half of the federal discretionary budget, and accounts for almost half of ALL military spending worldwide;
WHEREAS a substantial portion of the military budget is dedicated to weapons programs the Pentagon does not require for current missions and/or which are not in compliance with international strictures against weapons of mass destruction, such as nuclear weapons;
WHEREAS the new START Treaty, ratified in 2010, calls for a 50 percent reduction in nuclear launchers within the decade, and international policy since the original ratification of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty in 1969, reaffirmed by President Barack Obama in his Prague speech of April 5, 2009, calls for the total elimination of these weapons as soon as practicable; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Navy, in clear contradiction of these policies and treaties, proposes to more than double the size of the explosives handling wharf facilities located at Naval Base Kitsap Bangor to service the Trident nuclear submarine fleet for another 30 years, at a cost estimated at $783 million;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee solicit our federal representatives to reallocate those funds (estimated at $783 million) to provide for a lasting economic benefit for the local citizens of the area and that no federal funds be allocated for this or any other project which seeks to expand or maintain at current levels the U.S. nuclear launching capacity.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/6/2011) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS Article VII, Section 2 of the Washington State Constitution allows taxing districts, including school districts, to levy property taxes exceeding an aggregate 1 percent limit on property value if three-fifths (60 percent) of voters approve such a proposition at a general election (and provided that at least 40 percent of the voters who voted at preceding general election participate in the election); and
WHEREAS Article VIII, Section 6 of the Washington State Constitution prohibits taxing districts, including school districts, from incurring debt exceeding 1.5 percent of the value of taxable property in the jurisdiction unless approved by 60 percent of voters in an election; and
WHEREAS Article VIII, Section 6 of the Washington State Constitution further prohibits total indebtedness exceeding 5 percent of the value of taxable property; and
WHEREAS this requirement for a supermajority of voters did not exist in the Washington State Constitution until the constitution was amended in 1943 following the Great Depression and during World War II; and
WHEREAS statewide voters approved a change to the state constitution in 2008 to allow a simple majority vote for school district operating levies; and
WHEREAS many states recognize that requiring an unreasonable supermajority of the voters to approve school construction bonds results in untenable and unsafe public school facilities. California, for example, previously required two-thirds of voters to approve school bond issues before passing Proposition 39 in 2000, which reduced the threshold to 55 percent voter approval; and
WHEREAS many school districts in Washington pass school construction bond measures with over 55 percent of voter approval only to fail to achieve the 60 percent voter approval required by the State Constitution; and
WHEREAS reducing the threshold required for approval of a school construction bond would not alter the allowable total indebtedness.
THEREFORE BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon our State Legislative delegation to introduce a bill for a state constitutional amendment reducing the voter approval rate for school bonds to a simple majority of voters casting ballots. WSDCCRES - 633 - 130921 - PASS - GOV - School Bond Construction.docx
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/13/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS King County is a diverse and dynamic community that has seen much of its growth since 1990 driven by immigrants;
WHEREAS immigrants and longtime King County residents speak more than 100 different languages, and the 2010 U.S. Census sample found that more than 400,000 King County residents - nearly a quarter of the county's population over the age of 5 - speak a language other than English at home;
WHEREAS according to American Community Survey statistics from 2008-2012, King County is home to over 28,000 East African language speaking residents and over 26,000 Tagalog speaking residents;
WHEREAS Amharic, Somali and Tagalog are among the top six (6) languages spoken in the Seattle Public School System;
WHEREAS under the federal Voting Rights Act, an elections department must add a language when 5 percent or more of the voting-age minority population is not proficient in English, or when at least 10,000 people from the voting-age minority population are not English-language proficient;
WHEREAS printed, hard copy versions of the voter registration form are available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese; and additionally, online printable voter registration forms are currently available in Cambodian, Korean, Laotian and Russian;
WHEREAS King County government is dedicated to providing all of its residents fair and equal access to services, opportunities, and protection; inviting and encouraging public engagement; and reflecting consideration for cultural differences;
WHEREAS King County government must continue striving to meet the highest ideals for socially just and equitable service delivery and engagement with the public while operating responsibly within budgetary and resource constraints;
WHEREAS the Democratic Party prides itself on being an inclusive, big tent organization committed to increasing all residents opportunity to be involved in and participate in the civic engagement process; and WSDCCRES - 688 - 140913 - PASS - GOV - Expanding Language Options for Voting
WHEREAS the Democratic Party recognizes the value and importance of hearing all voices in our community's civic engagement process, including those new to our community;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call for the addition of the Amharic, Somali and Tagalog languages to the list of online, printable voter registration forms available on the Washington Secretary of State website.
Submitted by the 30th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 5/30/2014)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS public notice in compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act still keeps citizens of Washington State and its cities, counties and towns in the dark regarding plans to ignore city codes and comprehensive plans that have been in existence for years to maintain the character, livability, and property values of those cities, counties and towns;
WHEREAS citizens have not been accorded meaningful, transparent notice of proposed development decisions in time for them to have an effect on those decisions;
WHEREAS failures to provide full and timely notice have, in a number of cases, resulted in depriving disabled persons of access to buildings, businesses, parks and transportation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges our State Legislature to revise the Open Public Meetings Act so required public notice is made effective in all areas of our state, including (1) publication of those proposals and changes therein, and (2) their presentation to local residents well in advance of any decision(s) likely to affect the concentration of cars or people, or environmental quality, parks, the urban canopy, elderly or disabled people, or public health;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that those laws should require meaningful opportunities for individual citizens' input at public meetings regarding local development plans and their implementation in particular projects (including any material modification of a previously approved plan or project), well before any final decisions are made;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that residents and businesses within an appropriate defined perimeter (which may vary based on local circumstances) be notified of any zoning exception or development proposal that requires a hearing that may cause changes in traffic flow of vehicles, bicycles or pedestrian movement, parking, schools in the area, affordable housing, ADA communities, locally-owned businesses or green spaces; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the law should further require, for any project having a broader impact, that affected residents of neighboring localities be concurrently informed, even if in different counties if within the required perimeter, and accorded timely opportunity to provide input. WSDCCRES - 699 - 150418 - PASS - GOV - Growth Management Decisions
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/13/2014) The WSDCC tabled this resolution at its 9/13/2014 meeting. Resubmitted with changes by the original writer to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/18/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the year 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States that granted women the right to vote;
WHEREAS the year 2020 marks the 110th anniversary of women voting in the State of Washington;
WHEREAS it is fitting to commemorate these milestones by voting to elevate women to a place that is today reserved exclusively for the men who shaped American history. That place is on our paper money;
WHEREAS the nation's most famous suffragist, Susan B. Anthony, became the first woman to have her portrait on American coinage;
WHEREAS the legendary woman, Shoshone Indian guide Sacagawea, who accompanied the Lewis and Clark expedition was featured on a dollar coin;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats believe this simple, symbolic and long-20 overdue change could be an important stepping stone for other initiatives promoting gender equality; and
WHEREAS our money does say something about us, about what we value. Together, let us make our money egalitarian and inclusive;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Secretary of the Treasury to put a woman's portrait on the 20 dollar bill;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge participation in the selection of the woman to be printed on the money at this website http://www.womenon20s.org/primaries; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be published and forwarded to the Secretary of the Treasury.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. WSDCCRES - 729 - 150418 - PASS - GOV - Women on Money The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS in both 2014 and 2015 at the Clark County Elections Office, there were two situations where a certified election observer arrived wearing a holstered automatic pistol. These incidents were confirmed with the Clark County Auditor, the Clark County GOP Chair and the Washington Secretary of State;
WHEREAS these officials quoted the Second Amendment as the reason that the Clark County Elections Office could not be made a gun-free zone;
WHEREAS the Clark County Courthouse is gun-free;
WHEREAS the Legislative Gallery in Olympia, Washington, has been designated gun-13 free without legislation;
WHEREAS the Washington State RCW 9.41.270 (1) defines "intent to intimidate another of that warrants alarm for the safety of other person";
WHEREAS the Elections Office in the State of Washington provides a secured environment, requiring approved entry for observation of ballot processing, which includes a certification and a badge for entry; and is clearly marked "employees only" where employees are not allowed to carry weapons; and
WHEREAS the Election Office is also a polling place, providing ballots and the ability to vote and submit ballots, as well as kiosks for disabled voters. The Voting Rights Act of 1965, Section 11, Item #6, Page 13, precludes the "intimidation or harassment of voters;"
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge all county auditors to post Washington State Elections Offices as gun-30 free zones.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/10/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS a viable democracy requires the participation of the highest possible number of eligible voters;
WHEREAS the current method of voter registration puts the burden on the individual to seek out and find the proper avenue by which to indicate his/her willingness to participate in the democratic process, something that may impede full participation in our democratic institutions;
WHEREAS the state of Washington, as part of its Department of Licensing, already has age-related data on most individuals residing in the state of Washington;
WHEREAS Washington (along with 38 other states) already has enacted and implemented legislation linking driver's licenses and registration for another purpose: registration for the draft with the Selective Service; and
WHEREAS States such as Oregon, California, Vermont, and West Virginia already have proven that automatic voter registration works;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our legislators to support legislation that would automatically register people to vote who 1. Are not on the voter rolls but already have or apply for an enhanced driver's license, enhanced state ID, or commercial driver's licenses 2. Receive social services that verify citizenship 3. Get health insurance through the state health exchange;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the measure be retroactive so that unregistered voters who already have the specialized driver licenses or benefits would have their information sent to the Secretary of State's Office, which would notify them that they can opt out (if the potential voter doesn't respond, they will be automatically registered within 60 days.)
Submitted by the 1st LD Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/1/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. WSDCCRES - 788 - 160917 - PASS - GOV - Automatic Voter Registration The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the experience in Washington State proves that Vote-by-Mail is a successful, fraud-free, and voter-friendly model for election administration;
WHEREAS Vote-by-Mail is voter friendly and convenient by eliminating the need for voters to go to a polling place and stand in long lines for their turn to vote, eliminating voter ID laws designed to make it harder to vote, by accommodating shift workers as well as disabled and senior voters, and by giving the voter several weeks to make a reasoned decision about their votes in their own home;
WHEREAS Vote-by-Mail provides a paper trail of optical scan ballots that can be recounted by machine or by hand to prove that every vote was counted accurately;
WHEREAS every signature of every voter is checked on Vote-by-Mail ballots by election officials to safeguard the system against fraud;
WHEREAS Vote-by-Mail ballots are not forwarded by the U.S. Postal Service if undeliverable, but returned to election clerks to keep voter rolls accurate and constantly updated;
WHEREAS Vote-by-Mail ballots utilize 1st class postage which adds significant funds to the U.S. Postal Service operation each election cycle, thereby supporting it financially while in turn creating much needed operating capital that supports the jobs of its employees;
WHEREAS centralized supervision of ballot processing in county clerks' offices maintains uniformity and strict compliance with laws throughout the state; and
WHEREAS Vote-by-Mail elections not only increase participation, are convenient, accurate and fraud- free, but they also cost taxpayers one-third less than polling place elections;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee adopts and forwards this resolution to the Democratic National Committee and asks that the National Democratic Party distribute educational materials in support of Vote by-Mail to all its affiliated State Democratic Party organizations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests the Democratic National Committee and National Democratic Party to encourage all their affiliated State Democratic Party organizations to pursue statewide and local legislative and election reform to allow a further test of WSDCCRES - 789 - 160917 - PASS - GOV - National Vote by Mail Vote-by-Mail elections in each State, and ultimately universal Vote-by-Mail elections in the United States, thereby eliminating voter suppression, intimidation and unfair National elections.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats. (Date Submitted 7/25/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS thirteen states plus the District of Columbia presently offer same-day voter registration, allowing qualified residents to go to an election official's office or the polls either before or on Election Day to register to vote and cast their ballot all in the same day;
WHEREAS California, Hawaii, and Vermont have enacted such legislation but have not yet implemented it as they are in the process of working on the implementation rules;
WHEREAS it is past time that we have a democracy that is truly representative of all eligible voters/residents;
WHEREAS Americans should be allowed to show up at the polls to express their views in order for the candidates/elected officials to be responsive to all of the people they represent; and
WHEREAS barriers to voting need to be lowered to help us work towards a more responsive democracy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support legislation that would allow for same day voter registration in Washington State at his/her county auditor's office or other designated location on or before a primary, special, or general election day; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the chair will send a copy of this resolution to our Representatives, Senator, and Governor urging passage of same day voter registration.
Submitted by the 1st LD Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/2/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the United States Supreme Court extended to corporations the constitutional rights of artificial personhood and essentially declared that money was the same as speech;
WHEREAS the United States Constitution makes no mention of corporations or other artificial entities;
WHEREAS full and prompt disclosure of funding sources is essential to an informed electorate, fair elections, and effective governance;
WHEREAS Article V of the United States Constitution empowers the people and the states to use the amendment process to supersede decisions made by the Supreme Court;
WHEREAS Initiative 735 is a message from voters to their elected representatives, stating that the voters of the State of Washington "urge the Washington state congressional delegation propose a federal constitutional amendment clarifying that constitutional rights belong only to individuals, not corporations, and constitutionally-21 protected free speech excludes the spending of money";
WHEREAS the citizens of Washington passed Initiative 735;
WHEREAS members of our Washington State US delegation including Derek Kilmer and Patty Murray endorsed Initiative 735 during the election season; and
WHEREAS House Joint Resolution 48 is the only amendment resolution before Congress that addresses the issues in Initiative 735;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) thanks Congressman Derek Kilmer for cosponsoring House Joint Resolution 48;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray to sponsor a Senate companion bill to House Joint Resolution 48; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges Washington's US House delegation to cosponsor House Joint Resolution 48. WSDCCRES - 816 - 170422 - PASS - GOV - HJ Res
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats on 3/5/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee believes that Democratic state and local party committees are essential partners to the Democratic elected officials and Democratic national party committees;
WHEREAS state and local party committees play a vital role in the American political system and are particularly suited to grassroots political activity in support of the party's political and electoral goals;
WHEREAS regulatory hurdles put in place over the past several years have served to hinder state and local parties from effectively participating in the political process;
WHEREAS these hurdles include old and cumbersome rules governing the ability of parties to engage in grassroots political activity, amendments to Federal campaign laws that federalized most of the parties' electoral activities and recent court decisions that have increased the power of outside organizations to spend unlimited, unregulated and, in many cases, undisclosed funds in connection with state and federal elections;
WHEREAS based upon the complexity of federal law, parties are increasingly subject to a higher level of regulation than other political organizations and are more likely to be audited or fined by the Federal Election Commission for reporting errors as well as the inadvertent use of non-federal funds for activities that have been federalized under recent changes to federal campaign law;
WHEREAS these developments have put an inordinate burden on state and local party committees without proper justification and have served to lower the effectiveness of party committees in the political process;
WHEREAS candidates at all levels of office have little incentive to work with parties due to structural barriers to association created by unnecessary and burdensome regulations;
WHEREAS the current campaign finance laws have created serious financial problems for state and local party committees as campaigns and donors seek out organizations that have fewer obstacles to participation in the political process; WSDCCRES - 658 - 140201 - PASS - GOV - Campaign Finance Reform
WHEREAS the decrease in regulation of outside groups is a primary cause of the current state of extreme politics in America;
WHEREAS state and local party committees play an essential and moderating role in American politics by espousing mainstream political ideas that appeal to a majority of Americans in contrast to single issue organizations that support radical one issue agendas; and
WHEREAS the Association of State Democratic Chairs (ASDC) has established a Committee on Campaign Finance Reform tasked with making recommendations to enhance the role of party committees in federal and state elections without affecting either contribution limits to parties or creating unlimited expenditures by party committees;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses the recommendations put forth in the ASDC Committee on Campaign Finance Reform report entitled "Legislative Recommendations for Campaign Finance Reform." BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will work with members of Congress, the Washington State Democratic Party, and the Obama administration to amend federal campaign finance laws to ensure the vitality of state and local party committees by lifting some of the unnecessary and burdensome regulations that continue to hinder their development.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/24/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its February 1, meeting in Vancouver. This resolution was passed by the WSDCC at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the 4th Amendment to the United States Constitution protects against un-reasonable search and seizure; and
WHEREAS the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which provides a procedure for authorizing domestic surveillance by the federal government, requires that targets of authorized surveillance be specifically related to foreign powers, and also that the government ensure that such surveillance will not collect information on unrelated private citizens; and
WHEREAS it was recently confirmed that the government has been collecting information on the activities of untargeted citizens through the NSA's PRISM program[1]; and
WHEREAS the public's only awareness of this program came from a government contractor who now lives in exile, in fear of retributory prosecution, despite the President's insistence in 2009 of his dedication to government transparency, showing we cannot possibly know how many other such programs exist; and
WHEREAS it was also disclosed recently that the National Security Agency is "storing the online [data] of internet users for up to a year, regardless of whether or not they are persons of interest," [2] contradicting government assurances that such data was deleted
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee opposes the mass collection of third party information on US citizens that are not specifically targeted, as an invasion of privacy; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Executive Branch of the US Government to abide by the terms of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act in meeting a high standard of justification for targeting of citizens with federal surveillance and information collection techniques; and WSDCCRES - 659 - 140201 - PASS - GOV - Collection of Personal Information
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the President and the Department of Justice to end all such programs that skirt the spirit and/or letter of both the FISA and the U.S. Constitution and notify the Washington State Federal Delegation of this resolution; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee request the Washington State Delegation to the U.S. Congress prevent the funding of such programs.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/17/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its February 1, meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. [1] "PRISM (surveillance program) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia." 2013. 1 Oct. 2013
WHEREAS some members of the U.S. Supreme Court have resisted the idea that their associations past and present could have any effect on their judicial fairness; and
WHEREAS said justices have appeared as speakers at events sponsored by extreme partisans and which events appear to have an overt political purpose; and
WHEREAS justices of the Supreme Court often hold investments in corporations that may come before the Court; and
WHEREAS any appearance of bias as well as actual bias has a corrosive effect on public perception of the character of the Court; and
WHEREAS the Code of Conduct for United States Judges applies to all other federal judges and the justices of the Supreme Court are not formally bound by any code of conduct; and
WHEREAS Congress has the authority to regulate the administration of the U.S. Supreme Court;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Washington State members of the Washington State 24th Legislative District Democratic Central Committee, that Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell are urged to co-sponsor the Supreme Court Ethics Act of 2013 (S. 1424) and that the Washington State Congressional Delegation is urged to co-sponsor the House companion bill (H.R. 2902).
Submitted by the Clallam County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 12/02/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS patients have a right to obtain their prescription at the pharmacy of their choice; and
WHEREAS using their own personal values-based system as criteria, some pharmacists have refused to fill selected legally-issued prescriptions;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party request that Washington State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Washington State Speaker of the House Frank Chopp pass legislation requiring that pharmacies must fill legally written prescriptions irrespective of the personal values of individual pharmacists.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 13, 2008 meeting in Spokane. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the accumulation of prescription drugs in private homes, adult homes and other residential facilities, hospice services, schools, pet keepers, and small medical clinics, increases the risk of home burglaries for drugs, as well as poisoning from unauthorized or inappropriately administered prescriptions drugs (32% of deaths from poisoning in children caused by taking someone else's prescriptions meds, 26% from over the counter drugs and 26% from illegal drugs);
WHEREAS the common method of disposal of unused pharmaceutical agents is by flushing down the drain or disposal in garbage ending in the land fill even though septic systems and wastewater and sewage treatment plants are ineffective in eliminating the majority of pharmaceutical compounds;
WHEREAS ecosystems are contaminated by pharmaceuticals as demonstrated by the United States Geological Service having found pharmaceutical contaminants in 111/139 streams samples in 30 states. This has caused a profound negative impact on aquatic organisms;
WHEREAS the protection of the quality of our surface, ground and drinking water is of utmost importance to be able to maintain human and environmental health;
WHEREAS the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency does not allow for the safe, secure and environmentally sound collection and destruction of unwanted manufactured pharmaceuticals purchased and in possession of citizens;
WHEREAS unwanted drug collection programs have been developed in Canada, Australia and Europe without incurring increased prescription drug prices for patients or increased operation costs for over 850 pharmacies serving as collection points;
WHEREAS the collection of up to 15 pounds of medications per day at participating pharmacies in an on-going pilot program in Washington State shows that citizens are willing to turn in the unused and expired medication; and
WHEREAS the FDA has not acted upon request for waivers to acknowledge and support a legal voluntary collection program for used medication; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge all Representatives and Senators from Washington State to promote and encourage revision to the Federal Drug Enforcement Agency rules and statutes to permit and encourage safe, secure environmentally sound collection and disposition of unwanted medications provided by the pharmaceutical manufacturers and pharmacies. 2008SCRES - 232 - 080614 - PASS - HEA - Resolution on the Safe Disposal of Medication.doc
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS over $2 trillion ($2,000,000,000,000) is spent on health care in the U.S. each year, yet over 46 million of our people lack health care coverage, and many millions more have inadequate coverage;
WHEREAS each year more than 18,000 people die due to lack of health insurance;
WHEREAS the United States is the only industrialized nation without a streamlined single national financing system for health care;
WHEREAS the U.S. pays 50 percent more of our Gross Domestic Product on health care than nations with national health care programs, yet according to the World Health Organization, ranks a mere 37th in the world in quality of health care;
WHEREAS approximately 25% of every health care dollar spent in the U.S. goes to private health care administration compared to just 3% for Medicare. That means over S400 billion each year is spent on paperwork and cost add-ons charged by private health care administrators, primarily to create and manage regulations to screen out high risk patients;
WHEREAS two bills pending in Congress - HR 1200, The American Health Security Act and HR 676, The United States National Health Insurance Act - would ensure that every person in the United States has comprehensive health insurance and would actually save hundreds of billions of dollars on unnecessary duplication, administrative costs and insurance company profits;
WHEREAS Corporations have repeatedly claimed that the cost of providing health care to U.S. workers requires that products and services produced here must be sold at higher prices than what foreign corporations charge, and that these higher prices render the U.S. non-competitive. Under HR 1200 and HR 676 most businesses in the U.S. would pay much less for employee health care coverage, thus alleviating that problem;
WHEREAS HR 1200 and HR 676 would provide patients with equal access to all necessary medical care, provided entirely by private doctors and hospitals, regardless of patients income level;
WHEREAS HR 1200 and HR 676 would provide coverage for prevention and early disease detection services, hospitalization and office visits, prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, home health, nursing home and long term care, mental health care and rehabilitation; 2008SCRES - 340 - 080614 - PASS - HEA - Universal Health Care Resolution.doc
WHEREAS HR 1200 and HR 676 would remain effective even if one lost a job or retired;
WHEREAS under HR 1200 and HR 676 the financing of the national health program would be based on combinations of employer and self-employment taxes, individual taxes, and existing sources of federal government revenues for health care;
WHEREAS HR 1200 and HR 676 would provide health care coverage equal to or better than that of each member of Congress; and
WHEREAS HR 1200 and HR 676 would adopt different approaches to the design of a national health program, but both are based on universal coverage and taxpayer-54 funded financing;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that of the Washington State Congressional caucuses are hereby urged to support both HR 1200 and HR 676 and to design and enact a national health care program consistent with the principles of universal publicly funded health care coverage.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the population of the Earth continues to grow and suffers from wars, "ethnic cleansing", draughts, epidemics and starvation;
WHEREAS worldwide arable lands and crops are being lost to natural disasters including global climate shifts, resource extraction including water depletion, and the consequences of industrialized chemical and transgenic agricultural;
WHEREAS global trading policies of WTO, NAFTA, CAFTA and the financial policies of the World Bank and the IMF, have caused major upheaval in the global landscape - consolidation of small holdings and industrial scale agribusiness. Thus, the new world order has dictated a formula for rampant urbanization and the resulting mass production of slums;
WHEREAS today's megaslums are unprecedented incubators of new and re-emergent diseases that can travel across the world at the speed of a passenger jet;
WHEREAS cities have absorbed nearly two thirds of the global population explosion since 1950 and are currently adding a million babies and migrants each week causing slum populations to grow by a staggering 25 million per year (UN Population Information Network);
WHEREAS many economies are contracting by up to 5% a year yet continue to have population growth of up to 8% a year;
WHEREAS international economic policy (World Bank adjustment policies) has devastated the public health infrastructure and healthcare particularly for women and children;
WHEREAS the seven states of the Colorado basin have experienced a 10% population increase even as the next cycle of epic draught is beginning to kick in threatening major urban areas and millions of acres of agricultural lands; and
WHEREAS the United States has prevented access to family planning including women's right to birth control and abortion within the US and through the World Health Organization and other providers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton to ensure that the United States become a leading proponent for and contributor to public health education and 2008SCRES - 343 - 080614 - PASS - HEA - Resolution on Population Control.doc infrastructure and provider of healthcare including family planning with provisions for birth control and abortion.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS pharmaceutical companies are responsible for presenting accurate information to the public and to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding possible harmful side effects of their products;
WHEREAS the FDA no longer has the funding or the manpower to adequately regulate drug companies;
WHEREAS lawsuits have provided oversight of drug safety when the FDA has not, including suits over the now-withdrawn pain pill Vioxx, the diabetes medication Rezulin, and several antidepressants, among others;
WHEREAS Johnson and Johnson obscured evidence that its Ortho Evra birth control patch delivered substantially more estrogen than standard birth control pills, to a level exceeding that allowed in pills;
WHEREAS increased levels of estrogen are known to be associated with higher risks of blood clots;
WHEREAS more than 3000 women and their families have sued Johnson and Johnson, asserting that users of the patch experienced heart attacks, strokes, lung clots, and in 40 cases, death;
WHEREAS Johnson and Johnson is claiming in court that it cannot be sued by these plaintiffs on the basis of "pre-emption," arguing the company is not liable because the FDA approved the patch;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the federal government must reinstate the regulatory powers of the FDA by increasing their funding and expertise to levels needed to perform their duties;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said duties should include the ability to critically and independently analyze data for the public good and to penalize companies which fail to follow agency rules without fear of reprisal;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that drug companies that hide or distort negative data relating to their products should be liable in a court of law, regardless of prior FDA approval. The doctrine of pre-emption does not permit misrepresentation of facts; and 2008SCRES - 434 - 080614 - PASS - HEA - Reform the FDA.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we request that our Congressional Delegation do everything in their power to help enact legislation to support this resolution.
Submitted by the Lisa Plymate, 34th LD to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/11/2008) The Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS pharmaceutical companies spend $3 billion annually to purchase prescribing histories of physicians solely for marketing purposes;
WHEREAS this process, known as data mining, is done without physicians' knowledge or consent and is overwhelmingly opposed by physicians; and
WHEREAS data mining erodes patient-doctor privacy, leads to inappropriate prescribing, undermines patient safety and drives up medical costs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we request that our state legislators support the Prescription Privacy Bill, which will restrict pharmaceutical companies from purchasing physicians' prescribing histories for marketing purposes. Under this bill physicians will have the option to 'opt-in' if they wish their prescribing histories sold.
Submitted by the Lisa Plymate, 34th LD to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/11/2008) The Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS doctors and hospitals are legally obliged to provide care for uninsured people with acute medical problems at emergency facilities; and
WHEREAS the costs of those services are absorbed by the providing medical facility and contribute to escalating costs of medical insurance;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support health care reform between the present and the full implementation of the Health Insurance Reform Bill of 2010, including direct reimbursement of doctors and hospitals for such emergency care of uninsured persons by the federal government; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that an electronic copy of this resolution be sent to all members of the State Legislature and to the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS family planning helps improve the health and well-being of women, men and children;
WHEREAS citizens of the State of Washington are suffering because of a family planning funding crisis;
WHEREAS recent federal policy changes to Washington's Medicaid family planning waiver program, Take Charge, have restricted access to services causing a drop in statewide enrollment;
WHEREAS the family planning services that many Franklin County residents no longer qualify for include: pregnancy testing, sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment, birth control, annual exams for women and cancer screening;
WHEREAS Franklin County has the third highest teenage pregnancy rate in Washington State;
WHEREAS Franklin County has the second highest Chlamydia rate in Washington State;
WHEREAS family planning is cost-effective, and every public dollar spent on family planning services saves Medicaid costs for pregnancy-related health care and for medical care of newborns; and
WHEREAS health care services are a basic necessity for a modern society;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Family planning is basic health care for men and women, Family planning funding is essential to create healthy communities statewide; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats contact members in the legislature to let them know that Family Planning is basic health care and a crucial part of the health care safety net, and urge them to support and fund family planning services as a priority in Washington State.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) 2012SCRES - 082 - 120602 - PASS - HEA - Funding for Family Planning.doc Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS there are about 350 rural healthcare facilities facing budget cuts and a continuing decline in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements (now reduced to around 55% of actual healthcare costs);
WHEREAS rural healthcare facilities used to receive COLA increases but now face decreases;
WHEREAS rural critical access hospitals were recently on the state chopping block to have their state Medicaid cost reimbursement reduced;
WHEREAS the Davenport's Lincoln Hospital nursing home and the Wilbur assisted-13 living facility are closing their doors due to the decline in Medicaid reimbursements;
WHEREAS if the state loses it rural critical access hospitals, then many employees will lose their jobs, rural assisted-living facilities and nursing homes will close and their patients will have to be re-located in urban areas, and said rural hospitals will be reduced to in-patient services or become only emergency care centers or daytime only health clinics thereby greatly reducing safe healthcare options for the rural population of the state;
WHEREAS if rural healthcare facilities close within the next five years as projected if the Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements continue their decline, the rural families and economies will be devastated, leading to an outmigration from rural areas to the cities, creating a chronic lack of safe healthcare in rural Washington; and
WHEREAS most rural healthcare facilities are barely hanging on now with slimmed down staff but managing to provide safe care to the rural population for the time being, they all know they may soon have to close their doors for good because the state and federal Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements have declined relative to the actual costs for healthcare;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party advocate for safe healthcare in rural Washington and for an increase in state and federal Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements to rural healthcare facilities in order to keep rural healthcare facilities from closing their doors.
Submitted by the Lincoln County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) 2012SCRES - 083 - 120602 - PASS - HEA - Rural Health Care Facilities.doc Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS in 2011 the Republicans in Congress voted with near unanimity for the Paul Ryan (R-WI) plan to replace Medicare with a voucher system in which seniors would receive coupons for partial payment toward the same kind of inadequate insurance that they could not afford before Medicare was enacted;
WHEREAS later in 2011, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) joined Ryan in proposing a gradual elimination of Medicare through the attrition of healthier seniors dropping it in favor of cheaper private insurance designed for cherry-picking the healthy, thus making traditional Medicare solely responsible for paying the care of actual sick people, severely undermining its long-term financial viability;
WHEREAS in March 2012, Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) and other Republicans proposed the complete elimination of Medicare in 2014;
WHEREAS the 2012 budget passed by House Republicans completely eliminated Medicaid payments for nursing home care;
WHEREAS Deficit Commission member Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) has proposed that nothing is off the table in 2012 budget discussions, including severe cuts in Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security;
WHEREAS enacting any of these proposals amounts to financial ruin for or actual mass-murder of some unknown number of our most vulnerable citizens; and
WHEREAS 56% of voters in 2012 are expected to be 55 years old or older;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats make opposition to the privatization of Medicare and Medicaid signature campaign issues in 2012.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SCRES - 084 - 120602 - PASS - HEA - Support Medicare and Medicaid.doc 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood provides necessary and preventive services such as screening for breast and cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, diabetes, anemia, thyroid function, liver function, smoking cessation, healthy physicals, pap smears, yeast infections, contraception, routine lab workups, infertility, and abortion services;
WHEREAS there has been an ever-increasing move towards suppressing women's rights in making their own decisions about family planning;
WHEREAS anti-choice state legislatures have been passing bills and governors signing into law restrictions on women's access to legal abortion that was guaranteed by the Supreme Court in the Roe v. Wade decision;
WHEREAS access to affordable birth control gives women flexibility in making decisions about their education, employment, and family size; and
WHEREAS access to affordable birth control is being significantly threatened by those claiming denial of service is a freedom of religion issue;
WHEREAS women are fully capable of making their own decisions about their reproductive health and choosing whether and when to have a family;
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood has been attacked nationally on political grounds and funding has been withdrawn;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, continue to support a woman's right to choose and oppose such measures as fetal personhood amendments, requiring invasive and unnecessary medical procedures prior to a woman receiving an abortion, requiring a woman to meet privately with her doctor prior to receiving an abortion, imposing waiting periods before an abortion may be performed, or other restrictions that make abortion so difficult that it becomes de facto unavailable;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we recognize women are entitled, as equal members of society, to make family planning decisions without encroachment from the government, that we will provide support to ensure that all women have access to family planning options, regardless of income, and that we will push back against those who try to take these rights away from women; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats urge our delegation in Congress and in the State Legislature to support Planned Parenthood and to continue funding it at a level that sustains the health services being provided. 2012SCRES - 086 - 120602 - PASS - HEA - Supporting Planned Parenthood II.doc
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the for-profit health insurance system fails to work for all Americans and no such system can accomplish the essential goals of universal affordable coverage;
WHEREAS the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA), though it has many useful features, will leave 25 million or more uninsured after 2017;
WHEREAS the private health insurance industry continues to profit by limiting health coverage to the public;
WHEREAS businesses and citizens cannot afford the premiums charged by the private health insurance industry; and
WHEREAS the problem with our healthcare system is neither Medicare nor Medicaid, but that as a nation, we have not come to terms with our need for a national healthcare system such as a single payer system, which would cut costs in a far more meaningful fashion, without harming our most vulnerable people;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats pledge to advocate and promote enactment of state single payer health care in Washington State and to support and encourage our state legislators to facilitate this goal;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the United States will adopt a national single payer health care system modeled on Medicare providing coverage for everyone and to support and encourage congressional representatives to facilitate this goal.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS family planning services improve health care outcomes and wellness for women and families, access to family planning is directly linked to declines in maternal and infant mortality rates;
WHEREAS the United States of America has one of the highest rates of unintended pregnancy among the world's developed nations;
WHEREAS the opportunity to plan one's family and to decide when and whether to bear children is a basic human right, a responsibility, and an urgent necessity for the wellbeing of families and nations; and
WHEREAS all women deserve affordable access to family planning education and to all methods of birth control including long acting reversible methods like intrauterine contraception and implants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on our Congressional delegation for continued federal funding for Family Planning; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on our members of the State Legislature to bridge any gaps where federal funding is insufficient to fully fund our freestanding, nonprofit clinics, especially in the rural parts of our state..
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Health Care amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Health Care recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Health Care at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS mental health is a serious concern in this country that needs to be acceptably addressed;
WHEREAS state funding for Mental Health services and facilities has been reduced in recent years;
WHEREAS many patients at Mental Health Care facilities are released before their caretakers believe they are ready, often leading to problems with the patient's full recovery and sometimes creating a threat to the community; and
WHEREAS local health care clinics have had to reduce services due to budget cuts;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge the Legislature to fully fund a distributed comprehensive continuum of public Mental Health Care from early intervention and preventive services continuing through medically appropriate crisis care and community reintegration services.
Submitted by the Stevens County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Health Care amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Health Care recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Health Care at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the Washington State "Involuntary Treatment Act" (ITA) mandates that a Designated Mental Health Professional (DMHP) investigate all reported cases where an investigation is requested as to the need for an ITA commitment of a mentally ill individual;
WHEREAS in 2013, DMHP's reviewed close to 20,000 cases resulting in approximately ITA commitments and 12,000 decisions not to commit;
WHEREAS DMHP organizations are under heavy case loads that limit investigation times that reduce the ability to perform thorough investigations of all mitigating factors;
WHEREAS persons close to a mentally ill individual may be aware of needs of which the DMHP's are unaware;
WHEREAS numerous tragic events occur each year, in which mentally ill individuals that have been investigated 1 or more times by a DMHP and not been given and ITA commitment, perform acts that result in damage to property, injury and/or death to self and/or others; and
WHEREAS prevention of harm to self and/or others is in the public interest;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on the Legislature to support a petition process for Judicial Reviews within 24 hours of a mentally ill person being denied emergency psychiatric hospitalization or ITA commitment;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that petitioners to the court be required to testify under oath to prevent perjury by parties with hostile intent towards the mentally ill individual; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Judicial Review has access to a Psychiatric professional to inform the Judge on specific psychiatric conditions and risks.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Health Care amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. 2014SC - 022 - 140621 - PASS - HEA - Judicial Review for Mental Health Care The Subcommittee on Health Care recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Health Care at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS women are entitled to complete and accurate medical information;
WHEREAS patients and medical providers are entitled to safety and privacy in the performance of their duties;
WHEREAS some crisis pregnancy centers (CPCs) have misled women about the nature of their services, and claimed they were the proper location of medical appointments made elsewhere; and
WHEREAS abortion care providers, patients seeking abortions, and staff members at women's health clinics have had their photographs, names and addresses published without their consent, in an effort to incite harassment against them;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, urge our state Democratic legislators to draft legislation to criminalize willful disclosure of photographs, phone numbers, addresses, or other identifying information of patients, care providers, or other employees of services which provide reproductive healthcare services without their express permission;
Submitted by the 48th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Health Care amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Health Care recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Health Care at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood provides necessary and preventive services such as screening for breast and cervical cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, diabetes, anemia, thyroid function, liver function, smoking cessation, healthy physicals, pap smears, yeast infections, contraception, routine lab workups, infertility, and abortion services;
WHEREAS there has been an ever-increasing move towards suppressing women's rights in making their own decisions about family planning;
WHEREAS anti-choice state legislatures have been passing bills and governors signing into law restrictions on women's access to legal abortion that was guaranteed by the Supreme Court in the Roe v. Wade decision;
WHEREAS access to affordable birth control gives women flexibility in making decisions about their education, employment, and family size;
WHEREAS access to affordable birth control is being significantly threatened by those claiming denial of service is a freedom of religion issue;
WHEREAS women are fully capable of making their own decisions about their reproductive health and choosing whether and when to have a family; and
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood has been attacked nationally on political grounds and funding has been withdrawn;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, continue to support a woman's right to choose and oppose such measures as fetal personhood amendments, requiring invasive and unnecessary medical procedures prior to a woman receiving an abortion, requiring a woman to meet privately with her doctor prior to receiving an abortion, imposing waiting periods before an abortion may be performed, or other restrictions that make abortion so difficult that it becomes de facto unavailable;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we recognize women are entitled, as equal members of society, to make family planning decisions without encroachment from the government, that we will provide support to ensure that all women have access to family planning options, regardless of income, and that we will push back against those who try to take these rights away from women; and 2014SC - 029 - 140621 - PASS - HEA - Supporting Planned Parenthood (Franklin)
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats urge our delegation in Congress and in the State Legislature to support Planned Parenthood and to continue funding it at a level that sustains the health services being provided.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Health Care recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Health Care at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the State has a compelling interest to protect and enhance health and well-3 being;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support rules that require warning signage be posted at all facilities where religious belief takes precedence over best medical practice;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support ending public subsidies to facilities that allocate service based on religious preference until such organizations amend or rescind policies that prevent death with dignity, reproductive care, or LGBTQ care; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that, during the interim, such organizations be taxed at normal business rates for goods and services to allay additional burdens imposed on clients and the public treasury when care is delayed or denied.
Submitted by the San Juan County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood funding has been under constant attack at both the federal and state level and government restrictions have left many people without affordable or accessible birth control;
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood provides the ONLY health care to low-income people in many areas;
WHEREAS these defunding attacks threaten the Title X program, which was founded in 1970. It is the only federal grant program dedicated solely to providing individuals with comprehensive family planning and preventive health services, particularly to low-income families. Preventative health services include breast and cervical cancer screenings, HIV prevention education, pregnancy diagnosis and counseling;
WHEREAS the consequences of defunding Planned Parenthood are clearly devastating. Cutting off millions of people from care they have no other way to afford places them at risk of sickness and death. More women will have unintended pregnancies. More women will develop cancer that will be diagnosed too late for them to receive life-19 saving treatment. More people will suffer from sexually transmitted diseases which can cause health problems for them and their babies;
WHEREAS an individual's health shouldn't have to suffer simply because of poverty;
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood makes up 10 percent of publicly supported family planning centers, according to the Guttmacher Institute, but they serve 36 percent of clients who seek out such services; and
WHEREAS the nation - through the work of Planned Parenthood and others - has reduced the percentage of unintended pregnancies, and now pregnancies among teenagers are at a 40-year low;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party contact our state and congressional representatives to support full funding to Planned Parenthood and oppose all funding cuts to this valuable health care provider. 2016SCRES - 132 - 160618 - RECPA - HEA - Support Planned Parenthood
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party advocate for support of Planned Parenthood by writing letters to the editor, educating their friends about the benefits provided to our society by Planned Parenthood, and donating money to Planned Parenthood.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS everyone deserves access to affordable quality healthcare;
WHEREAS the number of Americans without health insurance now exceeds 47 million;
WHEREAS millions with insurance have coverage so skimpy that a major illness would lead to financial ruin, and medical illness and bills contribute to one-half of all bankruptcies;
WHEREAS proposals for "consumer directed healthcare" would worsen this situation by penalizing the sick, discouraging prevention and saddling many working families with huge medical bills;
WHEREAS managed care and other market-based reforms have failed to contain healthcare costs, which now threaten the international competitiveness of U.S. manufacturers;
WHEREAS administrative waste stemming from our reliance on private insurers consumes one-third of health spending;
WHEREAS U.S. hospitals spend 24.3% of their budgets on billing and administration while hospitals under Canada's single payer system spend only 12.9%;
WHEREAS American physicians are inundated with bureaucratic tasks and costs that Canadian physicians avoid;
WHEREAS Harvard researchers estimated that more than $300 billion could be recovered by replacing private insurance companies with a single public payer, enough to cover the uninsured and to improve coverage for all those who now have only partial coverage;
WHEREAS "consumer directed healthcare" adds yet another expensive layer of bureaucrats - the financial firms that manage health savings accounts;
WHEREAS entrusting care to profit-oriented firms diverts billions of dollars to outrageous incomes for CEOs and threatens the quality of care;
WHEREAS The Expanded & Improved Medicare For All Act, which would assure universal coverage of all medically necessary services, contain costs by slashing bureaucracy, protect the doctor patient relationship, assure patients a completely free 2018SCRES - 201 - 180616 - PASS - HEA - Expanded Medicare For All choice of doctors, and allow physicians a free choice of practice settings;
WHEREAS as of May 13, 2018, 122 Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives have co-sponsored H.R. 676;
WHEREAS as of May 13, 2018, four Democratic members of Congress from Washington have declined to co-sponsor H.R. 676, and no Republican members of Congress from Washington have elected to co-sponsor H.R. 676; and
WHEREAS as in January 2018 the Washington State Democrats Central Committee urged Senators Murray and Cantwell to join the other 16 democratic senators as co-53 sponsors of S.B.1804;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats express support for The Expanded & Improved Medicare For All Act (HR 676), and calls upon the Democratic and Republican members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation who have not already done so to co-sponsor H.R. 676 and S.B. 1804 and to work towards its enactment within the current Congress; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation. Drafted by the Platform Committee. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their May 20, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA) expanded health coverage to 20 million people but left millions of people uninsured, and failed to control costs;
WHEREAS single-payer health care bills have been introduced in both the Washington State House (Rep. Appleton) and Senate (Sen. Hasegawa), yet has not come out of committee;
WHEREAS there is an active bill in the United States House of Representatives, HR 676, Expanded & Improved Medicare for All (Rep. Conyers), that would provide health coverage for all U.S. residents at considerably lower cost;
WHEREAS a single-payer health care bill is being drafted for the United States Senate (Sen. Sanders);
WHEREAS polling consistently demonstrates that a majority of voters support single-18 payer healthcare;
WHEREAS the public outcry against each of the recently proposed GOP bills repealing the ACA and recognition that the ACA needs revision, makes this an ideal opportunity to promote full universal single-payer health care coverage in the U.S.; and
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats calls for "An affordable universal single-payer system to provide the most equitable and effective health care, serving both individual and public health needs...";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on all WA state legislators to support universal single-payer health care bills and initiatives in Washington, and we thank Senator Maralyn Chase for co-32 sponsoring universal single-payer health care bills and initiatives in Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee thanks U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-7), and Adam Smith (WA-9) for vocally supporting and co- sponsoring HR 676, Expanded & Improved Medicare for All, and we urge the full WA Congressional delegation to co- WSDCCRES - 843 - 170910 - PASS - HEA - Supporting Single-Payer Healthcare sponsor and advocate for HR 676 or similar legislation providing for single payer health care;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell to co-sponsor and advocate for a universal single-payer health-care bill in the Senate; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be sent to each member of the Congressional delegation with a request that they inform the Washington State Democratic Central Committee about their proposed action(s) on single payer health care.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 8/25/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee adopted the Resolution Urging Support of Single-Payer Healthcare (WSDCC-RES-843-170909) at the September 2017 session;
WHEREAS single-payer health care bills have been introduced in both the Washington State House (Rep. Appleton) and Senate (Sen. Frockt), yet have not come out of committee;
WHEREAS 64% of Washington State voters said in a statewide poll that they support universal healthcare, and 50% strongly support it; and
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats calls for "An affordable universal single-payer system to provide the most equitable and effective health care, serving both individual and public needs ";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on all WA state legislators to support and pass.
Submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham on 11/21/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS the current Washington State Democratic Party platform expressly calls for a universal single-payer health care system to provide the most equitable and effective care for all;
WHEREAS past Democratic state committees and state conventions, as well as this body, have adopted both platforms and serial resolutions in support of single-payer health care, with little visible response from our U.S. Senators;
WHEREAS Republicans' continued attacks on the Affordable Care Act ("ACA") have increased the public's awareness of single-payer health care as an alternative, with over 50% of voters now supporting a single-payer system;
WHEREAS the Republicans' recently enacted "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" contains a non-16 germane provision undermining the continued effectiveness of the ACA by repealing the "individual mandate" that had brought widespread nationwide enrollment in health insurance;
WHEREAS in order to assure the provision of comprehensive health care as a human right, Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced U.S. Senate bill S. 1804, "The Medicare-for-22 All Act of 2017," which would establish a universal single-payer program for improved and expanded health care for all residents of the United States;
WHEREAS sixteen Democratic Senators immediately signed on as co-sponsors of S. 1804, but neither of our State's two United States Senators has yet done so; and
WHEREAS our State Democratic platform states, upfront and unequivocally: "In order to restore progressive democracy, we expect elected Democrats to be accountable and implement the principles of this platform, using all available legal and parliamentary procedures";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell be strongly urged, in compliance with the Washington State Democratic platform, to promptly join with other Democratic Senators as co-sponsors of S.1804, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to Senators Murray and Cantwell, accompanied in each case by a letter urgently requesting them to explain their positions and intended actions on S.1804. WSDCCRES - 860 - 180128 - PASS - HEA - Single Payer Health Care
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/12/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS Article 25 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights sets forth that "Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control establishes a fundamental right to healthcare";
WHEREAS more than a half million people in our state are uninsured, more are underinsured, and lives could be saved by ensuring access to healthcare;
WHEREAS the 2016 State Democratic Party Platform specifically resolves that we must establish: "An affordable universal single-payer system to provide the most equitable and effective health care, serving both individual and public health needs;"
WHEREAS people of color, people with disabilities, and low income people are the most likely to lack affordable, comprehensive healthcare;
WHEREAS Whole Washington has crafted a ballot initiative guaranteeing universal healthcare to all Washingtonians, with a funding mechanism analyzed by noted economist Dr. Gerald Friedman, which demonstrates that Washington state residents will save $9 billion dollars annually when universal healthcare is implemented;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, endorse I-1600, the Whole Washington state universal health care initiative;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, will provide PCO contact information to Whole Washington, and will send an email to our membership encouraging them to sign I-1600 petitions; BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that upon adoption of this resolution, that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, send this resolution to our Democratic Representatives in the US House and Senate, Democratic Representatives in the Washington State legislature, and issue a press release.
Submitted by the Washington State Democrats Disabilities Issues Caucus to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at the January 28th meeting in Bellingham. (Date submitted 1/27/2018). WSDCCRES - 871 - PASS - HEA - Supporting I-1600 The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS in 1998 state legislation implemented medical cannabis in Washington;
WHEREAS in 2012 voters in Washington voted to legalize recreational cannabis;
WHEREAS it was never the state's intent to deny medical patients access to the products they need to treat their individual medical conditions;
WHEREAS the Liquor and Cannabis Board allows over 200 toxic chemicals to be used in the production and processing of cannabis;
WHEREAS toxic-free cannabis products are not available to most people in Washington as a result of the elimination of medical cannabis stores when recreational cannabis was implemented; and
WHEREAS with the exception of Washington, all other states that have approved recreational cannabis use also allow home grow;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the passage of legislation which would allow cannabis home grow that is limited to adults 21 and older;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the event that legislation to allow cannabis home grow fails to pass, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee asks the state legislature to submit a ballot measure to Washington voters regarding cannabis home grow for adults 21 and older; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to our entire delegation in the Washington State Legislature and any other relevant jurisdiction. _____________________________________________________________________________
Submitted on January 27, 2018 via 50 signatures for consideration by the Washington State Democratic Central Committee at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed as amended. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, find the specific targeting of HIV and omission of other diseases from criminal statue discriminatory at face value; and be it further
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we, the Washington State Democrats, suggest our leaders adopt a policy around HIV that reduces the stigma and serves the best interests of our community in reducing the spread of HIV, including removing HIV from the legal definition of Assault; therefore, be it
THEREFORED BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, communicate this resolution to the Governor Inslee and to each Washington State Legislator.
Submitted by the 20th Legislative District Democrats to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco (Date Submitted 2/2/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the Medicare for All Act of 2019 (1384);
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT upon adoption of this resolution, it be sent to Representative Kim Schrier, Representative Denny Heck, Representative Rick Larsen, Representative Suzan DelBene, and Representative Derek Kilmer who are not currently cosponsors.
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7th, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted 03/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS, the U.S. health care system is in crisis. It has become intolerably expensive, yet fails to provide equitable access to care or achieve a better level of health. In 2002, health care consumed 15 percent of our Gross National Product, but more than 40 million people lacked health insurance at some point during the year. More than 18,000 people in the US die each year because they are uninsured and can't get proper health care; and
WHEREAS, the platform of the 11th District Democrats and the Washington State Democrats states "Establishment of a nationwide, publicly funded, accountable, nonprofit single-payer universal health care plan..."; and
WHEREAS, Rep. Jim McDermott (D-WA7) introduced House Bill 1200 on March 9th, in Congress to create a National Health Care system, and has introduced this same bill every congressional session since 1993; and
WHEREAS, Rep. Bob Hasegawa (D-11) introduced House Bill 2067 on February 16th, in Olympia to establish a legislative/executive task force on health care access, delivery, and financing; and
WHEREAS, a similar task force in California (the Lewin Commission) resulted in a practical law, SB 840, recently passed by the California State Senate, which has been estimated to be able to save $20 billion a year in health care administrative costs if enacted; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon the Washington State Governor to establish a task force on health care access by executive authority immediately; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon Congress to hold public hearings on HR 1200; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee invite local party organizations to join a letter writing campaign to the Washington State Governor and members of Congress to bring these two bills and other bills like them to the front of the legislative and executive agenda.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores by the 11th Legislative District Democrats (Date Submitted 11/20/2005) WSDCCRES - 074 - 051112 - PASS - HEA - Health Care Task Force.doc Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed unanimously by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Sources http://www.mhsc.ca/encyclopedia/contents/R48625.html http://www.policyalmanac.org/health/archive/health_insurance.shtml http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:HR01200:| http://www.commondreams.org/headlines02/0522-05.htm http://www.healthcareforall.org/lewin.pdf
WHEREAS, 600,000 Washingtonians lack health insurance; and
WHEREAS, the Washington health care safety net, the Basic Health Plan (BHP) is consistently searching for funding; and
WHEREAS, eligible, uninsured Washingtonians cannot receive benefits on the BHP as there are not sufficient slots; and
WHEREAS, a 2004 report stated that more than 3,100 Wal-Mart workers, half of whom work full-time, are on the taxpayer-funded BHP; and
WHEREAS, other large employers, such as McDonald's shift their health care costs to taxpayers via the BHP; and
WHEREAS, employers currently have no incentive to not join in to the "race to the bottom" by shifting their health care costs to taxpayers via the BHP; and
WHEREAS, the Fair Share Health Care bill (HB2517/SB6356) of 2006 would require employers with 5,000 or more employees to spend at least 9% of their payroll on health care, and non-profits would spend 7%; and
WHEREAS, Governor Gregoire committed to passing a "perfected" Fair Share Health Care bill in 2007;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party join with the Fair Share Health Care Coalition of church organizations, business leaders, unions, and retirees in supporting Fair Share Health Care legislation in the 2007 Washington State Legislative session in respectfully directing their Washington State delegation to work to enact said legislation.
Submitted by the King County Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 05/24/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 214 - 060929 - PASS - HEA - Fair Share Health Care.doc The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the use of fair market value to negotiate drug prices was prohibited when designing Medicare Plan D; and
WHEREAS, the American tradition of free market competition was conveniently ignored in favor of pharmaceutical company profits; and
WHEREAS, Medicare Plan D is clearly a benefit to the drug companies at the expense of the patient;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State congressional delegation work to improve Medicare Plan D in such a manner that the cost of prescription drugs is negotiated and the cost to subscribers is reduced; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party direct our Washington Congressional delegation to revise Medicare prescription law to have: 1. Less co-pay or no co-pay for low-income patients; and 2. Lower premiums; and 3. More choices in plans; and 4. An allowance for state governments to negotiate with prescription drug companies and/or insurance companies for prescription drugs; and 5. An allowance for U.S. citizens to purchase medications from other countries.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 218 - 060929 - PASS - HEA - Drug Prices.doc The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, it is the Constitutional obligation of the State of Washington to "foster and support" its Residential Habilitation Centers (RHCs) for people with developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Washington State law "permanently established" the State's five RHCs, including Fircrest School in Shoreline, Frances Haddon Morgan Center in Bremerton, Rainier School in Buckley, Yakima Valley School in Selah and Lakeland Village in Medical Lake, to "provide services to persons with developmental disabilities,"; and
WHEREAS, Washington State's network of RHCs are an essential component of the full continuum of care provided for its citizens with the highest needs; and
WHEREAS, the five RHCs meet and exceed the very highest requirements of patient care and have set the bar to which other care facilities aspire; and
WHEREAS, by Federal law, families and guardians have the right to choose RHC care; and
WHEREAS, the number of residents at RHCs has declined because of the Department of Social and Health Services' de facto moratorium on admissions and not because the need for their services has diminished; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Social and Health Services, circumventing the Washington State Constitution and the State Legislature, has made it clear that it intends to close Fircrest School, and ultimately all of the RHCs in Washington State, and
WHEREAS numerous studies have shown that significant savings are clearly not possible by forcing individuals to move from RHCs into community placements; and
WHEREAS, numerous studies have shown that forcing RHC residents to move would cause real harm to real people by greatly increasing their likelihood of dying;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Fircrest School in Shoreline and all of the RHCs must remain open and remain a viable choice by families and individuals, and Washington State's network of RHCs be funded to provide professional services to people with developmental disabilities who live in the surrounding communities, and WSDCCRES - 219 - 060929 - PASS - HEA - Residential Habilitation Center.doc BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party go on record as opposing the closure of any of Washington State's RHCs and that admissions to the centers be reopened to those families and guardians who choose these services.
Submitted by the by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 5/10/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, eight states - Hawaii, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Maine - have enacted laws allowing doctors to prescribe marijuana for medical purposes; and
WHEREAS, since federal law prohibits the use of marijuana for any purpose, doctors prescribing marijuana for medical purposes risk being arrested; and
WHEREAS, the above eight states plus Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina, and New York have reduced penalties for the possession of marijuana in recent years; and
WHEREAS, in May 2004, House Republicans attempted to pass legislation that would strip federal anti-drug money from local police in states which have passed medical marijuana laws; and
WHEREAS, in May 2004, House Republicans asked for legislation to fund the White House Drug Policy office for five more years and allow that office to run ads opposing medical marijuana initiatives;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party shall press its U.S. Senators and Representatives to press for legislation which would protect the medical marijuana laws in the states which have passed them, and which would prohibit the reduction of federal funds to states which have passed medical marijuana laws.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/26/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the H5N1 virus (i.e. "Bird Flu") is spreading rapidly across the earth; and
WHEREAS it is reasonable to believe that the Bird Flu may spread to Washington State; and
WHEREAS there are legitimate concerns that H5N1 may mutate to a form that can be transmitted between humans;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party support the creation of and funding for a comprehensive plan to protect Washington State residents, in the occurrence of any pandemic, that defends civil rights, provides care for those who are ill, and limits the number of individuals who are exposed to the virus; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the planning process should include participation by public and private health professionals, elected representatives, and other citizens.
Submitted by Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 05/04/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS: The Platform of Skagit County Democrats dated April 8, 2006 calls on all Members of Congress to support and enact United States National Health Insurance Act, the "United States National Health Insurance Act"; and
WHEREAS: United States National Health Insurance Act will insure every resident of the U.S.; and
WHEREAS: The overwhelming majority of U.S. residents want a national, single-payer health care plan; and
WHEREAS: Members of Congress are representatives of we, the people;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Washington State Democrats call on all Members of Congress to support and enact United States National Health Insurance Act, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the Washington State Democrats call on other County Central Committees in Washington to concur with this resolution, and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: This resolution shall be forwarded to all Members of Congress, to every State Central Committee, and to the Democratic National Committee
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. ( Date
Submitted 1/11/2007) Glenn Bordner - Chair, Skagit County Democratic Party The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "PASS WITH AMENDMENTS" on this resolution at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution "AS AMENDED" by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its January 27, 2007 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS, 600,000 residents of Washington State lack health insurance coverage;
WHEREAS, employers currently have no incentive to not join in the "race to the bottom" by shifting their health care costs to employees and, in some cases, to the taxpayers via the Basic Healthcare Plan;
WHEREAS, our current system of employer-provided health care coverage ties employees to their existing jobs for the sake of the coverage and exposes them to the risk of losing coverage when changing plans due to "pre-existing conditions';
WHEREAS, the current system of competing health insurance policies imposes high costs upon health care providers as they sort among the many requirements and forms to obtain reimbursement for providing services;
WHEREAS, a unified financing system at the state level can eliminate the fragmentation of the current system and can avoid excessive costs and confusion from adding still more programs to our current overburdened, inefficient health care financing mechanisms;
WHEREAS, the Washington Health Security Trust Proposal, demonstrates that o a tightly drafted state law can cover the complex issue of universal health care coverage; o state action, negotiation, and waivers can resolve complicating relationships with federal laws and regulations, such as ERISA and Taft-Hartley trusts without federal legislation; however, enabling federal legislation such as the Health Partnership Act (S2772) would be helpful; o existing health care dollars can be managed within a dedicated health security trust fund to cover medically necessary, high quality health care for all residents without additional revenues; and
WHEREAS, the Washington Health Security Trust provides affordable, comprehensive coverage of high quality health care for all residents of the state, using a unified and cohesive financing system which would use fewer health care dollars than we spend now;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats endorses the Washington State Health Security Trust bills now before the legislature; WSDCCRES - 376 - 080126 - PASS - HEA - Health Security Trust.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats pledge to advocate and promote passage of Washington State Health Security Trust bills in the 2007-08 Washington State Legislature and to support and encourage our own district legislators to enact said legislation, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will forward copies of this resolution to all members of the Washington State Legislature and the Governor.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date
Submitted 11/2/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, every person in Washington and in the United States deserves access to affordable, quality health care; and
WHEREAS, there is a growing crisis in health care in the United States of America, manifested in rising health care costs, increased premiums, out-of-pocket spending, decreased international business competitiveness, and massive layoffs; and
WHEREAS, Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler reported that well over 700,000 residents of Washington lacked health insurance in 2006; and
WHEREAS, those insured now often experience unacceptable medical debt and sometimes life-threatening delays in obtaining health care; and
WHEREAS, one-half of all personal bankruptcies are due to illnesses or medical bills; and
WHEREAS, the increasing expense of Medicaid and the rising costs of insuring state employees and teachers can best be met not by limiting benefits, but by expanding them under a national, publicly-funded health insurance program; and
WHEREAS, the complex bureaucracy arising form our fragmented, for-profit, multi-24 payer system of health care financing consumes approximately thirty percent (30%) of the United States health care spending; and
WHEREAS, researches from Harvard University found that in 2003, 780,000 residents of Washington were uninsured; that $27,912 billion was spent on health care in the state that year, and that unnecessary administrative costs amounted to $5,254 billion ($6,735 per uninsured resident); and
WHEREAS, Representatives John Conyers and Dennis Kucinich have introduced H.R. 676, the United States National Health Insurance Act, in the U S House of Representatives, and this act would greatly reduce administrative costs by hundreds of billions of dollars while providing a universal, comprehensive, single payer system of high quality national health insurance;
WHEREAS, The Platform of the Democratic Party of Washington calls for the "establishment of a comprehensive national health care plan, (as in HR 676: universal single payer healthcare) similar to Medicare and available to all, regardless of age or employment". WSDCCRES - 383 - 080126 - PASS - HEA - Support HR 676.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, That this resolution shall be transmitted to our Legislature and Congressional delegation urging its adoption.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: The Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests : Section 1 The Washington Legislature respectfully urges the United States Congress to enact HR 676, the United States National Health Insurance Act sponsored by Representative John Conyers. Section 2 The Washington State Legislature shall transmit a copy of this Resolution to the President of the United States and the members of the Washington Congressional Delegation.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democratic Party to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver (Date Submitted 1/5/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Yakima Valley School (YVS) is a state residential habilitation center (RHC) that provides nursing home services to developmentally disable citizens; and
WHEREAS YVS has not been cited after an audit for five years, and is listed by Medicare as an outstanding provider of nursing home services; and
WHEREAS YVS also successfully provides services to the community, including respite and dental; and
WHEREAS YVS provides a vital source of employment for the local area, and family wage jobs, during times of economic difficulties, should be preserved; and
WHEREAS closure of YVS would inflict serious economic harm to the local area; and
WHEREAS the previous closure of state RHC nursing home, Interlake, failed to provide substantial saving of state dollars;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee actively opposes the gubernatorial proposal to close the Yakima Valley School; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC will actively urge its members to contact their state legislators to express support for Yakima Valley School, and the express opposition to closing Yakima Valley School.
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus with the signatures of fifty State Central Committee members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 24 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/24/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 24, 2009 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS the legislature recognizes that long-term care facilities are a critical part of the state's long-term care services system. It is the intent of the legislature that individuals who reside in long-term care facilities receive appropriate services, be treated with courtesy, and continue to enjoy their basic civil and legal rights; and
WHEREAS it is also the intent of the legislature that long-term care facility residents have the opportunity to exercise reasonable control over life decisions. The legislature finds that choice, participation, privacy, and the opportunity to engage in religious, political, civic, recreational, and other social activities foster a sense of self-worth and enhance the quality of life for long-term care residents; and
WHEREAS the legislature finds that the public interest would be best served by providing the same basic resident rights in all long-term care settings. Residents in nursing facilities are guaranteed certain rights by federal law and regulation, 42 U.S.C. 1396r and 42 C.F.R. part 483. It is the intent of the legislature to extend those basic rights to residents in veterans' homes, boarding homes, and adult family homes; and
WHEREAS the legislature intends that a facility should care for its residents in a manner and in an environment that promotes maintenance or enhancement of each resident's quality of life. A resident should have a safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, allowing ht resident to use his or her personal belongings to the extent possible; and
WHEREAS the statements above are all contained in RCW Chapter 70.129, Long Term Care Residents' Rights, in RCW 70.129.005; and
WHEREAS the legislature extend basic rights of residents of nursing homes to residents of veterans' home, boarding homes, and adult family homes, but by apparent oversight did not extend those rights to individuals with developmental disabilities who reside in intermediate care facilities for the developmentally disabled known as ICF/MR; and
WHEREAS individuals with developmental disabilities who reside in ICF/MR should have the same rights that other disabled individuals receive under Chapter 70.129; and
WHEREAS House Bill 1407 will amend Chapter 70.129 to provide equal rights for residents of ICF/MR;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats actively support House Bill 1407; and WSDCCRES - 395 - 090124 - PASS - HEA - Resident's Rights Resolution.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will actively urge its members to contact their state legislators to express support for House Bill which provide equal rights for individuals with developmental disability for residents to ICF/MR.
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus with the signatures of fifty State Central Committee members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 24 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/24/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 24, 2009 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS the citizens of the State of Washington declare that every school age child's health, welfare, safety, and education should be at the center of every decision made by the Department of Health (DOH) in areas related to school age children, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), school administrators, and school nurses who serve them. The taxpayer and the parents who entrust their children to the care of these institutions and individuals have a right to believe with absolute certainty that this is evident;
WHEREAS the number of children with medically complex health conditions requiring respirators, tube feedings and intermittent catheterizations and other conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and life threatening allergic reactions is increasing exponentially in school age children and requiring expert nursing assessment and judgment;
WHEREAS the scope of practice for registered nurses is established by the Nurse Practice Act, RCW 18.79 and RCW 18.130 with oversight by the Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission; and
WHEREAS supervisors who are not nurses do not have the authority to direct school nurses to perform activities outside the scope of nursing practice, to re-define the scope of practice for registered nurses even regarding issues that arise in the schools, to assign or delegate any responsibility within the scope of the authorized practice of nursing to a person not licensed to practice such profession unless such assignment or delegation is otherwise authorized by law (WAC Chapter 181-87-070, Code of Professional Conduct);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee respects and supports the work of nurses who are working as school nurses in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Washington State legislature and governor to support and enact legislation clarifying that the supervision, evaluation and direction of the licensed practice of a school nurse must be by someone licensed as a registered nurse that has those credentials required by Washington State for this supervisory role;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Washington State legislature and governor to support and enact legislation clarifying that the Washington State DOH sets the standards for licensed nursing practice in schools in order to ensure compliance with federal and state legislation, as well as the Washington State Nurse Practice Act; WSDCCRES - 445 - 090926 - PASS - HEA - Supporting Licensed School Nurses.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Washington State legislature and governor to support and enact legislation clarifying that the ultimate evaluation of a nurse's licensed practice in schools is by the Washington State DOH;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Washington State legislature and governor to support and enact legislation clarifying that the OSPI and school administrators must facilitate the execution and delivery of licensed nursing practice in schools to comply with the Washington State DOH standards, and state and federal legislation;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Washington State legislature and governor to support and enact legislation clarifying that the OSPI and school administrators not licensed as a nurse may only direct and evaluate the non-licensed activities of a school nurse; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee directs the corresponding secretary to send this resolution to all members of the state legislature, the governor of Washington State, the Washington DOH, and OSPI.
Submitted by the Snohomish County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 8/30/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the basic point of health insurance ought to be to share risk over the widest possible pool of people;
WHEREAS, though HR 3200 proposes that pre-existing conditions have been eliminated as reasons to deny insurance, it retains age discrimination, allowing insurers to charge double premiums to older people;
WHEREAS mandated private insurance exists in other countries without age discrimination; and
WHEREAS people between the ages of 50 and 65 are being particularly hard hit by layoffs and mandatory early retirement and subsequent age discrimination when looking for new employment;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats ask that President Obama and our Democratic Congressional delegation not tolerate any form of discrimination, including age discrimination, in the final version of health care reform legislation.
Submitted by the 11th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/20/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the heath care system of the United States is in crisis, with almost fifty million Americans lacking any health insurance, tens of millions more lacking adequate coverage, and millions more who do have private coverage paying increasingly unaffordable premiums, resulting in inadequate access to care and premature death, illness, or financial ruin for millions of Americans;
WHEREAS the current "for profit" health care system is creating an unsustainable financial burden on the country, the working poor and employers (placing US based business at a competitive disadvantage);
WHEREAS the current recovery is, like the last one, shaping up to be a "jobless" recovery leading to large increases in the number of people who will be without jobs and health insurance for significant time periods;
WHEREAS our hope for strong national economic growth in the future depends on limiting the rate of inflation of healthcare costs; and
WHEREAS the current "for profit" health care insurance industry is actively lobbying congress to maintain the status quo when it comes to health care reform; and
WHEREAS all Americans should have quality affordable healthcare insurance that cannot be denied because of circumstances of employment, preexisting conditions, or inability to pay for coverage;
WHEREAS there is evidence that federally-funded and run programs such as the V.A. system and Medicare provide quality care in an efficient manner; and
WHEREAS our National Democratic Platform of 2008: Renewing America's Promise, states: "We believe that covering all is not just a moral imperative, but is necessary to making our health system workable and affordable .Families and individuals should have the option of keeping the coverage they have or choosing from a wide array of health insurance plans, including many private health insurance options and a public plan";
WHEREAS co-ops or so-called "triggers" have never been tested as a model in the proposed format, and there is no evidence that they would save costs, work efficiently, or provide quality care; WSDCCRES - 456 - 090926 - PASS - HEA - Supporting Healthcare Reform.doc
WHEREAS many longstanding planks in the platforms of local, state and national Democratic Parties pertaining to health care advocate for a national single payer health care plan which includes every American; and
WHEREAS there has also been strong support from local, state and national Democratic Parties for a public option;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats and Central Committee urge the President and Congress of the United States to support adoption of a single payer plan, such as Medicare for All, and undertake efforts toward that goal including the adoption of a robust not-for-profit public plan designed to immediately provide irrevocable universal health coverage to all Americans, regardless of age, preexisting condition or ability to pay, without limits to benefits, and with adequate size and authority to negotiate prices and agreements to ensure its effectiveness;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support the plan as articulated above; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats shall send a copy of this resolution to the Washington State Congressional Delegation.
Submitted by the Resolutions Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the US Department of Defense has estimated the number of Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans with combat-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) could reach 360,000; and
WHEREAS while more than $1 billion has been committed to fund academic research, almost eight years after the start of the war on terrorism, neither the Department of Veterans Affairs nor the Department of Defense has discovered, much less fielded, a treatment regimen or protocol that provides timely, assured relief for the disabling effects of this "signature injury";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby support exploring the use and incorporation of Residential Habilitation Center (RHC) Property in the State of Washington for Research into and Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), alongside and in harmony with the RHCs' current use; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED that the WSDCC Chair (or the Chair's designee) shall send a copy of this resolution communicating its approval by the WSDCC to each member of the congressional delegation representing the State of Washington by electronic mail.
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS people who have disabilities are entitled to dignified and productive lives, the opportunity to choose relevant lifestyles, and the freedom to experience environments without barriers;
WHEREAS people who have disabilities possess unique talents, insights, and values needed to ensure that Seattle, the nation, and the world become better and more productive societies; and
WHEREAS governmental policies and practices have often introduced barriers that prevent people who have disabilities from participating in the decisions that affect them, from realizing their full potential, and from contributing to the greater good;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon the Seattle Mayor and Seattle City Council to establish a Seattle Commission, to be staffed by the Seattle Office for Civil Rights, and specifically to advise the City on how best to address concerns expressed by people with disabilities; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC Chair (or the Chair's designee) shall urgently send a copy of this resolution communicating its approval by the WSDCC to the above-referenced City officials, by electronic mail, by close of business on Friday, October 2, 2009 (given the timeliness of this communication in light of the City of Seattle's budget considerations commencing on Friday, September 25, 2009).
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS diabetes is a serious, costly and increasingly common chronic disease that affects almost 24 million Americans with millions more are at risk for the disease. Diabetes contributes to almost 234,000 deaths a year and is the fifth leading cause of death by disease in the United States;
WHEREAS almost 444,000 or 6.6% of adults in Washington are diagnosed with diabetes in 2009 while in 1994 only 4% of adults were diagnosed with diabetes making diabetes one of the most common yet most costly chronic diseases impacting the state;
WHEREAS diabetes causes preventable complications that can be life threatening. Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, leg and foot amputations, pregnancy complications, and death related to flu and pneumonia. The leading causes of death in people with diabetes are heart disease and stroke;
WHEREAS minority populations, especially Native Americans and African Americans, suffer from diabetes at rates much higher than the general population and have the higher rates of complications associated with the disease;
WHEREAS in 2005 Native Americans and Alaskan Natives in Washington had a diabetes prevalence of 12% and African Americans had a diabetes prevalence of 14%, compared to 6.6% in the overall population. In addition, the Washington State Department of Health reports that diabetes prevalence increased as income decreases, growing from a prevalence rate of diabetes of 4% among those citizens making more than $50,000 annually to 11% prevalence rate for diabetes for those making less than $20,000 annually; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Department of Health estimates that 31% of the adult population in the state is at risk for, but does not yet have, diabetes;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington Democratic Party supports implementing programs and coordinated efforts to reach and motivate people diagnosed with diabetes and their healthcare teams in Washington to obtain and provide appropriate medical care to prevent, diagnose and treat diabetes while reducing the risk of complications associated with the disease;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports efforts that allow Washington's Native American and African American communities, tribes and the state to implement efforts to prevent, diagnose and treat diabetes while reducing the burdens associated with the disease for Native Alaskans living with or at-risk for diabetes should also be implemented; WSDCCRES - 502 - 101009 - PASS - HEA - Resolution on Diabetes Prevention.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that efforts must also be undertaken to assess the work currently underway in the state aimed at reaching populations living with diabetes to ensure the efforts are reducing the impact of diabetes complications in Washington; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges the State of Washington to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal government entities are called upon to obtain relevant and necessary resources to prevent, detect and treat populations impacted by the epidemic of diabetes in Washington.
Submitted by the Disabilities Issues Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/23/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS since 1972, the Frances Haddon Morgan Center (FHMC) has provided essential services to severely disabled children and adults and support services for patient's families;
WHEREAS the closure of FHMC would severely impact some of our most vulnerable citizens;
WHEREAS closure of FHMC eliminates the jobs of 130 highly skilled workers who care for these individuals; and
WHEREAS the governor's proposed budget calls for the closure of FHMC;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee: 1. Endorses the continuation of the Frances Haddon Morgan Center (FHMC); 2. Calls for the State of Washington to provide funds necessary for the Frances Haddon Morgan Center (FHMC) to continue to provide its essential services; and 3. Asks that all members of Washington State's Democratic Caucuses promote the continuation of the Frances Haddon Morgan Center (FHMC); and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee notify the legislature of this resolution on May 2, 2011.
Submitted by the 26th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 1/19/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, Fifth Edition, 2009, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, is a 43-page document, hereafter referred to as The Directives; and
WHEREAS the Directives have been incorporated into many Washington state agreements forming associations (e.g. alliances, partnerships, mergers) of Catholic health care facilities with non-sectarian, non-profit health care facilities, such as Providence with Swedish; and
WHEREAS some of The Directives most flagrantly in conflict with public policy and non-9 sectarian health care provisions can be summed up as follows (see catholicwatch.org): Forbidden contraception vasectomies and tubal ligation abortion under any circumstances, including an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition most fertility treatments In Vitro Fertilization new treatments (e.g., for Parkinsons or Juvenile Diabetes) using embryonic stem cells any participation or referrals for patients who want to exercise their legal rights under Death with Dignity laws recognition of LGBT rights Required tube feeding in the case of persistent, vegetative coma (similar to Terri Schiavo), regardless of any Advance Directive to the contrary employees to override patients' Advanced Directives if they conflict with the Bishops' Moral code adherence to all of The Directives by all employees associated with a Catholic hospital Asserted employees are to override patients' Advanced Directives if they conflict with the Bishops' Moral code adherence to all of The Directives by all employees associated with a Catholic hospital ; and
WHEREAS medical facilities are run substantially on public dollars; and
WHEREAS the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits government support of any religion, and all health care groups that incorporate The Directives violate this prohibition and further violate the freedom of religion of those who do not subscribe to The Directives;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that upon adoption of this resolution we, the Washington State Democrats, ask the Attorney General of the State of Washington to undertake a thorough review and audit of the terms of all health care associations, however characterized, between non-sectarian and sectarian providers in Washington State to determine in particular whether these associations (a) extend the authority of religious doctrine, such as the Catholic "Ethical and Religious Directives", so as to prevent, restrict, or make more difficult the freedom of choice of the allied non-sectarian health care facilities, providers and patients; and/or (b) result in otherwise prohibited direct or indirect state funding of religion; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, ask our state legislators to take legislative action to prevent sectarian religious doctrine from applying to the facilities, providers, staff or patients of non-sectarian health care organizations even if they are associated, allied or merged with a sectarian religious organization.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Submitted 4/18/2013). WSDCCRES - 611 - 130427 - PASS - HEA - Religion in Health Care The Progressive Caucus voted in support of this resolution on 4/27/2013 in Chelan. Recommended "pass with amendments" by the Resolutions Committee at the April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS the U.S. Medicare system provides insurance coverage for vital healthcare services to seniors and disabled citizens and keeps millions of people from falling into abject poverty due to the cost of their medical treatments; and
WHEREAS the issue with Medicare is the rising cost of medical services, not the program itself; and
WHEREAS the continuing of the economic downturn, tax cuts for the very wealthy and corporations, the expense of unbudgeted wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are all responsible for the increase in deficits and the federal debt; and
WHEREAS privatizing Medicare with a "vouchers" system and forcing seniors to buy private health insurance offers no guarantee of quality, affordable care or even any care at all if insurers deny coverage to seniors; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee email the President and our congressional representatives and call upon them to initiate actions that will increase federal revenue by repealing tax breaks for the very wealthy and large corporations and use that increase in revenue to follow through on promises to invest in America's middle class and to protect our poor, young, disabled and senior citizens by improving and continuing the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central committee for consideration at its April 27, meeting in Chelan. (Date submitted April 11, 2013)
Submitted by the 32nd District Democratic Organization to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting. (Submitted 4/19/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "CONSOLODATED THIS RESOLUTION WITH RESOLUTION #613" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS we, the citizens of the United States, pay twice as much for healthcare as the other industrialized countries, yet are less healthy than our peer nations, suffering from more heart disease and chronic conditions, shorter life expectancy and higher infant mortality;
WHEREAS the newly enacted Affordable Care Act (ACA), intended to lessen our healthcare spending and improve our health outcomes, fails to ensure that all residents of the state can be insured at a price they can afford;
WHEREAS HB 1025 and SB 5132 have been introduced in the Washington State Legislature to create a Washington Health Security Trust (WHST), a single-payer system to cover all Washingtonians for medical, dental, and mental health care, and vision;
WHEREAS in 2017, the federal government will grant innovation waivers to those states that can prove their healthcare plan is as good or better than the ACA;
WHEREAS, as a single-payer system, the WHST would provide equal care to all Washington residents and would allow patients to freely choose their doctors;
WHEREAS, the WHST would provide savings and efficiencies, including reducing administrative costs and unreimbursed care and the social costs of personal injury lawsuits and bankruptcy;
WHEREAS the WHST could rationalize healthcare spending through mechanisms such as global budgets for hospitals and negotiated drug prices;
WHEREAS the WHST would facilitate health planning, directing capital funds to build and expand health facilities where they are needed, rather than being driven by the dictates of the market, thereby improving health outcomes for currently underserved communities; and
WHEREAS the WHST could ameliorate the current disparities in reimbursement rates to healthcare systems in the rural and urban areas of Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, urge our legislative delegation to support the Washington Health Security Trust bills (SB 5132 and HB 1025) in the 2015 legislative session. WSDCCRES - 708 - 150124 - PASS - HEA - Washington Health Security Trust
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 11/21/2014)
Submitted by the 24th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/11/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS, three Counties in Eastern Washington, (Yakima, Benton and Franklin), are the site of a serious cluster of anencephalic birth defects; and in 2013, the rate of anencephalic births was 11.1/10,000 births, approximately 5 times the U.S. rate of 2.1/10,000; and in addition, these numbers only reflect the women who reached 37 weeks of pregnancy or delivered; it does not reflect women who may have chosen to terminate the pregnancy upon learning that their baby had a serious, fatal birth defect;
WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) have not reached a conclusion as to the cause of this extreme rise in birth defects in the Yakima, Benton, and Franklin Counties, and the DOH has stated on their website regarding the investigation, "Increases of unusual health conditions like this is concerning and difficult to investigate"; and "Birth defects study in south central WA is inconclusive - no common causes; Prevention advice for brain development disorder includes prenatal vitamin with folic acid";
WHEREAS, the CDC and the DOH have not reached a conclusion regarding the cause of the anencephalic birth defect cluster, and have in the course of their investigation made a decision to not test the water or soil or foods of the affected families for contaminants; the DOH having made a decision to not test (or invite to test) the affected families for blood folate samples, despite folate deficiency being a main theory for cause the anencephalic birth defect cluster according to the DOH; and that there are no studies of folate deficiency in childbearing age women, planned for the three-County area;
WHEREAS, the lower Yakima County area is known to have nitrate contamination in 20% of wells, has been having elevated nitrates in air samples, and multiple studies have shown a link between nitrates and this same type of anencephalic birth defect rates; and Yakima County received funds to test wells, but chose only to test wells north of the Yakima River and declined to extend their free well testing program to any residents of the Yakama Nation area, an area with known nitrate contamination of wells;
WHEREAS, the Yakima, Benton, and Franklin Counties are also near the Hanford nuclear reservation, another potential source of contamination of water;
WHEREAS the World Health Organization has called nitrates a known mutagen which is a substance or agent that can induce or increase the frequency of genetic mutation; WSDCCRES - 730 - 150418 - PASS - HEA - Anencephalic Cluster Research
WHEREAS the Washington State DOH and the March of Dimes are recommending that all women in this area, who might potentially become pregnant, should take folic acid or folate, a B Vitamin that is known to reduce neural tube defects; and that both have said they are conducting a media campaign to increase awareness of this need for folate, in the three-county area; and that this awareness campaign has not been noticeable; and WHERAS all peoples in Washington State have an inherent right to clean air, soil, food and water, free of contaminants that might cause anencephalic or other birth defects; and that correcting any deficiencies in this right is a matter of social justice and for the well-being of our babies and families;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges all members of our State Legislature, Governor Jay Inslee, and the State Board of Health to require a more thorough investigation, under a special investigator, of the possible causes of this anencephalic birth defect cluster; that soil, water, and other possible causes be tested; and also require Washington State to set aside funds for a systematic and sustained awareness campaign regarding folic acid supplementation and well testing as a possible preventative effort; and also set aside funds for free well testing and remediation of contaminated wells which families rely on as a water source to sustain their daily lives in other county areas, including Yakama Nation area, not offering testing in the three-county region; and that these efforts continue until a root cause is discovered and solved.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS all people are constitutionally entitled to make decisions about their own bodies;
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood provides a myriad of health services including family planning services, sex education, reproductive health care, cancer screening, STD treatments, and abortion services;
WHEREAS five states have already defunded Planned Parenthood on the basis of false accusations made about Planned Parenthood services; and
WHEREAS Planned Parenthood does not receive any federal funding for abortion services;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the critical services provided by Planned Parenthood and continued federal funding of Planned Parenthood;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we encourage every Democratic organization in Washington State to adopt a program supporting the continued federal funding of Planned Parenthood; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to all Democratic organizations in Washington State, to our congressional delegation, and to the President.
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/19/2015)
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/19/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS we, the citizens of the United States, pay twice as much for healthcare as the other industrialized countries, yet are less healthy than our peer nations, suffering from more heart disease and chronic conditions, shorter life expectancy and higher infant mortality;
WHEREAS the Affordable Care Act (ACA), intended to lessen our healthcare spending and improve our health outcomes, was always intended for further improvement, and enables states to enact healthcare for all;
WHEREAS medical debt is still the most common cause of bankruptcy;
WHEREAS HB 1321 and SB 5305 have been introduced in the Washington State Legislature to declare that it is the intent of the legislature that all residents of this state have accessible, affordable, and comprehensive health care coverage by 2020;
WHEREAS in 2017, the federal government will grant innovation waivers to those states that can prove their healthcare plan is as good or better than the ACA;
WHEREAS a simple single-payer system would provide accessible, affordable, and comprehensive health care to all Washington residents and would allow patients to freely choose their doctors;
WHEREAS, such a system would provide savings and efficiencies, including reducing administrative costs and unreimbursed care and the social costs of personal injury lawsuits and bankruptcy;
WHEREAS such a system could rationalize healthcare spending through mechanisms such as global budgets for hospitals and negotiated drug prices;
WHEREAS a simple single-payer system would facilitate health planning, directing capital funds to build and expand health facilities where they are needed, rather than being driven by the dictates of the market, thereby improving health outcomes for currently underserved communities; and
WHEREAS such a system could ameliorate the current disparities in reimbursement rates to healthcare systems in the rural and urban areas of Washington; WSDCCRES - 768 - 160130 - PASS - HEA - Health Care for All
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, urge our legislative delegation to support the bills (SB 5305 and HB 1321) in the 2016 legislative session.
Submitted by the 1st LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/12/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party platform supports "universal health care and moving to a public single-payer system";
WHEREAS past State Committees and State Conventions have passed resolutions in support of single-payer health care with minimal response from Washington State's Congressional Democrats;
WHEREAS the recent failure of the Republican attack on the Affordable Care Act brings the conversation about the national health care system to the forefront; and
WHEREAS Rep. John Conyers has introduced HR 676 to create a national single-payer health care system;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be sent to each member of the Washington State Congressional delegation;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a Survey Question on voters' support for single-payer health care shall be added to VoteBuilder and made available statewide; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on the Washington State Congressional delegation to cosponsor HR 676 as well as other single-payer health care bills in their respective chambers.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats on 4/5/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses Whole Washington state universal healthcare bill (SB 5222); and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT the upon adoption of this resolution, it be sent to the Washington State Legislators and the Governor. 1. http://www.un.org/en/udhrbook/pdf/udhr_booklet_en_web.pdf 2. http://www.wa-democrats.org/sites/wadems/files/documents/Washington State Democrats - Platform - 160618.pdf 3. https://www.wa-democrats.org/sites/wadems/files/resolutions/WSDCCRES - 817 - 170422 - PASS - HEA - Single Payer.pdf) 4. http://www.epi.umn.edu/let/nutri/disparities/causes.shtm 5. http://www.wholewashington.org/faqs _________________________________________________________________________________________________
Submitted by the 21st Legislative District Democrats to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 25, 2019 meeting in Olympia. The Resolutions Committee recommend a "DO PASS as amended". 1/25/2019 The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January 27, 2019.
WHEREAS children are the USA's future;
WHEREAS children are dependent upon adults to protect them from accidental and intentional abuse in their homes and neighborhoods and are dependent upon adults to protect them from predators;
WHEREAS children are entitled to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness";
WHEREAS child abuse is rampant in US American society with serious cases estimated in the millions each year, including preventable deaths which number in the thousands;
WHEREAS ending child abuse will greatly strengthen families and our society;
WHEREAS best practices in Child Abuse Prevention Programs designed to help parents bond with their children and State Initiatives to include projects such as public nursing programs to support families with babies when implemented have proven to be very effective and cost efficient;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urge the Washington State Democratic Legislators to support and pass legislation to establish educational programs on Child Abuse Prevention with a goal to move toward the substantial reduction in the incidence of Child Abuse.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, 2008 meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS Social Security is an insurance program designed to be a safety net for retired citizens;
WHEREAS it is the responsibility of all citizens to care for the disabled and elderly; and
WHEREAS higher income individuals have the ability to pay more toward providing this safety net;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon the Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional delegation to support the removal of the income cap on Social Security earnings and taxed all income for this purpose.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS homelessness and hunger are issues that affect every neighborhood and community in America;
WHEREAS the underlying causes of homelessness and hunger are poverty, which affects a disproportionately large number of children, the elderly, veterans and disabled individuals, and the mentally and emotionally ill;
WHEREAS the Washington state legislature has demonstrated leadership on these issues by mandating a statewide effort to decrease homelessness, and has committed funding to support local programs to address homelessness and hunger; and
WHEREAS the federal government has consistently been cutting funding for critical programs that focus on reducing homelessness, hunger and poverty;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Central Committee urge the Washington State Legislators establish a commitment to prioritize support and action plan to end homelessness and hunger, and the root causes of poverty.
Submitted by the Kitsap County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS Social Security is an important safety net for working Americans;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Washington State support full funding of Social Security and oppose privatization of Social Security; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS half of all senior citizens would fall into poverty without Social Security;
WHEREAS the security of private pension plans is the subject of increased uncertainty;
WHEREAS job losses have rendered many Americans ineligible for an employer-based pension;
WHEREAS Social Security continues to run an annual surplus and remains capable of paying scheduled benefits in full for the next three decades;
WHEREAS Social Security provides needed disability and survivor's benefits;
WHEREAS Social Security creates a national sense of community;
WHEREAS the Republicans have attempted to incite fears of a Social Security crisis and have based their statistics on artificially low economic estimates of US productivity indicators; and
WHEREAS only the first $106,800 of EARNED INCOME is presently subject to Social Security Tax;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the WA State Democrats, urge Congress to eliminate this arbitrary cap;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we reaffirm the preservation of Social Security as a cornerstone of Democratic policy;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we affirm the need to strengthen Social Security's long term finances for the future;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we affirm the role of Social Security as a reliable, guaranteed benefit for retirement, disability insurance and survivors' income;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we will oppose any attempt by the bipartisan Deficit Reduction Commission or any effort by the executive branch or Congress to weaken or reduce Social Security and its benefits; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution will be sent to our delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions 2010SCRES - 044 - 100626 - PASS - HUM - Protection of Social Security.doc they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 48th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Consolidated with Resolution #45 by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Section VIII, "Senior Civil and Human Rights," in the 1998 Platform of the 32nd Legislative District Democratic Caucus, contained a plank calling for better supervision of adult family homes;
WHEREAS many of us felt righteous indignation when we saw the three-part investigative series, "Seniors for Sale: How the Aged and Frail are Exploited in Washington's Adult Family Homes," by Michael J. Berens (Seattle Times staff reporter), which appeared on the front page, continued on inside pages, of the Seattle Times on January 31, February 1 and 2, 2010;
WHEREAS some of us felt especially indignant when we saw the series headline, "Neglect and death, but home stays open: State knew of chronic violations; families didn't," on Monday, Feb. 1, 2010;
WHEREAS stronger measures are needed to prevent exploitation of the aged and frail by so-called Adult Family Homes and other care facilities and functionaries; and
WHEREAS families have a vital role in elder care. The family should never be shut out or kept "in the dark," or "out of the loop," and never be kept ignorant of what is being done to their loved by elder care facilities and functionaries;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, urge the Washington legislature to enact a bill to require that, when government knows of or suspects abuse, neglect or exploitation of a patient, resident or client by an elder care facility or functionary, then the family must be notified; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) 2010SCRES - 116 - 100626 - PASS - HUM - Exploitation of the Aged.doc Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS when a designated Burial Fund is established for a senior citizen (or anyone), then the money in that Burial Fund should be used only for burial-related purposes; and
WHEREAS court-imposed professional guardians (who are often unwanted by the patient and family on whom they are imposed) should not be allowed to use their ward's Burial Fund as a slush fund to pay (often exorbitant) professional fees to themselves and/or their lawyers, but unfortunately some professional guardians do exactly that;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, urge the Washington state legislature to prohibit any professional guardian from taking any money from a Burial Fund other than for burial-related purposes, and should prohibit any court commissioner or judge from authorizing such taking. Violators should be subject to criminal prosecution (including jail time) and to impeachment from judicial office; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, the professional guardian should be required, upon the death of the ward, to promptly hand over any Burial Fund to the next-of-kin or to whichever family member will be making the burial arrangements; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) 2010SCRES - 117 - 100626 - PASS - HUM - Protecting Burial Funds.doc The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS many of us felt righteous indignation when we saw the three-part investigative serious "Seniors for Sale: How the aged and frail are exploited in Washington's Adult Family Homes" by Michael J. Berens (Seattle Times staff reporter), which appeared on the front page (and continued on inside pages) of The Seattle Times Newspaper, January 31, Feb 1 & 2, 2010;
WHEREAS some of us felt especially indignant when we saw the headline "Neglect and Death, but home stays open: "State knew of chronic violations; families didn't" by Michael J. Berens, on the front page of The Seattle Times, Monday, Feb 1, 2010;
WHEREAS stronger measures are needed to oppose the exploitation of the aged and frail and developmentally disabled citizens by so-called adult family homes and other care facilities and functionaries;
WHEREAS families of former residents of Residential Habilitation Centers are being denied their parental rights by state action to assume guardianship over their loved ones when they object to documented mistreatment; and
WHEREAS families have a vital role in elder care and vulnerable dd citizen care; the family should never be shut out, never be kept "in the dark", never be "kept out of the loop", and never be kept ignorant of what is being done to their loved one by facilities and functionaries;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, call for our legislators to enact legislation addressing these egregious violations of citizens' human rights, and we call for committee chairs to hold hearings, and we call for the legislature to enact laws to require that when government, including DSHS or the police, know of or suspects abuse or neglect or exploitation of a patient or resident or client by an elder care facility or functionary, then the family must be notified;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the practice of the state assuming legal guardianship of vulnerable citizens when the family complains about mistreatment of their loved-ones must stop immediately; and 2012SCRES - 093 - 120602 - PASS - HUM - Exploitation of the Aged and Frail.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the law should provide that where the State fails to first prove that the family has been abusive, the family shall have the right to choose to remove that resident family member from that facility.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Health Care, and Human Services at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS language is important and Max Richtman of the Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare's use of "earned benefit" is a better expression for those of us interested in sharing for the good of us all;
WHEREAS taxpayers and employers in fact pay for Social Security and Medicare;
WHEREAS use of the word "entitlements" can create the impression of a give-away, which is not accurate;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that as much as possible the term "earned benefits" be used by the State Party instead of the word "entitlements" for Medicare and Social Security.
Submitted by the 48th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/16/2014) The Subcommittee on Human Services amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Human Services recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Human Services at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee further amended this resolution at their June 20th meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Social Security and Medicare provide for the health and economic security of older Americans;
WHEREAS Social Security is the principal source of income for a majority of older Americans;
WHEREAS one in three seniors counts on Social Security for nearly all of their retirement income;
WHEREAS the average monthly Social Security monthly payment is just $1,261 ($15,132 annually);
WHEREAS one in six Americans seniors live under the poverty line;
WHEREAS ten million Americans over 65 have an annual income of less than $10,500; and
WHEREAS Medicare is currently facing cuts that will cause seniors to pay higher premiums and higher copayments;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, urge our congressional delegation to support the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013 sponsored by Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa, to improve the financial foundation of Social Security ; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for Medicare to be expanded and made available to everyone.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Human Services amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Human Services recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Human Services at their May 31st meeting. 2014SC - 033 - 140621 - PASS - HUM - Social Security and Medicare The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS everyone should have the opportunity to live in a safe, healthy, affordable home;
WHEREAS the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction identified 35,551 public school students who experienced homelessness during the 2014-2015 school year, a 36% increase over 2010-2011;
WHEREAS, as an example, during the most recent King County One Night Count of people who are homeless and without shelter in January 2016, volunteers identified 4,505 people surviving outside between 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., after area shelters were full (a 19% increase over the 2015 count);
WHEREAS the annual statewide point-in-time count identified 19,418 people experiencing homelessness in January 2015;
WHEREAS housing affordability and homelessness have reached a crisis level in communities throughout Washington;
WHEREAS, as an example, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray and King County Executive Dow Constantine have declared states of emergency due to rising homelessness; and
WHEREAS a national study found that for every $100 increase in average rents, homelessness increases by 15% in urban areas and by 39% in rural and suburban areas;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call for a significant increase in investment in the State Housing Trust Fund to create newly affordable homes for very low-income households (less than 30% of area median income) in Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for significantly increased state investments in mental health/substance abuse treatment services to prevent and end homelessness; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we call upon the Washington State Congressional delegation to work to increase HUD housing and services, and to support Sen. Maria Cantwell's bill to lift the cap on federal tax credits for affordable housing.
Submitted by the King County Convention, as originated by the Washington State Low-41 Income Housing Alliance. 2016SCRES - 047 - 160618 - RECPA - HUM - End Homelessness The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS existing Washington State law unduly restrains local government from fully determining how to handle housing policies within their jurisdiction, and cities that have attempted creative solutions are already facing costly legal battles;
WHEREAS homelessness is overwhelmingly caused by growing rent, 31% in Skagit County alone in the past five years, with school districts statewide facing the alarming burden of numerous homeless children in 2015;
WHEREAS senior and low-income owners of manufactured/mobile homes, are guaranteed at least a one-year lease on land, nothing in RCW 5920 limits the size of their annual rent increase;
WHEREAS we are deeply concerned by the number of families on short term leases who may be evicted on short notice and without cause;
WHEREAS many vulnerable individuals and families face discrimination by landlords unwilling to rent to those with Section 8, senior, veteran, or disability vouchers;
WHEREAS employment opportunities are limited for those who must live where they can afford rent;
WHEREAS income increases for middle and lower income families have not kept pace with rent, exacerbated by the lack of affordable housing in the dominant for-profit housing market; and
WHEREAS 53% of Skagit County renters pay more than 30% of their income for rent, reducing disposable income to support local business;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for the 1991 laws RCW 35.21.830 and 36.01.130 to be rescinded allowing local authorities to regulate rent, while respecting the right of landlords to earn a profit and maintain their properties; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats believe while California and New York with similar financial issues have instituted some form of rent control, that Washington, a progressive State, should lead the rest of the nation in establishing public policy that provides all residents the opportunity for safe, healthy affordable homes in thriving communities.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS rents in Pierce County have been going up at an alarming rate, rents in Tacoma alone rose by 8% last year;
WHEREAS here is a demonstrated shortage of affordable rental housing in Pierce County;
WHEREAS tenants most negatively affected are the most vulnerable in our community are seniors on fixed incomes, the disabled and others with low-incomes;
WHEREAS certain unscrupulous landlords are taking advantage of this situation to evict vulnerable people from their homes in order to raise rents beyond their ability to pay; and
WHEREAS present landlord-tenant legislation and regulation is unable to halt unfair and unscrupulous practices, and our administration lack effective tools to protect renters;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the following policies to redress the imbalance and restore a greater measure of justice to vulnerable renters: We support a "Security of Tenancy" package of bills to include: 1. Removing the state restriction on rent control to allow local jurisdictions to make these decisions. 2. Removing "no cause" eviction from state landlord/tenant law and substituting "Just Causes" for eviction. 3. Adding a requirement to each jurisdiction's receipt of state housing/homelessness money - that all Washington counties receive at minimum the document recording fee - to require that each jurisdiction have a "tenant emergency plan" to address the jurisdiction's response to any no cause mass eviction of more than five units. This plan would clearly identify the jurisdiction's responsibilities and the local agency or agencies responsible for relocation. Finally, each jurisdiction would be required to report to the state on the relocation status of each affected household. 4. This plan should add a relocation benefit to the landlord tenant law, to be paid by owners of more than 50 single family units, to provide an amount equal to: first month's rent, deposit, and any required utility deposits and certified support animal pet deposits.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) and First Steps - Maternity Support Services (MSS) are evidence-based interventions to support at-risk families;
WHEREAS stressed families tend to increase long-term, multi-generational private and social costs, including compromised health, risk of incarceration, inferior education, and diminished contributions to economy and society;
WHEREAS NFP is documented to reduce child abuse and neglect (48 percent reduction), child arrests (59 percent reduction), criminal convictions of mothers (79 percent reduction), and reduce child behavioral and intellectual problems (67 percent reduction);
WHEREAS family stress and poverty concentrate in the rural areas of Washington State;
WHEREAS of the sixteen counties supporting NFP, only Yakima, Spokane, and Benton-19 Franklin are outside the I-5 corridor; and
WHEREAS county adoption of NFP is expensive and requires commitment of organizational capacity;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee recommends to the Legislature to increase Department of Health funding for Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) and First Steps - Maternity Support Services (MSS); and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee recommends to the Legislature to fund the Department of Health to provide administrative support to create multi-county districts for counties not currently offering Nurse Family Partnership.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus on 9/9/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS housing instability and homelessness continue to grow in our immediate communities and across Washington State as a whole;
WHEREAS for example, rental costs for 2- and 3-bedroom apartments in Snohomish County increased by 26.2% and 23.8% respectively, between 2011-15, thereby increasing an already serious need for supplementary sources of funds to pay for rent;
WHEREAS there exists an array of governmental and private programs that provide verifiable funds usable toward paying tenants' housing costs, among them being "Section 8" and other HUD housing vouchers, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income, unemployment compensation, veteran's benefits, and child-support payments;
WHEREAS many individuals and families that are entitled to and do receive such financial assistance are nevertheless denied rental housing because of landlords' groundless disfavor of reliance on those sources of income;
WHEREAS communities of color, people with disabilities, and other populations long subjected to discrimination have been and are disproportionately impacted by such denials of housing opportunities;
WHEREAS 10% of the housing-discrimination cases investigated by the Seattle Office of Civil Rights in the last eight years have involved denials based on would-be tenants' use of Section 8 housing vouchers;
WHEREAS 1,066 Snohomish County residents, and 11,643 King County residents, were experiencing homelessness in the January 2017 Point-in-Time Count, and thousands more - including many elderly, disabled, or low-income people of color - face rental restrictions and discrimination due to their use of programs that help offset their rent payments;
WHEREAS a growing number of cities across the state have enacted protections against source-of-income discrimination in rental housing;
WHEREAS our Washington State Legislature has authority to enact legislation to promote fairness and equity in rental housing throughout the state, including prohibition of discrimination against renters who use alternative sources of income to pay for housing; and WSDCCRES - 861 - 180128 - PASS - HUM - Income Discrimination
WHEREAS assuring fair housing opportunities for all will be an important step in carrying out our longstanding commitment to promoting racial equity and social justice;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support enactment of protections to ensure fair treatment in the rental housing market, specifically including legislation prohibiting discrimination based on the source(s) of the funds from which rental payments are made; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge our State Senator and State Representatives to work with their legislative colleagues toward enactment of legislation to prohibit housing discrimination based on source of income, and that said Senator and Representatives be promptly queried as to their actions and intended actions in furtherance of the above; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to the State Legislature.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/12/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee request that the state legislature revise RCW 59.12.030(2) to include a no-cause eviction period of sixty (60) days for tenants of one year continuous residence, plus two additional weeks per additional year of continuous residence to a maximum of one-hundred twenty (120) days; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to all elected Democrats in the State House and State Senate.
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus on September 9, 2018. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call for the expansion of dental care for ALL by enacting legislation statewide authorizing dental therapists under HB 1371/SB 5392; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we recognize those states that have authorized or have dental therapists working within state boundaries include Alaska, Arizona, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont and Maine. Twelve other states are actively exploring authorizing dental therapy;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we urge the State Legislature and Governor Inslee to enact legislation HB 1317 / SB 5392 to allow ALL populations to benefit from a workforce solution - authorizing the use of dental therapists statewide to improve dental care in Washington.
Submitted by the 6th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 25, 2019 meeting in Spokane. (Date Adopted on 1/8/2019 and submitted on 1/9/2019.) Respectfully submitted by Chair Rachel Dorfman and State Committee Person Yvette Joseph. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January, 27, 2019.
WHEREAS, many Americans depend on Social Security insurance as a sole or major part of their income; and
WHEREAS, it is of utmost importance to maintain Social Security funds safe and inviolable; and
WHEREAS, privatization would put Social Security at a high risk for significant loss of value; and
WHEREAS, in addition to retirement benefits, Social Security provides crucial disability and survivor insurance for millions of American workers and their families; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC go on record directing our Federal Legislators to oppose any privatization of Social Security.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the 12th Legislative District Democrats Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco
WHEREAS, The Senior Citizen Nutrition and Health program which was enacted into legislation in the 1960's is coming to a close. A process of review will take place and decisions concerning its renewal will be considered; and
WHEREAS, This is a federal program which impacts our senior citizens. The senior citizens depend on this as part of their support program to maintain their lifestyle, and quality of living. This program must be continued and expanded to include the so called "baby boomer" which will increase our senior population; and
WHEREAS, The Agricultural and Rural Caucus therefore proposes the following resolution; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the federal government will continue to fund The Senior Citizen Health and Nutrition Program and also to provide additional funds for its anticipated increase in members. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges all government and elected officials to support this resolution and sign onto and secure a fair conclusion.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 16, 2005 meeting in Everett by the WSDCC the Agricultural and Rural Caucus (09/16/05) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the Social Security system is a successful program, making it possible for millions of older Americans to look forward to retirement with dignity, independence and economic security; and
WHEREAS, the Social Security system is in crisis because its trust fund monies are being utilized for purposes other than the original intent of Social Security; and
WHEREAS, changes such as raising the income limit and age of eligibility and requiring all newly hired federal, state and local governmental employees to participate in the system would restore it to financial health;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports Congressional action to strengthen the existing Social Security program to ensure its proper use.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, Washington State established a retirement system for its public employees named Plan I;
WHEREAS, all PERS I (Public Employees Retirement System, Plan I ) and TRS I (Teachers Retirement System, Plan I) funds are deposited in trusts;
WHEREAS, trust law dictates that the trustees shall administer the funds for the sole benefit of its members, that is, the public employees of the Washington State Public Employee Retirement System;
WHEREAS, the State now publicly admits that they have failed to properly pay into the pension fund as required by law and that this has created an unfunded liability of approximately $4,000,000,000 in the PERS I and TRS I plans;
WHEREAS, the investment income lost due to the state's failure to pay into the retirement system as required by law is adversely affecting many Plan I retirees;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: A. The Board of Trustees be restored no later than the end of the 2007 legislative session to oversee each of the Plan I retirement systems, including their funds; B. That pension benefits be paid out to Plan I retirees, as per the original trust; C. That the state immediately establish a plan which will fully fund the Plan I's $4,000,000,000 unfunded liability within three years. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) lobby our state legislators to enact the above This resolution was submitted by the 31st Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/10/2006). The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. WSDCCRES - 246 - 060929 - PASS - HUM - Public Employees' Retirement Systems.doc The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS Social Security and Medicare are among the most significant and politically popular legislative accomplishments of the Democratic Party;
WHEREAS both programs are currently being threatened with significant cuts by National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, which is stacked with vocal public opponents of both programs and is completely unaccountable to voters;
WHEREAS long-term unemployment and the concomitant spending down of retirement savings combined with widespread age discrimination has been particularly devastating for those over 55;
WHEREAS Representative Raul Grijalva is currently circulating a letter in Congress in defense of Social Security;
WHEREAS coalitions of union members, health care advocates, retirees and those close to retirement age are circulating pledges to defend Social Security and Medicare;
WHEREAS it would be very wise politically to give Strong Democrats (59% of whom are women and 73% over 50, in the state of Washington) the assurance that Democrats will not allow such serious threats to their economic security to stand;
WHEREAS the widespread popularity of Social Security and Medicare makes defending those programs a powerful political weapon against Republicans (as Representative Reichert realized when he came out against raising the Social Security retirement age); and
WHEREAS no member of our congressional delegation has signed Grijalva's letter yet, and only Representative Jim McDermott and candidate Suzan del Bene have agreed to sign the Social Security defense pledge;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request all of our representatives and candidates to sign Representative Grijalva's letter;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request all of our representatives and candidates to sign the Social Security Works-WA pledge; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats WSDCCRES - 503 - 101009 - PASS - HUM - Cutting Social Security and Medicare.doc request all of our representatives and candidates to sign a pledge to defend Medicare.
Submitted by the 11th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 9/21/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI, chair of the House Budget Committee) has published a proposal to replace traditional Medicare for those now under 55 it with a voucher system for the purchasing of private insurance;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges President Obama to continue his stand against Medicare privatization; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will send copies of this resolution to our Democratic members of Congress, President Obama, Senate majority leader Harry Reid and House minority leader Nancy Pelosi.
Submitted by the 11th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/22/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the SSA budget is entirely unrelated to the deficit, as it is funded directly from the Social Security Trust Fund and not from general revenues;
WHEREAS the Republican majority House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the budget for fiscal year 2011, which among other things cuts the Social Security Administration (SSA) budget by $1.7 billion dollars;
WHEREAS the SSA estimates that a cut of this magnitude could force it to shut down for up to a month;
WHEREAS benefit processing for 700,000 new retirees, widows, disabled workers and children would be delayed, and nearly 8 million calls from current and future beneficiaries would go unanswered ;
WHEREAS H.R. 1 would cost tax payers money by eliminating funding devoted to catching errors and overpayments;
WHEREAS at least 124 members of the House have written to Speaker John Boehner protesting these cuts to the SSA budget; and
WHEREAS Senator Maria Cantwell has joined approximately 14 other Senators to establish the Defend Social Security Caucus;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on all other members of our Democratic congressional delegation to sign on to prohibit cuts to the SSA budget;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on President Obama to veto any budget proposal containing cuts to the SSA; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee send copies of this resolution to our Democratic members of Congress, President Obama, Senate majority leader Harry Reid and House minority leader Nancy Pelosi. WSDCCRES - 526 - 110430 - PASS - HUM - Against Social Security Cuts.doc
Submitted by the 11th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/22/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the current Social Security program is a citizen funded insurance system to insure long term income to those people who are eligible to retire from work or who are unable to work due to illness or injury;
WHEREAS the funds for the Social Security program are separate from and are not in fact an item of the federal budget;
WHEREAS the government operation of the Social Security Insurance System is one of the most cost-effective programs in all of our government;
WHEREAS Social Security is currently being threatened with significant cuts by the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform;
WHEREAS the following proposals affecting Social Security are unacceptable: 1. To privatize Social Security, in whole or in part 2. To raise eligibility ages for Social Security 3. To implement means-testing Social Security 4. To reduce Social Security benefits ; and
WHEREAS the loss of family wage jobs, the increase in long-term unemployment and the loss of significant retirement savings has had a severe impact on Washingtonians across all age brackets making the Social Security benefits more critical than ever;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on our Representatives and Senators to pass legislation to eliminate the current, regressive cap on income of over $106,000 subject to Social Security taxes so that income over the current cap is also subject to the tax; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee request our Congressional Representatives and Senators to oppose any legislation that addresses those unacceptable proposals noted above.
Submitted by the 11th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 10/19/2010) WSDCCRES - 527 - 110430 - PASS - HUM - Resolution to Maintain and Improve the Current Social Security Program.doc
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 11/22/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the U.S. population of persons 65 and older will reach 70 million by 2040;
WHEREAS people 65 and older have a wealth of wisdom and decades of experience to offer our country for the full length of their lives, and have earned retirement years marked by economic security and quality, affordable health care;
WHEREAS Social Security is a retirement insurance program completely funded by the workers of the United States, and $4.6 trillion of the current deficit is owed to Social Security;
WHEREAS Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are the programs most critical in providing a foundation for a secure retirement for people 65 and older; and
WHEREAS the integrity of those programs is under unceasing assault, both from open ideological enemies and from false "friends" in Congress, the media and elsewhere;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call upon Congress, including the super-19 committee on deficit reduction, with special attention to Senator Patty Murray, and the Obama administration to reject proposals that would undermine existing Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid programs, as a means of compromising to reduce or eliminate the deficit;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on these same groups to instead strengthen Social Security by: 1) removing the cap on income to Social Security tax; 2) changing the cost-of-living formula to more accurately reflect retiree expenditures; and 3) changing the benefit formula to reflect work-years lost by those who had to step away from the workforce to care for family members;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we and our government work to strengthen Medicare by 1) ending disparities in payment among different states; 2) finding ways to make it more efficient, such as fully funding innovative programs in the Affordable Care Act; 3) revise part D to allow the federal government to bid competitively on drugs; and 4) more closely regulate Medicare Advantage plans that have high administrative costs; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED to strengthen Medicaid by proceeding to fund the Affordable Care Act in its expansion of those eligible and in raising provider reimbursement to improve access to care. WSDCCRES - 552 - 110917 - PASS - HUM - Retirement Security (2).doc
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 9/9/2011) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS our Social Security Insurance System is the foundation of the social safety net for all workers who reach retirement age or are eligible for benefits due to disability; and
WHEREAS Social Security does not contribute to the federal deficit and money from Social Security contributions - money provided by American workers - has been used to support other federal programs; and
WHEREAS Social Security is a worker-funded program that over several decades has had $4.6 trillion dollars of its Trust Fund "borrowed" by the U.S. Government that has yet to be repaid; and
WHEREAS that money was collected directly from U.S. workers - it is not money that the Government owes to itself, it is money owed and must be paid back to U.S. workers; and
WHEREAS American workers pay into the Social Security Insurance System with every paycheck they earn throughout their working lives and rely on that system for their wellbeing when they no longer work due to injury or retirement; and
WHEREAS Social Security is an earned benefit for U.S. workers and is really a true entitlement and it enables millions of seniors to live out their lives with dignity; and
WHEREAS during its implementation money from Social Security has reduced the number of retired workers living in poverty from nearly 50% to about 10%; and
WHEREAS this subject has been previously address in Resolution #032 in 2005 and Resolution #526 in 2011; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee email the President and all U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives, calling upon them to eliminate the "cap" on income subject to Social Security "contributions" and to oppose and reject any legislation that would privatize or force cuts to Social Security Benefits.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central committee for consideration at its April 27, meeting in Chelan. (Date submitted April 11, 2013)
Submitted by the 32nd District Democratic Organization to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting. (Submitted 4/19/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "CONSOLODATED THIS RESOLUTION WITH RESOLUTION #613" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. WSDCCRES - 612 - 130427 - PASS - HUM - Cuts to Social Security The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS a vote for the Chained CPI is a vote to cut Social Security benefits. Being an annual reduction to the current COLA increase, already inadequate because seniors spend more on health care than CPI estimates, and thus would jeopardize the secure retirement of over 56 million Americans; and
WHEREAS not only these retirees, but also over 8 million disabled and surviving Supplemental Security Income recipients, over 2 million military retirees, over 3 million VA beneficiaries and over 2 million federal retirees will be affected ; and
WHEREAS the impact will be greatest on those who draw benefits at earlier ages, typically veterans and the disabled, and be particularly devastating to those who live the longest, most often women, because they have outlived their other sources of income, depleted their assets, with their benefits their only lifeline; and
WHEREAS Social Security is a worker-funded trust fund and therefore does not contribute to the deficit, will be solvent for years, and any future shortfalls can be remedied by methods more fair to working Americans; and
WHEREAS chained CPI and other austerity policies would worsen our jobs crisis by taking money out of the economy each and every month; and
WHEREAS two-thirds of respondents over 50 regardless of party affiliation say they're less likely to support any candidate who backs chained CPI, Democratic support for this policy will result in severe negative repercussions for our party in the crucial 2014 and 2016 elections; then
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our Democratic representatives to refuse to pass a budget that includes cuts to Social Security and other benefits by implementing chained CPI; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee send copies of this resolution to the members of our Democratic Congressional Delegation.
Submitted by the Stevens County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted April 15, 2013)
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted April 10, 2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "CONSOLODATED THIS RESOLUTION WITH RESOLUTION #614" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. WSDCCRES - 614 - 130427 - PASS - HUM - Chained CPI The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt proposed, in 1935, a legislative package of three parallel programs to provide all Americans with a secure retirement;
WHEREAS, only one program, Social Security, was then enacted;
WHEREAS, voluntary retirement accounts such as the IRA and 401(k) serve mainly to enhance the retirement security of individuals who are already retirement secure;
WHEREAS, voluntary retirement accounts have failed to provide that "third leg" of the retirement "stool" for virtually all lower income and most middle income Americans due to 40 years of wage stagnation;
WHEREAS, private sector employer based pensions have almost ceased to exist and almost all of those that still do are seriously underfunded;
WHEREAS, the average Social Security retirement benefit is approximately $1200.00 per month;
WHEREAS the current COLA formula for Social Security and veterans benefits is not reflective of the costs faced by seniors;
WHEREAS, the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013 will Strengthen Benefits by Reforming the Social Security Benefit Formula: To improve benefits for current and future Social Security beneficiaries, the Act changes the method by which the Social Security Administration calculates Social Security benefits. This change will boost benefits for all Social Security beneficiaries by approximately $70 per month, but is targeted to help those in the low and middle of the income distribution, for whom Social Security has become an ever greater share of their retirement income;
WHEREAS, the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013 will ensure that Cost of Living Adjustments Adequately Reflect the Living Expenses of Retirees: The Act changes the way the Social Security Administration calculates the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). To ensure that benefits better reflect cost increases facing seniors, future COLAs will be based on the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E). Making this change to Social Security is expected to result in higher COLAs, ensuring that seniors are able to better keep up with the rising costs of essential items, like health care; and WSDCCRES - 635 - 130921 - PASS - HUM - Social Security Cuts.docx
WHEREAS, the Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013 will improve the Long Term Financial Condition of the Trust Fund: Social Security is not in crisis, but does face a long-term deficit. To help extend the life of the trust fund the Act phases out the current taxable cap of $113,700 so that payroll taxes apply fairly to every dollar of wages; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, support The Strengthening Social Security Act of 2013, and request our congressional delegates to co-sponsor the Act.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/13/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS the Social Security Administration (SSA) published its "Vision 2025" on March 10, 2014 advocating making online self-service deliver its primary service channel, eliminating direct service to clients except in very limited circumstances, farming out much of its workload to outside agencies and eliminating traditional field offices;
WHEREAS outside organizations would be allowed to charge for services which workers have already paid for with their FICA taxes;
WHEREAS SSA field offices served a record 43 million visitors in 2013, and call volume to the 800 number created unprecedented delays in contacting an agent;
WHEREAS, given that SSA field office employees get 17 weeks of training and only become fully proficient in 3 to 4 years, it is patently unrealistic to expect anyone without such training to be able to navigate the system in just a few minutes online;
WHEREAS requiring online enrollment essentially strips people for whom English is not a first language, people who do not have and do not know how to use computers, and people with disabilities such as early onset Alzheimer's of benefits they have worked for all their lives; and
WHEREAS "Vision 2025" would force most workers, their families and their survivors to fend for themselves;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats, while not opposed to expanded online access for those who wish to use it, urge our federal lawmakers to decisively reject "Vision 2025" and instead to mandate increased funding for SSA field workers and traditional full service field offices; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to our U.S. Senators and Congressmembers.
Submitted by the 34th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 6/12/2014)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. WSDCCRES - 693 - 140913 - PASS - HUM - Against Vision Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the Social Security Administration (SSA) published its "Vision 2025" on March 10, 2014 advocating making online self-service deliver its primary service channel, eliminating direct service to clients except in very limited circumstances, farming out much of its workload to outside agencies and eliminating traditional field offices;
WHEREAS outside organizations would be allowed to charge for services which workers have already paid for with their FICA taxes;
WHEREAS SSA field offices served a record 43 million visitors in 2013, and call volume to the 800 number created unprecedented delays in contacting an agent;
WHEREAS, given that SSA field office employees get 17 weeks of training and only become fully proficient in 3 to 4 years, it is patently unrealistic to expect anyone without such training to be able to navigate the system in just a few minutes online;
WHEREAS requiring online enrollment essentially strips people for whom English is not a first language, people who do not have and do not know how to use computers, and people with disabilities such as early onset Alzheimer's of benefits they have worked for all their lives; and
WHEREAS "Vision 2025" would force most workers, their families and their survivors to fend for themselves;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats, while not opposed to expanded online access for those who wish to use it, urge our federal lawmakers to decisively reject "Vision 2025" and instead to mandate increased funding for SSA field workers and traditional full service field offices; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to our U.S. Senators and Congressmembers.
Submitted by the 34th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 6/12/2014)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. WSDCCRES - 693 - 140913 - PASS - HUM - Against Vision 2025.docx Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS there are multiple measures of inflation;
WHEREAS the CPI-E was designed to track inflation for seniors, while the CPI-W tracks inflation for clerical workers;
WHEREAS monthly payments from the Social Security earned benefits program are insufficient for many recipients;
WHEREAS a significant portion of this shortfall for seniors is the result of COLAs (cost of living adjustments) being calculated from the CPI-W instead of the CPI-E;
WHEREAS the cumulative difference over the last 40 years between these two measures of inflation is 2.9%;
WHEREAS Rep. Alan Grayson has introduced H.R. 3761, the Seniors Deserve a Raise Act, to increase benefits by 2.9% and change the calculation for future COLAs to use the CPI-E;
WHEREAS Sen. Elizabeth Warren has introduced S. 2251, the SAVE Benefits Act, to provide a one-time additional payment to beneficiaries of Social Security and other earned benefits programs;
WHEREAS Sen. Patty Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell have both cosponsored S. 2251, but only Rep. Rick Larsen has cosponsored H.R. 3761;
WHEREAS both S. 2251 and H.R. 3761 represent progress on the problem of insufficient payments in earned benefits programs; and
WHEREAS working people with money to spend are the real job creators;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses H.R. 3761 and S. 2251, thanks Rep. Rick Larsen for cosponsoring, calls on our other representatives in the House to cosponsor H.R. 3761, and thanks our Senators for cosponsoring S. 2251;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be transmitted to the offices of the Washington State Congressional delegation; WSDCCRES - 764 - 160130 - PASS - HUM - Cost of Living Adjustment
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all Legislative District and County Democratic Parties in Washington be encouraged to pass resolutions analogous to this one; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that all PCOs and other party volunteers be encouraged to campaign on this issue for the dual purpose of increasing pressure on Congress to pass H.R. 3761 and S. 2251 and increasing public support for candidates who support these bills and other improvements to Social Security earned benefits.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS mentoring is a proven strategy to engage at-risk, low-income students who are underrepresented in institutions of higher education and;
WHEREAS according to the Washington State Institute for Public Policy, mentoring programs have a benefit-to-cost ratio of $7.42, and benefits taxpayers through increased graduation rates, reduced health care costs, and reduced crime and;
WHEREAS service-learning engages students in their community and provides a sense of civic duty and responsibility and;
WHEREAS service-learning promotes critical thinking, valuable skills development, and enhances the academic experience by allowing students to apply and reflect classroom learning and;
WHEREAS Washington House Bill 2400 expands and builds on existing mentoring and service-learning opportunities at Washington State's colleges and universities and supports increased mentoring of at-risk, low-income K-12 and higher education students;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support mentoring and service-learning opportunities for Washington State's students;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support HB 2400 and request the Washington State Legislators to vote for this bill.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/24/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS as of December 2013, nearly half of acute care hospital beds in Washington State are in hospitals controlled by or affiliated with Catholic healthcare systems; and
WHEREAS the Ethical and Religious Directives for Health Care Services, Fifth Edition (ERDs) prohibits certain reproductive care services which are legal in the state of Washington, including some services which are the medical standard of care in emergency situations; and
WHEREAS the ERDs prohibit some legal services in end of life care, which may prevent adherence to patients' advance directives; and
WHEREAS Washington has 39 Critical Access and two sole Community Hospitals providing medical care to rural communities where patients do not have convenient or, in emergency situations, a safe alternate hospital; and
WHEREAS Washington State has 43 Public Health District Hospitals, all of which are supported by taxes on the public and some of which are now under Catholic control; and
WHEREAS patients are often not aware of the doctrinal restrictions in effect at their local hospitals, which restrictions may cause them serious harm or may cause them to receive unwanted prolongation of life; and
WHEREAS the Attorney General issued an opinion on August 21, 2013 stating that if the state (or a part of the state such as a public hospital district) provides maternity care service or information, it must also provide "substantially equivalent benefits, services or information" regarding contraception and abortion; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Governor's Directive 13-12 issued June 28, 2013, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has adopted rules, effective March 24, 2013, which will provide increased oversight of future mergers or affiliations which may lead to the restriction of legal services; and WSDCCRES - 665 - 140201 - PASS - HUM - Patients' Medical Services
WHEREAS the DOH has also adopted rules to increase transparency about hospitals' policies with respect to admission, reproductive health care, end of life care, and nondiscrimination;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee ask the Washington State Department of Health to carefully monitor compliance with its rules and with the Attorney General's opinion, to ensure citizens are assured timely, clear and convenient access to any and all legal healthcare services at their local hospitals, particularly at publicly supported hospitals; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee ask the Washington State Legislature to enact legislation ensuring (1) the public's right to receive the full range of any and all legal treatment options, (2) their right to referral to nearby legal healthcare services if such are not available at their hospital, and (3) their right to know whether their healthcare providers, in any setting, are required to subscribe to the Ethical and Religious Directives for Health Care Services, Fifth Edition 2009 (ERDs).
Submitted by the 24th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/11/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its February 1, meeting in Vancouver. This resolution was passed by the WSDCC at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus Committee (NACC) is dedicated to the well-being of all Native people of Washington State and the goals of the Washington State Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS it has come to NACC attention that American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people have a higher prevalence of dental caries and untreated tooth decay in all age groups compared to the general United States population, with many AI/AN children experiencing dental caries before the age of two, yet there are few dental caries prevention programs that target AI/AN children and other oral health issues persist for the AI/AN population such as: ***Seventy-nine percent of AI/AN children aged 2-4 years have dental caries; ***Majority of AI/AN children have tooth decay with 78 percent of the 6-14 year olds and 91 percent of the 15-19 year olds had a history of tooth decay; ***Despite a trend toward a reduction in tooth loss in the U.S. population, older data indicate 25 percent of AI/AN people aged 35 to 44 years have fewer than 20 natural teeth; ***Among all persons aged 55 years and older, nearly 75 percent have fewer than 20 natural teeth; ***Fifty-nine percent of AI/AN adults have periodontal (gum) disease; ***Seventy-eight percent AI/AN adults 35-44 years and 98 percent of elders (55 or older) have at least one tooth removed because of tooth decay, trauma, or gum disease; and
WHEREAS these disparities are directly attributed to a lack of dental health professionals in the Indian health system in which HIS dental providers have a patient load of 2,800 patients per provider, while general population providers have approximately 1,500 patients per provider and the HIS experiences a very high dental provider vacancy rate, with estimates that 26 percent of the dental positions within the HIS are vacant, which contributes to the lack of access to dental health services; and WSDCCRES - 666 - 140201 - PASS - HUM - Dental Therapy Education.docDental Therapy Education
WHEREAS the Alaska Native Villages determined the most expedient and successful approach to resolving their dental crisis was to send their Members to New Zealand to learn how to provide dental care to their communities as Dental Health Aide Therapists (DHATs) and presently provide DHAT training through the two-year educational program managed by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium; and
WHEREAS it is the desire of NACC to support a two-year training model as demonstrated by the Alaska DHAT and found in several research studies to be highly successful based on a growing body of evidence; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee held a hearing on the national dental crisis on September 12, 2013, where testimony was offered noting the interest of Tribal Governments to expand the DHAT program nationally; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Health Care and Wellness Committee held a hearing on HB 2312 concerning mid-level dental professionals on January 20, 2014, with supporting testimony offered by Swinomish Indian Tribal Chairman Brian Cladoosby and his dentist, Dr. Ray Dailey who notes that at least 50 percent of his patients could be treated by a DHAT providing more time is allow him to serve more severe dental cases in his practice; and
WHEREAS the House Committee on Community Development and Housing & Tribal Affairs held a hearing on HB 2466, concerning Indian Tribes and DHAT services on January 23, 2014, where testimony was offered noting the safety, effectiveness and economic viability of DHAT programs; and
WHEREAS Tribal Governments are seeking to expand the oral health workforce to address unmet needs by replicating the Alaska DHAT model in Washington State; and
WHEREAS the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians of 56 Tribes from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and parts of Alaska and Northern California along with the National Congress of American Indians passed resolutions supporting mid-level dental care providers on reservations that have not been able to fund full time dental services or hire dentists to establish basic services in rural and remote communities; and now WSDCCRES - 666 - 140201 - PASS - HUM - Dental Therapy Education.docDental Therapy Education
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus Committee of the Washington State Democratic Party does support a two-year standard for dental therapy education as demonstrated by the Alaska Native DHAT Program; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the Title V of the Comprehensive Dental Reform Act of 2013, HB 2321 and HB 2466, including its companion Senate Bill 6275, introduced by State Senator John McCoy (D) of Washington State that seeks to authorize tribes, tribal organizations, or certain federal programs to certify, train, and employ dental health aides to serve tribal populations.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Submitted 1/29/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver
WHEREAS Public Housing Authority' budgets are severely impacted by insufficient investment in the HUD Section 8 voucher program and by further cuts due to 'sequestration';
WHEREAS administrative dollars for such agencies have been sequestered to 68% of prior levels, causing severe problems for these local agencies to comply with regulatory requirements;
WHEREAS rising costs in housing and utilities has meant higher housing-related costs for our low-income citizens;
WHEREAS schools, social-service, and law-enforcement agencies agree that homelessness has risen significantly in the last six years;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WA State Democratic Central Committee supports a funding level in excess of pre-2009 levels for HUD Section 8 vouchers and USDA Rural Development affordable housing programs; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC calls for our US Congressional Delegation to organize committee hearings on homelessness, plus the quantity and quality of 'affordable housing' in the USA.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/20/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS women and children are more than half of the almost 12 million undocumented immigrants in the US;
WHEREAS immigrant women are the most vulnerable to exploitation, abuse and human rights violations and face particular challenges due to inequalities between men and women, while having the additional responsibilities of family and home;
WHEREAS immigrant women often come to the U.S. to be domestic workers or caregivers, are subject to exploitation, work for substandard wages, and may have to leave their own children behind to be raised by relatives;
WHEREAS immigrant women and their children not only face language, cultural and community isolation and live at the margins of society without documents, but also suffer as victims of family and sexual violence and have little or no resources to get help including language and culturally sensitive counseling and services; and
WHEREAS the current discussion in the U.S. Congress and in many cities with large immigrant populations is filled with racist and hate-filled calls for making felons out of undocumented immigrants, building more prisons, walls and electric fences, and promoting vigilante tactics;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of Washington State urge the Washington congressional delegation to institute fair and just immigration reform that recognizes human and civil rights; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Washington State Congressional Delegation to introduce legislation to create a path to permanent residency and citizenship, including a reasonable timetable, for undocumented immigrants who want to remain in the United States, including men, women and children and especially those who do not work outside of the home; promote reunification of families, provisions to improve wages and working conditions of immigrant workers to protect them from exploitation, preserving the provisions addressing violence against immigrant women and families in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and a more efficient system to process those eligible to work and seek permanent residency/citizenship, one that excludes the building of prisons and border fences and walls.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/22/2008) 2008SCRES - 105 - 080614 - PASS - IMM - Resolution on Immigration.doc The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS mass sweeps of alleged non-legal residents by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the United States have increased dramatically under the Administration of Barack Obama;
WHEREAS many of the alleged non-legal residents have been incarcerated in privately-8 owned prisons, run under contract with ICE;
WHEREAS alleged non-legal residents who have been incarcerated mainly include people who do not pose criminal threats, who have strong ties to this country, and who have often been arrested and incarcerated for minor infractions such as broken tail-13 lights on card;
WHEREAS the alleged non-legal residents have been arbitrarily mistreated, put into solitary confinement at the whim of their private jailers, prevented from telephoning family members at the whim of those same private jailers, transferred to other private prisons at long distances from their families;
WHEREAS many of the people detained and incarcerated have been found to be legal residents of the U.S.;
WHEREAS individuals have been held for as long as seven (7) years without opportunities to validate claims to remain in the U.S. legally or their pleas to have their cases heard by any reasonable adjudicator;
WHEREAS more than 5,000 American children throughout the U.S. are currently in foster care while their families are held by ICE-sanctioned prisons;
WHEREAS private detention centers are owned by profit-driven corporations who benefit directly by keeping prison beds occupied, and by providing minimal food, medical care, recreational opportunities and opportunities for contact between detainees and their families; and
WHEREAS Congressman Adam Smith has shown his recognition of the deplorable situation in the Northwest Detention Center owned by the GEO Corporation, and has shown interest in alleviating the deplorable conditions to which detainees are subjected;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Pierce Washington State Democrats urge President Obama to abandon quota-based enforcement and incarceration drive by the urge to fill more than 30,000 detention beds every day; 2014SC - 063 - 140621 - PASS - IMM - Ending Mass Raids
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that ICE require bond hearings before immigration judges for people who have been held longer than six months;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the solitary confinement and other abusive conditions for detainees be ended;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the President direct the nation's immigration enforcement resources against gangs, guns, violent criminals and other genuine threats;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington Congressional delegation no longer support funding any program which enables private profit-55 making corporations to make money by incarcerating people under punitive conditions; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on President Obama and members of the Washington Congressional delegation to begin making these changes immediately.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Immigration recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Immigration at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS we commend the President for his continued support of comprehensive immigration reform and were encouragement by the passage of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act (S. 744) in the United States Senate due in large part to its Democratic majority;
WHEREAS Congressional House Republican leadership and its members continue to hold immigration reform hostage, and meanwhile, only votes to defund the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program for undocumented immigrant youth and young adults;
WHEREAS over 2 million people have been deported since 2008 and the rate of deportations is at a record high of 1,100 individuals being deported daily, tragically separating thousands of families;
WHEREAS an estimated 200,000 deportees in a two-year period were reported to be the parents of U.S. citizens and more than 5,000 children are in the U.S. child welfare system because a parent has been detained or deported;
WHEREAS there are more than a quarter million LGBT undocumented immigrants in the United States, who are at increased risk of abuse and mistreatment when placed in immigration detention;
WHEREAS undocumented immigrants paid $11.2 billion in state and local taxes across the United States in 2010 alone, $292 million of which came from undocumented Washingtonians. Granting work authorization to these immigrants through an administrative relief program would further increase their economic contributions to our state. In fact, research shows that in just the first three years following legalization, the higher earning power of newly legalized workers translates into an increase in net personal income of $30 to $36 billion, which would generate $4.5 to $5.4 billion in additional net tax revenue;
WHEREAS 11 million undocumented Americans have been living, contributing and enriching our country, but live a life of uncertainty and fear of deportation and family separation;
WHEREAS torture survivors and victims of human trafficking can be detained for months or years, further aggravating their isolation, depression, and other mental health problems associated with their past trauma; and 2014SC - 121 - 140621 - PASS - IMM - Relief to Undocumented Americans
WHEREAS we, the members of the Democratic Party, hold deeply the principles of family values in families of all forms, including those of mixed-immigration status;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge President Barack Obama to use all means available, including deferred action to suspend, delay, or dispense with the deportations of undocumented family members of U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents, DREAMers, DACA recipients and immigrants who would benefit from S. 774 "The Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act"; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats will submit a copy of this resolution to President Barack Obama, Secretary Jeh Johnson, Democratic National Committee Chair Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, as well as Washington State's Congressional Delegation, Governor and Attorney General requesting action consistent with this resolution.
Submitted by the 27th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 5/31/2014) The Subcommittee on Immigration recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Immigration at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support defunding and abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and redistributing its duties, except those that violate human rights and international law, to other accountable agencies;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call for the prosecution, according to relevant federal and international laws and treaties, of those who ordered and carried out the separation and imprisonment of refugee families and children; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all members of Congress and Senate from Washington State. Passed by the 5th LD Democrats, July 18, 2018 and the 17th LD Democrats on Sept. 1, 2018. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
WHEREAS, border security has become an issue that needs to be addressed especially in the wake of 9/11; and
WHEREAS, immigration reform is currently being considered by congress and much of the legislation would make criminals of undocumented workers, round them up and deport them and build a fence along the U.S. and Mexico border; and
WHEREAS, we need reasonable immigration reform that will provide an efficient strategy for immigration control and for eliminating the undocumented population in the U.S. and insuring sufficient legal access to the U.S. to meet the needs of our economy and manage immigration to prevent downward pressure on the wages and standards of working Americans; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated there are 11 or 12 million undocumented workers currently in the U.S. and they work in a wide range of jobs in all 50 states and our country benefits from their work for they most often fill jobs we do not want to do; and
WHEREAS, many of the undocumented have children or relatives who are American citizens, own homes and/or small businesses and have established roots in this country and deporting them would be unreasonable; and
WHEREAS, the McCain - Kennedy Bill introduced in the U.S. Senate in May 2004 would create opportunities for undocumented workers to earn the right to remain in the U.S. under the following conditions: they must work, pay taxes, pass criminal and security background checks and learn English; after six years of model behavior the immigrant would have to show that he/she has cleared up back taxes, pay a fine and then get in line for a green card; and
WHEREAS, the bill would also create a new visa program for foreign workers to fill jobs in some essential occupations and allow employers to temporarily hire foreign workers when they are unable to recruit U.S. workers; and
WHEREAS, the provisions of the bill expands enforcement and resources for border security, fines employers who violate labor provisions thereby preventing the downward pressure on U.S. workers wages; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party endorses the provisions of the McCain - Kennedy legislation on immigration and urges enactment of that legislation in both the Senate and the House. WSDCCRES - 251 - 060929 - PASS - IMM - Immigration Reform Policy.doc
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any immigration bill or policy must be fair and impartial to all parties and includes an adequate guest-worker program that leads to documentation or citizenship.
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats believe that immigration reform must be approached in a comprehensive and realistic way;
WHEREAS the current population of undocumented workers who pay taxes and make positive contributions to their communities must have a path to legalization and documentation;
WHEREAS lax enforcement of labor and employment laws gives unscrupulous employers an incentive to exploit immigrant workers and penalizes employers who abide by the law;
WHEREAS the Senenbrenner Act provides less protection and lower standards for guest workers than the existing H2A guest worker program;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that labor and business together should design mechanisms to meet legitimate needs for new workers without compromising the rights and opportunities of workers already here. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that enforcement of federal and state workplace standards is a priority and must be accompanied by adequate funding, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: that the WA State Democrats urge the WA State Congressional Delegation to support immigration reform as discussed in this resolution.
Submitted by 2nd CD delegates meeting, Anacortes, WA, May 25, 2006, to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 05/30/2006) (Contact: Nancy Ging, 360-758-2529, nancy@turtlehome.com ) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg recommended that this resolution be referred back to its originator so that it can be reformatted properly. - WSDCCRES - 252 - 11 - PASS - Immigration Reform Richard Austin (rich071886@hotmail.com), one of the original endorsers, reformatted this resolution and resubmitted in on behalf of the Skagit County Democrats on September 14, 2006.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its September 29, 2006 committee meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 9/28/06). The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 29, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its meeting on September 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. Endorsed by the following Delegates to the 2006 Democratic State Convention 1. Eric Teegarden Snohomish Co. 1st LD 2. Chris Glenn Snohomish Co. 1st LD 3. Lila Smith King County 32nd LD 4. Gloria Skouge King County 32nd LD 5. Christine Hoffman King County 32nd LD 6. Robbi Ferron Whatcom County 40th LD 7. Dianne Foster Whatcom County 40th LD 8. Joan Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 9. Hue Beattie Whatcom County 40th LD 10. Roni Beall Whatcom County 40th LD 11. Patricia Santangelo Skagit County 40th LD 12. David Narsico Whatcom County 40th LD 13. Nina Hodgson Whatcom County 40th LD 14. Ann Davidson Whatcom County 40th LD 15. Richard Austin Skagit County 39th LD 16. Michelle Fisher Whatcom County 40th LD 17. Nancy Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 18. Alexandrina Patty San Juan County 40th LD 19. Judith Shattuck King County 45th LD
WHEREAS, with the exception of a relatively small native population, we are a nation of immigrants; and
WHEREAS, we recognize our country's economic dependence on the labor of immigrants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party supports ensuring the rights of immigrants by guaranteeing that all people, regardless of citizenship, are afforded their civil rights and have access to a safe and predictable path to legal residency. a. Enforce current laws, recognize and protect human rights of immigrants, documented and undocumented. b. Provide equal access to services without discrimination based on immigration status. c. Support the DREAM Act (educational support for the children of immigrants) d. Oppose vigilantism e. Oppose using local law enforcement as agents of immigration enforcement
Submitted by the 36th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 04/22/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the AFL-CIO has labeled the U.S. House version of immigration reform (HR 4437) "a mean-spirited attack on workers and immigrants", and views another bill - the so-called STRIVE Act which is now pending before the House - unacceptable partly due to its exploitive "guestworker" provisions and lack of basic workplace protections; and
WHEREAS, the U.S. Senate immigration bill that was debated this year would have created a three-tiered, apartheid-like structure for dealing with the current undocumented population; and
WHEREAS, the union movement's policy is to treat all workers as workers and therefore build worker solidarity to combat exploitation and raise standards for all; and
WHEREAS, the union movement's policy on immigration needs to be the policy of the U.S.; and
WHEREAS, NAFTA destroyed the agricultural economy in Mexico and millions of agricultural workers have lost their livelihoods and moved into Mexican urban areas to compete for jobs. This has lowered wages in urban centers and displaced workers who have moved north, looking for work; and
WHEREAS, it would be shameful for the U.S. to enact mean-spirited and apartheid-like immigration policies that would further punish workers who are already being victimized by NAFTA and other horribly-flawed anti-worker trade agreements;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on all Members of Congress to support and enact into law the tenets established in the document entitled The AFL-CIO POLICY ON IMMIGRATION, which is attached hereto and BE IT FURTHER BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on all Members of Congress to refuse to pass mean-spirited and apartheid-like legislation under the guise of "immigration reform" BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, copies of this Resolution, together with the AFL-38 CIO Policy on Immigration, shall be mailed to all Members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation. WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. (Date
Submitted 6/2/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its June 30, 2007 meeting in the Tri-Cities. AFL-CIO Policy on Immigration The AFL-CIO proudly stands on the side of immigrant workers. Immigrant workers are an extremely important part of our nation's economy, our nation's union movement and our nation's communities. In many ways, the new AFL-CIO immigration policy signals a return of the union movement to its historical roots. It is increasingly clear that if the United States is to have an immigration system that really works, it must be simultaneously orderly, responsible and fair. The policies of both the AFL-CIO and our country must reflect those goals. The United States is a nation of laws. This means the federal government has the sovereign authority and constitutional responsibility to set and enforce limits on immigration. It also means our government has the obligation to enact and enforce laws in ways that respect due process and civil liberties, safeguard public health and safety and protect the rights and opportunities of workers. THE CURRENT SYSTEM IS BROKEN Unfortunately, the current system of immigration enforcement, while failing to stop the flow of undocumented people into the United States, is causing workplace discrimination against immigrants and minorities, particularly undocumented workers. The current system leaves unpunished unscrupulous employers who exploit undocumented workers and retaliate against them when they join with other workers to assert their rights, thus denying labor rights for all workers. This system of workplace immigration enforcement in the United States, with its emphasis on the I-9 system, is broken, targets workers instead of the egregious employers who exploit them and needs to be fixed WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc LABOR'S PRINCIPLES We believe the following principles should form our national immigration policy. Specifically: Undocumented workers and their families make enormous contributions to their communities and workplaces and should be provided permanent legal status through a new legalization program; Employer sanctions and the I-9 system should be replaced with a system that targets and criminalizes employers who recruit undocumented workers from abroad for economic gain; Immigrant workers should have full workplace rights, including the right to organize and protections for whistle-blowers; Government safety net benefits are important for all workers, and those unfairly taken away by Congress in 1996 should be restored. Labor and business together should design mechanisms to meet legitimate needs for new workers without compromising the rights and opportunities of workers already here; and Guest worker programs should be reformed but not expanded. The AFL-CIO supports a broad legalization program that makes no distinction based on country of origin and that allows undocumented workers and their families who have been working hard, paying taxes and contributing to their communities the opportunity to adjust to permanent legal resident status. We should recognize that one of the reasons for undocumented immigration is that our current legal immigration system for family members and for workers is in shamefully bad shape. A broad legalization program providing permanent residence status, rather than a large new guest worker program, should be the focus of our efforts. The AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions will work vigilantly with our coalition partners representing the immigrant, ethnic, faith and civil rights communities to ensure that comprehensive legislation providing for legalization and the enforcement of workplace rights for all workers is introduced in Congress and ltimately signed into law. History has proven that mistreatment of one group in a workplace ultimately will lead to the mistreatment of all workers. We must be mindful of and learn from the history of oppression that many U.S. workers have faced, in particular the long struggle of African WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc American workers. All workers must understand the difference that unions make for workers, whether it is a living wage, better benefits or a safer work environment. Q&As on AFL-CIO's Immigration Policy Q: What Is the AFL-CIO's Immigration Policy? A: The union movement's policy is to treat all workers as workers, and therefore build worker solidarity to combat exploitation and raise standards for all. Throughout the history of our country, immigrants have played an important role in building our nation and its democratic institutions. Immigrants also have played a vital role in building the union movement. The AFL-CIO's immigration policy recognizes the important contributions foreign-born workers make to our economy and to our community, and it welcomes immigrant workers into our movement. The trade union movement was built by immigrants. Irish ironworkers and German bricklayers- just to name a few-established working standards for all trades across the nation. From the birth of America's union movement, immigrant laborers have used all means available to fight for workers' rights. It is more important than ever that we stand alongside our immigrant brothers and sisters at a time when workers are under attack from corporate forces on all fronts. We know from our long experience that employers try to destroy worker solidarity by attempting to divide workers along race, gender, and in the last decade, immigration status. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's recent campaign to deny millions of workers the freedom to form unions by dividing them into "supervisors" and "non-supervisors" is the most recent example of this well-158 established union-busting tool of dividing workers into different "classes." Q: Does the AFL-CIO Support Reform of our Immigration Laws? A: Yes. Overhaul of our immigration system is long overdue. The current system is a blueprint for exploitation of workers-both native-born and foreign-and is feeding a multimillion-dollar criminal enterprise at the U.S.-Mexico border. We believe America must have an immigration system that protects all workers within our borders, and at the same time guarantees the safety of our nation without compromising our fundamental civil rights and civil liberties. Q: What Is the Cause of Illegal Immigration? WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc A: Globalization and the failure of the U.S. government to enforce workplace laws are pushing workers from their home countries and pulling them into the United States. Failed development policies and trade agreements have destroyed the economies of developing nations and forced workers to migrate in search of jobs. NAFTA, for example, destroyed the agricultural economy in Mexico. Millions of agricultural workers have lost their livelihoods and moved into Mexican urban areas to compete for jobs. This has lowered wages in urban centers and displaced workers who now have moved north, looking for work. At the same time, lax enforcement of labor laws created an incentive for corporations to recruit and hire workers who came to the United States from Mexico without authorization to work-the undocumented. Because those workers are often unable to exercise their workplace rights, corporations have created an entire class of workers-numbering in the millions-who are forced to labor in substandard conditions. The only way to remove the economic incentive to exploit workers-and thus diminish illegal immigration-is to ensure that all workers have full labor rights. Q: How Do Employers Benefit from Illegal Immigration? A: Employers and contractors who rely on undocumented workers often are able to avoid abiding by U.S. workplace laws, gaining a substantial economic advantage over employers who play by the rules. In the construction industry, contractors often misclassify undocumented workers as "independent contractors" to avoid their responsibility to carry workers' compensation insurance, pay required state and federal employment taxes and skirt various other legal requirements. The National Employment Law Project estimates that employers and contractors who regularly misclassify workers as "independent contractors" have a 30 percent competitive advantage over those who operate lawfully. The U.S. Supreme Court handed employers yet another economic incentive to recruit and employ undocumented workers in its 2002 decision in the Hoffman Plastics Compounds v. NLRB case. The court ruled that undocumented workers are not entitled to back pay, the only monetary remedy available under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). In other words, an employer who illegally fires an undocumented worker during an organizing campaign faces no out-of-207 pocket cost for that illegal action. Unfortunately, courts have extended that rule to other employment laws, including workers' compensation laws. In a perverse example, one state court determined that a contractor whose negligence on a construction site caused a worker to become incapacitated was not required to compensate the worker for lost earnings at the rate he was earning in New York but rather at the rate he would have been earning in Mexico. Essentially, employers and contractors now are able to import the workplace standards of developing countries into the United States. WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc Q: Don't Undocumented Workers Benefit from Being in the United States Illegally? A: In our view, illegal immigration is driven by economic incentives that allow employers to exploit a certain class of workers-currently, undocumented workers. Illegal immigration benefits no one except employers who want to operate at the margin and need an exploitable workforce to do so. Blaming workers for their own exploitation serves only to move the spotlight away from improper corporate behavior by focusing it on the workers. Q: How Should the Immigration Laws Be Changed? A: The current immigration system provides no protections for either native- or foreign-born workers. Corporations have the best of all worlds right now: They are able to use the broken immigration laws to recruit and import undocumented workers and at the same time avoid their obligations to abide by U.S. labor and employment laws. The result is that corporations have been able to create a secondary class of workers in our nation numbering in the millions-the "ndocumented," whose inability to meaningfully exercise their labor rights has allowed employers to lower working standards for all workers. Immigration law reform has to make protection of workers its main priority. That means reform must satisfy fi ve interrelated principles: (1) It has to provide a mechanism for currently undocumented workers to be able to exercise their labor rights, which means it must provide a real path to legalization; (2) It must require the government to enforce labor and employment laws vigorously in order to remove the employers' incentive to recruit and employ undocumented workers; (3) It must reject the creation of temporary worker programs (also known as "guest worker" programs) that harm workers; (4) It must guarantee that new foreign workers will be able to fully exercise their labor rights; (5) It must preserve social protections and guarantee civil rights and civil liberties to all. Q: Why Does the AFL-CIO Oppose Guest Worker Programs? A: Guest worker programs allow corporations to turn permanent jobs into temporary jobs staffed by foreign workers who often are unable to exercise their labor rights. Under any guest worker program, a corporation has the ability to import foreign workers who remain under an employer's control, not only for their livelihood, but also for their legal immigration status. Workers are unlikely WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc to complain about substandard working conditions because if they do they could lose their jobs and face deportation. Guest worker programs also transform the fundamental nature of U.S. society. We are a nation of citizens, not guests. Workers who are imported into the United States only for their labor, and only temporarily, have no incentive to invest in their communities, to buy homes or to engage in the long-term struggle for good jobs, health care or pensions. Guest worker programs essentially create a second class of citizens who remain marginalized with no voice in our democracy. Q: Why Does the AFL-CIO Support 'Legalization'? A: The current immigration system operates entirely to benefit corporate interests. We recognize that the law-breakers are the employers and contractors who have been freely employing undocumented workers to maximize their profits at the expense of established U.S. workplace standards. We recognize that the current system has allowed contractors and employers to create an underclass of workers who number in the tens of millions and whom they can exploit for economic gain. We also know these workers don't labor in isolation; they work right alongside U.S. citizen workers. We know the anti-worker corporate argument that immigrants are doing the work U.S. workers won't do is false. The overwhelming majority of jobs in all industries across the economy-281 more than 80 percent in construction and more than 86 percent in the service industry-are being done by U.S. citizens and legal immigrant workers. Yet, there is overwhelming evidence that in industries that rely on immigrant labor, employers and contractors use immigrant labor to undermine wages and working conditions. The only way to remedy that is to ensure all workers have full labor rights. We must fi ght to bring all currently undocumented workers who are already working in our industries and on the jobs we are trying to organize to the same level as other workers. And the only way to do that is to legalize the existing undocumented workforce. Otherwise, we continue to supply employers and contractors with a steady supply of exploitable workers. Q: Does this Mean the AFL-CIO Supports 'Open Borders'? A: No. We recognize that the United States has the sovereign authority and constitutional responsibility to set and enforce limits on immigration. An "open borders" policy would play into the hands of corporations that would like nothing better than to treat workers as commodities. The U.S. government's failure to enforce U.S. workplace standards has created a de facto open border enabling corporations to reach around the globe and encourage workers to come WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc to this country in search of jobs. That is why protection of workers should be the cornerstone of any new immigration law. Q: Why Should We Simply Allow People Who Came to the United States Illegally to Stay Here? A: The United States is, and always has been, the largest immigrant-receiving nation on earth. That is the fiber of who we are. And the reason we have been able to prosper and become the most powerful nation in the world is that we have been able to value the complex contributions our citizens make. What has set us apart from the rest of the world is that we are a nation of citizens, not guests. Integrating waves of immigrants into the fi ber of our nation has required struggle- often painful struggle. But to make sure all of our citizens have a voice in our society, our nation has done it. We have encouraged newcomers to invest in their communities, to establish roots, to buy homes, to send their children to college-in short, to be a part of the "American Dream." And the union movement has been the driving force for that dream. We engaged workers in the struggle for the eight-hour workday, for the freedom to form unions and for health and safety protections on the job. When we did that, we didn't carve any worker out because we understood that dividing workers into different "classes" only benefits employers. If we engage in policies that allow corporations to create a secondary class of citizens, with no political and civil rights, we will only be supporting the creation of a class of workers who have absolutely no incentive to engage in the long-term fi ght for good jobs with decent benefits, including health care and pensions. Additionally, it is neither realistic nor responsible to assume we are going to deport all undocumented workers. At a time when public budgets already are strained because of current government policies that punish workers and give to the rich, trying to "deport" all undocumented workers is fi scally irresponsible. A report by the Center for American Progress recently concluded that mass deportations would cost the U.S. Department of Treasury at least $206 billion over five years ($41.2 billion annually) and could cost as much as $230 billion or more. Spending $41.2 billion annually would exceed the entire budget of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for fi scal year 2006 ($34.2 billion) and is more than double the annual cost of military operations in Afghanistan ($16.8 billion). Mass deportations also would have a profoundly negative effect on U.S. citizens and on our communities, given that 85 percent of immigrant families with children are "mixed status" families, which means at least one household member is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Q: Does the AFL-CIO Support Any of the Current Legislative Proposals? WSDCCRES - 349 - 070630 - PASS - IMM - AFL-CIO Immigration Policy.doc A: No. The U.S. House version of immigration reform (H.R. 4437) is a mean-348 spirited attack on workers and immigrants. It will do nothing meaningful to address the immigration crisis. That bill makes criminals of the currently undocumented population, which will only serve to drive millions of people into further desperation and poverty. The U.S. Senate version does not adequately protect workers. It creates a three-tiered, apartheid-like structure for dealing with the current undocumented population and still leaves workers in temporary status for years and years. It also creates a large, new guest worker program that will only help corporations drive down workplace standards for all workers. Q: What Is the AFL-CIO Doing to Make Sure Immigration Laws Are Fixed in the Right Way? A: We are working with our affiliates and our community partners, including worker centers-in communities, in the courts and on Capitol Hill-to make sure Congress understands that immigration reform must focus on the needs of workers, not corporations. The struggle for workers' rights is a diffi cult one and workers must stand together to make sure corporations are not able to dilute the strength of our voice by painting us as anti-immigrant. Q: What Is the Difference between the AFL-CIO's Immigration Policy and Change to Win's Immigration Policy? A: Change to Win has not articulated an immigration policy. Two of the Change to Win unions, SEIU and UNITE HERE, support the expansion of guest worker programs that is reflected in current legislative proposals. Two other Change to Win Unions, United Food and Commercial Workers and the Teamsters, have issued statements strongly opposing guest worker programs and have been lobbying with the AFL-CIO against the expansion of those programs.
WHEREAS the definition of Native American should only be used to describe the people who either pre-dated the "European Immigration" and who were living in the Americas, or the descendants of those peoples;
WHEREAS the "Nativist" movement has always been a blight on the history of the United States of America;
WHEREAS anti-Immigrant sentiments betray the immigrant history of all Americans except for those as defined above;
WHEREAS the State of Washington is not immune to the ravages of immigrant hatred as described by the brutal slayings of a Latino Family in Arizona, allegedly committed by Jason Eugene Bush of Eastern Washington and Shawna Forde a member of the minute man project based out of Snohomish County;
WHEREAS States cannot correct the broken immigration system;
WHEREAS States can unfortunately make the broken immigration system worse;
WHEREAS the DNC held a nearly unanimous vote denouncing the "Minute Men Project";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby go on record condemning the Nativist Movement;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats condemn all acts of violence done to Latinos based on hate, stereotype and perceived immigration status;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge The Washington State Legislature to pass a Resolution calling on President Obama, Speaker Pelosi, and Majority Leader Reid to reform the immigration system in a way that protects families and honors hard work;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to author a bill adding immigration status to the list of protected classes;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party is directed to send a copy to the Governor, all Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature. WSDCCRES - 465 - 100130 - PASS - IMM - Denouncing Nativism.doc
Submitted by the Hispanic Latino Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "TABLED" this resolution at its September 26, meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "AFFIRMED THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE'S DECISION TO TABLE" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution of the United States mandates the establishment of "an uniform Rule of Naturalization" and the United States has admitted millions of immigrants since the passage of the Naturalization Act of 1790;
WHEREAS immigrants who have been able to take advantage of our country's uneven immigration policies were the forbearers of our current population and have contributed beyond measure to the fabric of American life and the economic health of Mason County;
WHEREAS the world is currently experiencing a large number of refugees fleeing war-12 torn countries and impoverished economies who are as desirous of immigrating to the United States as many of our forebears were;
WHEREAS there is every reason to assume that refugees admitted would be as contributory to the United States as previous generations of immigrants were; and
WHEREAS Governor Jay Inslee was the first governor in any state to speak forcefully in favor of refugee resettlement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee communicate to President Obama and our Congressional delegation that we believe it right and just to support President Barack Obama's efforts to have the United States participate in international efforts to ease the current refugee crisis by facilitating the resettlement of a proportionate number of refugees in the United States where they will strive, succeed and enrich our society; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we thank Governor Inslee for standing up for the values of the Democratic Party.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 12/17/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS there is no law requiring employers to pay women and minorities an equal wage for doing the same work at the same level of seniority as non-minority men;
WHEREAS women in the United States still earn only 77 cents for every dollar earned by non-minority men;
WHEREAS widespread pay discrimination is hurting American workers;
WHEREAS women and minorities who experience pay discrimination must file a complaint within 180 days of their first day of employment in order to bring a lawsuit against her or his employer; and
WHEREAS many do not realize they have been targets of discrimination until much later in their employment;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the United States Congress and the President to pass and sign the Fair Pay Restoration Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington Legislature and Governor to enact and sign laws that protect equal pay for women and minorities. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee is directed to forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature, and the Governor.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS in 1935, the United States established, by law, that workers must be free to form unions;
WHEREAS the freedom to form or join a union is internationally recognized by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a fundamental human right;
WHEREAS the free choice to join with others and bargain for better wages and benefits is essential to economic opportunity and good living standards;
WHEREAS unions benefit communities by strengthening living standards, stabilizing tax bases, promoting equal treatment and enhancing civic participation;
WHEREAS states in which more people are union members are states with higher wages, better benefits and better schools;
WHEREAS union workers receive better wages and benefits, with union workers earning 29 percent more than workers without a union, 35 percent more likely to have access to health insurance, and are four times more likely to have access to a guaranteed defined-benefit pension;
WHEREAS unions help raise workers' pay and narrow the income gap for minorities and women, by increasing median weekly earnings by 31 percent for union women workers, 31 percent for African-American workers, 50 percent for Latino workers, 9 percent for Asian American workers;
WHEREAS workers across the nation are routinely denied the freedom to form unions and bargain for a better life, with 25 percent of private-sector employers illegally firing at least one worker for union activity during organizing campaigns;
WHEREAS 77 percent of the public believes it is important to have strong laws protecting the freedom for workers to make their own decision about having a union, and 58 percent of successful campaigns;
WHEREAS employers often refuse to bargain fairly with workers after forming a union by dragging out first contract bargaining for up to two years in 45 percent of successful campaigns;
WHEREAS each year millions of dollars are spent to frustrate workers' efforts to form unions, and most violations of workers' freedom to choose a union occur behind closed doors, with 78 percent of employers forcing employees to attend mandatory anti-union meetings; 2008SCRES - 174 - 080614 - PASS - LAB - Employee Free Choice Act.doc
WHEREAS when the right of workers to form a union is violated, wages fall, race and gender pay gaps widen, workplace discrimination increases and job safety standards disappear;
WHEREAS a worker's fundamental right to choose a union free from coercion and intimidation is a public issue that requires public policy solutions, including legislative remedies;
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act has been introduced in the U.S. Congress in order to restore workers' freedom to join a union; and
WHEREAS The Employee Free Choice Act will safeguard workers' ability to make their own decisions with these abuses, provide for first contract mediation and arbitration, and establish meaningful penalties when employers violate workers' rights.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports the Employee Free Choice Act, which would authorize the National Labor Relations Board to certify a union as the bargaining representative when a majority of employees voluntarily sign authorizations designating that union to represent them; provide for first contract mediation and arbitration; and establish meaningful penalties for violations of a worker's freedom to choose a union;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge Congress to pass the Employee Free Choice Act to protect and preserve for America's workers their freedom to choose for themselves whether or not to form a union; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008)
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS in 1935 the U.S. Congress passed the National Labor Relations Act with the stated intent to make the official policy of the U.S. government to support the rights of workers to join labor unions and promote collective bargaining;
WHEREAS the effect of the National Labor Relations Act allowed union density to grow and during the decade of the 1950s labor unions represented over 35% of all workers in America;
WHEREAS on June 23, 1947, and over the veto of President Harry S Truman, Congress passed the Taft-Hartley Act and President Truman denounced the Act as a "slave labor" bill; among other things, the Act declared the closed shop illegal and thereby weakened a union's ability to collectively bargain;
WHEREAS since the passage of the Taft-Hartley Act, the U.S. government's policies and practices have continued to diminish workers' ability to exercise their rights to join a union, resulting in a gradual reduction in union density until in 2007 only 12% of workers are represented by a union;
WHEREAS employers and their union-avoidance consultants require workers seeking union representation to attend mandatory meetings at which the workers are subjected to threats, firings and implications of plant closures by employers; and
WHEREAS the federal government has failed to protect workers seeking union representation from the employers' abusive behavior, the labor movement must seek remedy at the state government level;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats endorse the Washington Worker Privacy Act, which would make it unlawful for employers to require employees to attend mandatory meetings when the primary topic of the meeting is religion, politics or labor unions; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature, and the Governor.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008) 2008SCRES - 175 - 080614 - PASS - LAB - Worker Privacy Act.doc
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS it is in the best interest of families for a parent to stay home for at least three months upon the birth or adoption of a child;
WHEREAS most other industrialized nations provide paid parental leave; and
WHEREAS bonding is essential to the health of our children;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support paid parental leave benefits; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, and the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS there are many seniors who are working and supporting grandchildren or disabled adult children or parents, and these working seniors are excluded from the Earned Income Credit because of their age;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to allow the Earned Income Credit for working seniors (65 years or older and still working who would otherwise qualify for the Earned Income Credit except for the age exclusion); and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS 60% of the government and civilian jobs in this country require pre-3 employment or Random Drug Tests based on a urine specimen;
WHEREAS Shy Bladder Syndrome is a psychological/medical problem that affects up to 7% of men and women in America and is recognized by the American Urological Association (http://www.urologyhealth.org (paruresis)) and the American Psychiatric Association (Social Anxiety Disorder);
WHEREAS most shy bladder people are unable to provide urine specimens for drug testing;
WHEREAS typical drug testing guidelines equate the "inability to provide a urine specimen" as a willful "refusal to test". Job applicants who cannot provide urine specimens on demand are not hired, and those that have career jobs are often fired;
WHEREAS the International Paruresis (pronounced par-your-e-sis) Association (IPA) was founded in Maryland and is dedicated to helping Shy Bladder folks;
WHEREAS the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Support Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the Department of Heath & Human Services was notified in June 2004 by approximately 135 letters from the International Paruresis Association and its members that SAMHSA urine drug testing regulations were discriminating against the employment of shy bladder folks;
WHEREAS the Drug Testing Advisory Board for SAMHSA received testimony from the IPA Executive Director (Dr. Steven Soifer) regarding the discriminatory effect of SAMHSA urine-based drug tests on several occasions in 2005 and 2006;
WHEREAS SAMHSA has never responded in any way to the discrimination complaints;
WHEREAS alternative drug testing procedures (e.g. saliva testing) are available which do not discriminate against shy bladder folks;
WHEREAS the Constitution 14lh Amendment guarantees that Citizen Rights cannot be abridged without due process. SAMHSA has violated this amendment by knowingly depriving shy bladder patients of employment without due process; and
WHEREAS Governor Sonny Perdue of GEORGIA STATE in June 2007 signed into law Senate Bill 96, which allowed shy bladder folks to take a saliva drug test if they were 2008SCRES - 361 - 080614 - PASS - LAB - Resolution on Drug Tests.doc unable to take a urine drug test (this bill passed with the overwhelming support of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic party will work with IPA representatives to become the second state in the nation to end employment discrimination against shy bladder folks. This will be accomplished by enacting a bill similar to Georgia Senate Bill 96 but with the addition of saliva testing as a drug testing option; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be sent to our Congressional Delegation to begin hearings as to why Americans with shy bladder are being denied jobs without due process. No permanent Head of the SAMHSA organization should be confirmed until emergency regulations are issued to allow anyone having difficulty providing a urine specimen to take alternative drug tests (e.g. saliva). SAMHSA, considering their past record of indifference, should be tasked with obtaining the written approval of the IPA prior to issuing any permanent or emergency regulations on urine testing.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the United States is the only industrial nation without a law mandating paid vacation for all workers;
WHEREAS 25% of US workers get no paid vacation time at all and studies show that the average length of vacation time for Americans is getting shorter;
WHEREAS many workers are finding themselves unable to take their vacation time due to job stresses and overwork;
WHEREAS vacation time has been proven to be essential to health, family bonding, workplace productivity and other desirable outcomes;
WHEREAS a law providing paid vacation time for all Americans would provide vacation rights and protections for many Americans, especially the poor, and would make a powerful statement that the United States, as a nation, supports the right of all Americans to have some time for extended rest and restoration during each year; and
WHEREAS workers in most industrial nations receive at least four weeks paid vacation by law;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party of the State of Washington calls on Congress and the President to enact a law supporting a minimum three-week paid vacation for all Americans;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Democratic Party calls on the State of Washington and jurisdictions within the State of Washington to take the lead in passing legislation guaranteeing a minimum three-week paid vacation for all their residents; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Governor and the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Yakima County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. 2008SCRES - 415 - 080614 - PASS - LAB - Resolution on Paid Vacation.doc The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS when workers try and organize unions, they are often harassed and intimidated;
WHEREAS twenty-five percent of companies unlawfully fire pro-union workers;
WHEREAS America's workers are struggling to make ends meet and paychecks are shrinking and health care is skyrocketing while CEOs earn millions;
WHEREAS in today's economy, we need policies that give workers a fair shake;
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act would restore the balance in the workplace and give workers the chance to organize for better wages and working conditions;
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act would give workers a fair and direct path to form unions through majority sign-up and help employees secure a contract with their employer in a reasonable period of time;
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act toughens penalties against employers who violate their workers' rights; and
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act would restore fairness and the promise of the American Dream with a robust middle class, economic growth and shared prosperity;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge passage of the Employee Free Choice Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) 2010SCRES - 128 - 100626 - PASS - LAB - Employee Free Choice Act.doc Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, community health centers provide critical health services to low income residents of the State of Washington and employ thousands of health service workers;
WHEREAS the National Labor Relations Board has found merit in workers' claims of unfair labor practices at Community Health Center La Clinica, of Pasco, Washington; and
WHEREAS such claims of unfair labor practices may repeat themselves at other community health centers in the State of Washington;
WHEREAS community health centers should devote their financial resources to health care services to community and to a fair work environment for their employees, rather than spending their resources on "union busting"
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats declare support for the employees of Community Health Center La Clinica and employees of other community health centers in their effort to organize and negotiate a fair collective bargaining agreement with their respective employers; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/24/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the prolonged recession has cost many workers their jobs and outlasted their unemployment benefits;
WHEREAS the continuing deep recession has demonstrated the need for jobs with fair compensation;
WHEREAS investment in green energy will create new jobs; and
WHEREAS our infrastructure is failing and needs repair or replacement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on all of our state legislators to support the extension of unemployment benefits, the creation of more public funded jobs, especially in energy and infrastructure, and the right of workers to organize freely; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/25/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS employee ownership retains jobs in the USA and strengthens the US economy;
WHEREAS broader ownership of productive assets is beneficial for employees, communities, and our country;
WHEREAS expanding employee ownership and participation creates stronger American companies, increases employment, and improves working conditions for employees;
WHEREAS a study by the Employee Ownership Foundation recently found that employee- owned companies pay 5% to 12% higher wages than comparable conventional companies, and also contribute 10% of pay to retirement accounts, compared to traditionally owned companies' 3%;
WHEREAS America needs a new business model that invests in workers and empowers communities;
WHEREAS the cooperative model with 'one worker, one vote' ownership is a proven effective means to re-empower workers, make business accountable to Main Street instead of Wall Street, and better sustain families and communities;
WHEREAS employee ownership enables hard-pressed businesses to avoid shutting down and/or shipping jobs overseas;
WHEREAS cooperatives offer a model that builds capital and builds equity in a just and equitable manner, and has been proven to build robust businesses that are able to adjust to changing economic conditions and technology; and
WHEREAS U.S. Senator U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and original co-sponsors Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) introduced two new legislative proposals into the U.S. Senate on December 18, 2009, to help employees own and manage their own businesses through employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) or eligible worker-owned cooperatives;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats endorse and support: Senate Bill S. 2909 (The Worker Ownership, Readiness, and Knowledge ("WORK") Act), which would create an Office of Employee Ownership and Participation, in the federal Department of Labor. This office would help create 2010SCRES - 131 - 100626 - PASS - LAB - Supporting Employee Ownership.doc state programs to promote employee ownership and employee participation in company decision-making by providing education and outreach, training, grants, and technical support for local efforts dedicated to employee ownership and participation, and Senate Bill S. 2914 (The U.S. Employee Ownership Bank Act), which would provide for the establishment of a bank that would make loans and loan guarantees to employees to purchase a business through an ESOP or worker-49 owned cooperative. Providing federal loans and loan guarantees for the expansion of employee ownership would increase and retain jobs in the U.S. and strengthen the U.S. economy; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/20/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Massey Energy of West Virginia, a powerful representative of the American coal mining industry, has developed a pattern of willful disregard for the lives, welfare and safety of those employed in their mines and their families, causing high injury rates and, recently, a catastrophic disaster;
WHEREAS the industry chooses to pay negligible fines for repeated egregious safety violations rather than make the necessary changes and updates regarding their ventilation and other problems;
WHEREAS the industry uses the court system to delay and avoid full payment of their mining safety violation fines, thereby creating a backlog of unpaid penalties; and
WHEREAS the lives and welfare of miners and their families are of primary importance in comparison to the cost of maintaining mine safety;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that WA State Democrats call on MSHA to be immediately reinstated and rigorously enforced; and, that any new regulations necessary to guarantee mine safety will be passed by Congress adequately funded and similarly enforced; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 18th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 5/1/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power and Media Reform, Economic Justice and Development, and Labor. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature has refused to fund TRSL and PERSL retirement systems' unfunded liability for many years; and
WHEREAS such unfunded liability jeopardizes the retirement of current prospective TRSL and PERSL members of the State Retirement Systems;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on the Washington State Legislature to re-instate the gain sharing, as was part of a good faith agreement, the TRSL and PERSL Retirement Funds during the 2013 Legislative Session.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Corporate Power, Education, Labor, and Media Reform at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS a strong and independent labor movement is essential to expanding the middle class, providing opportunities and a just and democratic society; and
WHEREAS unions are under direct attack by powerful interests determined to undo decades of progress, especially collective bargaining by public sector workers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington Democrats support proactively protecting worker's rights, such as to organize without interference or coercion, collect union dues, bargain collectively and redress grievances.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Labor recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Labor at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS farm workers, temporary workers, domestic workers, healthcare workers, taxi drivers, restaurant workers and other workers are excluded - by either policy or practice - from the right to organize and basic protections under our labor laws;
WHEREAS these workers are an integral part of our labor force and serve as a base component of our national economy;
WHEREAS excluded workers do not have the same labor rights as non-excluded workers and are not being treated equally under the federal and state labor laws of our nation, and have thus been relegated to something akin to a disenfranchised, modern-12 day slave class with little or no political power;
WHEREAS these workers do honorable work and there is no just or valid reason to exclude these workers from the protections of the right to organize and other labor laws;
WHEREAS the excluded workers forced to live and work under this undue burden are detrimentally impacted, as are their children, resulting in a rise of our national poverty level that in turn further exacerbates problems associated with the concentration of wealth and income;
WHEREAS the disenfranchisement of such a large segment of our population places a drag on and depresses our national economy; and
WHEREAS the labor movement recognizes that an injury to one is an injury to all and that these workers are injured as a result of this exclusion;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats go on record recognizing that these and all other workers are due equal treatment as valued workers that contribute to our local, state and national economies;
THEREFORE BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats call on the Washington State Democrats to approve this resolution and contact our State Legislature and urge them to enact legislation that protects all workers under state labor laws; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be prepared and sent to the Washington State Congressional delegation, leaders in the Congress of the United States and President Barack Obama. 2014SC - 066 - 140621 - PASS - LAB - Excluded Workers
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Labor recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Labor at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS defined benefit pension plans provide public servants the stability and lifestyle they deserve in retirement because of their service to the state;
WHEREAS because the state legislature has responsibly funded the state pension system, a 2012 Pew Center study ranked Washington's pension system among the top four states nationally;
WHEREAS in the last three legislative sessions bills to curtail or eliminate defined benefit pensions have been introduced; thus introducing the possibility of undermine the strength of the state's pension funding; and
WHEREAS the national trends in private sector retirement has been to leave career employees to the unstable dictates of the stock market;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington Democrats will protect and fully fund its public career employees' defined benefit pensions.
Submitted by the Grant County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Labor recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Labor at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS unionized public employees at all levels of government provide essential public services, without which the quality of life enjoyed by State of Washington residents would be greatly diminished;
WHEREAS public employees provide critical services to people of all income levels, including individuals and families who might otherwise not be able to afford them; and which are generally not profitable for the private sector;
WHEREAS Washington State has recognized the importance and value of laws that ensure workplace safety and the right of working people to bargain collectively, and has the most progressive minimum-wage law in the nation as approved by voters;
WHEREAS the State of Washington is home to more than 350,000 public employees working for the State, cities, counties, ports, school districts, community colleges, universities and public utilities, who have collective bargaining rights under public-18 sector collective bargaining statutes;
WHEREAS many public employees throughout the nation have lost their jobs and have voluntarily accepted reduced wages as a way to try to maintain the level of public services during our nation's recent Recession;
WHEREAS the State of Washington is in recovery from said Recession, and public employees who previously have taken furloughs, reductions in pay and other concessions to help preserve jobs and continue public services to the residents of Washington State, should be commended for their dedication and contribution to that recovery;
WHEREAS all working men and women in both public and private sectors deserve honor and respect for the work they do and should be empowered to perform their jobs efficiently and creatively with high-quality customer service;
WHEREAS we condemn, the ongoing efforts of political leaders in Wisconsin and other states to curtail the rights of public employees to bargain collectively, and to threaten and/or jeopardize public employee pensions; and
WHEREAS we condemn, the ongoing efforts by some members of the Washington Legislature who attempt to erode worker's rights and the right to bargain collectively, and have threatened to diminish, demolish and/or destroy public employee pensions; 2014SC - 068 - 140621 - PASS - LAB - Public Employees Rights
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we affirm our support for public employees and the services they provide; that we support the right of public employees to organize and to bargain collectively; and oppose efforts to erode pension or benefit rights; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that our Washington State legislators and Governor Jay Inslee should do everything possible to defend public employees collective bargaining rights and pension and benefit rights.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution not be passed at their June 20th meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS it is estimated that about 40% of private sector workers do not have access to paid sick leave, including 70% of workers earning the lowest 25% of wages;
WHEREAS, according to the Washington State Employment Security Department's annual survey on employee benefits, 98% of accommodation and food service employers and 93% of retail employers in Washington did not provide paid sick leave to all employees in 2012;
WHEREAS employees should not be forced to work when sick, either because of employer practices or family finances;
WHEREAS there are public health and other consequences when sick workers spread illness to their coworkers and customers, and when sick children left at school or daycare because their parents could not get off work;
WHEREAS the City of Seattle has successfully implemented its ordinance, adopted September 1, 2012, requiring employers with more than four employees to allow all employees, whether full or part-time, permanent or temporary, to accrue paid sick leave and paid safe time for use when an employee or family member needs to take time off work due to illness or a critical safety issue;
WHEREAS preliminary reports show no evidence of widespread negative economic impacts, and Seattle and the surrounding metropolitan area are still recovering at a stronger pace than the state, or the US as a whole;
WHEREAS the experience of the State of Connecticut, the first state to require employers to provide paid sick leave to employees (2012), shows minimum negative effects from the new requirements, according to a preliminary survey by The Center for Economic and Policy Research; and
WHEREAS the State of Washington House of Representatives passed a bill sponsored by Rep. Laurie Jinkins (D-Tacoma) requiring employers with more than four full-time employees to provide paid leave for specified medical reasons relating to the employee's or a family member's health;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call for legislation requiring employers with more than four employees to provide a means for their employees to accrue and use sick leave; 2014SC - 069 - 140621 - PASS - LAB - Supporting Paid Sick Leave
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said sick leave may be used for matters relating to the employee or a family member's health; reasons related to domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking; or the closure of an employee's place of business, or a child's school or place of care due to public health emergencies;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the sick leave would cover work absences for the employee, their children, spouses, parents, grandparents and parents-48 in-law; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, urge our elected state officials to enact into law the required accrual and availability of paid sick leave for specified reasons.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Labor recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Labor at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS many renegotiated labor contracts reduce defined-benefit plans (pensions) for new hires, or replace defined-benefit plans for new hires with defined contribution plans (e.g., 401(k) plans);
WHEREAS this discrepancy provides an incentive for employers to replace existing employees with workers hired under these new or renegotiated contracts;
WHEREAS age discrimination in layoffs and other terminations has been made increasingly difficult to prove because of more stringent legal thresholds and absence of union protections; and
WHEREAS the knowledge and skills of experienced employees are valuable resources that should be maintained;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention asks our Congressional delegation to enact laws encouraging and rewarding companies, businesses and institutions for retaining employees until they reach retirement age, particularly those within ten years of retirement age; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention asks our Congressional delegation tofund the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sufficiently to investigate and enforce these laws.
Submitted by the King County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS U.S. officials have repeatedly failed to enforce or delay enforcement of key provisions of trade agreements, going back decades, exemplified here: The U.S. Trade Representative, in 2015, failed to take action against countries violating key free trade law environmental obligations, neglecting new and detailed reports of illegal logging in Peru that violated the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, in spite of documented evidence of repeated engagement in illegal harvest and trade. In April 2015, Columbia's National Union School reported on Columbia's failure to comply with its labor obligations, finding that "Columbian workers have suffered more than 1,933 threats and acts of violence, including 105 assassinations of union activists and 1,337 death threats." But the U.S. Trade Representative has not initiated any enforcement efforts in response.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, urge our members of Congress to insist to the President and his successor, that the U.S. Trade Representative be directed to pursue action against nations which have signed NAFTA, CAFTA, and country-to-country trade agreements with the U.S. but which ignore environmental, labor and other parts of the treaties.
Submitted by the Pierce County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, support SB and that it is fully funded; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our Washington state legislators to vote yes for SB5438 and that it is fully funded.
Submitted by the (add either Labor Caucus or Latino Caucus) to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 5, 2019 meeting in Pasco. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we, the WSDCC, condemn Senators Mullet and Palumbo for their support of former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker-style attacks on the collective bargaining rights of public teachers.
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED A copy of this resolution be sent to Senators Mullet and Palumbo and to the Chairs of their respective Democratic County and Legislative Chairs.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted 4/6/2019) The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic State Central Committee, support HR 1706 (1).
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our elected Democratic Senators to pass HR 1706 and submit it the Governor's Office to be signed and enacted into law.
Submitted to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 5, 2019 meeting in Pasco. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS, in 1935, the United States established, by law, that workers must be free to form unions; and
WHEREAS, the freedom to form unions is internationally recognized as a fundamental human right guaranteed by the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and
WHEREAS, many U.S. workers who want to organize can not when more than 57 million say they would join a union now if they had the opportunity; and
WHEREAS, employers routinely use legal as well as illegal tactics against workers each year, threatening, coercing or firing employees that seek to form unions; and
WHEREAS, more than 20,000 U.S. workers in organizing drives in 2004 were fired or discriminated against for exercising their freedom to form unions, according to National Labor Relations Board annual reports; and
WHEREAS, in nearly half of private-sector union representation elections when workers overcome these obstacles and vote to form a union, employers refuse to agree to collective bargaining contracts two years after the election; and
WHEREAS, workers who have unions not only gain a voice on the job, but earn 28% more than workers without unions, on average, and are much more likely to have health and pension benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Labor; and
WHEREAS, collective bargaining is a public good that benefits our entire nation, helping communities by strengthening tax bases and promoting a more just, equal, and democratic society; and
WHEREAS, for decades, a united labor movement, working closely with the Democratic Party, has led the fight for every single legal and social reform that has strengthened the economic, health and retirement security for America's workers and their families; and
WHEREAS, unions strengthen and build the middle class, with studies showing that in the ten strongest union states there is less poverty, higher household income, better schools and less crime, than in the ten weakest union states; and
WHEREAS, declines in unionization have coincided with a growing gap between the rich and the poor, which is bad for our economy and bad for democracy; and WSDCCRES - 039 - 050917 - PASS - LAB - Unions and Collective Bargaining.doc
WHEREAS, union members tend to be more politically engaged, educated about issues that matter to working families, and motivated to vote - leading to policies that serve the needs of working Americans; and
WHEREAS, the Democratic Party and the labor movement have been longtime friends and strong allies, based on our shared values; and
WHEREAS, faced with the most anti-worker, anti-union Administration the nation has experienced in 80 years, our commitment to the values we share with the labor movement and to the freedom of workers freedom to form unions is as strong as ever; and
WHEREAS, the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 1925 and H.R. 3619) has been introduced in the U.S. Congress in order to restore workers' freedom to join unions;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) reaffirms its support of working people in this country and its fundamental commitment to workers' rights; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC supports the AFL-CIO's national campaign and the campaigns of other unions to protect the freedom of American workers to form unions and bargain collectively; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC endorses the Employee Free Choice Act which would authorize the National Labor Relations Board to certify a union as the bargaining representative when a majority of employees voluntarily sign authorizations designating that union to represent them, provide for first contract mediation and arbitration, and establish meaningful penalties for violations of a worker's freedom to choose a union; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC applauds Bill Sponsors Senator Edward M. Kennedy and Representative George Miller and the additional 231 Democratic House and Senate members of Congress who have signed on as Co-76 sponsors and strongly urges the remaining Democratic elected members of Congress to co-sponsor this legislation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC encourages Democratic candidates and officeholders at all levels of government to actively support in visible ways, local organizing and collective bargaining campaigns - while publicly challenging employers that thwart workers' freedom to form unions; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC recommends that Democratic Committees at local levels pass similar resolutions supporting and recognizing the WSDCCRES - 039 - 050917 - PASS - LAB - Unions and Collective Bargaining.doc rights of working Americans to form unions and bargain collectively in the United States. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC will participate with workers, their unions, and allies in International Human Rights Day Activities on December 10, - joining nationwide activities to highlight the need for workers to have the freedom to form unions and bargain collectively in America.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by Linda Chavez-Thompson, DNC Vice-Chair/Texas and Hon. Mike Honda, DNC Vice Chair/California Tina Abbott, Michigan Morton Bahr, At-Large/DC Margaret Blackshere, Illinois R. Thomas Buffenbarger, At-Large/Maryland Elizabeth Bunn, Michigan William Burga, Ohio Barbara Easterling, At-Large/Virginia Hartina Flournoy, At-Large/DC John Gage, At-Large/DC William George, Pennsylvania Daniel LeBlanc, Virginia Leon Lynch, At-Large/Pennsylvania Edward J. McElroy, At-Large/Rhode Island Gerald McEntee, At-Large/Pennsylvania Richard P. Michalski, At-Large/Maryland John Olsen, Connecticut Richard Ray, Georgia Elizabeth Smith, At-Large/DC John J. Sweeney, At-Large /Maryland Randi Weingarten, At-Large/New York Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the Machinists Union and their members have voted their contract proposal from Boeing Company down; and
WHEREAS, the Machinists Union and their members voted to go on strike for a better agreement and better benefits; and
WHEREAS, the Boeing profits exceeded $10 billion this last year; and
WHEREAS, the workers want improved benefits without premiums, improved pension benefits and improved wages; and THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee go on record in support of the workers who are out on strike against the Boeing Company, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee communicate this resolution to the Machinists District Lodge 751, and to our elected officials asking for their support and to all Chairs and State Committee Members for their support.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 16, 2005 meeting in Everett by the WSDCC Labor Caucus (9/16/05) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the state of Washington has the authority to promulgate rules and regulations that protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, the state of Washington has policies that maintain and improve the wage and health care standards of our community; and
WHEREAS, large unregulated retail establishments may reduce the economic standards and civic life in Washington; and
WHEREAS, large retail establishments often pay very low wages, offer few if any benefits, and create competition that forces other businesses to either lower wages and benefits or be driven out of business; and
WHEREAS, taxpayers costs often increase when businesses that provide health care to their employees are replaced by those that do not provide health care and instead rely on city and state health clinics, public hospitals, and publicly funded programs such as Kid Care, Family Care, and Medicaid to provide health care to their employees; and
WHEREAS, to counter these tendencies and to provide for the economic and civic well-20 being of its citizens, the State of Washington must establish new standards of economic and civic conduct for large retail establishments; and
WHEREAS, in order to safeguard the public welfare, health, safety and prosperity of all residents of Washington, it is essential that large retail establishments provide a living wage, along with the health and other benefits required for employees to take care of their families; and
WHEREAS, smaller local stores are often driven out of business when large retail establishments enter a community, it is imperative that the state of Washington ensure that unemployed local residents get priority in hiring and, to this end, declares that a First Source Hiring Policy is established to assist those local residents and benefit employers by providing a pool of qualified job applicants whose job training has been specifically tailored to their needs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee support the passing of state laws and city ordinances to assure that workers at large retail stores receive a living wage and adequate benefits. WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc Sample Resolution By Whitman County Democrats Requiring A Pullman, Washington Ordinance On Responsible Living Wages By Large Retail Establishments
WHEREAS, the city of Pullman, WA has the authority to adopt ordinances and to promulgate rules and regulations pertaining to its government and affairs in order to protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens; and
WHEREAS, the city of Pullman, WA declares that it is the policy of the city to maintain and improve the wage and health care standards of our community; and
WHEREAS, large unregulated retail establishments may reduce the economic standards and civic life of the city of Pullman, WA; and
WHEREAS, large retail establishments often pay very low wages, offer few if any benefits, and create competition that forces other businesses to either lower wages and benefits or be driven out of business; and
WHEREAS, taxpayers costs often increase when businesses that provide health care to their employees are replaced by those that do not provide health care and instead rely on city health clinics, public hospitals, and publicly funded programs such as Kid Care, Family Care, and Medicaid to provide health care to their employees; and
WHEREAS, to counter these tendencies and to provide for the economic and civic well-65 being of its citizens, the city of Pullman, WA must establish new standards of economic and civic conduct for large retail establishments; and
WHEREAS, in order to safeguard the public welfare, health, safety and prosperity of all residents the city of Pullman, WA, it is essential that large retail establishments provide a living wage, along with the health and other benefits required for employees to take care of their families; and
WHEREAS, smaller local stores are often driven out of business when large retail establishments enter a community, it is imperative that the city of Pullman, WA ensure that unemployed local residents get priority in hiring and, to this end, declares that a First Source Hiring Policy is established to assist those local residents and benefit employers by providing a pool of qualified job applicants whose job training has been specifically tailored to their needs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Pullman, Whitman County, Washington, pass an ordinance to assure that workers at large retail stores receive a living wage and adequate benefits and it be ordained that the Municipal Code of the city of Pullman, WA be amended by adding thereto and inserting therein a new Chapter 17-190 (or 17.80 and amending any and all affected sections therein, entitled "Large Retail Establishments." WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc SECTION 1. The foregoing recitals are incorporated herein as the findings of the City Council. SECTION 2. A new chapter of the Municipal Code of the City of Pullman is hereby created as follows: 17-190-010 Definitions. a) "City" means the City of Pullman. b) "Agency" means the City department or agency designated by the City to administer this Ordinance. c) "Business" means any natural or artificial person, corporation, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, sole proprietorship, association, trust or any other entity. d) "Large Retail Establishment" means any Business that operates a retail store located within the geographic boundaries of the City of Pullman where the premises of the retail store comprise 75,000 square feet or more. e) "Non-Business Areas" mean those parts of a Large Retail Establishment where business is not conducted, including parking lots, sidewalks, pedestrian areas, outdoor Employee smoking areas, and other outdoor areas where business is not conducted. f) "Subcontractor" means any Business that performs services on-site for a Large Retail Establishment or for another Subcontractor or that holds a sublease authorizing that party to occupy, use, control, or do business on the property of the Large Retail Establishment. g) "Employer" means any Large Retail Establishment or Subcontractor. h) "Employee" means any person who in a particular week performs at least two (2) hours of work on the premises of a Large Retail Establishment for either a Large Retail Establishment or for a Subcontractor. This definition includes persons performing work on a full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal basis, including independent contractors, contracted workers, contingent workers, and persons made available to work through the services of a temporary services, staffing or employment agency or similar entity. i) "Living Wage" has the meaning set forth in Section 17-190-020. j) "Benefits" means payments for medical or hospital care, pensions on retirement or death, or insurance to provide any of the forgoing, life insurance, disability and sickness insurance, or accident insurance, payments for defraying the costs of apprenticeship or other similar programs, or payments for other bona fide fringe benefits. Excluded from this definition are payments made pursuant to the Workers' Compensation Act [RCW 51 et seq.]. k) "First Source Employment Position" means all Employee categories, excepting construction employment involving laborers, workers or mechanics. WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc l) "Ex-offender" means any applicant for employment who has a criminal record, but who supplies proof of community ready socialization, which may include but is not limited to, sworn testimony, reference letters, self-improvement courses, educational or vocational attainment, and counseling. 17-190-020 Living Wage. a) Employers shall pay Employees no less than the Living Wage for each hour worked on the premises of a Large Retail Establishment. b) Beginning on the effective date of this Ordinance, the Living Wage shall be an hourly rate of $11.00 per hour with health benefits or $12.50 without health benefits. These rates will be adjusted annually each, January 1st beginning in 2006, and each year thereafter. Such adjustments shall enable a full-time worker to earn an income that will lift a family up to 115% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for a family of four. 17-190-030 Notice, Posting and Payroll Records. c) By December 1 of each year, the Agency shall publish and make available to Employers a bulletin announcing the adjusted Living Wage and Benefits Supplements Rate for the upcoming year, which shall take effect on January 1. If the Agency fails to do so, Employers shall calculate adjustments to the Living Wage and Benefits Supplement Rate as described in this Ordinance, and shall begin utilizing the adjusted rate by the subsequent January 1. d) By December 1 of each year, the Agency shall publish and make available to Employers, in all languages spoken by more than five percent of the Pullman work force, a notice suitable for posting by Employers in the workplace informing Employees of the current Living Wage and Benefits Supplements Rate and of their rights under this Ordinance. e) Every Employer shall post in a conspicuous place at any workplace or job site where any Employee works the notice published each year by the Agency informing Employees of the current Living Wage and Benefits Supplements Rate and of their rights under this Ordinance. Every Employer shall post such notices in English, Spanish, and any other language spoken by at least five percent of the Employees at the workplace or job site. f) Employers shall retain payroll and benefits records pertaining to Employees for a period of four years, and shall allow the Agency access to such records, with appropriate notice and at a mutually agreeable time, to monitor compliance with the requirements of this Ordinance. Where an Employer does not maintain or retain adequate records documenting wages paid or does not allow the Agency WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc reasonable access to such records, it shall be presumed that the Employer paid no more than the applicable federal or state minimum wage without benefits, absent clear and convincing evidence otherwise. 17-190-040 Prohibition Against Retaliation, Reduction of Benefits It shall be unlawful for an Employer or any other party to discriminate in any manner or take adverse action against any person in retaliation for exercising rights protected under this Ordinance or for informing other Employees of any legal rights under federal, state or local law, to the extent that such protection is permitted by state and federal law. Rights protected under this Ordinance include, but are not limited to: the right to file a complaint or inform any person about any party's alleged noncompliance with this Ordinance or any other federal, state or local law; and the right to inform any person of his or her potential rights under this Ordinance or other law and to assist him or her in asserting such rights. Protections of this Ordinance shall apply to any person who mistakenly, but in good faith, alleges noncompliance with this Ordinance or any other law. Taking adverse action against a person within ninety (90) days of the person's exercise of rights protected under this Ordinance shall raise a rebuttable presumption of having done so in retaliation for the exercise of such rights. g) No Employer may fund wage or benefits increases required by this Ordinance, or otherwise respond to the requirements of this Ordinance, by reducing the health insurance, pension, vacation, or other non-wage benefits of any of its Employees. 17-190-050 Implementation and Enforcement. h) Implementation. The Agency shall be authorized to coordinate implementation and enforcement of this Ordinance and may promulgate appropriate guidelines or rules for such purposes. Any guidelines or rules promulgated by the Agency shall have the force and effect of law and may be relied on by Employers, Employees and other parties to determine their rights and responsibilities under this Ordinance. Any guidelines or rules may establish procedures for ensuring fair, efficient and cost-effective implementation of this Ordinance, including supplementary procedures for helping to inform Employees of their rights under this Ordinance, for monitoring Employer compliance with this Ordinance, and for providing administrative hearings to determine whether an Employer or other person has violated the requirements of this Ordinance. i) Administrative Enforcement. The Agency is authorized to take appropriate steps to enforce this Ordinance. The Agency may WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc investigate any possible violations of this Ordinance by an Employer or other person. Where the Agency has reason to believe that a violation has occurred, it may order any appropriate temporary or interim relief to mitigate the violation or maintain the status quo pending completion of a full investigation or hearing. Where the Agency, after a hearing that affords a suspected violator due process, determines that a violation has occurred, it may order any appropriate relief including, but not limited to, reinstatement, the payment of any back wages or benefits unlawfully withheld, and the payment of an additional sum as an administrative penalty in the amount of $100 to each Employee or person whose rights under this Ordinance were violated for each day or portion thereof that the violation occurred or continued. Where prompt compliance is not forthcoming, the Agency may take any appropriate enforcement action to secure compliance, including initiating a civil action and/or, except where prohibited by state or federal law, instructing City agencies or departments to revoke or suspend any registration certificates, permits or licenses held or requested by the Employer or person until such time as the violation is remedied. In order to compensate the City for the costs of investigating and remedying the violation, the Agency may also order the violating Employer or person to pay to the City a sum of not more than $100 for each day or portion thereof for each Employee or person as to whom the violation occurred or continued. Such funds shall be allocated to the Agency and shall be used to offset the costs of implementing and enforcing this Ordinance. The amounts of all sums and payments authorized or required under this Ordinance shall be updated annually for inflation, beginning January 1, 2006, using the inflation rate and procedures set forth in Section 17-190-020. An Employee or other person may report to the Agency in writing any suspected violation of this Ordinance. The Agency shall encourage reporting pursuant to this subsection by keeping confidential, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable laws, the name and other identifying information of the Employee or person reporting the violation. Provided, however, that with the authorization of such person, the Agency may disclose his or her name and identifying information as necessary to enforce this Ordinance or for other appropriate purposes. j) Civil Enforcement. The Agency, the City Attorney, any person aggrieved by a violation of this Ordinance, any entity a member of which is aggrieved by a violation of this Ordinance, or any membership organization that represents workers, may bring a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction against an Employer or other person violating this Ordinance and, upon prevailing, shall be entitled to such legal or equitable relief as may be appropriate to remedy the violation including, without limitation, the payment of any WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc back wages unlawfully withheld, the payment of an additional sum as liquidated damages in the amount of $100 to each Employee or person whose rights under this Ordinance were violated for each day or portion thereof that the violation occurred or continued, reinstatement in employment, compensatory damages and/or declaratory and injunctive relief, and shall be awarded reasonable attorneys' fees and costs. An Employer shall be jointly liable for violations of this Ordinance by its Subcontractors. 17-190-060 Waiver Through Collective Bargaining. All or any portion of the applicable requirements of this Ordinance shall not apply to Employees covered by a bona fide collective bargaining agreement to the extent that such requirements are expressly waived in the collective bargaining agreement in clear and unambiguous terms that expressly make reference to this Ordinance. 17-190-070 Relationship to Other Requirements. This Ordinance provides for payment of minimum wage and benefits and the protection of free speech in and around Large Retail Establishments and shall not be construed to preempt or otherwise limit or affect the applicability of any other law, regulation, requirement, policy or standard that provides for payment of higher or supplemental wages or benefits, or that extends other broader speech protections on behalf of the public or Employees. 17-190-080 Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective ninety (90) days after it is adopted. This Ordinance is intended to have prospective effect only. 17-190-090 Severability. If any part or provision of this Ordinance, or the application of this Ordinance to any person or circumstance, is held invalid, the remainder of this Ordinance, including the application of such part or provisions to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected by such a holding and shall continue in full force and effect. To this end, the provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION 3. All ordinances, resolutions, motions or orders in conflict with this ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of such conflict.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores by the Whitman County Democrats (Date Submitted 11/8/2005) WSDCCRES - 076 - 051112 - PASS - LAB - Living Wages.doc Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS, Dennis Kucinich U.S. Representative of Ohio has put forth a "Jobs Plan to Rebuild America" by creating a low cost federal financing mechanism; and
WHEREAS, the Kucinich plan calls for a 15% reduction in the military budget while at the same time insuring livable incomes and adequate benefits for our men and women in uniform, then redirecting the many billions of dollars that would be saved towards hometown security issues such as education, jobs and healthcare for all; and
WHEREAS, our nation faces a dual crises of insufficient living-wage jobs and decaying infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the decaying infrastructure (roads, schools, parks, municipal systems) is something we see everyday; and
WHEREAS, many manufacturing jobs are being relocated overseas while many Americans can't find living wage jobs; and
WHEREAS, it is time to put Americans back to work rebuilding and restoring this country;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Democrats elected to serve the needs of the people will review the plan submitted by Rep. Dennis Kucinich and support the ideas contained in the proposal to rebuild America's infrastructure and provide living wage jobs to Americans.
Submitted by 2nd CD delegates meeting, Anacortes, WA, May 25, 2006,to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 05/30/2006) (Contact: Nancy Ging, 360-758-2529, nancy@turtlehome.com ) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. WSDCCRES - 260 - 060929 - PASS - LAB - Jobs Program.doc Endorsed by the following Delegates to the Democratic State Convention 1. Lila Smith King County 32nd LD 2. Gloria Skouge King County 32nd LD 3. Christine Hoffman King County 32nd LD 4. Chris Glenn Snohomish Co. 1st LD 5. Eric Teegarden Snohomish Co. 1st LD 6. Patricia Santangelo Skagit County 40th LD 7. Roni Beall Whatcom County 40th LD 8. Joan Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 9. Dianne Foster Whatcom County 40th LD 10. Robbi Ferron Whatcom County 40th LD 11. David Narsico Whatcom County 40th LD 12. Ann Davidson Whatcom County 40th LD 13. Nina Hodgson Whatcom County 40th LD 14. Michelle Fisher Whatcom County 40th LD 15. Richard Austin Skagit County 39th LD 16. Nancy Ging Whatcom County 42nd LD 17. Alexandrina Patty San Juan County 40th LD 18. Judith Shattuck King County 45th LD
WHEREAS, The Wagner-Peyser Act, as amended, and the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), as amended, mandated that the Dept. of Labor's Employment Training Administration (ETA) provide services and protections to migrant and seasonal farm workers (MSFW's); and
WHEREAS, further legislation including the Manpower Act, Comprehensive Employment Training Act (CETA), and Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) expanded services to MSFW's includes education, daycare, medical clinic care and family housing for both MSFW's and their families; and
WHEREAS, the current legislation impacting MSFW's, the Workforce Investment Act (WIA), required ETA to administratively reorganize its delivery of services to the American workforce; and
WHEREAS, ETA under the Bush administration has consciously restructured delivery of services with a focus on non-agricultural employment to the virtual exclusion of MSFW's, using WIA as a pretext to bypass and ignore other MSFW's applicable legislation, including dramatically reducing funding, in some cases zero funding, for many MSFW's programs; and
WHEREAS, ETA continues to carry out its policies of outright neglect of MSFW's resulting in unsafe and unhealthy working conditions as well as non-payment of earned wages, unsanitary over-crowed and unsafe housing;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Congressional Delegation seek the exercise of Congress' legislative oversight authority to direct USDOL/ETA to come into compliance with existing Federal legislation relating to the MSFW's and further direct USDOL/ETA to recommend funding and operation of MSFW's services delivery and MSFW-employer compliance programs, include placement of staff in USDOL's Seattle Federal Government Offices to better and more effectively serve the needs of MSFW's in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be forwarded to Washington State Democratic Party's counterpart organizations in Oregon, Idaho and Alaska.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) WSDCCRES - 261 - 060929 - PASS - LAB - Services to Farm Workers.doc The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS many workers and retirees are living with illnesses and diseases related to occupational chemical and/or radiation exposures on the Hanford reservation;
WHEREAS employees are left struggling just to receive basic medical or disability coverage due to lack of access to personal exposure and medical records as a result of RCW 51.04.130;
WHEREAS in 2001 the Secretary of Energy ordered the Hanford United States Department of Energy (USDOE) facility and contractors to stop fighting valid workers' compensation claims;
WHEREAS the Secretary of Energy's above-stated policy was never implemented;
WHEREAS the contractors simply appeal and extend the decision-making process - sometimes lasting up to twelve (12) years, sick workers have been forced to endure many medical exams at their own expense;
WHEREAS this decision-making process is an expensive process for the employees and has required some to take out a second mortgage, caused some to be fired, caused workplace harassment and undue family stress;
WHEREAS the University of Washington in performing medical studies concerning this issue has been restricted from receiving essential medical and exposure information;
WHEREAS Washington State has the power to change or remove RCW 41.04.130;
WHEREAS by doing so, it would save Washington State taxpayers millions of dollars;
WHEREAS there is no longer a fear for national security as this is only a hazardous waste cleanup site now;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Benton County Democratic Central Committee call on our State Legislators to change or remove RCW 51.04.130 and allow Washington State Department of Labor and Industries to run the Workers' Compensation Program with the Washington State Department of Ecology as oversight to protect workers' rights under state and federal hazard laws as
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State appoint a Washington State Toxicologist and Washington State Industrial Hygienist to the Hanford site. WSDCCRES - 262 - 060929 - PASS - LAB - Insurance for Hanford Workers.doc
Submitted by the Benton County Democratic Central Committee to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 29, 2006 meeting in Tacoma, WA (Date Submitted 8/14/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, workplace bullying is a form of malicious conduct where one or more employees with organizational power deliberately and repeatedly practice or perpetrate at least one of the following behaviors against a worker: Verbal abuse such as derogatory remarks, insults, humiliating slurs; Conduct that a reasonable person would find threatening or intimidating; Gratuitous sabotage or the undermining of a worker's work performance; Deliberately falsified or unfounded negative information about a worker; Deliberately withholding needed information from a worker; Abuse of authority by painfully manipulating a worker; and/or Any similar deliberate and repeated behavior; and
WHEREAS, social science shows that workplace bullying follows predictable patterns ending in the debilitating illness or expulsion of a worker; and
WHEREAS, workplace bullying does not promote any employers' legitimate business interests but negatively impacts the affected worker's job performance and health, and also the morale, attendance, retention and productivity of the entire workforce; and
WHEREAS, civil rights legislation is inadequate to defend against workplace bullying and health problems caused by it are not normally compensable under the workers compensation system; and
WHEREAS, competent and conscientious workers have felt forced to resign by workplace bullying and some have been severely harmed by it; and
WHEREAS, social scientists show that people who have been targeted by workplace bullying commit suicide at a higher rate; now, therefore, be it
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Party condemns workplace bullying and calls on all employers to take necessary steps to ensure employees are protected from bullying behavior; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Party shall distribute this resolution to all appropriate regional elected officials to better educate and prepare public employers to prevent bullying, protect employees when workplace bullying occurs, and appropriately address such occurrences; and, WSDCCRES - 362 - 070929 - PASS - LAB - Bullying in Workplace.doc BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Party shall call upon Governor Gregoire to take appropriate action to ensure the state of Washington is a model employer when it comes to protecting its workers from workplace bullying.
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT, this resolution, upon passage, be submitted to appropriate regional broadcast, print media, and Internet sources.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 9/13/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "CONSOLODATED WITH AMENDMENTS THIS RESOLUTION WITH RESOLUTION #367" at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in the Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, mistreated employees have inadequate to no opportunities for redress under existing workers' compensation plans and current civil rights protections which require the mistreatment to be unquestionably based on race, sex, age, or national origin;
WHEREAS, abusive work environments also carry costly consequences for employers such as higher turnover, absenteeism, reduced productivity, and significant increases in workers' compensation and disability claims;
WHEREAS, HB 2142 (Linville, Conway, Kenney, Chase, Santos, Moeller, Morrell, Ormsby) and SB2142 By Rosa Franklin is the comprehensive legislative solution for all employees in Washington State to address precisely defined abusive work environments that cause health or economic harm to targeted individuals while encouraging good employers to take preventive actions that allow them to escape vicarious liability for employee mistreatment;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we the Washington Democratic Central Committee on behalf of all aggrieved bullied workers in the state urge elected State Representatives to pass HB/SB2142 during the 2008 legislative session making Washington State the national leader in the movement to make workplaces free from health harming abuse.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/18/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, farm workers who pick tomatoes for the fast food industry are among this country's most exploited workers; and
WHEREAS, they suffer from sub-poverty wages; have no right to form unions, and have no benefits of any kind; and
WHEREAS, the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) which represents Florida farm workers has been fighting for many years to increase the price that farm workers are paid per pound for the tomatoes they pick; and
WHEREAS, most pickers are paid virtually the same that they were paid in 1980, (45 cents per 32 lb bucket); and
WHEREAS, most workers have to pick over twice the number of buckets per hour today as they did in 1980 in order to earn minimum wage; and
WHEREAS, in 2005 after a four-year boycott, CIW reached a historic agreement with Taco Bell to pay farm workers more; and
WHEREAS, in April, 2007, McDonald's also agreed to work with CIW to improve farm worker wages and working conditions; and
WHEREAS, Burger King has refused to work with CIW. Instead, it's putting profits ahead of dignity and justice for workers; and
WHEREAS, the one cent per pound increase would cost Burger King only $250,000 per year; and
WHEREAS, three private equity firms are major shareholders in Burger King - Goldman Sachs, Texas Pacific Group, and Bain Capital; and
WHEREAS, 12 Goldman Sachs executives received bonuses exceeding $200 million - more than twice as much money as all of the roughly 10,000 tomato pickers in southern Florida earned in 2006; and
WHEREAS, Senator Bernie Sanders released two letters signed by four US Senators - Sen. Sanders, Sen. Richard Durbin, Sen. Edward Kennedy, and Sen. Sherrod Brown - sent to John Chidsey, CEO of Burger King Corporation, and Reggie Brown of the Florida Tomato Growers Exchange (FTGE), urging both Burger King and the FTGE to participate in the CIW-led initiative to improve farm worker wages and end the exploitation of Florida's tomato harvesters. WSDCCRES - 387 - 080126 - PASS - LAB - Burger King.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell join U.S. Senators Sanders, Durbin, Kennedy and Brown in sending letters to John W. Chidsey and Reggie Brown.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we support a NATIONAL BOYCOTT of Burger King until such time as that company reaches an agreement with the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT, notification of this action shall be mailed to: John W. Chidsey, Chief Executive Officer; Burger King; 5505 Blue Lagoon Drive; Miami FL 33126, and to Reggie Brown, Executive Vice President; Florida Tomato Growers Exchange; 800 Trafalger Court, Suite 300; Maitland FL 32751
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/26/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, a 21 year veteran in a Washington State community college without negative evaluation, was recently (May 2008) dismissed from her position; and
WHEREAS, the only reason given for the dismissal was "because we can" therefore denying this 21 year veteran due process; and
WHEREAS, this is not an isolated incident, but 4 other Edmond's adjuncts were also dismissed simultaneously and similar dismissals are very frequent among adjunct college faculty; and
WHEREAS, the dismissal occurred shortly after this person's election as AFT Local President, thus making it a likely anti-union action;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats strongly condemn the actions of Edmonds Community College; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats support a formalized adjunct faculty job security system such as a seniority system; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats (WSDCC) communicate their condemnation and request for an adjunct faculty job security system to the president of Edmonds Community College; the Chair of the state board of Community and Technical Colleges; the Governor of Washington; and the State Representatives and Senators representing Kitsap and Pierce Counties.
Submitted by the 26th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 13, 2008 meeting in Tulalip. (Date Submitted 9/1/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 12, 2008 meeting in Tulalip. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 13, 2008 meeting in Tulalip.
WHEREAS American workers should not have to drop their First Amendment and privacy rights at the workplace door; and
WHEREAS American workers should not be forced to participate in communication, including mandatory meetings where employers can press their own views on religion, politics and unions; and
WHEREAS employers routinely use mandatory communication to intimidate and coerce managers and supervisors to discourage unionization or press particular views; and
WHEREAS workers can be, and are, fired or disciplined for refusing to participate in such communication; and
WHEREAS the Workers Privacy Act allows workers to choose whether or not to participate in employer communication unrelated to job performance when that communication is about private matters of individual conscience, without any threat to their employment status; and
WHEREAS the Workers Privacy Act protects workers who report or challenge such mandatory communication from retaliatory discharge or discipline; and
WHEREAS the Workers Privacy Act is about respect for basic American rights;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED State Democrats hereby go on record as supporting the Workers Privacy Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to pass the Workers Privacy Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrat Chair is directed to send a copy to the Governor and the members of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus with the signatures of fifty State Central Committee members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 24 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/24/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 24, 2009 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS in 1935, the United States established, by law, that workers must be free to form unions; and
WHEREAS the freedom to form or join a union is internationally recognized by the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a fundamental human right; and
WHEREAS the free choice to join with others and bargain for better wages and benefits is essential to economic opportunity and good living standards; and
WHEREAS unions benefit communities by strengthening living standards, stabilizing tax bases, promoting equal treatment and enhancing civic participation; and
WHEREAS states in which more people are union members are states with higher wages, better benefits and better schools; and
WHEREAS union workers earn 29 percent more than workers without a union, are 35 percent more likely to have access to health insurance, and are four times more likely to have access to a guaranteed defined-benefit pension; and
WHEREAS unions help raise workers' pay and narrow the income gap for minorities and women by increasing median weekly earnings by 31 percent for union women workers, 31 percent for African-American workers, 50 percent for Latino workers, and 9 percent for Asian American workers; and
WHEREAS workers across the nation are routinely denied the freedom to form unions and bargain for a better life, with 25 percent of private-sector employers illegally firing at least one worker for union activity during organizing campaigns; and
WHEREAS 77 percent of the public believes it is important to have strong laws protecting the freedom for workers to make their own decision about having a union, and 58 percent of workers would join a union if they had the chance; and
WHEREAS employers often refuse to bargain fairly with workers after forming a union by dragging out first contract bargaining for up to two years in 45 percent of successful campaigns; and
WHEREAS when the right of workers to form a union is violated, wages fall, race and gender pay gaps widen, workplace discrimination increases and job safety standards disappear; and WSDCCRES - 392 - 090124 - PASS - LAB - Employee Free Choice Act.doc
WHEREAS a worker's fundamental right to choose a union free from coercion and intimidation is a public issue that requires public policy solutions, including legislative remedies; and
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act has been introduced in the U.S. Congress in order to restore workers' freedom to join a union; and
WHEREAS the Employee Free Choice Act will provide more stability between employers and employees by requiring arbitration to resolve disputes in the negotiations of the first contract; and
WHEREAS the Employment Free Choice Act will safeguard workers' ability to make their own decisions with these abuses, provide for first contract mediation and arbitration, and establish meaningful penalties when employers violate workers' rights.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby go on record as supporting the Employee Free Choice Act, which would authorize the National Labor Relations Board to certify a union as the bargaining representative when a majority of employees voluntarily sign authorizations designating that union to represent them; provide for first contract mediation and arbitration; and establish meaningful penalties for violations of a worker's freedom to choose a union; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURHTER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge Congress to pass the Employee Free Choice Act to protect and preserve for America's workers their freedom to choose for themselves whether or not for form a union; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats Chair is directed to send a copy of this resolution to the Democratic National Committee, and to members of the Washington State Congressional delegation.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus with the signatures of fifty State Central Committee members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 24 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/24/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 24, 2009 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS American workers should not have to drop their First Amendment and privacy rights at the workplace door;
WHEREAS American workers should not be forced to attend any meeting where the issue at hand is a matter of conscience;
WHEREAS in 1935, the United States established, by law, that workers must be free to form unions;
WHEREAS the freedom to form or join a union is internationally recognized by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a fundamental human right;
WHEREAS the Freedom of Religion is internationally recognized by the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a fundamental human right;
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature failed to act in an appropriate manner, in its decisions regarding the Worker Privacy Act (HB 1528 and SB 5446);
WHEREAS a schism may now form between the Democratic Party and Unified Labor; and
WHEREAS it is in the best interest of the Democratic Party, to ensure close ties to our working family values;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby go on record (Again) as supporting the Workers Privacy Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to pass the Workers Privacy Act; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the chair of the Washington State Democratic Party is directed to send a copy to the Governor and the members of the Washington State Legislature.
Submitted by the Hispanic Latino Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 8/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. WSDCCRES - 454 - 090926 - PASS - LAB - Worker Privacy Act.doc The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS Washington State boasts many of America's most talented audio, live performance, video performers, and technicians;
WHEREAS the best and most professional of these dedicated and industrious performers and technicians are members of five AFL-CIO member unions: American Federation of Musicians (AFM), the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE), the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers' Broadcast Unit (IBEW), and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG);
WHEREAS a strong economy is based upon jobs that provide safe working conditions, a fair and living wage, and health and retirement benefits;
WHEREAS these performers and technicians want to be financially responsible for providing their own health insurance and retirement benefits;
WHEREAS they can only pay into those benefit plans through contributions earned while working under union contracts;
WHEREAS the proven cost difference between work done under a union contract and that done outside of union agreements is negligible; and
WHEREAS it is in the interest of all to encourage and support union workers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge its members and endorsed candidates to produce all live productions, trade shows, electronically-generated or recorded media projects, for broadcast or internal use, under contracts with AFM, AFTRA, IATSE, IBEW, or SAG, and that they employ members of those unions in those productions;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that members of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge its members and endorsed candidates to encourage their employers, both private and public, to likewise produce all live productions, trade shows, electronically-generated or recorded media projects, for broadcast or internal use, under contracts with AFM, AFTRA, IATSE, IBEW, or SAG, and that they employ members of those unions in those productions; and WSDCCRES - 458 - 090926 - PASS - LAB - Use of Union Media Labor.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats shall send a copy of this resolution to our Democratic elected officials and County and LD parties, and that these persons and organizations are expected to transmit these instructions to all future elected officials and nominated candidates.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/25/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS WITH AMENDMENTS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS the rights of working people to negotiate working conditions have been severely curtailed by Republican actions in Wisconsin, Florida, Ohio, Idaho, and other states; and
WHEREAS the Republican Party has a clear partisan goal of weakening or destroying the institutional protections of working people by destroying union organizations; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee reaffirm its support for the right of working people to organize and bargain collectively on all workplace issues as a fundamental civil right essential to our democratic society.
Submitted by the 4th Congressional District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/17/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS unionized public employees at all levels of government provide essential public services, without which middle class life as enjoyed by the residents of the State of Washington would be greatly diminished;
WHEREAS public employees provide services that are generally not profitable for the private sector, and public employees provide critical services to people of all income levels, including individuals and families who would otherwise not be able to afford them;
WHEREAS Washington state has recognized the importance and value of laws that ensure workplace safety and the right to bargain collectively, and has the most progressive minimum-wage law in the nation as approved by voters;
WHEREAS the State of Washington is home to 350,000 public employees working for the state, cities, counties, ports, school districts, community colleges, universities and public utilities, who have collective bargaining rights under public-sector collective bargaining statutes;
WHEREAS public employees throughout the nation have lost their jobs and voluntarily accepted reduced wages as a way to try and maintain the level of public services during this "Great Recession";
WHEREAS around the country and in all levels of government in Washington, labor leaders, unions and their members have stepped forward to voluntarily participate in wage and benefit reductions, furloughs and other cost-saving measures to preserve the jobs of their fellow employees and assist in managing the impacts of the recession on government budgets, and have developed creative ways to reduce costs and increase efficiencies, yet many jobs have had to be eliminated;
WHEREAS all working men and women in both public and private sectors deserve honor and respect for the work they do and should be empowered to perform their jobs efficiently and creatively with high-quality customer service; and
WHEREAS we do not support, and indeed condemn, the ongoing efforts of state leadership in Wisconsin and other states to curtail the rights of public employees to bargain collectively; WSDCCRES - 531 - 110430 - PASS - LAB - Supporting Public Employees.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we affirm our support for public employees and the services they provide, and support the right of public employees to organize and to bargain collectively. Further, we oppose any attempt to restrict or eliminate collective bargaining in the State of Washington and ask our state legislators and the Governor to defend the rights of workers to bargain collectively.
Submitted by the 46h Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/22/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the Inland Boatmen's Union of the Pacific, the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots, the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association, the Puget Sound Metal Trades, and the Office of Professional Employees International Union Local 8 represent over 1600 workers employed by the Washington State Ferry System;
WHEREAS these unions were the first to step up and defer their negotiated wage increases for the current biennium to bridge the state budget gap resulting in an 18.3 million dollar savings;
WHEREAS the Washington State Ferry Unions have reopened their contracts to negotiate further cost saving ideas for the 2011-2013 biennium and there is a tentative agreement in place;
WHEREAS 2011 democratic members in the legislature have once again targeted the ferry worker unions by drafting and passing legislation that guts existing contractual agreements between labor and the employer as well as an outright assault on the collective bargaining process as a whole; and
WHEREAS this legislation directly opposes our party platform which supports the rights of workers to organize and collectively bargain;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats go on record supporting the maritime trade unions bargaining rights;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats go on record opposing Washington State's legislative process as a means to undermine labor's right to bargain fairly;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to find a permanent funding source for the ferry system;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recognize the sacrifices made by ferry union workers; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats remind our state House and Senate Democratic members that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, per our platform, opposes this type of legislation in this session or in any future session. WSDCCRES - 533 - 110430 - PASS - LAB - Supporting State Ferry Workers (2).doc
Submitted by the 34th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/22/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS there have been organized and extremely well-funded efforts across our country to limit collective bargaining rights;
WHEREAS a strong economy is based upon jobs that provide safe working conditions, a fair, and living wage, and health and retirement benefits;
WHEREAS quality jobs as defined above are obtained and ensured by workers' rights to organize unions for collective bargaining;
WHEREAS income inequality continues to grow in our country, with the top 1% of wage earners received about 10% of our nations income gains in the 1960's and over 60% of the gains in the 2000s;
WHEREAS the percentage of unionized workers track very closely with the share of our nation's income going to the middle class - those in the middle three-fifths of income earners;
WHEREAS membership in private sector unions has dropped from around 30% in the late 1960s to less than 7% today; and
WHEREAS public sector unionization has remained stable for decades at around 36% - but is now under significant threat from conservative political opposition;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Platform calls for strong protections of collective bargaining rights in both the private and public sector;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on the Washington State Legislature to oppose all efforts to limit collective bargaining rights and to oppose all efforts to limit the formation of unions or limit membership in existing unions.
Submitted by the Kitsap County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima. (Date
Submitted 9/12/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS Washington State agricultural commodity values in 2011, the last year for which figures were available, topped $9 billion, and the combined value of food and agriculture industry, which employs approximately 160,000 people in Washington, is $46 billion; and
WHEREAS many of the commodities require substantial human labor to produce, including, for example, Washington's number one crop, apples; and
WHEREAS those crops that are most labor intensive often require farm workers with special knowledge and skills gained over years of such labor; and
WHEREAS immigration enforcement raids on migrant labor have reduced the population of such skilled laborers and threatened the on-going productivity of some farms; and
WHEREAS the number of skilled and willing workers who are United States (US) citizens, or, non-citizens in full compliance with immigration laws, is insufficient to meet the needs of agriculture and related industries; and
WHEREAS Washington State Democratic Party has already voiced its opposition to raids on undocumented immigrants contained in "Secure Communities" (WSDCCRES - 589 -130202 - PASS - IMM); and
WHEREAS the "E-Verify" program similarly constrains the ability of undocumented farm workers to support themselves and their families; and
WHEREAS the treatment of farm workers in the current immigration reform talks is a central topic of controversy; and
WHEREAS there appears to be movement on a compromise that would allow up to 336,000 non-citizen farm workers to receive "blue cards" to work legally in the US, including provisions on farm worker wage levels, caps on agricultural guest worker visas and protections for US workers; and
WHEREAS this issue needs to be dealt with comprehensively in the immigration reform discussions; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats email our congressional delegation and urge them to work for and support inclusion of strong language to ensure that farmers have access to a skilled work force and to protect farm worker rights in the immigration reform laws currently being drafted.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at the WSDCC April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Submitted 4/19/13) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. WSDCCRES - 616 - 130427 - PASS - IMM - Agricultural Labor The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS the U.S. Postal Service has a no-bid, sweetheart deal with Staples to operate postal counters in 82 Staples stores and to provide nearly all the services U.S. Post Offices provide;
WHEREAS the USPS and Staples plan to expand the program to Staples' 1,500 U.S. stores;
WHEREAS the USPS and Staples have refused to staff Staples' postal units with unionized USPS employees who have the training and experience to properly handle U.S. Mail, who have sworn an oath to uphold the highest standards of public service, and who are accountable to the American people;
WHEREAS low-wage, non-union "postal" jobs at Staples will inevitably replace the living-wage, union jobs of U.S. Postal Service employees and Staples stores will inevitably replace U.S. Post Offices;
WHEREAS privatizing the handling of U.S. Mail will jeopardize the sanctity and security of the mail;
WHEREAS postal workers have been vigorously fighting this blatant attempt to privatize the U.S. Postal Service, replace their living-wage jobs with low-wage jobs, and degrade service, and whereas they have asked for our support; and
WHEREAS we care about high-quality public services, protecting living-wage jobs, and maintaining universal, affordable mail service for the American people and we oppose privatization of public services;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the American Postal Workers Union in its efforts to protect living-32 wage jobs and its insistence on the highest possible standards of customer service;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee opposes efforts to privatize postal operations;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges all Democrats, including members, friends, colleagues and family members to boycott Staples stores or Staples.com until further notice; and WSDCCRES - 695 - 140913 - PASS - LAB - Boycott of Staples
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this call to boycott Staples will be communicated immediately to members of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, the APWU and Staples headquarters.
Submitted by the 30th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature passed legislation to allow public employees to collectively bargain in 2005;
WHEREAS the Washington State Legislature is now considering a total of 13 pieces of proposed legislation written by the Freedom Foundation that undermine and attack the collective bargaining process for public employees;
WHEREAS the Freedom Foundation, is a reactionary political organization, whose goal is to bust unions in the manner of the state of Wisconsin, with a goal of turning the state of Washington into a right to work state;
WHEREAS the term "right to work" simply means an employee can't be compelled to join a union as a condition of employment, which would eliminate closed shops and require union members to bear the cost of representation of non-member employees; and
WHEREAS the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) clarified the bargaining rights of most other private-sector workers and established collective bargaining as the "policy of the United States" and the right to collective bargaining also is recognized by international human rights conventions, and the freedom to form and join a union is core to the United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights and is an "enabling" right-a fundamental right that ensures the ability to protect other rights,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge all legislators to act in the public interest, to fight against the attacks on public employees and their right to collectively bargain, rejecting all future or current Freedom Foundation bills, similar to: SB 5045/HB 2068 - Creates a new process to eliminate union security clauses in collective bargaining agreements in an attempt to harm unions financially by requiring them to represent employees who don't pay dues. SB 5226 - Public sector union finances. Requires unions to publicly report financial information that union members already have access to, and is intended only to harass public sector unions. SB 5237 - Expands the decertification process solely for the purpose of creating chaos in a union's ability to operate. SB 5329 - Requires collective bargaining session to be open to the public. Proponents of this bill are trying to make the collective bargaining process unworkable. WSDCCRES - 733 - 150418 - PASS - LAB - Opposing Freedom Foundation Legislation SB 5515 - Prohibits partial public employees from bargaining for employer supported savings programs and retirement security and is an attempt to repeal provisions of the current home care worker contract. SB 5552/HB 1968 - Broaden the basis for a religious exemption from union membership and is intended to harm unions financially by requiring them to represent employees who don't pay dues. SB 5602/HB 1773 - Prevents shop stewards, bargaining team representatives, and other union officials from being able to perform their duties. SB 5671 - Goes beyond Harris v. Quinn by making it even harder for partial public employees to negotiate for better wages, training, and working conditions. SB 5854 /HB 1991 - The bills requires a central web portal for CBA agreements that are already public record. The foundation wants taxpayers to fund this service merely for the foundation's own convenience. HB 1953 - Requires periodic recertification elections for bargaining representatives of partial public employees in an attempt to make it impossible for unions to function effectively.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS college athletes are too often left to pay sports-related medical bills, lose their scholarships when they are injured, face unnecessary risks of traumatic brain injury, and are denied due process rights;
WHEREAS the NCAA denies it has a duty to protect college athletes;
WHEREAS the NCAA denies it has a duty to ensure a quality education for college athletes;
WHEREAS an NCAA study shows college football and basketball players spend approximately 40 hours per week in their sport alone, while their Federal Graduation Rates hover just above 50%;
WHEREAS NCAA sports is a professional and commercial sports enterprise that uses college athletes to secure billions of dollars per year;
WHEREAS coaches and conference commissioners enjoy multi-million dollars salaries while college revenue athletes, the majority of whom are minorities from low-income backgrounds, are limited to scholarships that leave most of them living under the federal poverty line;
WHEREAS Ohio and Michigan adopted laws that stripped college athletes in their states of their labor rights, and some federal lawmakers are lobbying the National Labor Relations Board to do the same; and
WHEREAS excluding college athletes from equal treatment under labor, antitrust, and due process laws is an attack on their civil rights;
WHEREAS the College Athletes Players Association is a labor organization established to assert college athletes' status as employees with the right to collectively bargain;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls for college sports reform that guarantees college athletes basic protections while granting college athletes equal treatment under labor laws, antitrust laws, and all other laws that protect our citizens; and WSDCCRES - 749 - 150919 - PASS - LAB - College Athletes
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party recognizes the National College Players Association's efforts in providing college athletes an independent voice in pursuit of basic protections; supports the College Athletes Players Association mission of establishing a union for college athletes; and calls upon our members in our state legislature and the U.S. Congress to defend the principles of this resolution on the state and federal level.
Submitted by the Young Democrats of Washington to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 8/31/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS new entrants into the for-hire transportation industry have taken advantage of lax enforcement and legal loopholes to create a class of workers with the responsibilities of employees who lack basic workplace protections;
WHEREAS these companies misclassify their drivers as independent contractors but control the most important aspects of their work;
WHEREAS as a consequence of this misclassification, many drivers earn below minimum wage, work long hours and are subject to regular and arbitrary changes in work rules;
WHEREAS they are excluded from basic workplace protections such as workers' compensation, unemployment insurance, and health and safety protections;
WHEREAS this misclassification severely hinders worker's' rights, and limits workers' access to Union representation;
WHEREAS the National Labor Relations Act excludes workers classified as "Independent Contractors" from organizing under the NLRA; and
WHEREAS there is currently no legal mechanism for drivers to address these issues and the companies that dispatch them have steadfastly refused to meet with drivers to work out collective solutions. As a result, conflicts in this publicly regulated transportation market have inevitably become policy fights rather than points of negotiation as they would be in other private sector employment;
WHEREAS the City of Seattle passed legislation that would allow drivers to negotiate directly with the companies that dispatch them through democratic, collective organizations. This legislation applies best practices from other jurisdictions to determining if drivers at for-hire companies are represented and requires companies to negotiate with those drivers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support statewide legislation allowing drivers to negotiate directly with the companies that dispatch them through democratic, collective organizations.
Submitted by the 37th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/14/2016) WSDCCRES - 766 - 160130 - PASS - LAB - APP Economy The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the Hyatt Hotels Corporation in mid-2013 entered into a national agreement with UNITE HERE, the international union representing hospitality workers; and
WHEREAS that agreement provides for a Fair Elections Process whereby workers in particular hotels may decide whether or not they want a union; and
WHEREAS workers in Hyatt hotels in Baltimore, Maryland, and Long Beach and Emeryville, California, have, under that Fair Elections Process, chosen to unionize; and
WHEREAS Richard Hedreen, owner of two Seattle Hyatt hotels - the Grand Hyatt Seattle and the Hyatt at Olive 8, each of which is presently non-union - has chosen not to allow workers in those hotels to utilize that Fair Elections Process; and
WHEREAS Seattle-based Local 8 of UNITE HERE has called for a boycott of the Grand Hyatt Seattle and the Hyatt at Olive 8, in order to bring about a vote on unionization; and
WHEREAS workers at those two properties endure unfair workloads and have no job security; and
WHEREAS support for organized labor and working families has long been a central tenet of the Democratic Party;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorse the boycott of the Grand Hyatt Seattle and the Hyatt at Olive 8 until such time as their workers are given the opportunity to utilize the agreed-upon Fair Elections Process to decide on unionization, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will encourage our fellow Democrats and other friends throughout King County and the State of Washington to refrain from patronizing either of those two hotels until their workers receive justice.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for its consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Submitted 2/1/2014) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver Reference: http://www.unitehere.org/detail.php?ID=3706#sthash.UVeRnP1i.dpuf
WHEREAS some 3.5 million hourly workers in The United States earn the minimum wage;
WHEREAS a living wage was first proposed by Pope Leo XIII in 1891 as a way of lifting the working poor out of poverty by allowing a person working 40 hours per week to pay for housing, food, transportation, health care and other basic living costs after taxes and where a worker should not need government aid, such as medical assistance to survive;
WHEREAS the federal minimum wage for work performed after July 24, 2009, is $7.25 per hour, or roughly $1,256.67 per month which is well below the poverty level of $18,310 annually for a family of three living in the United States'
WHEREAS, as a result of the ongoing Great Recession, The real median household income was 8.3% lower in 2012 than it was in 2007, according to U.S. Census Bureau figures. Low-wage jobs accounted for only 21% of recession losses, while 58% of new jobs created between 2010 and 2012 were low-wage, according to the National Employment Law Project. A record 46.5 million people were living in poverty in the U.S. in 2013 according to the Census Bureau. Despite high unemployment and the weakest recovery since World War II, the stock market and corporate profits reached record highs in 2013. According to one study, 95% of the gains of the economic recovery have gone to the richest 1%. If the minimum wage had kept up with productivity gains since 1968, it would be $21.72; and
WHEREAS, according to a recent Gallup poll, over 70 percent of the American public support raising the minimum wage
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) supports efforts to raise the minimum wage in Seattle to $15 and thereafter indexed to increases in the consumer price index for urban areas (CPI-U) and WSDCCRES - 674 - 140201 - PASS - LAB - Supporting a Livable Wage in Seattle
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) opposes exceptions to a $15 minimum wage. These exemptions would include, but not be limited to, Industry sectors where employee receives and retains compensation in the form of gratuities in addition to wages that would be calculated as a "tip credit" or, more accurately a "tip penalty" to lower the base wage below the statutory minimum. Training wage exemptions that would lower compensation below the statutory minimum; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) forward this resolution to the Washington State Governor and all Washington State legislators.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 2/1/2014) This resolution was passed by the WSDCC at its February 1, 2014 29 meeting in Vancouver, WA.
WHEREAS RCW 9.94A.010 requires that punishment for crimes be proportionate to the seriousness of the crimes and commensurate with punishment provided for similar crimes;
WHEREAS Initiative 593, approved in 1993, states: "Punishments for criminal offenses should be proportionate to both the seriousness of the crime and the prior criminal history. By sentencing three-time most serious offenders to prison for life without the possibility of parole, the people intend to: improve public safety by placing the most dangerous criminals in prison"; and
WHEREAS RCW 9.94A, which enacts the reforms called for under Initiative 593 and is often referred to as the "3-Strikes" law, includes Robbery 2 and Assault 2 on the list of "most serious offenses" that trigger life imprisonment;
WHEREAS Washington's Sentencing Guidelines Commission (The Commission), the state agency charged with evaluating sentencing policies and recommending modifications to the Governor and Legislature, recommended to the Legislature 2001 that it remove Robbery 2, and consider removing some forms of Assault 2, from the list of offenses triggering life imprisonment under 3-Strikes, noting that the range of behaviors associated with Robbery 2 and some instances of Assault 2 do not rise to the level of "most serious" offenses and that, specifically, in the case of Robbery 2, these behaviors pose "little risk of physical injury"; and,
WHEREAS life imprisonment for crimes that are not "most serious" violates the proportionality requirements of RCW 9.94A.010 and I-593, violates the intent in I-593 to address the "most dangerous" criminals, is unjust to individuals serving life sentences for these crimes and to their families, causes significant unnecessary expense, and reduces respect for the law;
WHEREAS each year, bills to comply with the recommendations of The Commission are introduced in the state legislature without success;
WHEREAS racial disparity exists throughout Washington State's criminal justice system but is perhaps at its most severe in the 3-Strikes population which comprises 45% African Americans in comparison to our state population which is 3.5% African American.
WHEREAS the 2006 Washington State Democratic Party platform declares the following: "We also recognize that in the pursuit of civil order, we cannot abandon the legal principles upon which a free and democratic society relies. We believe that criminal justice and human rights are linked." 2008SCRES - 031 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - End Three-Strikes Law.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call upon Washington's governor and each of our state's legislators to vigorously support and defend legislation that removes Robbery 2 and any Assault 2 or other offenses not reasonably qualifying as "most dangerous" and "most serious" from the list of offenses that trigger life imprisonment under 3-Strikes;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on Washington's governor and each of our state's legislators to acknowledge and address the racial disparity in our criminal justice system which manifests in perhaps its most extreme form among those incarcerated under Washington's 3-Strikes law, and to act with due haste to eliminate this disparity.
Submitted by the Grays Harbor County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008)
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/23/2008)
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008)
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention on Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/3/2008) The Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 13, 2008 meeting in Spokane. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS loopholes in federal gun laws that allow unlicensed gun sellers at flea markets and swap meets to sell guns without requiring them to do the same background checks that are required of licensed sellers still exist;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party support gun control legislation that requires unlicensed gun sellers to do the same background checks that are required of licensed sellers; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic CC will urge Governor Christine Gregoire and the Washington State Legislature to create a means for mental health and background checks available, the cost of which to be borne by the buyer.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS profiling occurs when law enforcement officials rely on race, ethnicity, national origin or religion in selecting which individuals to subject to investigative action;
WHEREAS the practice of this profiling violates our nation's basic constitutional commitment to equality before the law;
WHEREAS the practice of this profiling includes the targeting of Arabs, Muslims and South Asians, especially following the attacks of September 11, 2001;
WHEREAS there has not been a single documented incident in which this profiling by law enforcement has resulted in the capture or detention of any suspect related to terrorism;
WHEREAS Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) and House Judiciary Chairman John Conyers (D-MI) recently introduced the End Racial Profiling Act in both the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate;
WHEREAS the End Racial Profiling Act (ERPA) builds on guidance issued by the Department of Justice in June 2003, banning federal law enforcement officials from engaging in profiling, and applies this prohibition to state and local law enforcement; and
WHEREAS ERPA expands the definition of racial profiling to include actions based on grounds of religion and national origin;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge all members of the Washington State Congressional delegation to support the End Racial Profiling Act and see that it is enacted into law by the U.S. Congress; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that current practices of such profiling, including the current practice of targeting Arabs, Muslims and South Asians, be eliminated.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008)
Submitted by the 46th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/1/2008) 2008SCRES - 100 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - End Racial Profiling.doc Recommended pass by the Subcommittee on Human and Civil Rights, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Treaties and Law and Justice at their May 11 meeting in Seattle. The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its June 13, 2008 meeting in Spokane. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS there are roughly 700,000 adult arrests in the U.S. every year on marijuana charges, eighty-eight percent of which are for simple possession and not for the sale or manufacture of marijuana;
WHEREAS these arrests tear families apart, ruin careers, and often lead to government confiscation of property, while doing little to keep marijuana out of the hands of our children;
WHEREAS although eight states, including Washington, have enacted laws allowing doctors to prescribe marijuana for medical purposes, federal law prohibits the prescription or use of marijuana for any purpose, making actions which are legal under Washington State law illegal under federal law;
WHEREAS the criminalization of marijuana causes high social/welfare costs for the state, lost tax revenue, higher prices for those who need marijuana for medical purposes, and excessive profits for criminals who import, distribute and sell marijuana on the black market;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) actively supports and recommends that our congressional delegation support a marijuana regulation agenda which will seek to eliminate the federal laws which threaten arrest and possible incarceration of doctors who prescribe and adults who responsibly possess and use marijuana;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC encourage our congressional delegation to work toward the legalization, regulation and taxation of the manufacture, distribution and sale of marijuana, with a portion of the revenue derived therefrom being dedicated to education regarding the risks and benefits of its use; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon the Washington State Legislature and the Washington Congressional Delegation to work toward the establishment of state and federal laws and regulations which will, among other items, include penalties for providing marijuana to minors and for operating motor vehicles under the influence of marijuana.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) 2008SCRES - 238 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - Marijuana Law Reform.doc The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa spp.) has thousands of potential uses (Popular Mechanics magazine reports that industrial hemp has the potential to be manufactured into more than 25,000 environmentally friendly products);
WHEREAS hemp is one of the fastest growing sources of biomass;
WHEREAS hemp requires no pesticides, can replace tree paper, be used in cosmetics and can be used to make plastics that decompose;
WHEREAS Canada's Agriculture Ministry has stated that "Hemp's remarkable advantages are hard to beat: it thrives without herbicides, it reinvigorates the soil, it requires less water than cotton, it matures in three to four months, and it can yield four times as much paper per acre as trees";
WHEREAS hemp can displace the industrial use of wood fiber and save forests for watershed, wildlife habitat and recreation as well as for oxygen production and carbon sequestration which reduces global warming. Durable products made from hemp contain carbon, thus adding to hemp's carbon sequestration capacity;
WHEREAS George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both grew hemp, Ben Franklin owned a mill that made hemp paper, and the first and second drafts of the Declaration of Independence were written on hemp paper;
WHEREAS hemp fibers are longer, stronger, more absorbent and more mildew-27 resistant than cotton (cotton cultivation is responsible for 50% of the all the world's agricultural chemical use). Fabrics made of at least one-half hemp block the sun's UV rays more effectively than other fabrics. The long fibers in hemp paper allow it to be recycled several times more than wood-based paper;
WHEREAS hemp fibers are increasingly used to strengthen cement, and in other composite materials for many construction and manufacturing applications;
WHEREAS U.S. retailers and manufacturers annually import approximately 1.9 million pounds of hemp fiber, much of which could be grown in the US;
WHEREAS hemp oil is the richest known source of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids (the 'good' fats). 30-35% of the weight of hemp seed is oil containing 80% essential fatty acids (EFAs), linoleic acid (LA, 50-70%), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, 15-25%) and Gamma-Linolenic acid (GLA, 1-6%). The proportions of linoleic acid and alpha-42 linolenic acid in hemp seed oil meet human requirements for EFAs; 2008SCRES - 241 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - Resolution on Hemp Cultivation.doc
WHEREAS hemp seed contains 20% highly-digestible protein. The amino acid composition of hemp seed is characterized as a "complete protein" and is closer to the complete protein found in meat, milk and eggs than all other oil seeds except quinoa and soy;
WHEREAS the oil from hemp seed dries on exposure to air without the use of toxic synthetic chemical solvents and drying agents, a rare and useful characteristic that hemp seed oil shares with linseed oil, making it an excellent base for low toxicity paints, wood finishes and concrete sealer;
WHEREAS the hemp plant is currently harvested for commercial purposes in over 30 nations, including Canada, China, Russia, Hungary, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain, England, Poland and many other Eastern European and Asian countries;
WHEREAS while all Cannabis plant varieties contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) which is the psychoactive ingredient found in hashish and marijuana, industrial hemp does not contain an amount capable of producing any intoxicating effect, even if significant quantities are administered. EU and Canadian regulations limit THC content to 0.3% in industrial hemp;
WHEREAS hemp was cultivated in the US until 1937 when Congress passed the Marijuana Tax Act outlawing marijuana. Although not a bill specifically aimed at industrial hemp production, legal limitations posed by the legislation unjustly put an end to this once prominent industry;
WHEREAS hemp is legally recognized as a commercial crop by the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT);
WHEREAS between 1995 and 2002, 53 bills were introduced in state legislatures to study or regulate the cultivation of industrial hemp and 25 of those passed. Since the federal Drug Enforcement Administration still has jurisdiction over hemp cultivation and continues to prohibit it, efforts to revive the industrial hemp industry in the US are stymied; and
WHEREAS prohibition on the cultivation of industrial hemp in the United States puts the American farmer at a competitive disadvantage with respect to much of the rest of the world, impedes the development of a hemp processing industrial sector the US with its accompanying employment opportunities and tax revenue generation, and robs the US economy of developing a potential segment of the new "green industries" movement; 2008SCRES - 241 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - Resolution on Hemp Cultivation.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Democratic Party of Washington State shall call upon the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support state and federal legislation aimed at eliminating barriers to the full legalization of domestic industrial hemp cultivation, harvest and processing - specifically, the Democratic Party of Washington State calls upon the Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional delegation to support H. R. 1009 "The Industrial Hemp Farming Act of 2007".
Submitted by the Lincoln County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Constitution contains numerous requirements, both explicit and implicit, for Congressional oversight of the Executive Branch;
WHEREAS Congress is an integral part of the American system of checks and balances;
WHEREAS the Bush White House has repeatedly and flagrantly violated the Constitution, Federal Law, International Law and solemn Treaties, and has in innumerable instances failed to fulfill it's fundamental Constitutional duties to faithfully execute the Laws enacted by Congress;
WHEREAS the effect of the Bush White House's repeated violations, along with its use of "Signing Statements" and citing of a "Unitary Executive" theory, constitute repeated assaults to and weakening of the rule of law and of the integrity and viability of the Constitution itself; and
WHEREAS Article 6 of the Constitution of the United States requires that "The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon the Washington State Congressional Delegation to fulfill their sworn Constitutional duties as their highest priority by taking whatever action is necessary to (1) Fully Restoring Federal Congressional oversight of the Executive Branch; (2) Require the Executive Branch to fully comply with and enforce the laws of the land as enacted by Congress; (3) Retain for Congress its constitutionally conferred war powers, revoking authorization for war where undertaken under false pretense; and (4) Where public officials commit or have committed substantive violations of the Constitution, Federal laws or Treaties, swiftly and vigorously pursue and support impeachment, criminal prosecutions, civil actions, and/or all other remedies available to enforce accountability of our highest government officials.
Submitted by the 36th District Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/29/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. 2008SCRES - 263 - 080614 - PASS - LAW - Resotoration of Congressional Oversight.doc The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the 2005 Supreme Court's decision in Kelo v. City of New London, affirmed New London's authority to take nonblighted private property by eminent domain, and then sell the property to a private developer;
WHEREAS the State Supreme Courts of Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio have recently ruled to disallow such takings under their state constitutions; and
WHEREAS President George W. Bush issued an executive order on 6/23/2006 stating that the Federal Government must limit its taking private property "for the purpose of advancing the economic interest of private parties";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that while private land is a valuable asset and resource of our society, the {Washington State} government should be severely restricted and generally prevented from using eminent domain to take private land to give to other private interests. Stronger consideration must be given to property owners than the owners of mineral, oil, and gas rights; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party request our State Legislators to initiate a legal study of eminent domain laws of this state to determine whether a "Kelo v. City of New London" could happen here. If it could happen, State legislators should amend Washington State eminent domain laws to prevent such occurrences where they are accomplished to benefit private parties.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act was proposed by a small minority of legislators and attached, without vote, to a critical Port Security Bill;
WHEREAS the WTO has ruled the implementation of the UIGEA violates WTO free trade rules;
WHEREAS the California legislature and other bodies have ruled that Poker is a game of skill; and
WHEREAS online poker players are forced under UIGEA to play at sites that lack U.S. regulation and have no oversight;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WA State Democratic Central Committee will call upon the Washington State Congressional Delegation to initiate legislation to repeal the UIGEA and that online gaming be regulated and taxed by the U.S. with a portion of the resulting revenue to be allocated for treatment of Americans suffering addiction to gambling.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS publicly-acknowledged behaviors such as water-boarding and other practices of persons deemed 'enemy combatants' by representatives of the US government took place during the administration of President George W. Bush and Vice President Richard Cheney;
WHEREAS, the behaviors appear to be 'torture' of other human beings, as defined by the Geneva Conventions governing the conduct of war between nations, to which the United States is signatory;
WHEREAS, the alleged torture was sanctioned by advisors to the then President and Vice President by re-naming as "enhanced interrogation techniques"practices historically known as torture, and by pretending that the persons to be tortured were not prisoners of war but 'enemy combatants' not protected by the Geneva Conventions; and
WHEREAS those advisors included David Addington, legal counsel and chief of staff to then Vice President Richard Cheney; and John Yoo, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, U.S. Department of Justice; and Jay Bybee, Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, U.S. Department of Justice, and now a federal judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington Democratic Congressional delegation to take appropriate action to cause the U.S. Congress to convene a special investigation into the advice, policies and behavior of members of the Bush Administration which contravened the Geneva Conventions and the norms of civilized societies; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the findings of the investigation be made public and, where appropriate, that the U.S. Justice Department take legal action to hold personally responsible those individuals who were responsible for authorizing the atrocities which have become publicly acknowledged, and all other atrocities; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported. 2010SCRES - 133 - 100626 - PASS - LAW - Investigation of Torture.doc
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/20/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS studies show that one of every three women worldwide will be physically, sexually or otherwise abused, and this type of violence and abuse ranges from rape to domestic violence and honor killings;
WHEREAS violence against women and girls is an extreme human rights violation and global challenge that knows no national or cultural barriers; and
WHEREAS we know that violence against women is a human rights violation that must be eliminated, and that violence against women is also a major cause of poverty and a huge barrier to education, working and earning to raise their families out of poverty;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support legislation that would help millions of women in developing countries by providing for more legal protection, by expanding health programs to address the specific needs of the abused women; and by establishing U.S. training programs for foreign militaries and police to address how to prevent and respond to violence against women; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Clallam County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the United States of America incarcerates five times more citizens per capita than any other nation in the world, at an annual cost of $63.4 Billion;
WHEREAS currently 2.4 million citizens are behind bars and 7-10 million are unable to vote due to issues ranging from incarceration, probation, parole, and unsatisfied court fines, making them taxpayers without representation;
WHEREAS the U.S. population is roughly 12% African American and 14% Hispanic American, yet these populations comprise 60% of those imprisoned, and this fact has a devastatingly disproportionate impact on our minority populations;
WHEREAS the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that there are 7.4 million children with a parent under correctional supervision;
WHEREAS in our society the families of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated persons are routinely subjected to discrimination in housing and employment;
WHEREAS strong family support is a major deterrent to reoffending; statistics show that 50% of those released will reoffend within 3 years without such support from community and family;
WHEREAS multiple studies show stress factors for families of people who are incarcerated increase their risks for diabetes and heart disease. Current studies connect the trauma of separation from a parent with a host of mental health issues that can lead to school failure and dropout rates which are the best predictors of future criminality;
WHEREAS the lack of community support for the families of those who have successfully repaid their debts to society and are attempting to renew their lives causes undue hardship and can decrease public safety. Post-incarceration reentry programs are haphazard and often nonexistent, undermining public safety and making it extremely difficult for ex-offenders to return to society as fully, contributing members; and
WHEREAS U.S. Senator Jim Webb's National Criminal Justice Commission Act is cosigned by Senator Patty Murray and 18 others, and is supported by 70 organizations including the National Sheriff's Association, Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Chiefs of Police, U.S. Conference on Mayors, United States Sentencing Commission, National ACLU and National NAACP; 2012SCRES - 103 - 120602 - PASS - LAW - Support S306.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats forward this resolution to Senator Patrick Leahy, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and to the members of the Washington State Congressional delegation to urge them to advocate for passage of the National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2011, for review and evaluation of the Criminal Justice System so as to develop recommendations for reform.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Civil and Human Rights, Government and Political Reform, and Law and the Justice System at its May 19th meeting in Kent. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Washington Democratic Party Platform states "We call for: Abolition of capital punishment, and substituting life in prison without parole";
WHEREAS DNA testing has provided scientific proof that our legal system convicts and sentences innocent people - and that wrongful convictions are not isolated or rare events;
WHEREAS Washington State has experienced four (4) exonerations of citizens sentenced to death based on DNA research and/or case review after final sentencing;
WHEREAS the Washington Compensation Law requires repayment to the exonerated persons including annual wages and legal fees;
WHEREAS the system required to provide an humane, legal, acceptable execution is very expensive to maintain and expensive per execution;
WHEREAS it is logically absurd to teach society to honor life by sentencing murderers to the same act for which they're punished, that is, taking their life;
WHEREAS the nation's police chiefs rank the death penalty last in their priorities for effective crime reduction;
WHEREAS criminologists concur that the death penalty does not effectively reduce the number of murders; and
WHEREAS research indicates race, geography, money and other factors continue to make the implementation of the death penalty arbitrary and unfair;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party, assembled as the 2014 convention, commend Governor Jay Inslee for suspending the use of the death penalty in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Democratic members of the Washington State Legislature be encouraged to support that moratorium and seek a permanent end to the death penalty in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Democratic Congressional representatives and senators be encouraged to support and lead efforts to end use of the death penalty in the United States and its territories; and 2014SC - 087 - 140621 - PASS - LAW - Abolishing the Death Penalty
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we urge the Washington State Legislature to establish laws requiring all law enforcement agencies in Washington to record and preserve interrogations involving capital cases and to also preserve evidence in capital cases possibly containing DNA samples.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the US Supreme Court's ruling Bearden vs. Georgia states that persons who cannot afford to pay fines cannot be incarcerated for nonpayment;
WHEREAS the taxpayers get no public safety nor economic benefit by incarcerating inmates for nonpayment of fines; and
WHEREAS studies show that these practices actually increase crime;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party support election of Washington State judges who support the following provisions: Comply with the spirit and intent of Bearden vs. Georgia; Place a clear priority on payment of restitution to crime victims before the clerks of the County Courts takes payments for fines and court costs; Adopt a clear standard to determining a defendant's ability to pay, using existing guidelines for declaring a defendant qualifies for a public defender; Reduce predatory interest rate on fines and court costs; Suspend all interest accruals during incarceration; Do not require payments of fines and court costs before 90 days after release from incarceration; Give defendants access to counsel before the Court decides failure to pay is willful and then imposes jail time; Do not require persons on public assistance (e. g., SSI and TANF) to pay off fines and court costs, since receipt of public assistance is de facto proof of indigency; and Allow indigent defendants to perform service for nonprofits and government agencies in lieu of payment of fines and court costs; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the County Democratic Party organizations to consider passing resolutions to their county courts to implement these provisions.
Submitted by the Benton County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System amended this resolution at their May 18th meeting. 2014SC - 088 - 140621 - PASS - LAW - Benton County Court and Jail The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the United States Senate recently voted to confirm nominees for Federal Judgeships by a simple majority vote;
WHEREAS there are numerous Federal Judgeships currently without an Administration-nominated candidate for these open positions; and
WHEREAS it is necessary for the efficient and fair functioning of our judicial system to fill these open judgeships;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats urge the Obama Administration to nominate able and fair individuals for all open Federal Judgeships and for the U.S. Senate to confirm the Nominees in a timely fashion.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS some members of the U.S. Supreme Court have resisted the idea that their associations past and present could have any effect on their judicial fairness;
WHEREAS said justices have appeared as speakers at events sponsored by extreme partisans and which events appear to have an overt political purpose;
WHEREAS justices of the Supreme Court often hold investments in corporations that may come before the Court;
WHEREAS any appearance of bias as well as actual bias has a corrosive effect on public perception of the character of the Court;
WHEREAS the Code of Conduct for United States Judges applies to all other federal judges and the justices of the Supreme Court are not formally bound by any code of conduct; and
WHEREAS Congress has the authority to regulate the administration of the U.S. Supreme Court;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell should co-sponsor the Supreme Court Ethics Act of 2013 (S. 1424) and that the Washington State Congressional Delegation should co-sponsor the House companion bill (H.R. 2902).
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Law and the Justice System at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS we believe that criminal justice and human rights are inseparable;
WHEREAS progressive action against injustice is a core part of our Democratic Party Platform;
WHEREAS we affirm that the role of law enforcement is to protect human life and serve the community;
WHEREAS we believe that accountability and public trust are necessary for a healthy relationship between our communities and the law enforcement agencies that serve us;
WHEREAS the current law in Washington state on the justifiable use of deadly force by law enforcement (RCW 9A.16.040) fails to provide clear guidance regarding the use of such force, and makes it virtually impossible to hold law enforcement accountable for misuse of such force;
WHEREAS RCW 9A.16.040 and the prosecutorial decisions pursuant to it have contributed to a perception that our law enforcement agencies are able to operate outside the law in their use of deadly force; and
WHEREAS the necessarily close working relationships between law enforcement agencies and our public prosecutors contribute to a widespread public perception that prosecutors have a conflict of interest when dealing with allegations of misconduct by law enforcement, especially regarding the use of deadly force;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call for the establishment of independent and broadly representative citizen review boards charged with the responsibility and granted the authority to ensure transparent, fair, and accountable oversight of all law enforcement agencies in the state;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for amending RCW 9A.16.040 by removing its "without malice and with a good faith belief" defense and by adding requirements that the subject pose an imminent threat of death or serious injury and that the use of deadly force be necessary as defined in RCW 9A.16.010;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for the establishment of an independent state-wide special prosecutor with authority to investigate and file charges in cases involving alleged misuse of deadly force and/or biased policing practices by law enforcement personnel; 2016SCRES - 052 - 160618 - RECP - LAW - Community-Police Relations (King)
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for (1) the state-wide collection of data from all levels of law enforcement and corrections officers on all uses of force, including hand and leg techniques, uses of a deadly weapon and of less lethal weapons, pointing of a weapon or electronic control weapon as a threat of force, and any instance in which injury is observed or alleged by the subject; and (2) regular reports to the public by each law enforcement agency, not less than annually, as to its use of force as collected in accordance with the state-wide protocol described above; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we call for the training program for law enforcement and correction officers in this state to include such core elements as de-54 escalation techniques, implicit bias training, and a comprehensive program on dealing with people with mental health issues, so that officers are trained to deal with people and situations involving such issues in a humane and safe manner.
Submitted by the King County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the mass incarceration of American citizens has expanded tremendously since 1980, disproportionately impacting poverty-stricken individuals and communities of color and immigrants;
WHEREAS many citizens face prison time for nonviolent crimes, including for owing debt;
WHEREAS for-profit businesses lobby to privatize all aspects of the criminal justice system, including juvenile detention, prison health care, operations of jails, ICE detention facilities, and correctional facilities, probation and parole reviews - all at a tremendous cost that exceeds what taxpayers would fund for state and federal control of these aspects of the criminal justice system;
WHEREAS the current policies and practices of the school-to-prison pipeline push many young children of color and those in poverty into the criminal justice system for nonviolent acts and behaviors; and
WHEREAS offenders who have served their time are often denied the right to vote, bespeaking this nation's failure to ensure that all citizens have a right to vote;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats assert that the operation of the criminal justice system is an inherent function of government, not for for-profit businesses or corporations;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the efforts to alleviate prison overcrowding, to promote fair and just sentencing policies, to call for the elimination of unnecessary pre-trial detention time, to keep juveniles and adults separate, to support effective and full funding of training, education, probation, and parole strategies to re-integrate people who have served their time and to restore them to full citizenship with the right to vote, to serve on juries, to access fully government services, such as financial aid for education, housing, and employment assistance; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support legislative policies that reduce the number of young people who drop out of school, are suspended or expelled and will support the young people in programs that work with law enforcement to educate rather than penalize the youth.
Submitted by the Grant County Convention. 2016SCRES - 054 - 160618 - RECPA - LAW - Criminal Justice Reform The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS gun violence, including homicides and suicides, claims the lives of more than 30,000 Americans each year, and more Americans have been killed by guns in the last 48 years than in all U.S. wars combined;
WHEREAS deaths from gun violence far outnumber deaths by terrorism in the U.S. and overseas;
WHEREAS American children are fourteen times more likely to die from firearm-11 related injuries on average than children in other developed nations;
WHEREAS mass shootings in America continue to occur at an alarming and unconscionable rate;
WHEREAS gun violence in the U.S. is estimated to cost the nation at least $229 billion in healthcare costs and lost productivity every year;
WHEREAS a society that has the right to bear arms, has a concomitant obligation to do all that it can to mitigate the harms that result from that freedom; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Congress moratorium on gun violence research ratified in 1996 has stymied research by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), among others, into the causes and potential solutions for America's epidemic of gun violence;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call upon the U.S. Congressional leadership to immediately end the moratorium on gun violence research by the CDC and the NIH, and provide the funding necessary to effectively address America's scourge of gun violence.
Submitted by the Benton County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS, the practice of holding people in the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base detention center represents the continuation of a repudiated foreign policy and stain upon the character of the United States;
WHEREAS, the remaining prisoners at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base detention center lack basic human and legal rights as outlined by the U.S. Constitution and international law;
WHEREAS, those prisoners who have been cleared for release since 2010 by an inter-11 agency task force continue to be detained;
WHEREAS, it is wrong for any country, for any reason, to detain someone for over 11 years and not charge him with any crime;
WHEREAS, the United Nations have declared that the continued imprisonment of the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base detention center prisoners is a flagrant violation of international human rights law and in itself constitutes a form of cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment; and
WHEREAS, President Obama has pledged to close the prison and has indicated that the prison is not necessary to keep America safe. It's expensive, it's inefficient, it hurts us in terms of international standing, it lessens cooperation with our allies in counter terrorism efforts;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democrats call upon our federal representative and senators to advocate and act forthrightly to see justice done in the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base detention center and call for all its prisoners to be charged or released; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we call upon President Obama to maintain his pledge to close the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base detention center.
Submitted by the Grant County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the voters and/or legislatures of the States of Alaska Colorado, Oregon and Washington have chosen to remove all criminal penalties for the recreational and medical use of cannabis (marijuana) by their citizens;
WHEREAS the voters and legislators of twenty-one other States have decriminalized some form of medical marijuana use;
WHEREAS we now know that the so-called War on Drugs was a cynical ploy by political operatives of the Nixon administration to justify increased surveillance of anti-11 war protesters and civil rights activists and to facilitate wholesale arrests of political opponents;
WHEREAS for that reason alone cannabis (marijuana) was added to the list of Schedule narcotics in 1970, the criteria for which are: 1) that there be no currently accepted medical use of the drug in the United States, 2) that there be a high potential for abuse, and/or addiction, and 3) that there are no protocols for safe use of the drug under medical supervision;
WHEREAS cannabis clearly does not meet the criteria of a dangerous drug as required by the Schedule 1 classification of the Controlled Substances Act;
WHEREAS there are wide discrepancies in the way cannabis is treated in the laws of the various States, and in the sentences handed down to violators of those laws; and
WHEREAS in States where cannabis is legal under Washington State Law, but remains illegal under Federal Law by virtue of it's listing as a Schedule 1 Narcotic, this creates conflicts for legitimate legal businesses and uncertainty for local law enforcement, banking officials and merchants;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention hereby petition the President, the Attorney General of the United States, and the Director of the Drug Enforcement Administration to remove cannabis and its associated products from Schedule 1 and to discontinue any further criminal actions against those involved in the possession, cultivation, processing, retail distribution, and/or medical or recreational use of cannabis; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Convention hereby petition the President, the Attorney General of the United States, and the Director of the Drug Enforcement Administration to fully pardon those who 2016SCRES - 104 - 160618 - RECPA - LAW - Remove Cannabis from Schedule were previously convicted of possession, cultivation, processing, retail distribution, and/or medical or recreational use of cannabis.
Submitted by the Kitsap County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the AR-15 assault weapon is increasingly becoming the weapon of choice in mass shootings at schools and other public venues;
WHEREAS the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, stating that a well-3 regulated militia is necessary to protect the security of a free state, does not establish a right of private ownership of assault rifles such as the M-16 and therefore should not be read as establishing a right of private ownership of assault weapons such as the AR-15;
WHEREAS the 1996 Dickey Amendment says, "none of the funds made available for injury prevention and control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may be used to advocate or promote gun control" and that this amendment has been used to prevent the study of and reporting of gun related violence, injury, and death;
WHEREAS "gun show loopholes" do not require private party sellers to ask for identification, perform background checks, or record the sale of firearms, "as long as they do not know or have reasonable cause to believe the person is prohibited from receiving or possessing firearms";
WHEREAS "Ghost Guns" are firearms built from partially completed receivers without serial numbers, allowing the assembly of a variety of firearms that have no serial number, including the AR-15, thereby circumventing background checks and registration;
WHEREAS fourteen states impose criminal liability on parents when a child gains access to firearms due to negligent storage (California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Rhode Island, and Texas); and
WHEREAS liability insurance is a requirement for operating a motor vehicle and other potentially dangerous or deadly items;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on elected officials in Olympia, Washington and Washington D.C. to pass legislation that bans private ownership of assault weapons as defined by the Federal Assault Weapons Ban of 2013 (proposed);
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for a repeal of the 1996 Dickey Amendment; 2018SCRES - 153 - 180616 - PASS - LAW - Reasonable Firearms Controls
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation that requires a business day waiting period on the sale or transfer of any and all firearms;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge the swift digitization and indexing of all existing gun registration records, and call for the requirement that all future firearms sales be recorded and indexed digitally;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation that will close all gun show loopholes;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation that will require all prospective firearms purchasers to undergo and clear a background check prior to any firearms purchase or transfer, and that the burden of these clearances shall be on the purchaser or transferee;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation to prohibit the manufacture, creation, possession and sale or transfer of any firearms receiver without serial numbers, irrespective of its completion;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation that requires firearms owners to also own an approved gun security system for their firearms;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for the Washington State Legislature to investigate whether the purchase of liability insurance is legally enforceable and possible to require;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call for legislation in Washington State that requires any firearm owners to store firearms in such a way to restrict access by minor children, and that holds firearms owners or those possessing firearms criminally liable for minor children accessing firearms and using them in the commission of any crime or in any accidental injury or death; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we call for legislation in Washington State that requires the completion of and periodic recertification in firearms safety, and that further requires showing proof of completion of such a course or recertification prior to the purchase of any firearm or the receipt of any firearm due to a transfer in ownership.
Submitted by the 38th Legislative District Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their May 20, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS taking away the rights of a person "in order to protect that person" is not necessarily justice and almost always undermines the person's rights under the United States Constitution;
WHEREAS for a small fee, a guardianship can be established (possibly based on hearsay) that may nullify any or all Constitutional rights of an alleged Incapacitated Person ("IP") without notice to the IP's family, partner or companions. (The IP should receive notice (RCW 11.88.030) in no less than 10-point font, but this is sometimes over looked. There is no provision to ask the AIP if he/she needs help retaining counsel or even getting to court);
WHEREAS over 8000 guardianship cases are initiated in Washington every year, a 27% increase over 2000;
WHEREAS a guardianship can empower a total stranger to make some or all decisions for an IP - e.g., where they live, whom they see, how they live, and how their money is spent - regardless of any pre-existing Durable Power-of-Attorney, Advance Directive, trust or trust fund, pension, or designated bank accounts or CDs set up for the IP's future wellbeing or heirs, even if the IP is still physically able to clearly communicate his/her wishes;
WHEREAS being made a ward of the court under guardianship is costly for the state and for the IP, and often unnecessary and humiliating for those who could function with minor assistance or no assistance at all;
WHEREAS even a person accused of a crime has a right to a jury trial before having his/her rights removed, but an alleged Incapacitated Person is accorded no semblance of such a right when being forced into a guardianship;
WHEREAS the Constitution guarantees the right to vote and the unalienable rights of Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness to all in the way of their own choosing, but these rights are often removed under guardianship;
WHEREAS removal of a person's Constitutional rights should be a last resort, not the only option;
WHEREAS currently any elderly or disabled person under disputed care has no other choice but to become a ward of the court under guardianship;
WHEREAS established family caregivers may be forced to divert care-giving time to trying to learn legal issues to become a guardian, when a simple Power-of-Attorney would have sufficed; 2018SCRES - 195 - 180616 - PASS - LAW - Alternatives to Guardianship
WHEREAS a professional guardian can hire lawyers at the IPs expense to fight caring family members who try to oppose any excessive fees, abuse by the guardian or the necessity of a guardianship at all; and
WHEREAS RCW 11.92.190 (prohibiting detention of persons in residential placement facilities against their will), and other rights and protections available to persons not under guardianship, are often violated under guardianship;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we urge our Legislators to create alternatives to guardianship, such as: a court-issued Power-of-Attorney for relative/care-givers, Supported Decision-Making programs which are independent from the guardianship system, authorized bill payers, and limited interference protection for the disabled and aged;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that guardianship and other options that remove the Constitutional rights of an individual because of disability or age be considered only as a last resort, after other reasonable options have been tried and failed, rather than the first or only option, or the norm; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be communicated to the County Democratic Committees and the Washington State Democratic Convention, and to our State Legislators and the Governor's office.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats and the King County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their May 20, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS on January 3, 2017, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) introduced H.R. 38 and on February 27, 2017, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced S. 446, both known as the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017;
WHEREAS on December 6, 2017, H.R. 38 passed in the US House of Representatives by a vote of 231-198;
WHEREAS while every state allows concealed carry of firearms under some circumstances, each state has different requirements on who is permitted to carry, what requirements are appropriate, and what type of training should be required of permit holders;
WHEREAS the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 would allow people with concealed carry permits in one state to carry their weapon in any other state, including those with stricter limits on concealed carry than the state in which they obtained their permit;
WHEREAS Washington has some of the strongest gun responsibility laws in the country, Washington has the tenth-lowest firearm mortality in the country, and this legislation would undermine our state values by potentially allowing unsafe individuals from states with significantly less-stringent regulations to carry weapons in our state;
WHEREAS these bills would force Washington to abide by laws passed by other states and severely hampering Washington's ability to prevent criminal firearm trafficking, criminal possession of weapons, and the general proliferation of firearms in public places;
WHEREAS studies by the American Public Health Association have shown that firearms are a poor choice for self-defense as they increase the likelihood of death or injury to the possessor; and
WHEREAS our nation is suffering from an epidemic of gun violence that kills well over 600 Washingtonians every year, and we must begin taking steps to protect our citizens from this public health crisis;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats oppose H.R. 38 and S. 446, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017, and call on our elected representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate to vote against these bills and work with their colleagues to oppose these bills.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their May 20, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS progressive action against injustice is a core part of our Democratic Party Platform;
WHEREAS we take note of and recognize that law enforcement has a unique role in our communities;
WHEREAS the use of military weapons by law enforcement in our State is a grave concern;
WHEREAS we affirm the role of law enforcement to protect human life and believe that accountability and public trust are a key part of law and order;
WHEREAS in Washington State, like the rest of the nation, law enforcement use of deadly force has a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, particularly persons of color, LGBTQ persons, persons with disabilities, youth, immigrants, with a disproportionate impact on the Black community and Native Americans, and with data showing that one-quarter of uses of deadly force involve a person with mental health issues;
WHEREAS the duty to preserve life and protect the community also includes the underlying respect for humanity, and a duty to render first aid at the scene;
WHEREAS the law in Washington state on the use of deadly force by law enforcement (RCW 9A.16.040) has been called the most "egregious" in the nation due to a de facto immunity for unjustified use of force;
WHEREAS the public needs confidence in the review of use of deadly force, particularly when it results in death or serious injury, and has called for independent investigations to provide for a credible outcome; and
WHEREAS Initiative 940, which is an initiative to the Legislature, calls for violence de-34 escalation, mental health, and first aid training, requires that first aid be rendered at the scene, removes the de facto immunity and replaces it with an objective and subjective good faith test, both of which must be met, requires a completely independent investigation, and includes tribes and diverse community members, at the table to develop policies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses Initiative 940, also known as De-Escalate Washington; WSDCCRES - 844 - 170910 - PASS - LAW - Supporting Initiative
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 8/25/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee amended and approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS Attorney General Bob Ferguson's office has determined that three bills passed by the Washington State Legislature as part of the 2017 operating budget must each be placed on the ballot in the form of a nonbinding plebiscite as required by Tim Eyman's Initiative 960;
WHEREAS these measures will appear on the ballot as "Advisory Votes" 16, 17, and 18;
WHEREAS according to Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Advisory Vote 16 was triggered by Engrossed House Bill 1597 (increased the business and occupation tax and narrowed certain retail sales and use tax exemptions), Advisory Vote 17 was triggered by Engrossed House Bill 2163 (increased the business and occupation tax and narrowed certain retail sales and use tax exemptions), and Advisory Vote 18 was triggered by Engrossed House Bill 2242 (levied an additional state property tax for common schools);
WHEREAS voters are asked to either vote "Maintained" or "Repealed" on the aforementioned bills;
WHEREAS the provision of Tim Eyman's Initiative 960 that dictates how advisory votes are to appear on the ballot requires the use of weasel words and worthless ten-21 year cost projections in order to create leading questions which are intended to suggest their own answers;
WHEREAS these kinds of questions are found in what are commonly known as push polls, do not belong on our ballots, and are a complete waste of public money;
WHEREAS it is the Legislature's responsibility and duty to write and adopt budgets for the state;
WHEREAS voters are not told on their ballots that advisory votes are nonbinding, or that advisory votes are required by Tim Eyman's Initiative 960, or that the actions which are being subjected to advisory votes are part of a budget enacted by the Washington State Legislature;
WHEREAS the Secretary of State's office is forbidden by Initiative 960 from providing additional and valuable context concerning the advisory votes to voters in the statewide voter's pamphlet; and
WHEREAS voting "Maintained" on these advisory votes is the best way to both protest their existence and deny Tim Eyman ammunition for further attacks on the plan of government that our founders gave us, which provides for a representative democracy with executive, legislative, and judicial branches; WSDCCRES - 853 - 170910 - SUB - LAW - Advisory Votes
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee take a position supporting a "Maintained" vote on Advisory Votes 16 and on the November 2017 general election ballot, and urge all Washingtonians to vote accordingly when they cast their ballots.
Submitted by Andrew Villeneuve via 50 signatures on 9/9/2017. The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee amended and approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS Open Carry is understood to mean the right to carry an unconcealed firearm on one's person in public;
WHEREAS Open Carry is lawful in Washington without any permit;
WHEREAS RCW 9.41.050 is the primary law which affects gun carrying on a day-to-8 day basis. This law makes it unlawful for one to conceal a pistol without a concealed pistol license (CPL), and also makes it unlawful for one to carry a loaded pistol in any vehicle, whether it be openly carried or concealed carried, unless a person has a valid CPL;
WHEREAS legislators, with the support of AG Ferguson, introduced two gun-control bills during the 2017 session; Senate Bill 5050 and House Bill 1387, which would have imposed a registration-licensing system for a category of firearms commonly known as "assault weapons," and for "large-capacity magazines" (more than 10 rounds). Washington legislators failed to bring either of these bills out of committee;
WHEREAS from 2014 to 2018 Washington State has experienced 3,234 incidents involving guns resulting in 791 deaths;
WHEREAS the NRA opposes any gun regulation and has lobbied for legislation which has been filed as HB 2306. Republican Representative Van Werven of the 42nd LD and Democratic Representative Blake from the 19th LD are the prime sponsors. HB 2306 would allow veterans to carry concealed pistols onto community colleges campuses which includes all land and buildings owned, leased, or operated by a community college and would add a new section to the chapter 28B.50 RCW.
WHEREAS HB 2293 sponsored by Democratic Representative Kagi would restrict firearms and dangerous weapons in early learning facilities; and
WHEREAS SB 5992, sponsored by Senators Van De Wege, Zeiger, Dhingra, Fain, Pedersen, Liias, and Nelson, has been pre-filed for the 2018 legislative session. SB 5992 would prohibit a "trigger modification device"(bump stock) which is designed to accelerate the rate of fire of a firearm;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) urge state elected officials to bring responsible gun legislation front and center during the 2018 legislative session; and WSDCCRES - 863 - 180128 - PASS - LAW - Responsible Gun Legislation
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urge state elected officials to oppose legislation that would allow concealed pistols on community college campuses.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 1/12/2018) The Resolutions Committee reviewed the resolution and recommend that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 1/28/18.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell to use any and all tools at their disposal to prevent a vote on a Trump Supreme Court nominee before the next Congress is seated; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be transmitted to the offices of Senators Murray and Cantwell.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democratic Committee. The Resolutions Committee does not recommend this resolution for adoption as currently written. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call for an end to systems of cash bail in the state of Washington and all municipalities and counties within;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee request that the state legislature act on this policy during its 2019 term; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee provide a copy of this resolution to all Democratic state senators and representatives elected in 2018. Approved by the voting membership of the Washington State Progressive Caucus on September 9, 2018. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) support the Kuderer and Stanford Senate and House bills described above (official numbers to be determined); and
THEREFORE, BE IF FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports the passage of HR and or SB BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to all Washington State Legislators and the Governor of Washington State, so that they may understand our firm belief that requiring presidential candidate tax-return disclosure is an essential democratic norm that must be restored for the benefit all voters, regardless of party affiliation, in all future primary elections;
Submitted by the 1st Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 25, 2019 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/13/2019) WSDCCRES - 899 - PASS - LAW - Presidential Tax Returns Originated by Carl Larson, carl.larson@presidentialtransparency.org PCO, Mountlake Terrace 15 (1st Legislative District) The resolutions committee recommend a "DO PASS as amended" 1/25/2019. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January, 27, 2019. WSDCCRES - 899 - PASS - LAW - Presidential Tax Returns
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Washington State Legislature to adopt legislation to allow for ranked choice voting (also known as IRV) for all presidential and state primary, general and special elections in the State of Washington, and urges the various county municipal authorities to likewise pass ordinances adopting ranked choice voting for all such elections at the municipal levels as well; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Governor of the State of Washington, the Lt. Governor of the State of Washington, the members of the Washington State Legislature, and the Washington Secretary of State.
Submitted via 50 signatures to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7th Meeting in Pasco (Date
Submitted 1/27/2019). The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED That we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC), call for acknowledgment of Initiative 1639 as a properly enacted, lawful exercise of the powers of the people of the State of Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That we, the WSDCC, acknowledge and advocate for the power of the Supreme Court of the State of Washington to determine the validity of statutes, including Initiative 1639;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED That, until such time as all or any portion of Initiative 1639 may be determined by the Supreme Court to be invalid, we, the WSDCC, call on all elected officials and law enforcement, serving under Article XI, section 5 of the Washington State Constitution, including but not limited to the sheriff, to perform their duties as defined by the legislature
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED That we support every step necessary to de- escalate the debate and support the rule of law for our county and state. Resolution submitted by the Klickitat County Democrats to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco (Date submitted 3/20/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the criminal-justice system is simplistic, costly, and counter productive in its negative approach to educational, medical, racial, mental and social issues facing American society. More resources and effort must be expended on positive, early intervention programs for juveniles and adults, to address the above-6 mentioned issues and reduce or eliminate the need for resolution in the criminal justice system.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by Dan Caldwell, PCO, 33rd LD. (3/24/05) Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco. Passed by the WSDCC at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS it has been two years since undercover CIA agent Valerie Plame had her cover blown and her career ruined by a White House leak to the press, during which, despite President Bush's assurances that he would get to the bottom of it, there have been no answers;
WHEREAS, now, after two years of denials, it has emerged that Karl Rove discussed Plame with at least one reporter before Robert Novak's column was printed;
WHEREAS, Congressman Rush Holt (D-NJ) on July 14th, 2005, submitted - along with fifty co-sponsors - HR 363, requesting the President, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, and the Attorney General to transmit to the House of Representatives not later than fourteen (14) days after its adoption documents in the possession of the President and those officials relating to the disclosure of the identity and employment of Ms. Valerie Plame;
WHEREAS, this resolution was referred to the Select Committee on Intelligence (Permanent Select) and, in addition, to the Committees on Armed Services, International Relations, and Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdictions of the committee concerned;
WHEREAS, the more Congress members in the full House who sponsor the resolution, the more likely committee members are to vote for it; and
WHEREAS, its number of co-sponsors has increased to seventy-six (76) House Members, including Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA) and Congressman Jim McDermott (D-WA);
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will respectfully request that all Congressional Representatives thoughtfully and without delay consider signing on as co-sponsors of H. Res. 363;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee also request that all Congressional Representatives encourage their colleagues on the Select Committee on Intelligence (Permanent Select) and the Committees on Armed Services, International Relations, and Judiciary not only to vote for H. Res. 363, but to discuss it at length in a substantive debate when their respective committees meet, so that members who oppose the resolution will have to explain their reasons; and WSDCCRES - 064 - 050917 - PASS - LAW - House Resolution 363.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee will also request that all Congressional Representatives additionally sign the related petition to President Bush by Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA), which may be found on his website at www.jayinslee.com.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Washington State Progressive Caucus of the Democratic Central Committee (9/16/2005) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee did not take action on this resolution at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. It will readdress this resolution at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. The resolution was not brought to the floor of the WSDCC meeting for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed unanimously by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS Judge Samuel Alito has long supported extreme policies and approaches to constitutional interpretation that are contrary to liberty and justice for all Americans, as illustrated by the following;
WHEREAS he highlighted his opposition to affirmative action "even in cases in which the discrimination has been intentional, egregious, and long-standing" and to women's rights to reproductive choice, which he said "the Constitution does not protect" when he applied for a Reagan Administration job in 1985;
WHEREAS in a 1991 decision for the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit that the Supreme Court overturned, he upheld Pennsylvania's requirement that a woman, except in very narrow circumstances, notify her husband before obtaining an abortion;
WHEREAS in 1996, he was the Third Circuit's only member taking the position that Congress has no power to ban fully automatic weapons; and
WHEREAS his 2000 Third Circuit opinion that Congress had no power to require employer compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act was later overturned by the Supreme Court;
WHEREAS his 2001 opinion for a three-judge Third Circuit panel which upheld eliminating African American jurors on the basis of race in a capital case against an African American man was later repudiated by the full Third Circuit later and criticized for minimizing "the history of discrimination against prospective black jurors and black defendants";
WHEREAS he has taken dissenting positions in cases before the Third Circuit that would make it unreasonably difficult for victims of discrimination to prove their claims, and which that court's majority in one case said would "immunize" an employer in many circumstances from the reach of racial discrimination laws in the Civil Rights Act of 1964;
WHEREAS this pattern of opinions that would limit religious liberty, undermine anti-38 discrimination laws, threaten reproductive and privacy rights established by Roe v Wade, and prevent the federal government from defending its citizens through environmental and worker protections indicates that his elevation to the Supreme Court would seriously jeopardize Americans' rights; and WSDCCRES - 088 - 060128 - PASS - LAW - Oppose Alito Nomination.doc
WHEREAS the preservation of liberty and justice for all irrespective of race, color, creed, sex, class, or ethnic origin cannot tolerate compromise when the issue is retaining the integrity and impartiality of the judicial branch of government;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby petitions Senator Patty Murray and Senator Maria Cantwell to promptly go on record opposing the confirmation of Judge Alito to the Supreme Court and to support any filibuster to prevent his confirmation.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in Ocean Shores by the Clark County Democratic Central Committee (Date Submitted 12/21/2005) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC go on record in support of House Resolutions 635, 636 and 637, introduced by Rep. John Conyers calling for the impeachment of President George Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC will send this resolution to the Washington State Federal Delegation and to the Democratic National Committee
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the 26th Legislative District Democrats (Date Submitted 1/23/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 29, 2006 meeting in Tacoma. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its meeting on September 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS there is evidence that President Bush has violated Federal law and the Bill of Rights by his sweeping wiretap invasions of privacy without court review;
WHEREAS he has violated Constitutional checks and balances by over-reaching his executive branch powers;
WHEREAS he has misled the American people on matters of policy, intelligence and rationale for war; and
WHEREAS he has committed high crimes in violation of the Geneva Conventions and other laws by authorizing torture and violations of human rights, thereby endangering our troops, betraying our moral values and undermining respect for America around the world;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party calls on Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell to support Senator Feingold's resolution to censure the President and pursue fact-finding potentially leading to the impeachment of the President.
Submitted by the delegates of the Kitsap County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the U.S. government has imprisoned some U.S. citizens and hundreds citizens of other nations without access to lawyers and without being charged with a crime; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Constitution guarantees that all those imprisoned have the right to know the charges and evidence being brought against them and the right to a speedy trial;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Congressional Delegation works to repeal and votes against any federal legislation authorizing detention of national or non-nationals in the U.S. (or anywhere else by U.S. authority) without due process of law including the right to a speedy trial by a jury of their peers.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the Bush administration has used information obtained through the torture of prisoners, and which is kept secret from the prisoner's lawyers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we demand that such torture cease immediately, and that the information so gathered through these illegal and immoral means be expunged from the record and not used nor or in the future against any prisoner or person; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge that the Washington State Congressional delegation and the Democratic National Committee support this resolution.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham as amended by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee.
WHEREAS the Bush administration has listened to conversations and read the mail between enemy combatant prisoners and their attorneys;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we demand that the right legal counsel be restored, together with the protection of such communication, to protect innocent people from illegal imprisonment (all prisoners are considered innocent until proven guilty); and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge that the Washington State Congressional delegation and the Democratic National Committee support this resolution.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham as amended by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee.
WHEREAS, George W. Bush has signed 134 signing statements challenging 810 federal laws issued (As of October 4, 2006), and
WHEREAS, many of these signing statements are used to declare that the office of the President need not comply with the law in all cases, and
WHEREAS, many of these dismissals address critical issues passed overwhelmingly by the Congress such as the use of torture and the ability to open mail without judicial review, and
WHEREAS, these critical issues significantly impact our position in the world and our civil rights, and
WHEREAS, this practice sets a dangerous precedent which fundamentally undermines the system of checks and balances that are the basis of our form of government by declaring that the President is exempt from the law and may ignore the will of the people as expressed through the elected officials of the legislative branch, and
WHEREAS, the Republican led congress of the last six years has abrogated its responsibilities for oversight of the executive branch, and
WHEREAS, the House Judiciary Committee under Chairman John Conyers (D-25 Michigan) has begun an investigation into President Bush's possible abuse of presidential signing statements.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests the Washington State congressional delegation support the Judiciary Committee's hearings into the practice of presidential signing statements and ensure that these hearings review the constitutional limits of the President's ability to modify or nullify the law as passed by Congress. The hearings should further investigate all signing statements issued by this administration for their compliance with constitutional limits.
THEREFORE BE IF FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, if any of these signing statements are seen to exceed the authority granted to the President under the constitution, the Democratic Senators and Representatives of the Washington State congressional delegation are requested to use all legal means to seek a reversal of the signing and ensure that the administration complies with the rule of WSDCCRES - 328 - 070428 - PASS - LAW - Pres. Signing Statements.doc AND FINALLY BE IT RESOLVED THAT, any administration official who refuses to duly implement the laws as passed by Congress should be removed from office by impeachment or such other means as are appropriate. proven guilty.)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 2/28/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, there are already known and admitted illegal and impeachable actions on the part of George W. Bush, some examples being, in broad outline: a) unlawful wire-tapping of American citizens, b) deliberate manipulation of intelligence reports for the purpose of starting a war, c) deliberate violations of international treaties pertaining to acts of war, d) deliberate violations of international treaties pertaining to prisoners of war, e) deliberate violations of constitutional rights provided in the Bill of Rights; and
WHEREAS, the current administration under the control of George W. Bush has promulgated, promoted, and persisted in practices designed to increase and consolidate the power of the president in contravention of the constitutional limits placed upon that power; and
WHEREAS, George W. Bush must be held accountable for the unconstitutional actions he has already committed and prevented from doing further damage to our constitutional democracy; and
WHEREAS, only the members of the United States House of Representatives have the power, authority, and responsibility to bring the president to trial for his actions; and
WHEREAS, impeachment is the only constitutional remedy for holding the president accountable; and
WHEREAS, George W. Bush may be the most egregious example of having committed massive numbers of impeachable offenses in all the history of our nation; and
WHEREAS, there is no higher duty than to protect, defend, and preserve our constitution; and
WHEREAS, failure to pursue impeachment in this extraordinarily patent instance of serial violations of the constitution, treaties, and statutes will only serve to further weaken the carefully constructed checks and balances provided in our form of government and will leave future administrations with the expectation that they will not incur any penalties no matter what they do; and WSDCCRES - 329 - 070428 - PASS - LAW - Impeach Bush and Cheney.doc
WHEREAS, failure to exercise congressional authority over presidential abuse of power would be the death knell of our democracy; therefore BE IT RESOLVED THAT, we respectfully request that the House of Representatives start the process of investigation for the purpose of determining the articles of impeachment that are justified by the acts of George W. Bush in his capacity as President of the United States and also as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the same process be instituted in regard to Vice President Richard Cheney.
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats and the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 3/29/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, the present Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, formerly White House Counsel and a Texas state Bush appointee, has either lied about demanding the firing of eight U.S. Prosecutors for political reasons, or he has allowed subordinates to do this while abrogating his responsibilities for managing the Department of Justice,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Alberto Gonzales be asked to resign immediately and that the Congressional delegation investigate this entire sordid affair.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, President George W. Bush has issued executive orders and the CIA has published a National Intelligence Estimate during the past several months that could lead to an extraordinary, unprecedented and unconstitutional taking of legislative and judicial branch prerogatives at great costs to personal rights hard-won by generations of Americans, and
WHEREAS, on May 9, 2007, Bush issued a major presidential National Security Directive (National Security and Homeland Security Presidential Directive NSPD 51/HSPD 20), which would allow him to assume control of the government upon his own declaration of a "catastrophic emergency", defined in the Directive as "any incident, regardless of location, that results in extraordinary levels of mass casualties, damage, or disruption severely affecting the U.S. population, infrastructure, environment, economy, or government functions," (http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/05/20070509-12.html), and
WHEREAS, on July 11, 2007, the CIA published its "National Intelligence Estimate," which pointed to an imminent Al Qaeda attack on America, a second 9/11 which, according to the terms of NSPD 51, could place the nation under martial law if the president declares such an emergency, and
WHEREAS, on July 17, 2007, Bush issued "Executive Order: Blocking Property of Certain Persons Who Threaten Stabilization Efforts in Iraq," (http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/07/20070717-3.html) which "authorizes the Treasury Department to freeze and confiscate the assets of anyone determined 'to have committed, or to pose a significant risk of committing' acts of violence with the 'purpose or effect' of hindering the Iraqi government or reconstruction efforts," and "the freezing of assets of anyone who provides 'material support' to such a person or group, whether or not the person's support was knowing or intentional" and "expressly prohibits even donations of 'food, clothing, and medicine intended to be used to relieve human suffering,'" (ACLU http://www.aclu.org/natsec/warpowers/31113prs20070727.html), and
WHEREAS, the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) further states that the Order's "sweeping provisions pose risks for residents of the United States and for humanitarian work in Iraq"; "could have a serious chilling effect on charitable contributions intended to ease the suffering in Iraq"; "reaches far beyond criminal activity to activity that may be entirely innocent"; and that a "person may find themself inadvertently in violation of this order and there is no provision for judicial review," and WSDCCRES - 361 - 070929 - PASS - LAW - Bush Executive Orders.doc
WHEREAS, the conservative (Libertarian) Cato Institute issued a Policy Analysis on "Executive Orders and National Emergencies" (1999) that states: "Congress needs to take more effective action to check presidential usurpations of legislative power and restore the constitutional structure of government. Congress has such power: it may modify or revoke all presidential directives except those undertaken pursuant to constitutional powers, such as the power to pardon, that are vested in the president" (http://www.cato.org/pubs/pas/pa-358es.html), and
WHEREAS, the July 17 Executive Order violates the rule of law in America - which ensures the innocence of the accused until proven guilty - by empowering the Bush Administration to seize a person's property if found to "pose a significant risk of committing an act of violence," even if no act whatsoever has been committed, now
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) condemns actions by George W. Bush to deprive the American people of their constitutional rights and bestow on himself the right to assume dictatorial powers, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the WSDCC urgently requests the Washington State Congressional Delegation and the United States Supreme Court Justices, to immediately commit the full strength of their resolve and influence to protecting the rights of all United States citizens by reversing these Executive Orders and constraining Presidential authority to within its constitutional limits by whatever legal means available.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 8/28/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS WITH AMENDMENT" on this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, police officers in rural Washington must be certified at the state police academy; and
WHEREAS, rural communities must provide their police academy candidates salary and additional costs which amount to an excess of $20,000 per candidate; and
WHEREAS, after being certified, the police officers may leave their original cities or counties that paid for their certification to serve elsewhere, leaving the towns and counties to recruit and pay for the certification of other police personnel; and
WHEREAS, this expense is a severe burden on small communities; and
WHEREAS, the certified police officers will be working in the State of Washington;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the State of Washington pay the certification expense for those police officers employed by towns with a population less than 10,000 inhabitants and counties with a population of fewer than 100,000. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the WSDCC send copies of this resolutions to the Democratic legislators in the Washington State House of Representatives and the Washington State Senate.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 8/8/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, of June 30th, 2007 the Department of Corrections (DOC) has cut off housing funding assistance for "High Risk" offenders including sex offenders, thereby jeopardizing public safety throughout Washington state.
WHEREAS, the reasoning for discontinuing this funding was a legal interpretation of financial liability and the passage of ESSB 6157 to take care of future community network re-entry needs.
WHEREAS, the purpose of this legislation is to improve public safety by better preparing offenders while incarcerated, and continuing those efforts for those recently released, for successful, productive, and healthy transition to their communities.
WHEREAS, the Community Trade and Economic Development Department is required to establish a housing assistance program, not to exceed 12 months, for offenders reentering the community who are in need of housing and set up a community transition coordination network grant program which will award grants to counties or groups of counties for implementing coordinated reentry efforts for offenders returning to community from prison or jails.
WHEREAS, only two pilot counties out of 39 will be provided grants to eligible organization to provide housing assistance to offenders reentering the community who are in need of housing and that they must be operated in collaboration with a Community Justice Center.
WHEREAS, there are many counties throughout Washington state which don't have or qualify for a Community Justice Center.
WHEREAS, there are some counties which have successful programs designed to safely house sex offenders and other high risk offenders released from DOC facilities at a fraction of the cost for incarcerating repeat offenders and they will not be funded in spite of ESSB 6157.
WHEREAS, only two of the 39 counties will receive grant awards, the other 37 counties will receive no assistance and it will take years for all this to be implemented, creating a public safety issue throughout Washington State.
WHEREAS, ESSB 6157 addresses the issue of liability by exempting landlords, state and local entities that provide housing assistance to offenders from civil damages arising from criminal conduct of an offender solely due to the placement of the offender in housing. WSDCCRES - 364 - 070929 - PASS - LAW - High Risk Offender Housing.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, until such programs are implemented as legislated and in the interest of public safety throughout our state, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests Governor Christine Gregoire to re-confer with the Secretary of the Department of Corrections and the Attorney General's office to consider reinstating previous 90 day housing assistance vouchers for "High Risk" offenders immediately.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 9/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, In the coming Washington State Legislative session there has been introduced in both houses a new resolution listing impeachable offenses committed by Bush and Cheney and calling for the U. S. House of Representatives to begin impeachment hearings against Bush and Cheney; and
WHEREAS, America has only until January 20th, 2009 to signal to history that America will not sanction torture, America will not sanction unprovoked war, and America will not sanction illegal spying including on its citizens; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) supports HJM 4027 and SJM 8016 whose language is attached hereto as House Joint Memorial 4027; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee shall send copies of this resolution to all members of the Washington State Legislature and Congressional Delegation; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT, the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee shall exert all possible efforts to publicize and gain support for HJM / SJM 8016 attached below.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date
Submitted 1/23/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, Representative Dennis Kucinich has presented to the United States House of Representatives Articles of Impeachment against George W. Bush, and
WHEREAS, many of these Articles have already been substantiated by Congressional investigating committees, and
WHEREAS, many of these Articles relate to direct infringements of the United States Constitution, and
WHEREAS, every member of the House of Representatives takes an oath to protect and defend the Constitution, now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) send a message to the members of the Washington State Congressional delegation urging them to support the Articles of Impeachment against George W. Bush put forward by Representative Dennis Kucinich, including co-sponsoring the Kucinich resolution, and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the WSDCC urge the House Judiciary Committee to commence hearings on these Articles of Impeachment without delay.
Submitted by the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 13, meeting in Tulalip. (Date Submitted 9/5/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 12, 2008 meeting in Tulalip. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 13, 2008 meeting in Tulalip.
WHEREAS there is documented evidence of war crimes, such as torture, and of systematic violations of our citizen's Constitutional Rights and Liberties, such as unauthorized wire-tapping and denial of Habeas Corpus, by the George W. Bush Administration; and
WHEREAS in January 2009 the presiding Justice responsible for deciding whether Guantanamo detainees should be prosecuted declared that a detainee highly suspected to be a dangerous terrorist could not be prosecuted because "We tortured him"; and
WHEREAS since the Magna Carta, it has been a basic tenant of the Anglo-American system of justice that no one is above the law including the King; and
WHEREAS all officials and officers of the United States and its subdivisions take an oath to uphold the Constitution and Laws of the United States and so have an obligation to uphold and enforce them; and
WHEREAS under the United States Constitution, ratified treaties have the effect of law; and
WHEREAS victims of the war crimes and civil-rights violations by the George W. Bush Administration deserve justice under the United States system of laws; and
WHEREAS should these war crimes and civil-rights violations go unpunished, a precedent would be set for future administrations to act without consequences in a similarly reprehensible manner; and
WHEREAS the moral authority of the United States has suffered immeasurably from the war crimes and civil-rights violations of the George W. Bush Administration; and
WHEREAS the United States has actively prosecuted, in cooperation with other nations, the citizens of other nations for war crimes and civil-rights violations similar to those committed by the George W. Bush Administration; and
WHEREAS should the United States not prosecute the war crimes and civil-rights violations committed by individuals and offices of the George W. Bush Administration, it would be the obligation of the signatories of war crime treaties to prosecute them and thereby further reduce our nation's moral authority; WSDCCRES - 426 - 090425 - PASS - LAW - War Crimes.doc
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call on all US Attorneys, US and States' Attorneys General, State Prosecutors and other prosecutors of competent authority to seek and investigate all occurrences of war crimes and civil rights violations committed by individuals in, and offices of, the George W. Bush Administration and then to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law all those found with sufficient evidence to obtain an indictment; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on each of our Congressional Representatives and Senators to actively seek, and persistently pursue, all Congressional hearings and all investigations and prosecutions necessary to reveal and bring to justice all occurrences of war crimes and civil rights violations committed by individuals in, and offices of, the George W. Bush Administration.
Submitted by the 18th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 4/8/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS there has been an expansion of mission, facilities, and personnel of the U.S. Border Patrol under the Department of Homeland Security including plans for increased detention capabilities;
WHEREAS this expansion comes at a time of reduced funding for basic government services;
WHEREAS the US Border Patrol is placing random checkpoints on highways away from the border and conducting internal patrols within communities;
WHEREAS the location of checkpoints, the frequency of stops, and the venues selected for community surveillance raise concerns of racial profiling;
WHEREAS ordinary crime control is the responsibility of local law enforcement agencies and Border Patrol intrusion into their jurisdictions interferes with community policing strategies that build long-term relationships of trust and accountability;
WHEREAS judicial precedent states that checkpoints must have an actual connection with substantial traffic from a proximate border and are not to be used for ordinary crime control purposes, raising questions about the legality of the current program; and
WHEREAS Congressman Norm Dicks and Senator Maria Cantwell have expressed similar concerns in letters to Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call for a suspension of expanded Border Patrol activities away from the border until their utility, legality and constitutionality have been determined by the U.S. Congress and courts;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that during this suspension we call for an evaluation of the utility of the current expansion of Border Patrol mission, facilities and personnel, and an evaluation of the opportunity costs of this federal expenditure while core government services are being cut for lack of funding;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on local law enforcement officers to continue to uphold their sworn oath to protect the constitutional rights and liberties of the members of our communities; and WSDCCRES - 427 - 090425 - PASS - LAW - Border Patrol Activity.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our elected federal officials to pursue a reformed approach to securing our border which focuses on interdiction at the border, preserves constitutional protections and respects local law enforcement.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 4/8/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS a "large capacity ammunition feeding device" is defined as a magazine, belt, drum, feed strip, or similar device that will hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition, or that can be readily restored or converted to accept more than 10 rounds (except attached tubular devices designed for and capable of operating only with .22 caliber rimfire ammunition);
WHEREAS the alleged shooter in the Tucson assassination attempt against Rep. Gabrielle Giffords used a large capacity ammunition feeding device that contained 30 rounds;
WHEREAS the best time for a nonlethal attempt to stop a mass shooting is when the shooter is changing his/her ammunition feeding device, an opportunity that occurs much less often when that feeding device has a large capacity;
WHEREAS large capacity ammunition feeding devices serve no sporting purpose, and were illegal under the now-expired federal Assault Weapons Ban; and
WHEREAS Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D NY-4) and Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg (D NJ) have introduced H.R. 308/S. 32, the Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device Act, for consideration by the 112th US Congress;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we support H.R. 308/S. 32, the Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we commend Rep. Jim McDermott for cosponsoring H.R. 308, and request that Reps. Adam Smith and Jay Inslee also cosponsor H.R. 308;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we request Senators Murray and Cantwell to cosponsor S. 32; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we will communicate this resolution to Reps Smith, Inslee and McDermott and Senators Murray and Cantwell, with an inquiry as to actions they will be taking to assure that the Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device Act is enacted into law. WSDCCRES - 534 - 110430 - PASS - LAW - Large Capacity Ammunition Feeding Device Act.doc
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/21/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS approximately 73% of the convictions under Washington's 3-Strikes law are for crimes in the mid to low range of Washington's criminal seriousness scale at RCW 9.94A.515;
WHEREAS Robbery 2, the most common 3-Strikes conviction, and Assault 2, another common 3-Strikes crime, are classified in the least serious quarter of criminal offenses at RCW 9.94A.515, carrying standard sentences of 3 months to 7 years;
WHEREAS Washington's 3-Strikes population is approximately 40% African American in comparison to a state population that is less than 4% African American;
WHEREAS Washington's Sentencing Guidelines Commission recommended in 2001 removing Robbery 2 from the 3-Strikes list and examining under what circumstances, if any, should Assault 2 be treated as a strike, as the range of behaviors associated with Robbery 2 and, "probably" some instances of Assault 2 do not rise to the level of most serious offenses and that, specifically, in the case of Robbery 2, these behaviors pose "little risk of physical injury"; and
WHEREAS bills responding to the recommendations of the Sentencing Guidelines Commission have been in the state legislature since 2001;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC call for reform or repeal of Washington's 3-Strikes law.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/20/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS nearly 6,000 people in Washington State have been killed by guns in the past decade and only a small percentage of gun deaths are gang-related; and
WHEREAS more people in Washington state were killed by guns than died in traffic accidents in 2009; and
WHEREAS more than half of the state's gun deaths are the result of suicide, and when there is a gun in the home, the risk of suicide increases dramatically; and
WHEREAS guns are now a leading cause of death for young men aged 15 to 24; and
WHEREAS states that have the most reasonable gun laws have far fewer gun deaths than those states that have the least restrictions; and
WHEREAS Washington has very weak gun laws that help feed the illegal gun market, allow the sale of guns without background checks and allow the sale of military-style assault weapons, according to the Brady Campaign, which scored Washington only 15 of 100 possible points for gun safety in 2011; and
WHEREAS public safety is deteriorating with a dramatic rise in the frequency and severity of mass homicides in public places, for example, schools, churches, theaters, restaurants and shopping malls; and
WHEREAS RCW 9.41.290, State Preemption of Firearms Laws, enacted in 1983, is flawed because it does not allow local jurisdictions to make appropriate gun safety regulations that fit their particular urban or rural environment; and
WHEREAS cities and counties should be unshackled and allowed to protect their citizens residing within their jurisdictional boundaries by using non-criminal civil administrative measures; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge Washington's lawmakers in Olympia to amend RCW 9.41.290 to permit elected city and county governments to regulate semiautomatic firearms within their jurisdictions by civil administrative means; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge Washington's U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives in Congress to support common sense regulation of firearms that include universal background checks for all primary and secondary sales or transfers of all firearms, a ban on the manufacture of all semi-automatic rifles and most semiautomatic hand guns, except under public contract to US military forces and duly constituted and authorized law enforcement agencies, and a ban on the manufacture, sale, transfer or possession of cartridge clips of more than ten (10) rounds.
Submitted to the Clark County Democratic Women on February 16, 2013. WSDCCRES - 621 - 130427 - RECP - LAW - Gun Safety Laws
Submitted by the Clark County Democratic Women to the Clark County Democratic Central Committee on March 11, 2013.
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted April 10, 2013) Recommended "pass " by the Resolutions Committee at the April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS the law places more severe penalties on the perpetrators of hate crimes than on other criminals;
WHEREAS the law defines hate crimes as offenses against individuals because of bias against their religion, race, sexual preferences or other factors; and
WHEREAS persons who leave a religion, sect or cult (often called "apostates") sometimes suffer severe harassment, including slander, intimidation, property destruction, violence, and even death;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to Attorney General Bob Ferguson and county prosecutors and county sheriffs around Washington State, and that they be urged to: Be aware that apostates from any religion, sect or cult are included in protections under the full coverage of federal and state hate-crime legislation, so that their persecutors will be faced with the enhanced penalties that hate-crime statutes impose; and Provide training to law-enforcement personnel that includes the safety needs of apostates.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS during the past three to four years, over half the states in our country have adopted medically unnecessary but burdensome requirements for major physical changes in the facilities of legal abortion providers;
WHEREAS these states have also adopted unnecessary requirements for providers to obtain local hospital privileges, privileges that are often not available and always unneeded;
WHEREAS the result is that in these states a large number of providers have been forced to close their clinics;
WHEREAS these medically unnecessary forced closures of these clinics, as well as laws that extend the time required between seeking an abortion and obtaining one, deprive women of timely and previously reasonable access to legal abortion as envisioned in the Roe v. Wade decision;
WHEREAS it is unconstitutional for a woman to be required to submit to intra-vaginal ultrasound or to be forced to view anti-abortion propaganda;
WHEREAS these repressive requirements have no demonstrable connection with the falsely claimed protection of women's health;
WHEREAS there have been conflicting court decisions as to the constitutionality of these legislative acts; and
WHEREAS the Attorney General of the United States, Eric Holder, has it within his power to challenge all of these repressive regulations that create undue burdens for providers and for women to exercise their constitutional right to access safe, legal abortions without obstacles being placed in their way;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee asks Attorney General Eric Holder to seek a legal remedy through the federal courts against all state legislative acts that diminish, restrict, or in any way make more difficult or unduly burdensome the exercise of constitutionally protected access to safe, legal abortion in all states that have enacted such regulations, whether applied to providers or to their patients.
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/13/2014) WSDCCRES - 703 - 140913 - PASS - LAW - Enforcing Legal Access to Abortion Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats states that "[t]he rule of law is a prerequisite for a democratic civil society. A good government provides for the safety, security and justice for all, with care, fairness, and respect for each individual";
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats states that we believe "[n]onviolent conflict resolution, education, youth programs, health care, social services, rehabilitation, and living wage jobs will reduce crime and violence";
WHEREAS the platform of the Washington State Democrats states that we support "[r]esearch, legislation and enforcement measures to address the disproportionate imprisonment of persons of color, and eliminating all forms of racial profiling by law enforcement and in sentencing";
WHEREAS legal financial obligations (LFOs) include court costs, fees and interest charged at 12% from the date of confinement;
WHEREAS open juvenile records may serve as an impediment for youth who seek employment, housing, and education by contributing to the intensification of collateral consequences such as the ability to work, vote, obtain scholarships, serve in the military, and engage in other political and social activities;
WHEREAS the stigmatizing effect experienced by youth with a minority racial status may be intensified, compared with the effect experienced by their white peers with open juvenile records;
WHEREAS both youth of color and children in special education experience sharp disparities in treatment when they come into contact with the juvenile justice system and as a result, communities of color continue to disproportionately suffer from collateral consequences associated with open juvenile records;
WHEREAS the 2014 Legislature passed SHB-1651, the Youth Opportunities Act (YOA), to create automatic record sealing in a vote of 145-1 to require courts to hold regular hearings to seal juvenile records once the youth turns eighteen and completes all community supervision, is released from confinement or parole, and pays all legal financial obligations;
WHEREAS allowing youth to move on from past mistakes and have a second chance through sealing juvenile records reflects our core values of fairness, equality, and opportunity; WSDCCRES - 712 - 150124 - PASS - LAW - Equality in Record Sealing
WHEREAS the only youth who can take advantage of the automatic record sealing process are youth with the financial means to pay legal financial obligations by the time of their eighteenth birthday;
WHEREAS a system that enforces racial disproportionality and poverty hurts our society and makes our community less safe;
WHEREAS it is not enough just to open the gates of opportunity, but to ensure all of our youth have the ability to walk through those gates;
WHEREAS every youth - rich or poor - should have an equal opportunity to benefit from the automatic record sealing process;
WHEREAS the University of Washington School of Law Children and Youth Legislative Advocacy Clinic is currently leading advocacy on a bill to make the automatic record sealing process more equal by removing the legal financial obligation barrier to juvenile record sealing; and
WHEREAS our democratically elected judges, county prosecutors, county sheriffs and county clerks play an important role in the record sealing process;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon our democratically elected public officials to support equality in automatic record sealing process for youth in the legislature this session (H.B. 1481, S.B. 5564); and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee shall communicate approval of this resolution to every Democratic elected as a county prosecutor, county sheriff and county clerk in Washington state.
Submitted by the African-American Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/24/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS Gov. Inslee's proposed budget calls for the closing of the Naselle Youth Camp;
WHEREAS the Naselle Youth Camp has historically had a lower recidivism rate than other juvenile corrections facilities;
WHEREAS closing the Naselle Youth Camp would imperil the viability of the award-9 winning Naselle-Grays River Schools; and
WHEREAS the Naselle Youth Camp provides living-wage jobs in Pacific County, one of the poorest counties in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC urge the Washington State Legislature to continue to support the Naselle Youth Camp.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats on 1/13/2017. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed on 1/28/2017. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians have discovered that the herb cannabis sativa provides the best relief for their symptoms;
WHEREAS the Washington State Liquor & Cannabis Board is allowing over 200 toxic chemicals to be used in the production and processing of marijuana to the risk of citizens;
WHEREAS juicing of fresh raw marijuana can provide many health benefits without intoxication, but is only possible by people having living marijuana plants at their disposal;
WHEREAS many people who plan on growing their own marijuana already are, and it is inhumane and expensive to criminalize them;
WHEREAS allowing citizens to control their own marijuana garden does not detract from the commercial market any more than growing one's own tomatoes impacts the commercial market;
WHEREAS testing on marijuana is not standardized in the state of Washington, and results are usually found to be incorrect;
WHEREAS most medical marijuana patients believe that it is a violation of their HIPPA rights to be required to be on a "registry," and allowing them to grow their own would remove the stigma of being a "medical marijuana patient"; and
WHEREAS Lester Grinspoon, the first and foremost medical expert on medical marijuana, states that "home grow" is the only way to save medical marijuana;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee recognizes the value of marijuana and supports HB1212 that would allow any adult to grow up to six marijuana plants for their own personal use.
Submitted by fifty State Committee members on 1/28/2017. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC support the bill described above; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to Washington State legislators, and Governor, so that they may understand our firm belief that we must do more to ensure the voting rights of Washingtonians, regardless of their background.
Submitted by WSDCC Chair Tina Podlodowski to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 25, 2019 meeting in Olympia. (Date
Submitted 1/13/2019) The resolutions committee recommend a "DO PASS as amended". 1/25/2019 The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January 27,
WHEREAS Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson, on October 16, 2013, on behalf of the people of the State of Washington, filed a complaint for civil penalties and injunctive relief against the Grocery Manufacturers Association ("GMA"), alleging violations of RCW 42.17A in connection with the 2013 campaign regarding Washington Initiative 522, a ballot measure that would have required labeling of genetically engineered foods and seed products in this state; and
WHEREAS State v. Grocery Manufacturers Association is now pending in Thurston County Superior Court, and the complaint, as amended Nov. 20, 2013, alleges that during the aforesaid campaign, the true source(s) of approximately $11 million in campaign contributions received and made by GMA for use in opposition to Initiative 522 were concealed in violation of RCW 42.17A; and
WHEREAS the Washington Attorney General, in protecting the voting public from violations of RCW 42.17A, is authorized to seek any appropriate civil remedy, including but not limited to those specified in RCW 42.17A.750; and
WHEREAS the complaint in State v. Grocery Manufacturers Association seeks various forms of relief authorized by RCW 42.17A, expressly including "such additional and further relief as the Court deems appropriate"; and
WHEREAS RCW 42.17A.750(1)(a) specifically authorizes the court, whenever a political committee's violation of any provision of RCW 42.17A has "probably affected the outcome of [an] election," to void the result of that election and order a new election to be held within 60 days; and
WHEREAS the foregoing remedy is expressly "intended [to] be imposed freely in all appropriate cases to protect the right of the electorate to an informed and knowledgeable vote" [RCW 42.17A.750(1)(a)]; and
WHEREAS the complaint makes clear that the challenged contributions by and through GMA were expressly intended to defeat Initiative 522, and that concealment of their true sources was a tactic intended to hide the identities of those sources for political advantage; and WSDCCRES - 667 - 140201 - PASS - LAW - Illegal Behavior of Opponents of I-522
WHEREAS of the 1,753,068 ballots cast on Initiative 522 during the voting process that culminated on November 5, 2013, a shift of less than 1.1% - from potential "Yes" votes to actual "No" votes - would have made the difference between passage or failure of the measure, it may reasonably be inferred that GMA's violations of RCW 42.17A in connection with $11 million in campaign spending probably affected the outcome;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges our Attorney General to ask the court to (a) void the result of the 2013 public vote on Initiative 522, and (b) order a new vote thereon, with the costs to be borne by the Grocery Manufacturers Association and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED that the WSDCC request our state legislators to join us in urging the Attorney General to take such action.
Submitted by the 32nd District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/16/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS citizens of the United States must have freedom of information; and
WHEREAS consolidation of media limits free access to information;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the US Congress implement laws to limit consolidation of media by large conglomerates; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress and the FCC.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS high-speed Internet access service, referred to generically as "broadband advanced communication services," including both wired and wireless technologies, is essential in the 21st century for economic competitiveness and quality of life;
WHEREAS broadband infrastructure is vital to the operation and management of other critical infrastructures, including energy generation systems, the power grid, water supply systems, smart cities, the Internet of Things, public safety and emergency response systems, medical facilities, educational institutions, and libraries;
WHEREAS studies confirm that the use of broadband advanced communication services increases economic productivity, public and private organizational operation efficiency, and enhanced business profitability;
WHEREAS the provision and maintenance of equitable access to technology, broadband Internet access services, digital content, and classroom management tools are necessary for all students, teachers, and school administrators in Washington, including those in rural and other unserved and underserved areas, in order to provide equal educational resources to all students at all education levels;
WHEREAS the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted open Internet rules on February 26, 2015, to protect free expression and innovation on the Internet and to promote investment in the nation's broadband networks;
WHEREAS those open Internet rules ensure that consumers and businesses have access to a fast, fair, and open Internet by imposing three bright-line rules: (1) Broadband providers shall not block access to lawful content, applications, services, or nonharmful devices; (2) Broadband providers shall not impair or degrade lawful Internet traffic on the basis of content, application, or service, or use of a nonharmful device; and (3) Broadband providers shall not favor some lawful Internet traffic over other lawful Internet traffic in exchange for consideration of any kind;
WHEREAS because the Internet must be a place in which companies, large and small, as well as individual developers, can compete on a level playing field, the Skagit County Democrat Party supports net neutrality as a principle that underpins a fast, fair, and open Internet for consumers and businesses to ensure equal access to lawful content by prohibiting paid prioritization, throttling, and blocking; 2018SCRES - 169 - 180616 - PASS - MED - Net Neutrality
WHEREAS the federal Lifeline program provides a discount on telephone service to qualifying low-income consumers in every state, territory, commonwealth, and Tribal land, and ensures that all Americans have the opportunities and security that telephone service provides, including connecting to jobs, family, and emergency services;
WHEREAS on March 31, 2016, the FCC adopted a comprehensive reform and modernization of the federal Lifeline program by including broadband Internet access service as a support service in the federal Lifeline program and established a federal Lifeline National Eligibility Verifier to make independent subscriber eligibility determinations;
WHEREAS Federal Lifeline program moneys should be dedicated solely to the purposes established by Congress and the FCC, and diverting those moneys to pay for other programs through the imposition of state taxes, fees, or surcharges on federal Lifeline program benefits or connections should be prohibited; and
WHEREAS established as a part of the federal Telecommunications Act of 1996, the FCC's E-55 rate program provides discounts on telecommunication and Internet access services to schools and libraries, based on poverty level;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats strongly support each of the above positions, initiatives, and programs, views them as high priorities for Washington State and the country, and opposes any federal efforts to rescind or block them;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party respectfully urges the Washington State Legislature to continue to protect net neutrality, open Internet access, the federal Lifeline program's discounted telephone service for qualifying low-65 income consumers, and the E-rate program's discounted telecommunication and Internet access services for schools and libraries by passing House Bill 2282; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party respectfully urges the Congress of the United States to pass similar legislation to be applied nationwide.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) recognizes and strongly uphold the values of a free and vibrant news media;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC support the work of both traditional news gathering sources and our vibrant local independent journalism;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC reaffirm the principles of openness and inclusion, and recognize that it makes our organization, and our government, stronger and more honest; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a press release be issued by the WSDCC posted on the official party website and distributed through the party's statewide email list, informing the public about the actions taken in this resolution. Approved by the membership of the Washington State Progressive Caucus on September 9, 2018. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the economic, commercial and information needs of Washington State citizens and business depend on reliable uninterrupted internet access;
WHEREAS internet access must remain open and content delivered free from discrimination or favoritism from Internet Service Providers (ISPs), a principle known as "Network Neutrality";
WHEREAS there are documented cases of Internet Providers blocking or inhibiting content from customers;
WHEREAS currently the FCC has admonished Internet Service Providers for interfering with lawful use of the internet from customers;
WHEREAS currently no law requires compliance with the principle of Network Neutrality;
WHEREAS Representatives Markey and Eshoo have introduced HR 3458 the "Internet Freedom Preservation Act", which adds Network Neutrality principles to the Communications act of 1934;
WHEREAS HR 3458 includes languages that allow ISPs to reasonably manage networks while respecting the rights of consumers; and
WHEREAS HR 3458 has been referred to the Energy and Commerce committee;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support passage of HR 3458;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats ask that all Representatives from Washington State support HR 3458; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge that committee member Jay Inslee to take action to move this bill out of the committee.
Submitted by the 26th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/6/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. WSDCCRES - 472 - 100130 - PASS - MED - Internet Neutrality.doc The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS privatization of our national security has resulted in undefined lines of authority;
WHEREAS although no-bid contracts are becoming the norm, there has been a lack of accountability for their execution and contract outcomes have been poorly measured;
WHEREAS the government has run up huge debts with poor accounting in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; and
WHEREAS the United States government is contracting with private companies for services in the military branches;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to support legislation that would return all national security to our national armed forces, dropping all contracts with private armies;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to ensure that all national security contracts awarded by the United States will be the result of an open and fair bidding process;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urge the Washington State Congressional Delegation to demand accountability for all national security contracts awarded by the United States and to ensure the development of adequate measures and standards for all contract performance and outcomes; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. 2008SCRES - 071 - 080614 - PASS - MIL - National Security Privatization The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the men and women in all branches of the U.S. Armed Services, the National Guard, and the Army Reserve are serving our nation bravely;
WHEREAS all members of our military, including National Guards and Reservists are serving multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan;
WHEREAS the nation is indebted to our veterans for their service;
WHEREAS officially more than 30,000 men and women have been wounded serving in Iraq and Afghanistan;
WHEREAS veterans with disabilities are not being adequately compensated by the government;
WHEREAS some veterans are being denied medical care after multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan on the basis of "preexisting conditions";
WHEREAS many soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan must wait weeks or even months for proper medical care on military bases;
WHEREAS one out of every ten soldiers sent to military hospitals in Europe from Iraq are sent for mental problems;
WHEREAS Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and other mental disorders are sometimes denied care and are instead accused of malingering;
WHEREAS to date over 4000 men and women have given their lives serving in Iraq and Afghanistan;
WHEREAS the families of some deceased soldiers have themselves had to pay to have the remains of the deceased soldier transported to their final resting place; and
WHEREAS the government has denied media access to Dover, Delaware, where the remains of most deceased military personnel first arrive in the US;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that any troops returned to the United States be provided the most convenient transportation to their home at the expense of the military; 2008SCRES - 072 - 080614 - PASS - MIL - Support for Veterans
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that all veterans will receive educational benefits for use in technical training, college, and other training that supports career development and advancement;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that all veterans, including National Guards and Army Reservists, be provided with complete, highest quality, and life-long healthcare benefits including psychological care, psychiatric care, and treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that after separation from service, medical care cannot be denied due to claims of pre-existing conditions;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that veterans with disabilities be paid a realistic disability payment;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that the military will pay for housing and transportation when veterans require medical treatment available only away from home;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that the military will pay all costs for transporting the remains of the deceased individual soldier to the destination determined by the family of the deceased; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party urges the Washington State Congressional delegation to support legislation to assure that the media be allowed complete access to view and report on the return of caskets of deceased military and that this information then be made available to the public with the approval of the family; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional Delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) 2008SCRES - 072 - 080614 - PASS - MIL - Support for Veterans The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the funding for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care under the federal budget is a discretionary program, meaning that it is within the discretion of Congress to determine how much money it will allocate each year for veterans' medical care;
WHEREAS Title 38 United States Code, Section 1710(a), provides that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs "shall" furnish hospital care and medical services, but only to the extent Congress has provided money to cover the costs of the care;
WHEREAS the cumulative effects of insufficient health care funding have now resulted in the rationing of health care, including mental health care;
WHEREAS the VA reports that it has now reached capacity at many of its health care facilities;
WHEREAS the VA is unable to provide timely access to quality health care to many of our nation's most severely disabled service-connected veterans;
WHEREAS it is disingenuous for our government to promise health care to veterans but then make it unattainable because of inadequate funding;
WHEREAS making veterans' health care funding mandatory would ensure that the government meets its obligation to provide health care, including mental health care, to veterans who have a service-connected disability and would ensure that all veterans eligible for care in the VA healthcare system have access to timely, quality health care;
WHEREAS making veterans' health care funding mandatory would eliminate the year-29 to-year uncertainties about funding levels that have prevented the VA from being able to adequately plan for and meet the constantly growing number of veterans seeking treatment; and
WHEREAS by including all veterans currently eligible and enrolled for care in the mandatory health care funding proposal, we protect the overall viability of the system and the specialized programs the VA has developed to improve the health and well-36 being of our nation's service-connected disabled veterans;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) support legislation to make VA health care funding a mandatory entitlement program, including necessary increases to offset ongoing expenses resulting from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, thereby guaranteeing sufficient resources to cover the expenses of the veteran's health care program; 2008SCRES - 267 - 080614 - PASS - MIL - Mandating VA Funding
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in order to provide such quality lifelong medical care, it is imperative that the government fully fund the operation and maintenance of local Veterans' Hospitals, like the Jonathan Wainwright Veterans Memorial Hospital in Walla Walla, which enable veterans to receive care near their homes and families; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the Chelan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/30/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS very serious health damage has been done both to U.S. military personnel and to foreign populations by past testing and combat use of weapons containing depleted uranium;
WHEREAS weapons containing depleted uranium continue to be manufactured, shipped, and deployed by U.S. military forces for anticipated future use;
WHEREAS testing of depleted uranium weaponry has left contamination inside the borders of the United States and in offshore waters, thereby risking the health of our own people as well as marine animals; and
WHEREAS residue from depleted uranium weapons continues to threaten both U.S. military personnel and foreign populations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party (WSDCC) calls on the U.S. government to (a) clean up all locations, at home and abroad, where depleted uranium residues continue to threaten people's health, and (b) provide medical help for those already damaged by the use of depleted uranium weapons, and (c) ban the manufacture, shipping, and deployment of depleted uranium munitions by U.S. forces, and their export to other nations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party distribute copies of this resolution to all Democratic members of the Washington State Congressional delegation and Democratic Presidential Candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS military veterans are true and honored patriots of the freedoms that we all enjoy and deserving of the very best medical and other benefits available for themselves, their families and survivors;
WHEREAS the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is a Presidential Cabinet appointee without the budget development authority as other members of the President's Cabinet and thus unable to advocate for budgetary consideration in a comparative fashion;
WHEREAS the estimated budget shortfall for Veterans in 2009 is 3 billion dollars - a difference between what the President has recommended for the VA and what is actually needed;
WHEREAS ongoing wars increase the demand for mental health care, rehabilitation and nursing home care for veterans;
WHEREAS it is reported that there are currently 870,000 veterans are awaiting decisions from the VA, a process that may take many months or even years; and
WHEREAS the President's budget ranks the VA facilities most in need of construction funds within his budget. However, he fails to fully fund them either thus limiting quality services to veterans in the rural areas of southeastern Washington including Franklin County;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support Budget Reform that would assure that the Office of Veterans Affairs receive advance and adequate appropriations, approved one year in advance, thereby guaranteeing adequate funding for benefits and programs that is timely and predictable.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Foreign Policy, Immigration, the Military, and Tribal Sovereignty and Relations at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 105 - 120602 - PASS - MIL - Budgeting for Veterans Affairs 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS military veterans have served their fellow citizens and our country;
WHEREAS recent estimates indicate that there are as many as 1,000 homeless veterans in Washington State;
WHEREAS many of these homeless veterans have Legal Financial Obligations (LFO) resulting from fines, warrants or tickets which they are unable to pay and which continue to increase through interest charges and many of which have been turned over to collection agencies;
WHEREAS there are few legitimate community service opportunities available through which homeless veterans could work off their LFOs; and
WHEREAS the inability to pay these LFOs seriously constrains efforts by veterans and support organizations to make progress toward recovery;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State of Washington should, through the enactment of legislation or through Executive Decree, absolve current homeless veterans of debts associated with LFOs and prevent interest charges from accruing for veterans who are registered as homeless with the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WSDVA).
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on the Foreign Policy, Immigration, the Military, and Tribal Sovereignty and Relations at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS military veterans are true and honored patriots of the freedoms that we all enjoy and deserving of the very best medical and other benefits available for themselves, their families and survivors;
WHEREAS the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is a Presidential Cabinet appointee without the budget development authority as other members of the President's Cabinet and thus unable to advocate for budgetary consideration in a comparative fashion;
WHEREAS the estimated budget shortfall for Veterans in 2009 is 3 billion dollars - a difference between what the President has recommended for the VA and what is actually needed;
WHEREAS ongoing wars increase the demand for mental health care, rehabilitation and nursing home care for veterans;
WHEREAS it is reported that there are currently 870,000 veterans are awaiting decisions from the VA, a process that may take many months or even years; and
WHEREAS the President's budget ranks the VA facilities most in need of construction funds within his budget. However, he fails to fully fund them either thus limiting quality services to veterans in the rural areas of southeastern Washington including Franklin County;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support Budget Reform that would assure that the Office of Veterans Affairs receive advance and adequate appropriations, approved one year in advance, thereby guaranteeing adequate funding for benefits and programs that is timely and predictable.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on the Foreign Policy, Immigration, the Military, and Tribal Sovereignty and Relations at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SCRES - 105 - 120602 - PASS - MIL - Budgeting for Veterans Affairs.doc 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS military veterans have served their fellow citizens and our country;
WHEREAS recent estimates indicate that there are as many as 1,000 homeless veterans in Washington State;
WHEREAS many of these homeless veterans have Legal Financial Obligations (LFO) resulting from fines, warrants or tickets which they are unable to pay and which continue to increase through interest charges and many of which have been turned over to collection agencies;
WHEREAS there are few legitimate community service opportunities available through which homeless veterans could work off their LFOs; and
WHEREAS the inability to pay these LFOs seriously constrains efforts by veterans and support organizations to make progress toward recovery;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State of Washington should, through the enactment of legislation or through Executive Decree, absolve current homeless veterans of debts associated with LFOs and prevent interest charges from accruing for veterans who are registered as homeless with the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WSDVA).
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on the Foreign Policy, Immigration, the Military, and Tribal Sovereignty and Relations at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Navy has segmented its public input processes in such a way that the collective impact of their activity will not be assessed and the process has been confusing to the public;
WHEREAS the Navy did not adequately notify the public about their environmental assessment of the electronic warfare range, and did not receive any public comments, and did not disclose that ships at sea would also be involved;
WHEREAS the citizens of the Olympic Peninsula including Tribes have deep concerns about the impact of Navy activities on their environment, their quality of life, and their local economy;
WHEREAS the Forest Service did not conduct its own independent scientific investigation but has announced that it will determine that the Navy's claim that their activities will have no significant impact, despite the serious procedural flaws;
WHEREAS the Navy did not begin to evaluate Growler jet noise until five years after they were deployed, and that evaluation, which has been delayed, still does not address jet noise on the Olympic Peninsula; and
WHEREAS the Navy plans an expansion of explosive activities and sonar producing decibels in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the waters off Indian Island, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, and the Navy estimates hundreds of thousands of marine mammals would be killed or harmed as a result;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party will call on its Congressional delegation to urge the Navy and Forest Service to reduce its impacts on communities and the surrounding environment, and to complete a comprehensive environmental impact assessment on its plans, giving full regard to the intent of the Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and providing the public with opportunities for authentic participation at every step.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. 2016SCRES - 059 - 160618 - RECPA - MIL - Electronic Warfare The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the United States Constitution states that "Congress shall have the power . . .to declare war." Congress having the authority to provide funding. . . or withhold funding. Congress, as such, maintaining a separation of Powers granted by the Constitution, has the authority to retain the power . . . .to declare war;
WHEREAS the President currently has sole authority to launch a first-use nuclear strike, a policy that increases the risk of nuclear war and is vulnerable to accidents and miscommunication;
WHEREAS U.S. policies such as maintaining nuclear weapons on hair-trigger alert and continuing to not adopt an explicit "no-first use" policy, are destabilizing and threaten national security;
WHEREAS reducing the dangers from nuclear weapons remains one of the highest national security priorities;
WHEREAS one Trident submarine has the potential destructive equivalent of over 5,800 Hiroshima bombs;
WHEREAS retaining the current US arsenal of nearly 7,000 nuclear weapons defies common sense and fiscal responsibility, at a time we need housing, healthcare, public education, and a response to climate change;
WHEREAS 122 UN member countries voted to adopt the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which prohibits nations from developing, testing, producing, manufacturing, transferring, possessing, stockpiling, using or threatening to use nuclear weapons;
WHEREAS we know that no one wins a nuclear war and there is no such thing as a limited nuclear war; and
WHEREAS we all breathe the same air and drink the same water, and must prevent the possibility of accidental or deliberate nuclear war;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats oppose allowing the destabilizing Presidential authority for first strike capability and the nuclear arms race this provokes; 2018SCRES - 180 - 180616 - PASS - MIL - Restrict First Use of Nuclear Weapons
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support An Act of Congress restricting The First Use of Nuclear Weapons and to pass such related legislation that will prevent any President or Military Officers or Military Commands from unilaterally launching a nuclear strike without first receiving a Congressional Declaration of War Authorization; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our Congressional Representatives to co-sponsor and pass such legislation to Restrict First Use of Nuclear Weapons and instead invest in diplomacy, seeking Peace, and the critical democratic needs of all of our citizens and preserve our national security.
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Democratic platforms routinely condemn discrimination based on prejudice;
WHEREAS the right of our transgender population to be protected from discrimination has been recognized by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission;
WHEREAS transgender individuals have nevertheless been disproportionately subjected to prejudice, harassment, violence, economic hardship and societal exclusion;
WHEREAS the contributions and sacrifices made by our service members and their families should be honored, not insulted;
WHEREAS President Trump announced on Twitter on July 26, 2017, the 69th anniversary of President Truman's racial integration of our armed forces, a hateful policy of excluding transgender individuals from service in the military, and subsequently signed an executive order on August 25th, 2017, to affirm this intent; and WHERAS transgender rights are human rights, and the President's determination to exclude transgender service members is deplorable and un-American;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee thanks our existing population of transgender service members and veterans for their service to country in the face of bigotry and discrimination;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee pledges our support for the transgender community in advancing policies that remove barriers of exclusion, economic hardship, and discrimination, and that we will stand with the transgender community against the various outrages hurled against them by the forces of hate;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray to advocate for and advance legislation to prevent exclusion of and discrimination against transgender service members;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges all U.S. Representatives from the state of Washington to advocate for and advance legislation to prevent exclusion of and discrimination against transgender service members; and WSDCCRES - 842 - 170910 - PASS - MIL - Support Transgender Servicemembers
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests the above-mentioned U.S. Senators and Representatives to notify us by October 15, 2017, as to their actions and intended actions in implementation of this resolution.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 8/25/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended the resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee opposes United States military intervention in Venezuela;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on the Washington State Congressional delegation and all candidates for the Democratic nomination for President to oppose United States military intervention in Venezuela;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of this resolution shall be sent to each member of the Washington State Congressional delegation and to each known candidate for the Democratic nomination for President.
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7th, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted 03/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS sexual harassment in the military, frequently accompanied or followed by sexual assault, has become a serious and persistent problem, damaging to troop cohesion and morale;
WHEREAS, according to Defense Department statistics, sexual assaults rose more than 30% in a recently completed two-year period, from a shocking 19,300 in 2010 to an appalling 26,000 in 2012;
WHEREAS the Armed Forces Radio and Television Services broadcasts news and commentary, including "The Rush Limbaugh Show," to our military personnel in the United States and abroad;
WHEREAS the Rush Limbaugh Show not only consistently exhibits tolerance for sexual harassment, it treats it as sport and encourages it - as exemplified by Mr. Limbaugh's broadcast correlations of breast size and IQ, his suggestions that women enjoy sexual harassment and that men could more effectively harass women by asking them to have their breasts "stop staring at my eyes";
WHEREAS Mr. Limbaugh, in his demonstrably misogynistic program, has swung between celebrating sexual harassment and denying its existence, and gone so far as to joke about rape itself; and
WHEREAS it is irresponsible for taxpayer dollars to be used to fund the broadcast to our troops of radio programs that advocate, make light of, or express tolerance for sexual harassment and rape;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on the Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Martin Dempsey to remove the Rush Limbaugh Show from our taxpayer-funded Armed Forces Radio and Television Services.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/5/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the U. S. Navy has submitted an application to the Forest Service for a permit allowing use of Forest Service roads for its proposed Pacific Northwest Electronic Warfare Range (EWR);
WHEREAS the proposed EWR covers large areas of Olympic National Park, Olympic National Forest, and Tribal and private land in western Clallam, Jefferson, and Grays Harbor Counties;
WHEREAS both the Navy and the Forest Service are required by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) to prepare environmental evaluations of the proposed project; and to inform and consult with the public about the proposed project by providing the affected communities with notice of the project and the opportunity to make a public record of their concerns;
WHEREAS the Navy has prepared, and the Forest Service is using, for their environmental evaluations of the proposed project a multitude of incomplete, confusing, incorrect, and voluminous documents, including the Pacific Northwest Electronic Warfare Range Environmental Assessment (EA), the Northwest Training Range Complex EIS, and the Northwest Training and Testing Draft EIS, and additionally, the Navy has prepared a Supplement to the Northwest Training and Testing Draft EIS, and is preparing to draft another EIS on the proposed addition of 36 more EA-18G Growler aircraft to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island;
WHEREAS the Navy has unreasonably limited the scope of the EA, and public comment on the proposed EWR, to essentially a consideration of the impacts of the proposed EWR on the Forest Service roads;
WHEREAS the public was given insufficient notice and insufficient time (15 days rather than the required 30 days) to comment on the proposed project - no notice was published in any newspaper, including the Peninsula Daily News, Sequim Gazette or Forks Forum, directly serving a community directly affected by the project as required by NEPA;
WHEREAS the National Forest Service Management Act and Forest Plan require the Forest Service to give greater priority to its responsibility to the public than to the needs or demands of any outside agency;
WHEREAS there is a silent zone in Olympic National Park and neither the National Park Service nor the Forest Service has independently verified statements in the Navy's WSDCCRES - 709 - 150418 - PASS - MIL - Electronic Warfare Range Plan Environmental Assessment (EA), as required by law; and has not justified its reasons for a Finding of No Significant Impacts on the environment;
WHEREAS citizens residing in the affected counties, and throughout the U.S., have multiple and grave concerns about Electronic Warfare Range project including, but not limited to, noise pollution from the Growler and other aircraft using the EWR, training with Growler aircraft using electronic attack weapons, health effects on wildlife and humans, economic effects on the local economy, and the environmental impacts; and
WHEREAS it appears that the Navy and the Forest Service have not adequately performed their responsibilities under NEPA, and their responsibilities to inform and receive official comment from the public on the full range of impacts of the proposed Electronic Warfare Range;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon our elected representatives at all levels to use all their authority to: 1. Suspend any previous approval of the proposed EWR by the US Navy and the US Forest Service; 2. Publish any notice of future public comment periods in newspapers with wide-61 circulation in Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor, Island, San Juan, and other counties adversely affected by the proposed EWR; 3. Schedule public hearings as required by NEPA throughout the affected counties so that the public may have the opportunity to refute any information provided in the NEPA documents; 4. Ensure that neither the US Navy nor the US Forest Service take any further action on the proposed EWR until a current and complete Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared by an independent third party covering the whole range of possible impacts of the proposed EWR, and of all the aircraft using the EWR, including impacts to the areas under the flight paths to and from the EWR, and including impacts from both Electronic Surveillance and Electronic Attack training.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 11/21/2014)
Submitted by the 24th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/11/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the U.S. Congress has declared war only five (5) times under its constitutional power given in Article 1, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution of the United States of America. These wars were the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II;
WHEREAS going to war is the most important decision any society can make. Thus, a decision of this magnitude has to be a collective one, done constitutionally;
WHEREAS constitutionally, the U.S. Congress is the only body that can declare war, and this power cannot be abrogated, nor transferred, to any other authority;
WHEREAS since WWII, the U.S. Congress has failed to exercise its constitutional responsibility and as a result has left war-making powers to the executive branch which contradicts the basic reason why the founders placed war-making powers with the Congress. By doing this, the U.S. Congress has failed to fulfill its responsibilities to the citizens of the United States and the troops that we send into harm's way;
WHEREAS the country, through representatives, needs to have a debate not only on whether or not to go to war, but on making a commitment to support the total war effort and what that might entail. Issues that need to be addressed: Who is the enemy? How will we know when the war is over? Are we willing to be in a perpetual war with a concept/tactic? Who will sign the peace treaty? Are we willing to raise taxes to pay for it? Are we willing to reinstate the draft for both men and women? Are we willing to support the needs of our veterans?;
WHEREAS if the government declares war, there needs to be societal commitment to the war effort. If this commitment is not made, we are undermining our war effort and our military. Commitment to support a war should entail at a minimum the following: means of financing the war, training and maintaining acceptable troop levels, supplying the military with the best equipment, stating our goals and purposes for war clearly, identifying and supporting veterans' needs which includes the best life-long physical and psychological medical care; and
WHEREAS in the past, wars were declared against countries; now we are facing philosophies and strategies that are not government/country based. To choose to fight this type of war requires a new commitment and understanding of war on the part of our citizens; WSDCCRES - 773 - 160130 - PASS - MIL - Declaration of War
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee petition our U.S Congressional representatives, via a copy of this resolution, to accept their Constitutional obligation to debate and make a decision as to whether or not to declare war;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee petition the U.S. Congress, via a copy of this resolution, to provide financial means of supporting any war effort by increasing government revenues that would be identified as a War Tax.
Submitted by the Veterans and Military Families . (Date Submitted 1/30/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood, but made no recommendation on its passage. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS Northwest Washington, is home to pristine natural environments including: marine protected areas, National Monuments, Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Refuges, State Parks, the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, the Olympic Mountains, and the Cascade Mountains;
WHEREAS Northwest Washington's natural environment and wildlife provide immeasurable public benefits through sustainable economic and public health activity, including: agriculture, outdoor recreation options, and tourism (3 million to the Olympic National Park, 1 million to San Juan County), and are home to many communities and residents who value and rely upon the character of their regional environment for work, health, or both; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Navy, based in several locations in Northwest Washington, has initiated a significant multi-regional expansion of training and testing schedules and locations, routines, and technologies, including: Use of the western portion of the Olympic Peninsula and surrounding waters to simulate an Electromagnetic Warfare Range, flying 260 days per year, 8-16 hours per day, up to 153 jets, capable of 150 decibels each; Combat training on 68+ beaches in Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Pacific Ocean beaches in Washington, unannounced and undisclosed to the public and to state, local and federal agencies; Increased range and frequency of EA-18G Growler jet training flights throughout Northwest Washington including: from OLF Coupeville and Ault Field on Whidbey Island, over San Juan County, Jefferson County, Clallam County, Skagit County, the North Cascades, the Olympic Mountains, LaConner, Port Townsend, Sequim, Port Angeles, Forks and several Indian Reservations, regularly measuring noise levels that exceed thresholds for permanent hearing damage, often between 75 and 108 decibels inside their homes; Unprecedented expansion of sonar and explosive activities in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the waters off Indian Island, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, consisting of 2,408 square nautical miles of Olympic Peninsula coastline, in which the mid-frequency sonar systems the Navy employs are capable of generating sounds in excess of 235 decibels;
WHEREAS the Navy estimates 1.2 million marine mammal takes (killed or harmed) as a result of Navy activities over a period of five years;
WHEREAS the current level of jet noise has been medically documented to seriously impact health and quality of life of many residents in Northwest Washington; WSDCCRES - 791 - 160917 - PASS - MIL - Navy Training
WHEREAS the current level of jet noise has affected real estate sales in San Juan County and Island County, forcing local realtors on Whidbey Island and San Juan County to add a military jet noise disclosure clause to property sales; and
WHEREAS each cylinder contains millions of heavy metal-coated glass fibers called "Chaff"; chaff is small enough to be inhaled or swallowed and is dangerous to human health - a 72% increase in chaff release is expected according to the NWTT EIS;
WHEREAS the increase in military jet noise over Northwest Washington has been well documented since the first Growlers arrived in 2008; San Juan County residents have entered over 4,800 jet noise complaints on the County jet noise reporting map since May of 2014; and the Navy, having listed many surrounding communities including San Juan County, as areas of "No Significant Impact" from Growler noise, has yet to issue a draft Environmental Impact Statement; and
WHEREAS known environmental and human health impacts from the increase in frequency of training activity, and from testing new defense technology present irreparable harms to the residents, environment, and economy of Northwest Washington, and additional, lesser-known harms have not yet been evaluated through EIS or public experience;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the WSDCC, call on the Washington State Congressional Delegation to work with the Navy to: (1) Require that similar marine species protections that were enacted for the Hawaiian and Southern California ranges be extended for all marine mammal species in Northwest Washington; (2) Prohibit seagoing activities until the legally mandated endangered species consultation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service has been completed and disclosed to the public, along with the permit required by law for incidental take of endangered birds and fish, and until the legally mandated consultation with the State of Washington on cultural and historic properties is completed to the satisfaction of the State Historic Preservation Officer. (3) Prohibit use of directed energy weapons such as lasers, microwaves and other devices, over civilian populated areas or public lands where citizens recreate and could be unknowingly exposed to harmful radiation. (4) Prohibit electronic warfare mobile emitters to conduct electronic warfare training on public roads such as the Hood Canal Road, Route 101 and the Hoh River Road, where civilians might be unknowingly exposed; (5) Not increase the number of Growlers stationed at NAS Whidbey until the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is completed and the Record of Decision is published after a full and comprehensive public comment period as allowed by law; WSDCCRES - 791 - 160917 - PASS - MIL - Navy Training (6) Take immediate steps to reduce the impact of the Growler noise and training in Northwest Washington, including: a. Change procedures to require Growlers to delay lowering landing gear; b. Eliminate the use of afterburners except when required for take off; c. Install mitigation infra structure to reduce noise impacts; d. Restore the practice of publishing the Growler training schedules Ault Field; e. Prohibit aggressive flying over and near civilian communities and public lands; f. Create an emergency notification system for communities when fuel or chaff dumps from aircraft occur to notify people to stay in their homes or cars until an all-clear signal is given;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be transmitted to the Washington State Congressional Delegation along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/2/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS veterans are at risk. The Administration in Washington DC are currently reviewing veterans on a nationwide program, Veterans who receive compensation are currently being re-evaluated;
WHEREAS there are cases of Veterans who have been notified of being reclassified and their payments are being reduced; and
WHEREAS the Administration in Washington DC continues to disconnect itself from programs to help the citizens in need. The Agricultural and Rural Caucus bring the Veterans concerns to this level;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that veterans benefits are as follows: Veterans benefits currently provided should not be subject to this Administrations' goal of balancing the budget. Veterans needs and funds should come before tax cuts to a limited part of our population. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges all government and elected officials to support this resolution.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 16, 2005 meeting in Everett by the WSDCC the Agricultural and Rural Caucus (09/16/05) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS nuclear and other weapons in space jeopardize life on earth;
THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Congressional Delegation work to immediately withdraw and de-fund the "Star Wars" program and any other project to put weapons in space.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the funding for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care under the Federal budget is a discretionary program, meaning that it is within the discretion of Congress to determine how much money it will allocate each year for veterans' medical care; and
WHEREAS, Title 38 United States Code, Section 1710(a), provides that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs "shall" furnish hospital care and medical services, but only to the extent Congress has provided money to cover the costs of the care, and
WHEREAS, the cumulative effects of insufficient health care funding have now resulted in the rationing of health care, including mental health care; and
WHEREAS, the VA reports that it has now reached capacity at many of its health care facilities; and
WHEREAS, the VA is unable to provide timely access to quality health care to many of our nation's most severely disabled service-connected veterans; and
WHEREAS, it is disingenuous for our government to promise health care to veterans but then make it unattainable because of inadequate funding; and
WHEREAS, making veterans' health care funding mandatory would ensure that the government meets its obligation to provide health care, including mental health care, to veterans who have a service-connected medical needs and would ensure that all veterans eligible for care in the VA healthcare system have access to timely, quality health care; and
WHEREAS, making veterans' health care funding mandatory would eliminate the year-to-year uncertainties about funding levels that have prevented the VA from being able to adequately plan for and meet the constantly growing number of veterans seeking treatment; and
WHEREAS, by including all veterans currently eligible and enrolled for care in the mandatory health care funding proposal, we protect the overall viability of the system and the specialized programs the VA has developed to improve the health and well-37 being of our nation's service-connected disabled veterans, NOW
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party support legislation to make VA health care funding a comprehensive mandatory entitlement program, thereby guaranteeing sufficient resources to cover the expenses of the veterans' health care program. WSDCCRES - 287 - 060929 - PASS - MIL - Health Care for Veterans
Submitted by the delegates of the Chelan County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima, WA (Date Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS veterans access to health care is a problem
WHEREAS veterans in Clallam Co. must travel all day to Seattle for care
WHEREAS our Olympic Medical Center is willing to work with local physicians to establish a 'virtual clinic' to provide health care in Clallam County
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party support the Veteran's Administration in providing a clinic on the Olympic Peninsula to handle veteran's needs.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Washington State Congressional delegation to support this resolution and contact the Olympic Medical Center Director regarding this resolution. ______________________________________________________
Submitted by the Clallam County Democratic Convention to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date
Submitted 4/8/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the Bush administration has consistently used military personnel veterans as political backdrops for "photo-ops" and
WHEREAS, this same administration has cut the absolute dollar amounts for military personnel and veterans' health care,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we demand that Congress increase in significant and real dollars the monies allocated for health care (including mental health) for our military personnel and veterans.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge that the Washington State Congressional delegation and the Democratic National Committee support this resolution.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 4/12/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham as amended by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee.
WHEREAS, the Iraq War has generated a much higher number of troops sustaining wounds that would have been fatal in prior wars, and
WHEREAS, the Bush Administration has tried to limit and/or cut the health care budget for veterans even as this needless war continues, and
WHEREAS, the wounded from this conflict will need more extensive health care than we have ever had to provide before,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, (1) the VA Health system be funded at a level needed to meet the needs of our returning troops; (2) that the VA Mental Health care system budget be increased to a level of 250% over its present level; and (3) that the VA Health Care System be funded into the future so that no eligible person is made to wait for any health care need to be met longer than 3 working days; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, copies of this Resolution be sent to our Congressional Delegation to begin immediate efforts to obtain passage of such enabling legislation.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 9/13/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS there have been many journal and newspaper articles in recent years deploring the frequency of sexual harassment and rape of female personnel by male military personnel; and
WHEREAS these same articles report that the military chain of command in most cases displays a totally inadequate response to these charges; and
WHEREAS the attached article from the New York Times, published March 20, 2009, written by Bob Herbert is but one of many recent articles on the subject; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the WSDCC recognizes that sexual harassment and instances of rape of female military personnel by male military personnel present a serious and condemnable hostile environment for all female personnel; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that rape must be dealt with by the military chain of command as the heinous crime that it is; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that given the many years of inadequate, dilatory, and ineffective response by the military authorities to reports of rape, we ask that Congress provide strict guidelines to protect female military personnel from the predatory vicious crime of rape; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we ask Congress to provide prompt and appropriate recourse for all those military personnel who bring charges of rape against military personnel, with safeguards to protect those who report the crime; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that this resolution, upon passage, be sent to U.S. Senator Patty Murray and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell and that they be asked to sponsor legislation that will effect change in the military attitudes, rules and actions in regard to preventing and dealing with reports of rape.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 4/14/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS "winning the mind and hearts" is the most effective defense against terrorism;
WHEREAS Iraqi studies in Basra have shown that since the use of Depleted Uranium Weapons, there has been multi fold increases in malignancies, congenital malformities (Birth defects), miscarriages, children leukemia and sterilization cases - resulting in the US Army constructing a state of the art hospital specializing in advanced pediatric cancer treatment;
WHEREAS on Oct. 12, 2009, Dr. Ai-sanarai, Iraq's Minister of Women's Affairs, reported to the United Nations that in September of 2009, 24% of all babies born in the Fallujah General Hospital died within the first week of life and of the babies that survived, 75% were born with deformities;
WHEREAS US Army spokespersons maintain "There is not really any danger to Iraqi civilians, at least that we know about" when DU munitions are prohibited in training exercises and troops are instructed to avoid areas where DU weapons have been deployed and if there is a military need to deploy in such areas that masks be utilized;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Representatives Larsen, Inslee, Smith, McDermott, Baird and Dicks; and Senators Murray and Cantwell be directed to present to their respective legislative bodies the following: 1. A proposal for a funded study, independent of government agencies, be made in the Iraqi cities of Fallujah and Basra, determining the effects of Depleted Uranium Weapons on the rates of malignancies, congenital malformities, miscarriages, children's leukemia and sterility. 2. A moratorium be recommended on the use of depleted uranium weapons until the studies are completed and presented to the electorate. 3. A moratorium be recommended on the sales and transfers of Depleted Uranium and Depleted Uranium weapons until the studies completion and public disbursement.
Submitted by the 39th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 12/24/2009) WSDCCRES - 490 - 100130 - PASS - MIL - Depleted Uranium The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS "winning the mind and hearts" is the most effective defense against terrorism;
WHEREAS Iraqi studies in Basra have shown that since the use of Depleted Uranium Weapons, there has been multi fold increases in malignancies, congenital malformities (Birth defects), miscarriages, children leukemia and sterilization cases - resulting in the US Army constructing a state of the art hospital specializing in advanced pediatric cancer treatment;
WHEREAS on Oct. 12, 2009, Dr. Ai-sanarai, Iraq's Minister of Women's Affairs, reported to the United Nations that in September of 2009, 24% of all babies born in the Fallujah General Hospital died within the first week of life and of the babies that survived, 75% were born with deformities;
WHEREAS US Army spokespersons maintain "There is not really any danger to Iraqi civilians, at least that we know about" when DU munitions are prohibited in training exercises and troops are instructed to avoid areas where DU weapons have been deployed and if there is a military need to deploy in such areas that masks be utilized;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Representatives Larsen, Inslee, Smith, McDermott, Baird and Dicks; and Senators Murray and Cantwell be directed to present to their respective legislative bodies the following: 1. A proposal for a funded study, independent of government agencies, be made in the Iraqi cities of Fallujah and Basra, determining the effects of Depleted Uranium Weapons on the rates of malignancies, congenital malformities, miscarriages, children's leukemia and sterility. 2. A moratorium be recommended on the use of depleted uranium weapons until the studies are completed and presented to the electorate. 3. A moratorium be recommended on the sales and transfers of Depleted Uranium and Depleted Uranium weapons until the studies completion and public disbursement.
Submitted by the 39th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 12/24/2009) WSDCCRES - 490 - 100130 - PASS - MIL - Depleted Uranium The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Washington State has a large community of "Gold Star Families", family members of soldiers, airmen/women and Marines who have been Killed in Action;
WHEREAS Washington State unveiled its first ever Gold Star specialized license plates for parents of Killed in Action Service Members in 2009;
WHEREAS losing one's husband, wife, or parent to combat in service of the United States of America is also a significant sacrifice worthy of acknowledgement;
WHEREAS as of January 08, 2010, 114 servicemen and women from the state of Washington have been killed while fighting in the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan; and
WHEREAS it is imperative to keep the cost of war in the forefront of people's hearts and minds;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to make available upon request Gold Star specialized licensed plates to Gold Star Families in the state of Washington to spouses and children of driving age.
Submitted by the 5th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/22/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS H.R. 5136 is the National Defense Appropriations Act for 2011;
WHEREAS Amendment 79 to H.R. 5136 was sustained on the Senate floor on December 18, 2010;
WHEREAS H.R. 5136 was signed into law by President Barack Obama on December 23, 2010;
WHEREAS this amendment has the effect of repealing the military policy that appears in Title 10, Section 654 of the United States Code, which is better known to the public at large as Don't Ask, Don't Tell;
WHEREAS this amendment will render the United States a more perfect union;
WHEREAS this amendment removes an unnecessary obstacle from blocking the path between patriotic Americans and their desire to serve their country with honor and distinction in military uniform;
WHEREAS Rick Larsen, Patty Murray, Maria Cantwell, and President Obama were instrumental in achieving this repeal;
WHEREAS Yes, we can; and
WHEREAS Yes, we did;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC commends President Barack Obama, Senator Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell, the Washington State Democratic Congressional Delegation, and all of the persons too numerous to list here, including the millions of citizens who elected these persons to office, on their success in repealing the so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy of the U.S. Military.
Submitted by the Whatcom County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/20/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS automatic across-the-board spending cuts went into effect on March 1, reducing discretionary spending by $1 trillion over the next ten years;
WHEREAS Congress has not yet agreed upon a strategic budget package to undo the sequester cuts;
WHEREAS Congress is beginning the process of setting Fiscal Year 2014 spending levels for the Pentagon;
WHEREAS Pentagon spending, excluding nuclear weapons and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, has increased by 35% in the last decade, while domestic discretionary spending has increased by only 12% during that period;
WHEREAS the Government Accountability Office (GAO) identified $70 billion wasted on major weapons systems in a period of just two years;
WHEREAS reductions of military spending at the levels required by sequestration would constitute a 31% reduction from the 2010 wartime peak spending level, which would be smaller than the reductions following the Korean, Vietnam, and Cold Wars;
WHEREAS the Pentagon can protect Americans by reshaping the budget and accompanying strategy to focus on 21st century threats;
WHEREAS think-tanks and experts from across the political spectrum, including the Simpson-Bowles Commission, the Cato Institute, Taxpayers for Common Sense and the Project on Defense Alternatives, have identified hundreds of billions of dollars of Pentagon spending reductions that would not harm national security; and
WHEREAS Washington State will suffer this year as a result of domestic sequester cuts, including 160 teaching jobs at risk, 440 fewer low-income students receiving college aid, 2,850 fewer children receiving vaccinations, and $143,000 less to aid victims of domestic violence;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on our Congressional Representatives and Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell to work to develop a budget for Fiscal Year 2014 that balances the undoing of domestic sequester cuts with significant reductions in wasteful Pentagon spending, while preserving critical services for veterans and active duty military members. WSDCCRES - 639 - 130921 - PASS - MIL - Pentagon Spending Cuts Approved by the 30th LD Democrats for transmission to the Washington State Democrats for its consideration at its September 21st meeting in Ocean Shores. (Submitted September 9, 2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, call on Rep. Adam Smith to work to decrease military spending including spending by the Overseas Contingency Operations fund, but excluding Basic Allowance for Subsistence, Basic Allowance for Housing, base pay and other programs that uplift our military members and families.
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7th, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted 03/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed.
WHEREAS more than 240,000 Democrats attended their precinct caucuses and this turnout was unprecedented and unanticipated;
WHEREAS many potential participants could not attend due to work or other conflicts and were not eligible under the rules to vote by proxy;
WHEREAS the Democratic National Committee will not allow us to select delegates using both the precinct caucus and the state presidential primary;
WHEREAS more people submitted resolutions and suggestions about abolishing the precinct caucuses than on any other topic;
WHEREAS we value openness and we want to make our party accessible; and
WHEREAS any process can be improved, and it behooves us to be responsive to requests to improve this process;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party recommends that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee respond to this outpouring of concerns by creating a Caucus and Primary Task Force to review the lessons learned from the 2008 presidential selection process and to propose improvements; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this task force hold hearings in several parts of the state and report its findings and proposals for improving the delegate selection process to the WSDCC within one year.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/21/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS free and fair elections, and grass roots decision-making, are vital components of a representative democracy;
WHEREAS each presidential primary election and precinct caucus results in pledged delegates selected in proportion to the votes tallied for each candidate, ensuring a fair distribution of delegates;
WHEREAS the practice of selecting elected officials and other party leaders and activists as unpledged delegates (also called superdelegates) to the Democratic Party's national convention was begun in the 1980s by party leaders to enable them to influence the choice of presidential nominee to ensure that an electable candidate is chosen and protect the long term interests of the Democratic Party, as they view them;
WHEREAS Appendix B of the Call for the 2008 Democratic National Convention specifies that the number of pledged delegates is 3512 (80.53%), the number of unpledged delegates is 849 (19.47%), totaling 4361 delegates; and
WHEREAS unpledged delegates wield an undue influence on the Party's choice of presidential nominee, and may cause the nomination of a candidate who received less popular votes than another candidate, thus reversing the will of the people expressed through their primary elections and caucuses, violating the democratic principle that every person's vote should count equally and potentially causing some voters to be so angry and discouraged that they choose either to not vote in the general election or to vote for a Republican or third party candidate, which could result in a Republican victory;
THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party Central Committee and Party Chair should call upon the Democratic National Committee to reduce the influence of unpledged delegates by amending any and all rules governing unpledged delegates for future conventions to limit the number of unpledged delegates to 10% of the total of all elected delegates, or to limit the total value of all unpledged delegates votes to 10% of the total votes of elected delegates, or restrict unpledged delegates status to U.S. Senators, Representatives and State Governors serving at the time of the convention.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. 2008SCRES - 352 - 080614 - PASS - INT - Resolution on Unpledged Delegates.doc The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS Washington State Democrats worked tirelessly to campaign for the election of Barack Hussein Obama;
WHEREAS President Obama was elected by a significant majority of the American electorate, and President Obama has worked to redeem the campaign promises that attracted support from millions of Americans;
WHEREAS the Republican Party has unified to oppose President Obama's agenda with total disregard of the expressed wishes of the electorate, without regard to the needs of the republic;
WHEREAS the economic, financial, foreign policy, energy, and ecological challenges that confront the United States, pose a serious threat to the republic's future; and
WHEREAS President Obama proposes policies designed to see us through the present challenges and usher us into a better future;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats have continuing faith in the leadership of President Obama and support his agenda;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge all Democratic Senators and Congressmen to support the legislative and foreign policy proposals of President Obama, specifically: energy policy and climate change; financial and bank reform; nuclear non-proliferation; health care reform; job creation; Supreme Court nominees; infrastructure modernization; confirmation of his nominations for government office;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge all Americans to put the needs of United States citizens ahead of the political needs of party in order to see us through the challenges which threaten us today;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats, and all Democrats pledge to work tirelessly to attract public support to the President's agenda and to support candidates for public office who will work to further it; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported. 2010SCRES - 003 - 100626 - PASS - INT - Confidence in President Obama.doc
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/25/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, in Washington State, close to 1 million residents do not have health insurance;
WHEREAS the lack of health insurance is a major barrier for Washington State residents in obtaining needed and preventative health care;
WHEREAS the inability to access affordable health care in a timely manner leads to uninsured individuals delaying and deferring care until an ailment becomes an emergency, which is more costly and leads to worse health outcomes; and
WHEREAS the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will benefit Washington State residents by providing access to insurance for uninsured individuals with preexisting conditions; prohibiting health insurance companies from imposing preexisting condition exclusions on children's coverage; extending dependent coverage to young people up to age twenty-six; strengthening community health centers; and providing tax credits to small businesses that contribute to provide health insurance to affordable, comprehensive health care services on an equitable basis so that all individuals can access the right care in the right place at the right time;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recognize that the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will directly benefit Washington State residents that lack health care insurance or are underinsured;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act as advancing the goal of all people having access to affordable, comprehensive health care services on an equitable basis; 2010SCRES - 011 - 100626 - PASS - INT - Health Care Lawsuit (46th).doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire's position that the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is in the interests of the state of Washington, and adamantly oppose Washington state Attorney General Rob McKenna's participation in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WA State Democrats call upon our state legislature to take immediate action to terminate state funding for this lawsuit and take other actions which they deem appropriate to require Attorney General McKenna to cancel participation by the people of the great state of Washington; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 46th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/26/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS for the people of Washington State to live up to our shared values and succeed economically over the long term, we must make investments in core public priorities; and
WHEREAS the State of Washington needs a stable and reliable revenue stream to conduct its programs and policies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our legislative delegation and Governor Chris Gregoire to support and approve revenues adequate to protect our economic future by preventing further erosion of the things we value so much about our state: quality schools, affordable health care, a safety net for the most vulnerable, affordable housing, public safety, and a clean environment;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge our legislative delegation and Governor Chris Gregoire to adopt a balanced and fiscally responsible approach to raise adequate levels of revenue to avoid cutting essential public programs, by addressing the current budget shortfall through closing unfair tax loopholes and identifying new revenue sources to stabilize the funding for these essential public services in the short and long term, and thus reflect our values as Washington Democrats values and programs; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to our state legislative delegation, Governor Chris Gregoire, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and Speaker of the House Frank Chopp along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/2/2010)
Submitted by the Thurston County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/20/2010)
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) 2010SCRES - 019 - 100626 - PASS - INT - Resolution on State Revenues (Multiple).doc
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/13/2010)
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 3/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on the Preamble, Agriculture, and Energy and the Environment. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS perennial initiative promoter Tim Eyman of Mukilteo has sponsored and is circulating petitions for Initiative 1325, filed on January 6th, 2014 as an initiative to the people for 2014;
WHEREAS I-1325 would eliminate approximately one billion dollars in funding every year for Washington's public schools and other vital public services by decreasing the state sales tax, unless by April 15th, 2015 the Washington State Legislature approves a constitutional amendment requiring an undemocratic two-thirds vote to raise revenue or recover revenue for the state treasury;
WHEREAS I-1325 has been falsely promoted by Tim Eyman as a constitutional amendment to reinstate the unconstitutional supermajority requirement that was struck down by the Washington State Supreme Court in February of 2013 in League of Education Voters v. State of Washington, when in fact it is an initiative to the people attempting to coerce state lawmakers into agreeing to submit an amendment to the people that would overturn the LEV decision by holding funding for our schools hostage;
WHEREAS our state's founders understood that democracy requires majority rules with minority rights, and after much debate and deliberation, wrote a Constitution for Washington requiring that bills pass by a majority vote, understood to mean greater than fifty percent - no more and no less; and
WHEREAS any higher or lower threshold for the passage of legislation results in power being concentrated in the hands of a few, allowing tax exemptions to be created by a majority vote, but repealed only with a vote of two-thirds or greater represents an unfair double standard;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats take a position opposing I-1325, support a decline to sign on I-1325, and urge a resounding NO vote in the event I- 1325 qualifies for the November 2014 ballot.
Submitted by the 27th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014)
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) 2014SC - 005 - 140621 - PASS - INT - Opposing Initiative The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Internal Party Business at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court, in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission (2010) and other recent decisions, enunciated the novel and unprecedented principles that corporations are entitled to political rights and privileges tantamount to those of individual human beings, and that their use of money is a form of protected free speech;
WHEREAS those decisions, and Citizens United in particular, invalidated campaign spending reform laws enacted by bipartisan majorities in Congress and thereby unleashed an unprecedented torrent of special interest money into our political process;
WHEREAS poll after poll has established that the American public supports overturning those misguided rulings, the continuation of which poses an increasing threat to a democratic republic of, by and for the people;
WHEREAS the corporations plank of the 2012 Washington State Democratic Party Platform begins with this statement: We believe that corporations, as artificial entities, are not entitled to the Constitutional rights of people. It's time to restore responsibility and to limit the power of money to influence politics. Additionally, in the "We call for" enumerations, it states: A constitutional amendment to establish that corporations shall not be considered as "persons" for purposes of political activity and to reverse the pernicious ruling that money equals speech.. It further states: We oppose.... The Supreme Court precedent that corporations are people;
WHEREAS the former Republican State Chair serves as a board member of Citizens United and the Republican majority in the Washington State Senate has thwarted any effort to act on a resolution to Congress calling for a constitutional amendment; and 2014SC - 008 - 140621 - PASS - INT - Supporting Initiative 1329 (1)
WHEREAS WAmend (Washington Coalition for a Constitutional Amendment) filed an initiative which the Washington Attorney General and Secretary of State approved for circulation for signatures as Initiative 1329, the summary of which reads This measure would state that recent rulings by the United States Supreme Court that address limits on government power to regulate political contributions necessitate amendment of the federal Constitution. The measure would urge Washington's Congressional delegation to propose amendments to clarify that constitutional rights including rights to free speech, apply only to natural persons and not to corporations, and to authorize federal and state governments to limit, and require disclosure of political contributions and expenditures;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED we urge Washington's Congressional delegation to propose amendments to clarify that federal constitutional rights, including rights to free speech, apply only to natural persons and not to corporations, and to authorize federal and state governments to limit, and require disclosure of, political contributions and expenditures; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED we support the passage of Initiative 1329 as the most expedient method of achieving this goal.
Submitted by the 2nd LD Democrats and the 45th LD Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014)
Submitted by the Jefferson County Democrats, the Pierce County Democrats, and the Yakima County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date
Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business amended this resolution at their May 4th meeting. The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Internal Party Business at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS much time and effort has gone into Washington State Democratic Party platforms and resolutions reflecting the grassroots desires of Washington State Democrats;
WHEREAS Democratic values, principles and institutions in the United States have been seriously compromised and future erosion of these said values, principles and institutions is continuing at an alarming rate;
WHEREAS, access of the citizen to the political system, and their elected officials under the weight of "Citizens United" and other critical anti-democratic decisions and policies, is increasingly difficult; and
WHEREAS elected officials are more and more, under the influence and control of moneyed interest;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party call upon the Washington State congressional delegation and elected state officials to publicly and actively, using all legal means at their disposal, including parliamentary procedures such as cloture, filibuster, amending funding authorization, etc., work toward enactment of the principles of the Washington State 2014 platform and the attending resolutions.
Submitted by the Platform Committee to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Internal Party Business at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS every student, regardless of who they are or where they live, deserves the opportunity for an excellent education;
WHEREAS class size reduction is one of only four, evidence-based reforms proven to increase student achievement;
WHEREAS Washington State currently ranks 47th in class size in the United States;
WHEREAS the 2012 Washington State Democratic Platform calls for funding for smaller class sizes;
WHEREAS Initiative 1351 would reduce class sizes in every grade for every student in Washington; and
WHEREAS Initiative 1351 would also provide for additional school counselors, librarians, nurses, teaching assistants and other student support staff;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support signature-gathering efforts for Initiative 1351; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats endorse Initiative 1351 and support its passage on the November ballot.
Submitted by the Platform Committee to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 5/31/2014) The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Internal Party Business at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS every student, regardless of who they are or where they live, deserves the opportunity for an excellent education;
WHEREAS class size reduction is one of only four, evidence-based reforms proven to increase student achievement;
WHEREAS Washington State currently ranks 47th in class size in the United States;
WHEREAS the 2012 Washington State Democratic Platform calls for funding for smaller class sizes;
WHEREAS Initiative 1351 would reduce class sizes in every grade for every student in Washington; and
WHEREAS Initiative 1351 would also provide for additional school counselors, librarians, nurses, teaching assistants and other student support staff;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support signature-gathering efforts for Initiative 1351; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats endorse Initiative 1351 and support its passage on the November ballot.
Submitted by the Platform Committee to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 5/31/2014) The Subcommittee on Internal Party Business recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 31st meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Internal Party Business at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS Futbol (also known as soccer) is the most popular sport in the world;
WHEREAS the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention is occurring at the same time as the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil; and
WHEREAS the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) has qualified for the 2014 FIFA World Cup;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the delegates of the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention declare their support for the USMNT at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Submitted with the signatures of 25 delegates to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 6/16/2014) The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 20th meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party promotes inclusion, diversity and the full franchise for all citizens;
WHEREAS Democratic voters in the State of Washington indicate their preference for President through both a system of multi-level caucuses and a presidential primary;
WHEREAS the result of the primary is officially ignored by the State Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS the 2016 caucuses included 35,000 Democrats who participated by surrogate affidavits, which allowed for work, disability, religious or military obligations; many potential participants could not attend due other reasons and were not eligible to vote by surrogate affidavit;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Central Committee of the Democratic Party of the State of Washington and its Chair should take any and all actions within its power to accomplish, or urge the Democratic National Committee to accomplish, the following: 1) Our state party's present system of nominating our presidential candidate ought to be replaced by a multi-step process, limited to declared Democrats, that allows for early discussion, while allocating delegates based on the results of the primary and use of higher level caucuses and local conventions to determine who those delegates will be, and to deal with proposed resolutions and platform amendments. 2) With all methods for selecting our nominee, provision should be made for an unrestricted absentee ballot or surrogate affidavit. 3) That the DNC lead an effort to create uniform and equitable guidelines for selecting presidential candidates.
Submitted by the San Juan County Convention. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS gun injuries and deaths in Washington State are a significant public health problem with approximately 600 people killed by guns each year over the past decade;
WHEREAS a majority of mass shooters over 20 years have shown signs of serious crisis prior to taking fatal action and nearly 80% of those attempting suicide make their intentions known before an attempt;
WHEREAS family members, household members and law enforcement officers are often in the best position to see early warning signs of dangerous, violent and threatening behavior;
WHEREAS the current Washington State Democratic platform supports "the stringent enforcement of laws regulating the purchase and ownership of firearms, while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners";
WHEREAS Initiative 1491 is modeled on successful laws around the country and based on the well-established Washington State system of protection in order to fill gaps in the system that allow people experiencing crisis or demonstrating violent behavior to possess and purchase firearms;
WHEREAS Initiative 1491 is an initiative to the people in Washington State that would create Extreme Risk Protection Orders, which will allow families and law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily suspend a person's access to firearms if there is documented evidence that an individual is threatening harm to themselves or others because of dangerous mental illness or at high risk of violent behavior;
WHEREAS the vast majority of people with mental health problems are no more likely to be violent than anyone else and most people with mental illness are not violent, and only 3%-5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals living with a serious mental illness; and
WHEREAS people with severe mental illnesses are over 10 times more likely to be victims of violent crime than the general population;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the signature-gathering efforts for Initiative 1491 to qualify for the November 2016 ballot, which would create temporary Extreme Risk Protection Orders, allowing family members and law enforcement to petition a court to remove firearms from individuals who present a serious danger to themselves or to others; and 2016SCRES - 008 - 160618 - RECPA - INT - Support I-1491 (46th)
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the State Legislature to amend the initiative after passage to clarify that mental illness is not the primary cause of mass shootings and to add due process for the mentally ill..
Submitted by the 46th LD Caucus. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS protections against gender-identity discrimination have been enacted by the Washington State Human Rights Commission;
WHEREAS allowing people to use facilities based on gender-identity is, in fact, safe and humane;
WHEREAS Washington State Democrats take progressive action based on science and safety; and
WHEREAS this measure would override state/local prohibitions against gender-12 identity discrimination in certain public accommodation facilities, require that public schools restrict access to specific facilities based on sex at birth, and allow related lawsuits against schools;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, oppose Initiative Measure No. 1515; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Party, oppose any measure brought forth to interfere with the ruling by the Human Rights Commission as well as opposing any future measure brought forth that would threaten the safety, security and well-being of transgender citizens of Washington State.
Submitted by the Island County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS, the US Supreme Court in its Citizens United v. FEC and Buckley v. Valeo decisions construed the spending of money by individuals, corporations and special interests in elections as protected free speech under the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States;
WHEREAS, previous US Supreme Court decisions have eroded the authority of government to regulate campaign contributions and expenditures;
WHEREAS, the prompt disclosure of all political contributions and expenditures in a manner accessible to voters prior to elections is in the best interest of holding free and fair elections;
WHEREAS, Initiative 735 seeks to make Washington the 17th state calling for a US Constitutional amendment to overturn US Supreme Court decisions that threaten to destroy our democracy; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee has endorsed I-735 and its provisions identified as follows: 1. The rights listed and acknowledged in the Constitution of the United States are the rights of individual human beings only. 2. The judiciary shall not construe the spending of money to be free speech under The First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. 3. Federal, State and Local governments shall be fully empowered to regulate political contributions and expenditures to ensure that no person or artificial legal entity gains undue influence over government and the political process. 4. All political contributions and expenditures shall be disclosed promptly and in a manner accessible to voters prior to elections;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State Democratic Party urge its elected officials to endorse I-735 and to pass endorsement resolutions in their jurisdictions, and encourage all voters to vote for I-735; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Democratic Party at all levels commits to holding Washington State Democratic members of Congress accountable to abide by the wishes of their constituents and to urge Democrats represented by Republican members of Congress to hold their members of Congress accountable following the November 2016 election. 2016SCRES - 077 - 160618 - RECP - INT - Support I-735 (Mason)
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS multiple delegates whose gender-identification is non-binary felt excluded and marginalized at recent Legislative District caucuses by being forced to choose a traditional gender role temporarily in order to run as delegates to the Congressional District caucus;
WHEREAS language around gender-identity has changed dramatically in recent years;
WHEREAS current Party language concerning gender and delegate assignment is limited to traditional female and male roles and ignores advances in gender-12 identification;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democrats have specific language on non-15 discrimination and equal rights in its 2016 platform; and
WHEREAS it is always in the best interests of the Democratic Party to be the party of inclusiveness;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Democratic National Committee, through appropriate channels, to assign this issue to an appropriate standing committee, which will hear from concerned stakeholders and work with them to update the Party's language to include persons who identify as non-24 binary and to make appropriate adjustments to Party rules on delegate assignment in advance of the 2020 Presidential race.
Submitted by the King County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 17, meeting. The 2016 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 18, 2016.
WHEREAS the right to vote is a fundamental right enshrined in the U.S. Constitution;
WHEREAS the recognition of integrity of the people's right to a fair and impartial nomination process is an essential bulwark against tyranny as old as the Greek democracy and Roman republic;
WHEREAS the public expects those holding nomination processes to conduct them impartially and evenhandedly and that the failure to do so breeds contempt and cynicism in the electorate and the party;
WHEREAS the Democratic National Committee (herein after the DNC) has, by virtue of its Charter and Bylaws, expressed its commitment to impartiality and fairness in the nomination process;
WHEREAS Debbie Wasserman Schultz and the DNC allegedly failed to conduct the 2016 primary in an evenhanded and impartial manner in violation of the DNC Bylaws and Article 5, Section 4 of the DNC Charter and were sued in a class action suit alleging numerous instances wherein they failed to conduct the democratic primary in an evenhanded and impartial manner.
WHEREAS in defense of said suit the DNC denied that it has an obligation to conduct the primary process in an evenhanded and impartial manner. The DNC called its own Bylaws and Charter unenforceable political promises;
WHEREAS the DNC has set a dubious precedent by calling its own Charter and Bylaws discretionary; and
WHEREAS the DNC's continued refusal to acknowledge its obligation to provide an impartial and even handed primary deepens the disaffection of certain elements within the Democratic Party;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats urge the DNC to reaffirm its obligation to all party members to conduct an evenhanded and impartial nomination process as determined by its Charter, Bylaws and applicable rules; and THERFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats request a status report from the DNC.
Submitted by the Kitsap County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) and Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) are political action committees (PACs) whose missions are to elect Democratic candidates every step of the way;
WHEREAS the DCCC and DSCC are PACs formed by House and Senate Democrats, not an official parts of the Democratic Party;
WHEREAS the DCCC uses individual ability to fundraise, not core Democratic principles and adherence to local and national Democratic platforms, as a deciding factor to choose which Democrats to support in primaries;
WHEREAS the DCCC in several 2018 races is actively supporting more conservative candidates over progressives;
WHEREAS the DCCC has supported Democrats against other Democrats in numerous House races across the country, contrary to their mission of supporting Democrats;
WHEREAS the DCCC has issued negative research material on viable Democratic candidates they are not backing; and
WHEREAS the DCCC's methods have contributed to a net loss of 63 seats since the 111th Congress in 2009-2011, leaving the House Democrats in their worst position since the 80th Congress in 1947-1949;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call upon the DCCC and the DSCC to remain non-aligned during contested Democratic primaries between viable progressive candidates;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democrats request that the DCCC and the DSCC focus activities during contested primaries to activities that will benefit whichever Democrat is the eventual primary winner; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee deliver a copy of this resolution to the DCCC and the DSCC.
Submitted by the 5th and the 45th Legislative District Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS a rule "reinterpretation" less than two weeks before the Washington State LD caucuses was passed down to each LD requiring the Caucus Jurisdictional Coordinators to allow alternates to be seated outside their precinct in order "to reduce the likelihood that our final National Delegation will differ significantly - in either direction - from the 73%-27% split that came out of the precinct caucuses. By doing it in this way, we are effectively reinforcing the will of the voters of Washington State"; and
WHEREAS in the 2016 primary, the precinct caucuses delegation went to Senator Bernie Sanders at 73%, but due to the unpledged delegates voting for a different candidate, the end percentage for Senator Bernie Sanders was less than 61%, diminishing the will of the voters of Washington State by over 10%;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls on the Democratic National Committee to amend their rules and delegate selection plans, prior to the 2020 Presidential election cycle, to require that superdelegates be pledged on a first ballot to cast their votes in the same proportion as the popular vote in their home state primary election or nominating caucus; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party's representatives to the Democratic National Committee are urged to propose and support changes in the delegate selection process to require that superdelegates in each state vote in the same relative proportion as the popular vote in the presidential primary or caucuses of the state they represent at least on a first ballot at the Democratic National Convention.
Submitted by the 33rd LD Democrats on 8/17/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee amended and approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
WHEREAS the House Democratic Campaign Committee (HDCC) has provided significant funding to candidates who have not been endorsed by any Democratic organization;
WHEREAS this funding from the HDCC has on occasion been given to candidates without any Democratic organization endorsement who are running against candidates that have been endorsed by multiple Democratic organizations;
WHEREAS the HDCC and the Washington Senate Democratic Campaign (WSDC) do not consult on a regular basis with the local parties regarding candidates and local support for those candidates; and
WHEREAS the HDCC's mission is to provide grassroots, strategic, and monetary support in order to maintain a Democratic majority in the State Legislature;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the HDCC and WSDC to consult with local parties prior to extending large amounts of money to a candidate and to seek information regarding Democratic endorsements of candidates on the race; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to both the HDCC and WSDC.
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus on 9/9/2017. The Resolutions Committee recommended that the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC encourages our Chair to create and publish a specific list of rules for granting VoteBuilder access to candidates, subject to approval by the WSDCC.
Submitted by the 21st Legislative District Democrats and the Progressive Caucus. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) will not accept direct or indirect donations from companies in the for- profit prison industry;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC calls upon the DNC, DCCC, DSCC, and other Democratic-aligned organizations to reject direct and indirect donations from the for-profit prison industry; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC provide a copy of this resolution to the DNC, DCCC, DSCC, and Democratic candidates within Washington State.
Submitted by the 5th LD Democrats. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their September 15, 2018 meeting. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on September 16, 2018.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED in order to avoid the appearance of influence or conflict, that the WSDCC urges all Democratic candidates in Washington State to reject donations from corporations in the healthcare, health insurance, and pharmaceutical industries; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges the Executive Committee of the DNC to pass a new resolution prior to the 2020 Congressional elections urging candidates to reject contributions from corporations in the healthcare, health insurance, and pharmaceutical industries; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to each member of the Washington State congressional delegation and to each known candidate for the Democratic nomination for president in 2020.
Submitted by the Washington State Progressive Caucus to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 7th, 2019 meeting in Pasco. (Date Submitted 03/22/2019) The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, adopts the use of "they" as a singular, third person pronoun in resolutions; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats call specifically on our executive board, under the leadership of our Chair, Tina Podlodowski, to demonstrate leadership in this and ensure that future meetings have specific plans to ensure trans people have equitable access to our events, spaces, and meetings. We encourage the executive-board to consult with people experienced in organizing around Trans justice in achieving these goals; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee call upon on our DNC representatives to propose and advocate for the provisions of this resolution and our State Party titles and practices around gender with the DNC.
Submitted by the Stonewall Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 7, 2019 meeting in Pasco. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Okanogan County Central Committee presents this Resolution to form an Agricultural and Rural Caucus within the State Democratic Organization.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 29, 2005 meeting in Olympia by the Okanogan County Democratic Central Committee Not considered by the WSDCC Resolutions Committee because this committee did not met at the January 29, 2005 meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 29, 2005 meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee is dedicated to strengthening and building the Democratic Party in Eastern Washington; and
WHEREAS, the WSDCC has budgeted for an Eastern Washington Staff position who's primary responsibility is to help build all the County and Legislative District Democratic Party organizations in Eastern Washington; and
WHEREAS, the person who is hired and the strengths they bring to the job of Eastern Washington Field Director are most essential to the success of this mission;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that a committee comprised of 9th District Chair Gene Siple, Chelan County Chair Pat Notter, Spokane Chair Katie Kirking, 4th Congressional District Chair Keith Gourley, Lincoln County Chair Gordon Ellis, and Franklin County Chair Gabriel Portugal review and interview the candidates and make a recommendation to the State Chair for the hiring of the Eastern Washington Field Manager. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the same committee, taking into consideration of all the resolutions and suggestions of the grassroots work with the state party to place this staff person in a safe, productive working space that has access to human and capital resources to maximize their potential for success.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the WSDCC Executive Board. Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS ensuring the highest degree of transparency in financial matters and complete compliance with Washington State laws and regulations concerning the operations and finances of the party is fundamental to the management of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC);
WHEREAS this necessitates an effective and efficient accounting and verification system by which all incoming monies and donations are cataloged for punctual disclosure;
WHEREAS a financial review is the most effective method for determining which systems are the most appropriate for supporting and maintaining sound financial management; WHERAS a financial review of the WSDCC was conducted by Phil Lloyd in March of 2005; WHERAS Mr. Lloyd made the following recommendations regarding WSDCC financial operations; External Financial Review Recommendations 1. A qualified senior accounting manager should be hired with a financial degree and/or significant accounting experience. 2. A better developed policies and procedures manual that reflects current Federal and State reporting requirements be developed. 3. A reporting system that identifies each step of the process be implemented. a. The procedures would include checking that each C3 listed on the C4 was prepared and filed and to confirm that the cash balances on the reports match the reconciled bank balances. 4. Pursue improvements to the PT reporting software to allow for internal reporting consistent with GAAP as well as reporting budget vs. actual receipts & expenditures. 5. Implement additional internal controls to safeguard the WSDCC's assets. This would include segregating staff duties, having written spending authorization limits, developing and monitoring budgets for expenses and having ongoing review of financial statements and bank accounts by non-43 accounting staff. WSDCCRES - 033 - 050402 - PASS - INT - Financial Review of WSDCC.doc 6. The Party should have all staff trained in all facets of reporting, including PDC, FEC and internal reporting using Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. WHERAS Chairman Paul Berendt made the following additional recommendations regarding WSDCC financial operations 1. The party contract with an external compliance review officer to review reports for accuracy. That a memo of review be issued after each review to be reported to the full state committee. 2. That the state party finance committee be charged with reviewing the reports and notes from the external reviewer at each regularly scheduled meeting;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Chair of the WSDCC take all necessary steps to immediately enact these recommendations. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Treasurer of the WSDCC report on the progress of enacting these recommendations to the WSDCC Executive Board at its first meeting following the April 1-2, 2005 meeting of the WSDCC and to the WSDCC at its meeting to be held in the fall of 2005. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Treasurer of the WSDCC report on a monthly basis to the Executive Board regarding the implementation of these procedures and the timely filing of disclosure reports.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the WSDCC Executive Board (4/1/05) Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, there have been several groups who have requested special members and additional members to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee; and,
WHEREAS, the party has no clear rules that exist for the addition or subtraction of a special member to be added to the State Central Committee; and,
WHEREAS, some groups have very small and short term memberships which brings into question their merit for special membership status and other groups have very large, formal and permanent structures in place who want special status;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the rules committee be directed to draft for consideration by the Executive Board rules and procedures for the granting of special membership to the State Committee and that standards be implemented for the inclusion of special members to the State Committee and those rules and standards be considered by the state committee at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its April 2, 2005 meeting in Pasco by the WSDCC Executive Board (4/1/05) Passed by the WSDCC on April 2, 2005 at its meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS, the highway, bridge and auxiliary facilities of roads in the State of Washington, are deteriorating and worsening daily, causing safety conditions to become unnecessarily perilous with a high accident rate on many of the state roads; and
WHEREAS, major bridge repairs and widening and improvements are not just needed, but imperative, for disaster preparedness resulting from natural and man-9 made hazards if the highways are to serve the many needs of state residents and to, also, attract visitors to the many recreational areas and parks in our beautiful mountains, lakes, rivers and seas; and
WHEREAS, in order to enhance the quality of life and encourage community development for job creation, other supplemental facilities such as bike paths and sidewalks assist in alleviating road congestion and in reducing pollution; and
WHEREAS, contractors for highway work will not provide this needed work without ample payment, and as stated by the budget office, the legislature and the Governor of the state, funds do not exist to pay for the additional essential construction; and
WHEREAS, the Vehicle Fuel Transportation Act as passed this year included an increase in the gas tax of three cents per gallon this year, an additional three cents in the year 2006, and added two cents in 2007, and one and one half cents in 2008 to provide the required monies; but
WHEREAS, an initiative is underway to overturn this Act that would eliminate the provision of these funds; therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the WSDCC does hereby encourage all residents of the State of Washington to VOTE NO on Initiative 912 so that these desperately needed gas tax revenues can be utilized for state and community development to provide the infrastructure for transportation safety and economic development for a secure and stable state and region. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all Washington state elected officials and Party members vigorously campaign in support of the gas tax through community forums and educational sessions. WSDCCRES - 046 - 050917 - PASS - INT - I-912.doc
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the Clallam County Democratic Central Committee and the Clallam County Democratic Club (7/23/2005) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the business of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee should be conducted only by credentialed, recognized and authorized Democrats at all official Party meetings and conferences; and
WHEREAS, certain WSDCC meetings through 2005 were not secured so that only duly credentialed persons were voting at committee meetings such as the Platform committee and Chairs committee; and
WHEREAS, it is of the utmost importance that any serious breeches in legal and proper party procedures be immediately remedied to prevent irregularities in all votes and actions possibly compromising the legitimacy, stature and credibility of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) adopt and implement such procedures as may be necessary to protect the integrity and propriety of the credentials process and all votes cast in matters brought before officially authorized and convened meetings, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC authorize the credentials committee or other appropriate committee to study, draft and recommend safeguards as needed to maintain security over the control of vote related documents and records, and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the aforementioned be designed, adopted, implemented and operational as soon as possible, but not later than the WSDCC State Convention of June 2006.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent by the 10th Legislative District Democrats (Date Submitted 1/19/2006) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent. Passed by the WSDCC at its January 28, 2006 meeting in South Seattle - Kent.
WHEREAS, there, for many years, have been ongoing problems facing the Washington Legislature; and
WHEREAS, Governor Chris Gregoire has worked to bring a number of groups to agreement; and
WHEREAS, the members of the Washington State Democrats recognize the outstanding value of the accomplishments of Governor Chris Gregoire; and
WHEREAS, all the citizens of the state will profit from the passage of legislation that resulted from the work of Governor Chris Gregoire;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party calls upon the state of Washington to recognize Governor Chris Gregoire for her accomplishments during the 2006 Legislative session; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party recognizes Governor Chris Gregoire for her work in bringing contentious parties together to make workable agreements, valuable for the future of the State of Washington.
Submitted by the Cowlitz County DCC as the result of a motion by Dixie White to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/11/2006) The State Platform Committee at its June 2, 2006 meeting in Yakima, recommended that this resolution be moved to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review and consolidation prior to the WSDCC meeting to be held on September 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the country's general condition has been deteriorating for the past five years in the form of increasing national debt, health care, international relations, the war and erosion of our civil rights; and
WHEREAS, this is primarily attributable to the Republicans lock on the legislative process and the executive office and the ongoing corruption; and
WHEREAS, the opportunity exists to take the House and the Senate;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Party do everything in its power to take back the House and the Senate. ______________________________________________________ This resolution was passed by the 2006 Clallam County Democratic Convention on April 8, 2006 and submitted to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima. The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee recommended a "Pass" on this resolution at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS, the 2006 midterm election was an overwhelming success for Democrats across the Country, with Democrats regaining control of both the House and Senate in Congress, capturing 6 additional governorships from Republicans, while retaining all of their contested governorships, and gaining majorities in seven additional state legislatures; and
WHEREAS, DNC Chairman Howard Dean delivered on his promise to invest in rebuilding the party in every state in the country, including Red states, and has hired, trained, and deployed seasoned organizers and communications specialists to every state well in advance of the midterm elections, and also delivered on his promise to rebuild Democratic voter files and get-out-the-vote infrastructure, and that these party-14 building efforts enabled Democrats to take advantage of the wave of public sentiment against Republican rule in Congress even in states and districts that were not originally thought to be competitive; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the Democratic National Committee's 50-State Strategy, and expresses its appreciation to DNC Chairman Howard Dean for his persistence and leadership in executing this program, and for his ongoing commitment to revitalizing the Democratic Party throughout the entire United States.
Submitted by the San Juan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 3/13/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, the Port of Seattle is responsible for the management and operations of the Sea-Tac International Airport, Seattle seaport, local marinas and extensive real estate assets; and
WHEREAS, the Port of Seattle is governed by elected Commissioners who are responsible for oversight and ensuring that Port operations are transparent, efficient, profitable, safe, and serve the citizens of King County; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Mic Dinsmore has been the Executive Director of the Port of Seattle for years and recently retired as the highest paid port executive in the entire country with: A) an annual salary of $339,841 that is over 33 times the 2007 Federal Poverty Guideline of $10,210, and B) an extensive expense account including all costs for a leased luxury auto, extravagant entertaining, thousands of dollars in bar and restaurant tabs, and first class travel to exotic locales; and
WHEREAS, recent news stories have noted that Mr. Dinsmore has $858,617 in two retirement accounts, including $431,231 in port contributions, and is due a $107,000 annual pension that is over 10 times the 2007 Federal Poverty Guideline of $10,210, and giving him one of the most profitable pensions in the history of state and local government in Washington state; and
WHEREAS, Port Commissioner Pat Davis signed a letter dated Oct. 10, 2006, while she was President of the Commission, that attempted to authorize a supplemental severance package of one year's salary to Mr. Dinsmore in the amount of $339,841 without public notice, public review or a public vote of approval by the Commission; and
WHEREAS, it is illegal for any individual Port Commissioner or for the Port Commission as a body to authorize the expenditure of funds for a supplemental payout to Mr. Dinsmore without public notice and a public vote of the full Commission; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby calls for a full and complete investigation into the circumstances and actions surrounding the attempt to authorize the illegal, unethical and unearned payout of one year's salary in the amount of $339,841 to former Port of Seattle Executive Director Mic Dinsmore, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if it is found that Port Commissioner Pat Davis, or any other complicit Commissioners, did attempt to authorize the illegal, unethical and WSDCCRES - 336 - 070428 - PASS - INT - Port of Seattle Commission.doc unearned payout of $339,841 to former Port of Seattle Executive Director Mic Dinsmore, then the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby censures Seattle Port Commissioner Pat Davis, and any other complicit Commissioners, for the abuse of public trust, abuse of power, misuse of public funds and failure to perform the duties as a sworn public official, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if it is found that Port Commissioner Pat Davis, or any other complicit Commissioners, did attempt to authorize the illegal, unethical and unearned payout of $339,841 to former Port of Seattle Executive Director Mic Dinsmore, then the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby calls for the immediate resignation of Seattle Port Commissioner Pat Davis and any other complicit Commissioners.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 4/25/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 28, 2007 meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS, I-960 would create a bureaucratic horror, requiring voters to approve even routine fund transfers and regular budget matters. I-960 would make government less efficient and put funding for critical public services at risk;
WHEREAS, routine fund transfers from one account to another to address needs such as fixing roads, or priorities in children's health care or prescription drug assistance for seniors would require a 2/3 legislative vote AND another election;
WHEREAS, I-960 would not cut taxes, in fact it could end up raising taxes. Endless elections and extremely long ballots would cost millions to administer, leading to cuts in vital services;
WHEREAS, I-960 could tie up the courts for years, costing taxpayers millions of dollars;
WHEREAS, I-960 could slow down the government's response, even in time of crisis, the measure is written in such a way allowing the legislature to suspend these time-21 consuming votes during a natural disaster only, leaving us vulnerable in an economic recession or even terror attacks; BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee join the NO ON 960 campaign as supported by a broad coalition of business, labor, environmental and healthcare groups as well as a host of other organizations from across the State of Washington. The King County Democratic Central Committee and many of its legislative district organizations have signed on to the NO ON 960 Campaign and request that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee do so at their September 29, 2007, meeting in Wenatchee.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 9/13/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, Washington's Constitution states that it is the paramount duty of the State to provide for the education of all children, and;
WHEREAS, adequate, stable funding is critical to the fulfillment of this mission; and resources provided through voter-approved school levies are essential to local school districts' ability to provide a well-rounded school levies are essential to local school districts' ability to provide a well-rounded, quality education to each student; and
WHEREAS, local levy dollars account for a critical portion of the operating budget in most districts statewide; and
WHEREAS, school districts are required to receive 60 percent approval for ongoing levies, even though other property tax measures do not face the same requirement; and EHJR 4204 would promote fairness by allowing school levies to be approved by a majority of those voting, and
WHEREAS, EHJR 4204 will appear on the November 2007 ballot for approval by a majority of Washington voters;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, support EHJR 4204 which allows citizens throughout the State to support students learning through simple majority approval of school levies.
Submitted by the Hispanic Latino Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 9/29/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 29, 2007 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS, the philosophy of government held by George W. Bush is diametrically opposed to the core beliefs of the Democratic Party, we, the Washington State Democrats, have lost all trust in his judgment;
WHEREAS, we oppose any legislation offered by the congressional Republicans that does not promote the common good;
WHEREAS, the concept of preventive and preemptory wars is immoral, outrageous and un-American. We therefore totally reject any policies or acts that would further implement this concept; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democrats should not acquiesce to the domestic and foreign policy objectives promoted by George W. Bush and the Republicans by aiding and abetting the adoption of any resolutions or legislation that are detrimental to the common good or that activate the policy of preventive and preemptory war. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, this resolution shall be forwarded to the Washington State Congressional delegation.
Submitted by the 44th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/3/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, Grassroots Democrats are committed to, and the agents for party-building;
WHEREAS, Grassroots Democrats are regularly reminded by our State and County Chairs that party-building and party unity are part of a critical strategy to turn out votes to elect Democrats;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democrats advises elected Democrats to support Democratic candidates, to support Democrats who run in nonpartisan races, and not endorse Republicans; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democrats advises elected Democrats who endorse Republicans, that it directly undermines our party-building efforts, and that it may jeopardize any future District endorsement and financial support; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, State Party Chair Dwight Pelz advises elected Democrats that endorsing Republican candidates is unacceptable; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge all local Democratic parties to withhold an endorsement from any elected Democrat who endorses a Republican candidate.
Submitted by the 37th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 12/4/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, the 2006 Platform of the Washington State Democratic Party, Section 7, Political Reform, states: "Our government derives its legitimacy solely from the democratic will of the people and must reflect our values as citizens. Our government must be fiscally sound; operate ethically; refrain from establishing or supporting religion; and be open, transparent and accountable to the will of the people. Our faith in our government and our political system can only be restored through constructive reform, and only substantial election reform can restore faith in the election system. [...] We believe: Citizen participation is a right and duty of citizenship, and free, open, and verifiable elections are key to our democratic processes. We support: [...] Inclusive campaign and debate processes that do not exclude credible third party candidates... "; and
WHEREAS, the Democratic Party, the Washington State Democratic Party, and organizations created to support the Democratic Party (e. g., the Democratic National Committee) have failed in their duty to live up to the principles expressed in our platforms, with respect to political campaigns, elections, and related activities; and
WHEREAS, one of the specific examples of this failure was the Party's reluctance and failure to reveal and present in a timely manner the results of a secure, online presidential preference poll that was sponsored and conducted by the office of the Washington State Democratic Party, this poll posted and active for two weeks on the website of the State Party with no results announced until after extreme pressure was brought to bear by the campaign of the winning candidate, Congressman Dennis Kucinich; and
WHEREAS, the aforementioned secure, online poll was equally available to all persons in all of the Democratic presidential campaigns who had an equal amount of time to cast their votes; and
WHEREAS, each voter could cast only one vote during the entire two-week period of the online poll; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this poll (sponsored and conducted by the Washington State Democratic Party) was to determine the statewide level of grassroots support for each of the Democratic Party candidates; and WSDCCRES - 385 - 080126 - PASS - INT - Anti-Democratic Action.doc
WHEREAS, the State Democratic Party Chair refused to post (after a request by the Kucinich Campaign coordinator) a congratulatory message to the winning candidate, Dennis Kucinich, with an accompanying current photo of the candidate on the Home (Barack Obama) in place for many days following his first place finish in the Iowa Caucus; and
WHEREAS, all of these factors, being taken together, constitute a very unfair situation for a candidate who also, for no legitimate reason, suffered a media blackout of his message and image in the corporate, mainstream media; and
WHEREAS, one of the long-term goals of the Democratic Party has been to strengthen the base of support and engagement of citizens in a diverse nation; and
WHEREAS, our Democratic Party has traditionally supported equality and the principle of free speech;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, asserts its wish to reaffirm the principles of "open and inclusive campaign and debate processes" and "free speech" and equal and fair treatment of all declared candidates who are on the Washington Democratic ballot, as well as the relevance and importance of adherence to our Party Platform by the Party Chair and his agents; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT, this resolution, upon passage, be sent to: the Washingtonton State Democratic Central Committee of the; the Officers of the WSDCC; Dwight Pelz, Party Chair; to the Chair of the Democratic National Committee, and to Congressman Dennis Kucinich of Cleveland, Ohio.
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date
Submitted 1/14/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, our State Party has done outreach to the Latino community through the Latino Vote Project, implementing a top national priority of the Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS, the Latino Vote Project is currently defunct; and
WHEREAS, in reference to the Latino Vote Project, the State Party website refers to a staff person who is no longer employed; and
WHEREAS, the State Party must continue outreach to the burgeoning Latino community, which is emerging into a potentially major Democratic voting bloc; and
WHEREAS, the State Party Chairman has indicated that we have available funds of $1.2 million
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the budget be amended to reestablish the funding of the Latino Vote Project to at least equal to the 2006-2007 levels. BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT, the Hispanic/Latino Caucus shall act as an advisory board to the Latino Vote Project.
Submitted by the Washington State Latino Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 26, 2008 meeting in the Vancouver. (Date Submitted 1/26/2007) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 26, 2008 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS, the positions of the Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin are contrary to the best interests of women; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee and its Women's Caucus affirm the participation of female candidates in the electoral process with the end result being the uplift and empowerment of women; and
WHEREAS, the Obama/Biden campaign supports positions that advance the best interests of women;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Washington State Democratic Central Committee and the Women's Caucus urge the election of Barack Obama and Joseph Biden as President and Vice President of the United States of America and repudiate the McCain/Palin ticket and its values.
Submitted by the Women's Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 13, 2008 meeting in Tulalip. (Date
Submitted 9/13/2008) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 13, 2008 meeting in Tulalip.
WHEREAS the most recent election cycle was one of the most successful election cycles on a national basis in many decades;
WHEREAS the 50-state initiative created numerous victories and close races in previously uncompetitive districts;
WHEREAS the success of this program has energized Democrats everywhere;
WHEREAS a large part of this success was the adoption and maintenance of a solid voter database;
WHEREAS maintenance and growth of a voter database containing pertinent information is essential to successful election strategy; and
WHEREAS we believe the continued maintenance and growth of this database is key to future electoral success;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the state party should continue to budget for a staff level in data management adequate to maintain and grow the database throughout 2009-2010 and beyond.
Submitted by the 17th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 12/15/2008) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party has, until recently, been behind the Republican Party in building and using technology used for voter identification; and
WHEREAS the DNC, in conjunction with the fifty state strategy, has developed the VoteBuilder software for national use with the flexibility for adaptation to the needs of the various state Democratic Parties; and
WHEREAS the Obama campaign took technology utilization to a higher level by putting basic online volunteer and donor information directly into the hands of field organizers, adding significantly to our state party voter ID base; and
WHEREAS the existence of standing Technology Committees in state Democratic Party organizations (for example, the Washington State Democratic Party Central Committee) correlates positively with higher levels of utilization of VoteBuilder software by PCOs; and
WHEREAS the Democratic National Committee does not currently have a technology committee consisting of DNC delegates; and
WHEREAS all state Democratic Parties, like state governments, are short of money for further investment in technology development; and
WHEREAS it is imperative that the Democratic Party not let the vast improvements in voter ID achieved in 2008 deteriorate, but instead extend and build on those improvements;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we direct the WSDCC to instruct our DNC delegates to request at the next DNC meeting that more financial resources be directed to maintaining, updating and improving the VoteBuilder database, including the hiring of more database specialists to work for the state parties; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we direct the WSDCC to instruct our DNC delegates to request that the DNC establish a Technology Committee to oversee improvements in voter and volunteer identification technology at the national level; and WSDCCRES - 400 - 090425 - PASS - INT - DNC Technology Committee.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the national Technology Committee track innovations contributed by campaigns and various state parties for the purpose of identifying promulgating best practices nationally; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the national Technology Committee encourage state parties that do not have technology committees to establish them; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Technology Committee make regular reports to the DNC and the state parties on a quarterly basis.
Submitted by the 11th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date Submitted 3/22/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "REFERRED THIS RESOLUTION TO THE WSDCC TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE" at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS Tim Eyman has sought to place the "Lower Property Taxes" Initiative on the Washington State ballot in November;
WHEREAS a Washington State Budget & Policy Center analysis of I-1033 finds it "will drastically prohibit long-term investments in education, health care, and economic security";
WHEREAS the Bell Policy Center of Colorado did a study on a measure similar to I-10 that passed in Colorado in 1992;
WHEREAS this study found the measure placed restrictions on spending that made it "almost impossible for state government to meet critical needs"; and
WHEREAS this initiative would cost thousands of jobs, and substantially reduce the quality of life in Washington State;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC) is firmly opposed to I-1033; and
THEREFORE BE IT FUTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC encourages its members to help in efforts to educate voters about the potential consequences of I-1033, and to work to defeat it, should it make it to the November ballot.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date Submitted 7/11/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS passing resolutions is a primary means for the WSDCC to take action, lobby legislative efforts, set party policy, direct the Chairman and staff, and otherwise conduct party business;
WHEREAS the Chairman and the staff of the State Party diligently act on resolutions duly passed;
WHEREAS several recent resolutions have resolved actions that are either impossible, or impractical in the face of limited resources; and
WHEREAS rules governing the Committee on Resolutions are described in the document "WSDCC Rules for Resolutions", dated January 28th, 2006;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee shall consider the proposed amendment to the Rules of the Committee on Resolutions detailed below; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this amendment be referred to the Committee on Rules for expedient consideration. Proposed Amendment to the Rules of the Committee on Resolutions A Motion to Amend the Rules by inserting a new section VI, after Section V, and to appropriately renumber the following sections. VI. Responsibilities of the Resolutions Committee. A. The Resolutions Committee will review each proposed resolution for the following elements: 1. Timely submission, as specified in III.A and III.B 2. Proper submission, as specified in II. 3. Proper elements, as specified in V. B. The Resolutions Committee will further review each proposed resolution for a reasonable, attainable, and limited scope of action in the "Resolved" clauses. 1. Any action resolved must be within the power of the Chairman and staff, or the State Central Committee. 2. Any action resolved must be appropriately limited in scope, difficulty and cost appropriate to the resolution. WSDCCRES - 432 - 090926 - PASS - INT - Rules Regarding Resolutions.doc C. The Resolutions Committee will amend or reject any resolution that has not met all above criteria.
Submitted by the 41st LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/2/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS in 2007, the Washington State Legislature passed and the Governor signed legislation establishing Domestic Partner registration in the State of Washington, and provided rights and responsibilities for domestic partners such as the right to hospital visitation and other critical health care and inheritance issues;
WHEREAS in 2008, the Washington State Legislature passed and the Governor signed legislation that expanded Domestic Partnership rights and responsibilities, giving domestic partners standing under laws covering probate and trusts, community property and guardianship;
WHEREAS in 2009, the Washington State Legislature overwhelmingly passed and the Governor signed the Domestic Partnership Expansion Law of 2009 including all the remaining rights and responsibilities currently provided to married couples by the State of Washington;
WHEREAS the Domestic Partnership Expansion Law provides essential rights and responsibilities to gay and lesbian couples who are denied the right to legally marry and couples where at least one partner is 62;
WHEREAS these rights include death benefits for the partners of police and firefighters killed in the line of duty; pension benefits for the partners of teachers and other public employees; victims' rights, including the right to receive notifications and benefits allowances; the right to use sick leave to care for a seriously ill partner; the right to workers' compensation benefits if a partner is killed in the course of employment; and the right to receive unemployment benefits if an employee must leave a job to care for a seriously ill partner;
WHEREAS more than 5,000 domestic partnership registrations have been filed, in every county in Washington State, providing essential protections to families;
WHEREAS a group of socially conservative activists have filed signatures with the Secretary of State to qualify Referendum 71 to keep the Domestic Partnership Expansion Law of 2009 from going into effect and to repeal the law;
WHEREAS Referendum 71 asks the question should the Domestic Partnership Expansion Bill of 2009 (SB5688) be APPROVED or REJECTED; WSDCCRES - 436 - 090926 - PASS - INT - Supporting R-71.doc
WHEREAS a majority of voters voting to 'reject' on Referendum 71 would result in over 5,000 couples in the State of Washington being denied the over 200 protections already enjoyed by legally married couples and thereby denied equal protection under the law; and
WHEREAS repealing the Domestic Partnership Law is contrary to the beliefs and platform of the Democratic Party and our belief in equality, fairness and supporting all families;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses the Washington Families Standing Together Campaign and urges all voters to Approve Referendum 71 in order to retain the Domestic Partnership Law.
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/10/2009)
Submitted by the 37th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/16/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its September 25, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla.
WHEREAS Tomas Villanueva has represented a guiding light for the Latino movement in the State of Washington;
WHEREAS Tomas Villanueva has represented a guiding light for the Union movement in the State of Washington;
WHEREAS Tomas Villanueva has long supported Democratic ideals even when it wasn't politically expedient to do so; and
WHEREAS Tomas Villanueva should be recognized for these achievements;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED That The Washington State Democrats hereby go on record acknowledging said achievements;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that our thoughts and prayers are with the Villanueva family;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats wish Mr. Villanueva a speedy recovery; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party is directed to send a copy to Mr. Villanueva, as well as our well wishes.
Submitted by the Hispanic Latino Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. (Date
Submitted 9/26/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "TABLED" this resolution at its September 26, meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC "AFFIRMED THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE'S DECISION TO TABLE" this resolution at its September 26, 2009 meeting in Walla Walla. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS in 1980, Patty Murray, a preschool teacher citizen lobbying the state legislature for educational and environmental issues , and despite a State Legislative Representative dismissing her comments because she was "just a mom in tennis shoes", successfully, in coalition, gathered support to oppose State cuts in the preschool education budget;
WHEREAS Patty Murray, with her heritage from her parents of service to her nation, carried her Democratic values and standards with her as she stepped forward to be elected to the Board of Directors of the Shoreline WA school district (1985-1989), the Washington State Senate (1989-1993) and then the United States Senate (1993- present), with her husband and two children and family members providing support for her public service;
WHEREAS Patty Murray in 2002 voted against waging war against the nation of Iraq because war is not the only answer to terrorist attacks; and
WHEREAS Patty Murray in her third term as U.S Senator of Washington State has advocated for improved federal services and contracts in our state to increase strong communities and economies;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee of Washington state does endorse Senator Patty Murray with fervent thanks and encourage pledges of financial and volunteer support by Democrats in her decision to seek re-election in 2010 as US Senator of the State of Washington.
Submitted by the 7th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/18/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "REFERRED THIS RESOLUTION TO THE WSDCC ELECTIONS COMMITTEE" at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC Elections Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party is only as strong as the principles for which it stands;
WHEREAS these principles are set forth in the platform adopted by the Washington State Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS individuals running as candidates seek the Democratic Party's endorsement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC call on each and every non-judicial candidate seeking endorsement to read the current State Platform adopted by the Washington State Democrats, to demonstrate an understanding of the principles embodied in it, and to promote these principles with consideration given to the wishes of their constituency and consideration of the duties of the office they are running for; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be forwarded to all LD and County organizations with the recommendation that they consider this resolution when making endorsements.
Submitted by the 27th LD Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 10/1/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS the highest authority in the Washington State Democratic Party is the State Convention;
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (SCC) is the governing body of the Party when the convention is not in session;
WHEREAS other than Removal of Officers by a two-thirds vote of the Central Committee (SCC) (Article II, Section C.8) investigation and disciplinary procedures are not spelled out in the Bylaws of the Democratic Party;
WHEREAS the Bylaws state, "In all matters not covered expressly by these Bylaws, Robert's Rules of Order, newly revised, shall prevail." (Article II, Section D.6); and
WHEREAS Robert"s Rules of Order, newly revised, Chapter XX, DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES, spells out in great detail the process for investigations and discipline. Further, under "STEPS IN A FAIR DISCIPLINARY PROCESS", page 631 and 632, "CONFIDENTIAL INVESTIGATION BY COMMITTEE" Robert's calls for, "A committee whose members are selected for known integrity and good judgement should conduct a confidential investigation (usually including an interview with the accused) to determine whether further action, including the preferring of charges if necessary, is warranted";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (SCC) designates the Rules Committee, or a subcommittee thereof, as the body to conduct confidential investigation per the procedures of Robert's of allegations of violations of the Charter or Bylaws of Democratic Party of the State of Washington, the Delegate Selection Rules of the Democratic Party of the State of Washington, or other matters the Central Committee may specifically designate;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (SCC) designates the Affirmative Action Committee, or a subcommittee thereof, as the body to conduct confidential investigation per the procedures of Robert's of allegations of wrongdoing of an interpersonal nature, or subjects under the normal jurisdiction of that committee; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC form a subcommittee to confidentially investigate any conflicts or issues that are not handled by the Rules or Affirmative Action Committees as necessary." WSDCCRES - 506 - 101009 - PASS - INT - Discipline Procedures.doc
Submitted by the Rules Committee to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date
Submitted 10/9/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS the various local Democratic parties in Washington State share common technical issues, with unique local circumstances;
WHEREAS no individual local Democratic party has sufficient technical talent to solve all their technical problems well; and
WHEREAS Washington State has a wealth of talented professionals who would appreciate the opportunity to volunteer their professional skills to the Washington State Democratic Party;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC directs the Technology Committee to establish, support, and direct a statewide Technology Team;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Technology Team be directed to organize volunteers statewide who are willing to donate professional time and technical talent to collaborate on a mission to "Build Technology to Support Democrats to Elect Democrats";
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a core strategy of the Technology Team is to survey local parties to discover local party needs, and those useful solutions which may be adapted for use statewide;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that other core strategies of the Technology Team are to respect local party autonomy, provide user-friendly educational materials, to communicate online often, and to use appropriate security measures.
Submitted by the 44th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date Submitted 4/15/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the 2012 Delegate Selection Plan has postponed the Presidential Precinct Caucuses from February 9th (as in 2008) to April 15th;
WHEREAS the Legislative District Caucuses will be April 29th, only thirteen days later, and the County Conventions are scheduled for April 29th, the day after that;
WHEREAS this compressed schedule will test the mettle of any Platform & Resolutions Committee to prepare a draft platform that must be sent out with the Call to LD Caucus or Call to County Convention, if one is proposed, 10 days before the meeting;
WHEREAS the WSDCC requires resolutions to follow a certain format and to reference (and not to duplicate) a particular state platform section;
WHEREAS this schedule does not allow sufficient time for a Platform & Resolutions Committee to process and prepare resolutions for LD Caucuses and County Conventions;
WHEREAS any resolutions that arise from precinct caucuses can be handled according to the standard rules and procedures of the Legislative District or County to which they would be submitted; and
WHEREAS advocacy groups that wish to propose resolutions may be encouraged to join and to participate in Legislative District and County party organizations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats amend the 2012 Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plan (DSAAP) to remove lines 21 and 22 from page 19 reading "The minutes shall include the full text of all presented resolutions."
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 9/9/2011) The Resolutions Committee referred this resolution to the Rules Committee with a "RECOMMENDATION TO PASS WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. WSDCCRES - 553 - 110917 - PASS - INT - 2012 Convention Cycle Resolutions.doc The Rules Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED WITH AMENDMENTS" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS thousands of Washington adults are arrested, prosecuted, and convicted for simple marijuana possession each year, wasting millions of dollars in police, court, and jail resources that could be redirected to more important public safety priorities;
WHEREAS marijuana is Washington's second biggest cash crop and could generate hundreds of millions of dollars in new tax revenues for the state if brought out of the illicit market, regulated, produced by licensed Washington businesses, and taxed;
WHEREAS legalizing marijuana and bringing it under regulatory control would have a significant impact on the illicit profits supporting violent criminal organizations;
WHEREAS simple marijuana possession charges now account for fully half of all drug arrests in Washington;
WHEREAS possession of even a small amount of marijuana for personal use is a criminal charge requiring court appearances and carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of twenty-four hours in jail and a $250 fine, plus court costs and attorneys' fees;
WHEREAS these short-term consequences disrupt lives and create financial hardship for many;
WHEREAS even a misdemeanor conviction for marijuana possession can result in long-27 term consequences like loss of employment, loss of housing, loss of federal financial aid for college, termination of child visitation rights, and deportation and exclusion of legal immigrants;
WHEREAS although white Washingtonians use marijuana at slightly higher rates, people of color are more frequently arrested, charged, and convicted for marijuana possession, resulting in a disproportionate impact on the communities struggling most to achieve social and economic justice;
WHEREAS in Washington, an African American is three times as likely to be arrested, three times as likely to be charged, and three times as likely to be convicted for a marijuana offense as a white Washingtonian, despite the fact that whites use marijuana at slightly higher rates; WSDCCRES - 555 - 110917 - PASS - INT - Supporting I-502 (2).doc
WHEREAS evidence-based prevention programs, community support for at-risk families, education, and healthcare are more cost-effective strategies for reducing the risk of substance abuse than incarcerating people for marijuana use and saddling them with criminal records;
WHEREAS Initiative Measure No. 502 will legalize, tax, and regulate the purchase and possession of small amounts of marijuana for adults aged 21 and over;
WHEREAS Initiative Measure No. 502 will authorize the Washington State Liquor Control Board to license private individuals to produce, refine, and sell marijuana in marijuana-only stores, and to adopt regulations addressing safety, security, sanitation, quality control, labeling, and advertising;
WHEREAS Initiative Measure No. 502 will generate an estimated $215 million in new tax revenues each year, with roughly $80 million going to the state general fund and local budgets, and $135 million earmarked for substance abuse prevention, research and education, healthcare, and programs for at-risk youth;
WHEREAS Initiative Measure No. 502 will create a per se DUI threshold of 5 nanograms per milliliter of whole blood for the psychoactive marijuana component THC, and this per se limit will not apply to the non-psychoactive marijuana metabolite carboxy-THC that can appear in blood and urine tests for days or even weeks after last use; and
WHEREAS Initiative Measure No. 502 will not change Washington's medical marijuana law, but it will provide patients new protection from arrest for possessing marijuana and new access to licensed, regulated sources of quality-controlled and Washington-68 produced marijuana;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, endorse and stand in support of Initiative Measure No. 502 to legalize, tax, and regulate marijuana for adults 21 and over.
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/8/2011)
Submitted by the 39th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 17, 2011 meeting in Bellingham. (Date Submitted 9/8/2011) WSDCCRES - 555 - 110917 - PASS - INT - Supporting I-502 (2).doc The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS Washington's political system is more transparent and more democratic because we elect PCOs;
WHEREAS Washington's Legislature passed precinct committee officer election laws in to prevent the political corruption of Tammany Hall and Boss Tweed, because PCOs are elected by the voters in the precinct, not chosen by the Party boss;
WHEREAS elected PCOs are a source of stability for the Democratic and Republican (D and R) parties; and
WHEREAS the election of PCOs every two years is the "re-set button" that allows us to re-organize our county and LD parties, electing their officers and state committee representatives, who then control the state party;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call on all County Auditors and Directors of Elections to acknowledge the valuable role that elected PCOs play in Washington's democracy; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we ask all County Auditors and Directors of Elections to call on the Washington Association of County Officials to work with the Republican and Democratic parties to find a sensible way to continue this important feature of our democracy.
Submitted by the Mason County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date
Submitted 1/11/2011)
Submitted by the Clark County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. (Date Submitted 1/20/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 28, 2012 meeting in Shelton.
WHEREAS the WSDCC Chair, Vice Chair, and Staff worked many, many hours to perform the difficult tasks for the 2012 Democratic National Convention;
WHEREAS the WSDCC Staff performed outstanding duties making reservations and contacts for the Washington State Democratic Delegation;
WHEREAS many months went into the preparation prior to the Democratic National Convention on September 2-6, 2012;
WHEREAS with the cooperation of both the WSDCC and the DNC Staff, the Democratic National Convention was a huge success;
WHEREAS, to the many volunteers that worked so faithfully to make the convention a success;
WHEREAS, to the sponsors who supported the Washington State Delegation and the Democratic National Convention; and
WHEREAS, to the Delegates, Guests, and Attendees for their efforts and support to a successful Democratic National Convention;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED an enormous 'Thank You' goes out to all involved to make this 2012 Democratic National Convention a successful one that will go down in history;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED a special 'Thank You' to the Democratic National Committee for their work and involvement to make this 2012 Democratic National Convention one to be remembered for years;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED last but not least, 'Thank You' to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for the work, support, and selection of the delegates to the Democratic National Convention.
Submitted by the Adams County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima. (Date
Submitted 9/17/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 22, meeting in Yakima. WSDCCRES - 582 - 120922 - PASS - INT - 'Thank You' Resolution.doc The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS on Monday, March 12, 2012, many of us around the State were shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Charles Rolland;
WHEREAS Charles Rolland, had contributed his service to the Seattle-area African American Community, and to the people of Seattle and the State of Washington;
WHEREAS Charles Rolland, made a priceless contribution to the Democratic Party as State Director of the 1988 Jesse Jackson for President Campaign, bringing many new and diverse faces into the Democratic Party;
WHEREAS Charles Rolland, in 1989, played a key role as a manager of Norm Rice's election as the first African American Mayor of Seattle, and then served as a deputy mayor, as a social conscience for the Rice Administration, advocating for poor and minority communities;
WHEREAS Charles Rolland, in 1993, was the first African American to be elected Chair of the Washington State Democratic Party; and
WHEREAS Charles Rolland, continuously gave service to his community in education, in equality and fairness in contracting, in police-community relations, in interacting with children in various ways including service as a Little League Umpire;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party Central Committee hereby acknowledges and appreciates the life, work and contributions made by Charles Rolland to the Washington State Democratic Party, and to the people of the State of Washington; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to the family of Charles Rolland, in honor of his memory.
Submitted by the Executive Board to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima. (Date
Submitted 9/21/2012) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 22, 2012 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS some members of the Democratic Party National Voter File Co-op's governing board have floated the idea of selling voter file data to for-profit corporations such as credit card companies; and
WHEREAS it is the current policy of the Democratic Party National Voter File Co-op to sell or share its data with approved issue groups; and
WHEREAS current voter databases include information on voters accumulated over many years by Precinct Committee Officers and canvassers in the course of establishing long-term relationships with voters based on mutual trust; and
WHEREAS if the Democratic Party sold its voter data, voters might very well stop responding to calls and knocks on their doors, disrupting our whole model of political outreach; and
WHEREAS it is acceptable to share data with organizations for the purpose of voter education, issue advocacy, or promoting the values of our platform; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee adopt a formal policy that our voter data will never be sold to corporations; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on our Democratic National Committee members to establish these policies at the national level.
Submitted by the 34th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted April 14, 2013) Recommended that the Resolution be sent to the Rules Committee for consideration at the April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. Reviewed by the Rules Committee and sent back to Resolutions. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS gun injuries and deaths in Washington State are a significant public health problem with approximately 600 people killed by guns each year over the past decade, and in 2010 more people in Washington State died by guns (609) than in traffic accidents (554);
WHEREAS since 1994 over 2.1 million firearm purchase applications have been denied because of federal criminal background checks for gun sales through licensed dealers required by the Brady Law, but up to 40% of firearm purchases are between private parties and not subject to criminal background checks;
WHEREAS risk for new criminal activity is increased among those with a prior criminal history, inmate surveys have shown that at least 80% of firearms inmates used in crimes were obtained in a private transfer, and more than 40% of homicide offenders and inmates incarcerated for firearm-related offenses were prohibited persons when they acquired their firearms;
WHEREAS one study (JAMA 2001; 285:1019-1026) found that denial of handgun purchase to people in California who had committed violent misdemeanors was associated with a decrease in risk of arrest for new gun and/or violent crimes;
WHEREAS fifteen states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws requiring background checks for all firearm purchases or handgun purchases, and Washington state has not;
WHEREAS current WSDCC platform supports "comprehensive gun-sale background checks, including criminal, mental health, and domestic violence checks, applicable to gun shows and other transactions"; and
WHEREAS Initiative 594 is an initiative to the Washington State legislature that would apply background-check requirements currently used for gun sales by licensed dealers to all gun sales and transfers, with specific exceptions, and require the checks be conducted through licensed dealers;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC endorse Initiative 594, which would apply criminal background-check requirements to all gun sales and transfers in Washington State, with specific exceptions; WSDCCRES - 641 - 130921 - PASS - INT - Support of I-594.doc
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges other Washington State organizations created under, or associated with, the Democratic Party to support Initiative 594; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges the Washington State legislature to pass comprehensive legislation that would apply criminal background-check requirements to all gun sales and transfers in Washington State, with specific exceptions, in a manner that is commensurate with Initiative 594.
Submitted by the 45th Legislative Districts to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/9/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS Attorney General Bob Ferguson's office has determined that two actions taken by the Legislature as part of the enactment of the 2014 Supplemental Budget must be placed on the ballot in the form of a nonbinding referendum as required by Tim Eyman's Initiative 960;
WHEREAS these measures will appear on the November 2014 ballot as "Advisory Vote 8" and "Advisory Vote 9";
WHEREAS according to Secretary of State Kim Wyman's office, which is responsible for administering the state's elections, "Advisory Vote 8 is the result of Senate Bill 6505, which deals with the elimination of agricultural tax preferences for various aspects of the marijuana industry";
WHEREAS according to Secretary of State Kim Wyman's office, "Advisory Vote 9 is a result of Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1287. That measure imposes the leasehold excise tax on certain leasehold interests in tribal property";
WHEREAS voters are asked to either vote "Maintained" or "Repealed" on the aforementioned bills;
WHEREAS the provision of Tim Eyman's Initiative 960 that dictates how advisory votes are to appear on the ballot requires the use of weasel words and worthless ten-24 year cost projections in order to create leading questions which are intended to suggest their own answers;
WHEREAS these kinds of questions are found in what are commonly known as push polls, do not belong on our ballots, and are a complete waste of public money;
WHEREAS it is the Legislature's responsibility and duty to write and adopt budgets for the state;
WHEREAS Initiative 960 has already found to be partly unconstitutional by the Washington State Supreme Court in League of Education Voters v. State of Washington;
WHEREAS the Northwest Progressive Institute has concluded that the advisory vote provision of Tim Eyman's Initiative 960 is also unconstitutional because it creates a new type of nonbinding ballot measure which our state Constitution does not provide for; WSDCCRES - 676 - 140913 - PASS - INT - Advisory Votes 8 and
WHEREAS voters are not told on their ballots that advisory votes are nonbinding, or that advisory votes are required by Tim Eyman's Initiative 960, or that the actions which are being subjected to advisory votes are part of a budget enacted by the Washington State Legislature;
WHEREAS the Secretary of State's office is forbidden by Initiative 960 from providing additional and valuable context concerning the advisory votes to voters in the statewide voter's pamphlet; and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats take a position supporting a "Maintained" vote on Advisory Votes 8 and 9 on the November 2014 ballot; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Legislature to repeal Tim Eyman's unconstitutional advisory votes scheme in the next legislative session, so that the people's money does not continue to be annually wasted on what amounts to push poll questions triggered by any action that raises or recovers revenue for the state treasury..
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/4/2014) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale. Passed by the WSDCC at their September 13, 2014 Meeting in Ferndale.
WHEREAS the Seahawks are the defending champions of Super Bowl XLVII and the NFC Champions for 2014;
WHEREAS the 12th man is the strongest fan base of any team in the NFL; and
WHEREAS the Seahawks have brought a lot of revenue and entertainment to Washington state and the Seattle area;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC fully supports the Seahawks through the 12th man;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Seahawks win the Super Bowl XLIX against the New England Patriots;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC will send a copy of this resolution to the Seahawks Team; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED "GO HAWKS - GO HAWKS - GO HAWKS!"
Submitted by Resolutions Committee to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/24/2015) Recommended Pass by the Resolutions Committee at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia. Passed by the WSDCC at their January 24, 2015 Meeting in Olympia.
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party believes in inclusion for all members of the Party;
WHEREAS the Party benefits from the voices of parents and grandparents of young children; and
WHEREAS it is more difficult to attend meetings of the Party when raising young children;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests that all Democratic Party organizations consider providing space to provide child care at regular meetings of the Party including Legislative District, County, and Central Committee meetings and at the State Convention.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS Tim Eyman, Mike Fagan, and Jack Fagan have sponsored and are circulating petitions for Initiative 1366, filed on January 5th, 2015 as an initiative to the people for 2015;
WHEREAS I-1366 would reduce the sales tax, and therefore approximately $1 billion in state revenue every year, thereby preventing the increased spending on K-12 education required by the McCleary decision, while jeopardizing higher education, transportation and the social safety net, unless the State Legislature follows the dictates of the initiative and sends to the voters a constitutional amendment undemocratically requiring a two-11 thirds vote in each House of the Legislature to raise revenue or repeal any tax loophole;
WHEREAS the Washington State Supreme Court in February 2013, in League of Education Voters v. State of Washington, struck down as unconstitutional a requirement of a supermajority vote to raise revenue, and Eyman's I-1366 comprises a devious attempt to evade that ruling by coercing lawmakers into colluding in his underhanded scheme to overturn it by holding all state funding hostage;
WHEREAS either the loss of a billion dollars per annum to our common wealth or the undemocratic modification of our Constitution to require two-thirds votes to raise and recover revenue would result in serious long-term damage to the communities of Washington State;
WHEREAS our state's founders understood that democracy requires majority rules with minority rights, and, after much debate and deliberation, they wrote a Constitution for Washington specifying that bills in the Legislature are passed by a majority vote, defined as greater than fifty percent - no more, and no less;
WHEREAS any higher threshold for the passage of legislation would result in power being concentrated in the hands of a few (rather than the many), such as one-third of one house of the Legislature - as when I-601 and its clones I-960, I-1053, and I-1185 were illegitimately in effect;
WHEREAS allowing tax exemptions to be created by a majority vote, but repealed only with a vote of two-thirds or greater, represents an unfair double standard that would make it nearly impossible to reform our outdated and regressive tax system; and
WHEREAS I-1366 would further violate Article IX of the Washington State Constitution by making it impossible for the state to fulfill its paramount duty of educating Washington's youth; WSDCCRES - 717 - 150418 - PASS - INT - Opposing I-1366 (multiple)
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge all Washingtonians to refuse to sign Tim Eyman's Initiative 1366 and, if it is placed on the ballot, to oppose the measure;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we encourage every activist and citizen who supports the values that Washington was founded upon to join the coalition opposing I-1366.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 3/4/2015)
Submitted by the 30th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the U.S. Supreme Court, in Citizens United v. Federal Elections Commission (2010) and other decisions, has enunciated the novel and unprecedented principles that corporations are entitled to political rights and privileges tantamount to those of individual human beings, and that corporations' use of money is a form of protected free speech;
WHEREAS those decisions, and Citizens United in particular, invalidated campaign spending reform laws enacted by bipartisan majorities in Congress and thereby unleashed an ever-increasing torrent of special interest money into our political process;
WHEREAS poll after poll has established that the American public supports overturning those serially misguided rulings, the continuation of which poses an increasing threat to a democratic republic of, by, and for the people;
WHEREAS the current Washington State Democratic Party Platform, adopted in June at the Party's biennial Convention, unequivocally asserts: We believe that corporations, as artificial entities, are not entitled to the Constitutional rights of people and specifically calls for: A constitutional amendment to establish that corporations shall not be considered as "persons" for purposes of political activity, to reverse the pernicious ruling that money equals speech and to institute stringent corporate campaign-contribution requirements...
WHEREAS the former Chair of our state's Republican Party is a board member of the Citizens United organization, and his Party has consistently thwarted all efforts in our State Senate to act on a resolution urging Congress to initiate a constitutional amendment redefining "persons" and "speech," and providing for campaign finance reforms, as specified in our State Democratic Platform; and
WHEREAS the Washington Coalition to Amend the Constitution (WAmend) has filed, with the Washington Secretary of State, an initiative to the legislature calling for amendment of the U.S. Constitution to (1) establish that the rights recognized in the Constitution are those of natural persons only, not of corporations, and that the spending of money is not a form of protected free speech; (2) require prompt, accessible disclosure of all political contributions and expenditures; and WSDCCRES - 720 - 150418 - PASS - INT - Supporting I-735 (3) authorize federal, state and local governments to regulate such contributions and expenditures; and
WHEREAS that initiative, now designated as Initiative 735, would urge Washington's current and future Congressional delegations to act immediately to propose a U.S. Constitutional amendment to accomplish the three objectives set forth above;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our members to support the WAmend effort to obtain the number of voters' signatures necessary to qualify Initiative 735 as an initiative to the legislature.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/10/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS Attorney General Bob Ferguson's office has determined that four actions recently taken by the Washington State Legislature as part of the enactment of the 2015 statewide transportation package and the 2015-2017 biennial operating budget must each be placed on the ballot in the form of a nonbinding plebiscite as required by Initiative 960;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats take a position supporting a "Maintained" vote on Advisory Votes 10, 11, 12, and 13 on the November general election ballot.
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/3/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS the ballot title for Initiative 1401 reads "Initiative Measure No. 1401 concerns trafficking of animal species threatened with extinction... This measure would make selling, purchasing, trading, or distributing certain animal species threatened with extinction, and products containing such species, a gross misdemeanor or class-C felony, with exemptions for certain types of transfers";
WHEREAS, in the words of Guy Palmer, Professor of Life Sciences at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology in Arusha, Tanzania, "Poaching and illegal trafficking robs local communities of a valuable resource for sustainable tourism and brings violence into their midst... Closing the markets for this illegal trade is essential... precisely the purpose of this initiative";
WHEREAS Initiative 1401 would help save many animals facing extinction, notably elephants, rhinos, lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, pangolins, marine turtles, sharks, and rays;
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democrats supports "policies that promote biodiversity, ecosystem and watershed protection, and restoration of wild salmon and endangered species";
WHEREAS Initiative 1401 is supported by many friends of the Democratic Party, including Washington Conservation Voters, The Sierra Club, and the National Resources Defense Council;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats take a position supporting a Yes vote on Initiative 1401 on the November 2015 general election ballot.
Submitted by the 45th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 9/3/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS income inequality in Washington State continues to increase;
WHEREAS low-income workers suffer not just from poverty wages, but also from lack of sick and safe leave;
WHEREAS as Democrats, we are committed to the principle that all workers should be able to work full time and not live in poverty, and should have the right to earn paid sick and safe days for themselves and their families;
WHEREAS the city councils, other jurisdictions, and other states have successfully adopted paid sick and safe days standards and increased the minimum wage that help local economies, protect public health, increase worker income, and create shared prosperity with businesses and workers;
WHEREAS over one million Washington workers have limited paid leave to deal with their health needs or the consequences of domestic violence, and 40% have no paid sick leave, so that even a minor illness or injury can lead to a family economic crisis;
WHEREAS even those workers who do have paid sick leave often face discipline when they use their earned time or cannot access their paid sick leave banks on the first day they are sick;
WHEREAS when workers are denied paid sick leave they often have no other choice but to go to work sick, which is bad for the health of the workers, their co-workers and the general public;
WHEREAS there are currently 730,000 workers in Washington who are earning less than $13.50 an hour, and the impact of low wages on workers is compounded by less-30 than-full-time hours and unpredictable schedules;
WHEREAS once controlling for inflation, neither women's nor men's median earnings significantly increased between 2013 and 2014 in the United States;
WHEREAS the federal minimum wage should have reached $21.72 an hour in 2012 if it kept up with increases in worker productivity since 1968;
WHEREAS low minimum wages negatively impact all workers by dragging wages down in various industries and sectors, and have a disproportionate impact on women and people of color; WSDCCRES - 755 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Raise Up Washington
WHEREAS six in ten poor adults are women, more than half of all poor children live in families headed by women, poverty rates are especially high for single mothers, women of color, and elderly women living alone;
WHEREAS more than half (54%) of minimum wage workers are white; one in four is Hispanic (26%), which shows an over-representation of workers of color living in poverty;
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 was introduced in January 2016 by a coalition of workers, community groups, the faith community and others to begin to raise wages and provide sick and safe leave for all workers in Washington;
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 calls for the state minimum wage to phase-in to $13.50 by the year 2020, and require employers to provide up to seven days of paid sick leave for workers;
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 when implemented would mean an additional $607 a month for a worker who currently makes $10.00 an hour, and would create $2.5 billion more in earnings annually for over 730,000 low-wage workers across the state;
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 would allow workers to earn one hour of paid sick and safe leave for every forty hours worked, allowing part time and full time workers to take leave if they or their family members are sick;
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 includes safe leave, an important policy component, which ensures that victims of domestic violence can use their paid safe leave if needed to seek medical attention or seek safety from an abuser;
WHEREAS, according to statewide polling completed in 2015, nearly nine in 10 Democrats (87%) support the proposed increase in the minimum wage to $13.50 by 2020, and majorities of self identified Democrats (88%) support providing paid up to 7 days of sick and safe leave to workers; and
WHEREAS Initiative 1433 specifically states in Section 11 that "nothing in the act precludes local jurisdictions from enacting additional local fair labor standards that are more favorable to employees, including but not limited to more generous minimum wage or paid sick leave requirements," which allows local municipalities to continue to pass higher minimum wages and other labor standard protections;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses Initiative 1433 to pass paid sick and safe days so that all Washingtonians can have up to seven days of leave a year, and to increase the state minimum wage to $13.50 phased-in by the year 2020; and WSDCCRES - 755 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Raise Up Washington
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our members to support the signature-gathering and campaign efforts for Initiative 1433 to increase the minimum wage and pass paid sick and safe leave.
Submitted by the 37th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/14/2016)
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS Washington voters, on November 3, 2015, narrowly adopted Tim Eyman's Initiative 1366 ("I-1366"), a ballot measure containing serious flaws that have led to a substantive challenge of its validity under our State Constitution, and the King County Superior Court has found Initiative 1366 to be unconstitutional;
WHEREAS that decision has been appealed to the State Supreme Court;
WHEREAS the fundamental purpose of I-1366, as demonstrated by its text, its title ("2/3 Constitutional Amendment"), and its promotional advertising, was and is to initiate amendment of the State Constitution to require (1) either a two-thirds legislative supermajority or a public vote on any measure that "raises taxes," and (2) legislative approval of any increase in state fees;
WHEREAS use of an initiative to commence a constitutional amendment process is beyond the scope of the limited legislative power conferred upon the people by Article II, Sec. 1 of our State Constitution;
WHEREAS Article XXIII of our State Constitution prescribes the sole method for its amendment; namely, by a proposal initiated by a two-thirds vote in each house of the State Legislature and subsequently ratified by a vote of the people;
WHEREAS I-1366, taken as a whole, would turn that prescribed method on its head by impermissibly initiating a specific mandatory amendment by a vote of the people on I-25 itself;
WHEREAS I-1366, by providing for both a sales tax decrease and contingent referral of a constitutional amendment that would require both supermajority approval of any tax increase and legislative approval of any fee increase, violates the State Constitution's Article II, Sec. 19 "single-subject" requirement in both respects;
WHEREAS I-1366 is also unconstitutional in constraining the power of our Legislature to act, by requiring it to choose between an unsupportable reduction in taxes needed to support public education, and the unconstitutional submission of a supermajority amendment that would empower a 34% minority to exercise negative control over each and every proposed tax increase; WSDCCRES - 757 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Challenging I-1366
WHEREAS our State has already been found in contempt of court for failing to adequately fund public education as required by Article IX of the State Constitution (McCleary v. State, Order dated 9/11/14), and remains in that contumacious status even today (see, e.g., McCleary Order dated 8/13/15);
WHEREAS any action by the Legislature to reduce present tax collections, or to refer for voter approval a constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds legislative supermajority for approval of any tax increase, would exacerbate the State's present contempt-of-court status; and
WHEREAS a judicial failure to invalidate I-1366 would make our courts complicit in the State's ongoing unconstitutional failure to adequately fund public education, and thereby undermine their ascription of responsibility to other entities of State government; THERFEFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Washington State Supreme Court to affirm the unconstitutionality of I-1366.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the recently concluded Paris Agreement on Climate emphasized the need for a full complement of carbon reduction policies, including a cap on carbon and greenhouse gases (GHG), pricing carbon, and investments in climate adaptation and mitigation, etc., in order to keep global temperatures from rising above 2 degrees Celsius with an aspirational goal of keeping temperatures from rising above 1.5 degrees Celsius;
WHEREAS working people and our communities have been under a broad and relentless assault from an economic, political, and climate crisis that has manifested itself in the form of extreme income and wealth inequality, loss of family-wage union jobs, a vanishing middle class, a failure to fairly tax the 1% and to broadly share prosperity, increasing health and environmental problems from excess carbon emissions and green house gases (GHG), and disruptions in our economy, public health, and social safety net systems due to severe weather episodes due to climate change;
WHEREAS climate change is responsible for 9 of the hottest 12 years in recorded history in this new century, increasing rates and severity of forest fires, rising sea levels, ocean acidification, the closing of shell fish production in Puget Sound and Willapa Bay, accelerating glacial melting leading to increased flooding and storm water problems, increased frequency of droughts, and extreme storms like hurricane Katrina, Sandy and Yolanda in the Philippines;
WHEREAS all of the scientific research indicates that the problems created by climate change, impacting us all, will continue to grow, affecting our jobs, environment and health, and that to reverse climate change much of the world's proven oil reserves need to remain in the ground;
WHEREAS carbon and GHG pollution is responsible for an explosion of respiratory diseases in those most vulnerable - our children and seniors - and asthma related expenditures have reached $ 73 million per year annually in Washington State;
WHEREAS direct line workers in the fossil fuel industries and vulnerable populations in immigrant communities and communities of color are most susceptible to health problems caused by carbon pollution, with two to three times the rates of asthma than in other communities; WSDCCRES - 770 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Opposing I-732
WHEREAS droughts worldwide are causing the forced migration of millions of people in search of food, water, and economic security and droughts in the United States are having significant impact on food production and on workers and their families who depend on agriculture for a living;
WHEREAS equity must be at the center of principles and policies addressing climate change such that neither direct line fossil fuel workers nor vulnerable communities of color should bear the health or economic costs of moving from an economy dependent on fossil fuels to one primarily based on alternative renewable energy sources;
WHEREAS equity in the transition to a renewable energy economy with a minimum of economic disruptions and to maximize employment of direct line fossil fuel dependent workers during the transition, requires a degree of compliance flexibility as fossil fuel dependent industries meet the new lower carbon emissions standards as well as policies to prevent the "leakage" of jobs and pollution from these industries to other states, regions, or countries where carbon reduction standards don't exist;
WHEREAS equity in the transition to a renewable energy economy requires direct line fossil fuel workers be provided with income and benefit support as well as family wage job opportunities and training if a truly "Just Transition" is to take place, and equity requires addressing the needs of entire communities currently dependent on income from fossil fuel industries;
WHEREAS equity in the transition to a renewable energy economy requires that revenue raised through any carbon reduction program be invested, in part, in such a way that the benefits to vulnerable populations and communities of color must outweigh the policy's economic burdens including protection from rising energy costs during the transition, investing in public transportation and creating opportunities for jobs and training in green infrastructure development and the renewable energy economy to mitigate against climate change impacts and to improve the quality of live for low-income communities;
WHEREAS, to make sure that any carbon reduction program is actually meeting the carbon reduction goals, investing revenues in ways to protect vulnerable communities, creating infrastructure and renewable energy jobs, and providing a truly "Just Transition", an economic and environmental justice board with true representation from direct line workers and communities of color will need to be created;
WHEREAS, during the transition to a renewable energy economy repairing our failing infrastructure will help create tens of thousands of family wage union jobs and lower our carbon footprint; WSDCCRES - 770 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Opposing I-732
WHEREAS domestic sourcing our materials for both infrastructure projects and renewable energy projects will maximize domestic job creation and significantly lower the carbon footprint of the content for these projects;
WHEREAS I-732, though well intentioned, relies only on carbon pricing with no cap and no investment in fence line communities or communities of color, no "just transition" for fossil fuel workers or the communities currently dependent on fossil fuel production;
WHEREAS I-732 is not revenue neutral, but according to a State Department of Revenue analysis will increase Washington State's structural budget deficit by $ 675 million over the next four years, exacerbating the current problem of funding the McCleary decision, mental health funding, and a range of much needed social services;
WHEREAS raising a carbon tax while reducing the state's portion of the sales tax by one percent and lowering the B&O tax without addressing the state's extreme structural deficit will lead the legislature to contemplate raising these same taxes as soon as they get the opportunity creating even greater public cynicism that government does not work;
WHEREAS we are past the point in history where one policy, in I-732, pricing carbon is sufficient to significantly reduce carbon emissions;
WHEREAS carbon emissions are beginning to rise again in British Columbia, where all the have is a carbon price, with no cap and carbon revenue investments in climate adaptation or mitigation; and
WHEREAS the Working Families Tax rebate only addresses 47% of those who are poor and there is a need to invest directly in communities of color to create good family wage jobs in the new clean energy economy;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party go on record opposing I-732, and that the State Party go on record in support of a comprehensive policy to reduce carbon emissions and GHGs that creates a descending cap on emissions, prices carbon with the flexibility needed to prevent companies from wholesale leaving the state while at the same time helping them to become as carbon efficient as possible, provides equity to fossil fuel workers and communities of color, invests in climate adaptation and mitigation and leverages an accelerated development of the new clean energy economy; and WSDCCRES - 770 - 160130 - PASS - INT - Opposing I-732
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the State Democratic Party will work with labor, environment, communities of color, faith, public health and progressive business organizations to educate and organize around a comprehensive carbon and GHG reduction policy that can be introduced to the state legislature or to the ballot at the earliest possible opportunity.
Submitted by the Executive Board to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/29/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS Attorney General Bob Ferguson's office has determined that two actions recently taken by the Washington State Legislature as part of the enactment of the 2016 supplemental budget must each be placed on the ballot in the form of nonbinding plebiscites as required by Tim Eyman's Initiative 960;
WHEREAS these measures will appear on the ballot as "Advisory Votes" 14 and 15;
WHEREAS according to Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Advisory Vote 14 was triggered by House Bill 2768 (which extended the insurance premium tax to some insurance for stand-alone family dental plans) and Advisory Vote 15 was triggered by Second Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2778 (which imposed certain limitations on the retail sales and use tax exemptions for clean alternative-fuel vehicles);
WHEREAS HB 2768 was prime sponsored by Republican State Representative Joe Schmick and passed the House by a vote of ninety-one to zero and passed the Senate by a vote of forty-four to four;
WHEREAS 2ESSB 2778 was prime sponsored by Democratic State Representative Jake Fey and passed the House by a vote of sixty-six to twenty-nine and passed the Senate by a vote of twenty-eight to fifteen;
WHEREAS voters are asked to either vote "Maintained" or "Repealed" on the aforementioned bills;
WHEREAS the provision of Tim Eyman's Initiative 960 that dictates how "advisory votes" are to appear on the ballot requires the use of loaded language and misleading ten-year cost projections in order to create leading questions which are intended to suggest their own answers;
WHEREAS these kinds of questions are found in what are commonly known as push polls, do not belong on our ballots, and are a waste of public funds;
WHEREAS the Secretary of State's office is forbidden by Initiative 960 from providing additional and valuable context concerning the "advisory votes" to voters in the statewide voter's pamphlet; and
WHEREAS voting "Maintained" on these "advisory votes" is the best way to both protest their existence and deny Tim Eyman ammunition for further attacks on the plan of government that our founders gave us, which provides for a representative democracy with executive, legislative, and judicial branches; WSDCCRES - 775 - 160917 - PASS - INT - Advisory Votes 14 and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee take a position supporting a "Maintained" vote on Advisory Votes 14 and on the November 2016 general election ballot.
Submitted by the King County Democrats. (Date Submitted 8/23/2016) The Resolutions Committee included this resolution in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party stands for inclusion of all people, including minority populations;
WHEREAS an increasing number of people publicly identify as a non-binary gender (neither man nor woman);
WHEREAS, in a laudable effort toward at fair representation, the Democratic Party requires that representation to some party committees and events, such as members of the State Central Committee and delegates to the state and national conventions, be divided equally between females and males; and
WHEREAS this division leaves non-binary people without a clear path toward representation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we call upon the Washington State Democrats to develop new, inclusive language and procedures to include fair representation of all genders in party committees and conventions, for example, by simply requiring that an LD's two representatives to a Party committee not be of the same gender; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED we ask that these language and procedure changes be in effect by September 2017.
Submitted by the 43rd LD Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/1/2016)
Submitted by the King County Democrats. (Date Submitted 9/1/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the 2016 Washington State Legislature has submitted Senate Joint Resolution 8210 (SJR 8210) for consideration by the people of Washington State in the November 2016 general election,
WHEREAS SJR 8210 will appear on the ballot as a legislatively-referred constitutional amendment;
WHEREAS SJR 8210 is a housekeeping amendment that moves up the date by when the decennially-formed Redistricting Commission must complete its work, from January 1st of years ending in "2" to November 15th of years ending in "1";
WHEREAS the most-recent Redistricting Commission has said this change will not interfere with their process;
WHEREAS this change will allow the Legislature and the public more time to study and comment on the final plans adopted by future Redistricting Commissions; and
WHEREAS SJR 8210 passed the Senate by a vote of forty-six to zero on February 15th, 2016, and passed the House by a vote of ninety-seven to zero on March 4th, 2016;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats take a position supporting a "Approved" vote on SJR 8210, appearing on the November 2016 general election ballot.
Submitted by the King County Democrats. (Date Submitted 8/23/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS thousands of Washington's citizens are victims of identity theft and consumer fraud each year;
WHEREAS over half of scam victims are over age 50, according to a recent study, and fraudulent telemarketers direct 56 percent to nearly 80 percent of their calls at older customers;
WHEREAS financial exploitation of senior citizens costs them $2.9 billion every year;
WHEREAS for every case of fraud that is reported, it is estimated that 43 others are not; WHERAS Initiative 1501 will address the problem by discouraging identity theft and consumer fraud against seniors and other vulnerable residents; WHERAS Initiative 1501 will increase penalties on criminals who prey on senior citizens and other vulnerable people;
WHEREAS Initiative 1501 prevents the government from releasing information that could help identity thieves who target seniors and the vulnerable;
WHEREAS Initiative 1501 protects the personal information of caregivers of seniors, Alzheimer's patients, frail and vulnerable citizens; and
WHEREAS the Platform of the Washington State Democratic Party calls for a human services safety net and improved oversight for elders, and further states "The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members" - Mahatma Gandhi;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, Washington State Democratic Central Committee, supports Initiative 1501 and urges all Washington Democrats to support Initiative 1501.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus. (Date Submitted 9/17/2016)
Submitted by the Progressive Caucus. (Date Submitted 9/17/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. WSDCCRES - 794 - 160917 - PASS - INT- Support I-1501 The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS resolutions have been submitted to the Washington State Democrats as long as 14 pages;
WHEREAS lengthy resolutions are less likely to be read, thereby defeating their purpose of educating State Committeemembers, legislators and officials;
WHEREAS King County Democrats have worked with a one-page limit for years;
WHEREAS being forced to be concise is an aid to clarity and logic;
WHEREAS such a limit forces drafters to be concise, makes resolutions more likely to be read and saves paper;
WHEREAS such a limit would help the Resolutions Committee to be more efficient;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats Resolutions Committee requests the Rules Committee and the WSDCC to add a requirement that resolutions be no more than two pages and no smaller than 10-point font, effective for the January, 2017, WSDCC meeting.
Submitted by the Resolutions Committee. (Date Submitted 9/17/2016) The Resolutions Committee included this resolution in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the Democratic Party National Platform states "climate change is an urgent threat and a defining challenge of our time";
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party Platform calls for "immediate aggressive action to minimize climate change, as global climate change is the foremost threat to survival of Earth as we know it";
WHEREAS the environment is under renewed threat as a result of recent actions by the current administration;
WHEREAS existing strategies to combat climate change have to date been insufficient to meet the goals set forth in the Paris Agreement;
WHEREAS according to the Washington State Department of Ecology, Agriculture is the key economic driver and employer in most regions of Washington State, and warmer temperatures, higher carbon dioxide levels, and more frequent and severe floods and droughts could significantly impact crop yields for Washington State farmers;
WHEREAS climate disruption increases the likelihood of forest fires, drought and insect vectors spreading disease to our forests and potentially to humans;
WHEREAS transitioning to an economy based on sustainable renewable energy and energy efficiency will bring new jobs in the transportation, building, and energy sectors;
WHEREAS important climate- and environment-related bills are currently before the Washington State Legislature, including two separate carbon tax proposals, a solar extension tax credit bill, bills to preserve farmland, and a bill to better protect our waters from fossil fuel transportation; and
WHEREAS respondents to a survey about the environment at the state party meeting on January 28th 2017 indicated interest in the formation of an Environment and Climate Caucus;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC), do hereby recognize the Environment and Climate Caucus as a full and functioning caucus. WSDCCRES - 811 - 170422 - PASS - PAR - Environmental Caucus
Submitted by the 16th LD Democrats on 4/7/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS unlike some candidates who may reject abortion for themselves but do not seek to force this personal decision on others, anti-choice candidates support rules, regulations and laws that would impose additional constraints on access to abortion and ultimately would make abortion illegal everywhere;
WHEREAS the chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Rep. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) - in defense of Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee support of mayoral candidate Heath Mello, who has sponsored anti-choice legislation in the Nebraska legislature - asserted in April 2017 that Democrats will not withhold support from anti-choice candidates;
WHEREAS the 2016 platform adopted by the Democratic National Convention states: "We will appoint judges who will protect a woman's right to safe and legal abortion" Page 25 "We will fight Republican efforts to roll back the clock on women's health and reproductive rights, and stand up for Planned Parenthood" Page 34 "We believe unequivocally, like the majority of Americans, that every woman should have access to quality reproductive health care services, including safe and legal abortion. We will continue to oppose-and seek to overturn - federal and state laws and policies that impede a woman's access to abortion, including by repealing the Hyde Amendment" Page 37 "We will urge ratification of the Convention for the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women" Page 46;
WHEREAS the 2016 platform adopted by the Convention of the Washington State Democrats states: "VI. Civil and Human Rights We believe: Each person has the right to sovereignty over their own body We call for: The right of all women to be free of government, corporate, or religious interference in their reproductive decisions, including contraception and abortion, and to have safe, legal, protected, affordable and accessible health care that enables them to make informed choices";
WHEREAS WSD Chair Tina Podlodowski responded to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee stance: "There is a lot of outrage about the leader of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee making comments about backing anti-choice candidates for congress. . . . .let's just say that's NOT the Washington State Democrats way and we will not be supporting that decision here [for] our congressional candidates"; and WSDCCRES - 845 - 170910 - PASS - PAR - Oppose Anti-Choice Candidates
WHEREAS abortion rights are highly relevant to all of a woman's life - education, employment, health, life or death - not a "single issue" that even some well-known progressive male leaders arrogantly dismiss as insufficiently important to be one of the criteria by which to judge a candidate, ignoring the needs of millions of women;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee unequivocally condemns the anti-choice electoral position expressed in April 2017 by Ben Ray Lujan, Chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which does not represent the Democratic Party and is contrary to the long-52 established pro-choice policy of the Democratic National Committee;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to publicly reject the anti-choice policy stated by Lujan and instead adopt the policy of the Democratic National Committee;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee thanks the Chair of the DNC, Tom Perez, for his response to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee: "Every Democrat, like every American, should support a woman's right to make her own choices about her body and her health. That is not negotiable and should not change city by city or state by state... . At a time when women's rights are under assault from the White House, the Republican Congress, and in states across the country, we must speak up for this principle as loudly as ever and with one voice."; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that upon adoption this resolution be sent to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee; U.S Senators Chuck Schumer, Patty Murray, and Maria Cantwell; U.S. Representatives Nancy Pelosi, Suzan DelBene, Rick Larsen, Derek Kilmer, Pramila Jayapal, Adam Smith, and Denny Heck; The Seattle Times; and The New York Times.
Submitted by the 32nd LD Democrats on 8/25/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 9/10/17.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee firmly oppose the new DCCC policy of blacklisting vendors, and;
THEREFORE BE IT ALSO RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge all sitting members of the Democratic US House caucus to join Representative Pramila Jayapal in making a public statement of opposition to this new DCCC policy and;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY ALSO RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee shall not participate themselves in any form of blacklisting of vendors. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this Resolution on April 7,
WHEREAS the Energy and Environment Plank of the WSDCC Platform calls for "Expanded programs and incentives to encourage energy conservation ;" and
WHEREAS the Transportation Plank of the WSDCC Platform calls specifically for "measures to reduce pollution and dependence on fossil fuels;" and
WHEREAS the two statements quoted above represent the strongest language available in the platform regarding climate change, although climate change itself is not mentioned in the platform; and
WHEREAS it is important for the WSDCC to "walk the talk" regarding any policy or party goal; and
WHEREAS aggressive action is needed to keep climate change from being even more disastrous than is already unavoidable; and
WHEREAS both President Obama and Governor Inslee have made clear their intentions to make climate change action a priority for their administrations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges the Chair of the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, or his or her designee, to take active measures to coordinate ride-sharing, use of public transportation, and all other means available in order to reduce the overall carbon footprint of member attendance at WSDCC statewide meetings and conventions; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that appropriate active measures could include, but not be limited to, chartering of buses to take party members from densely populated parts of the state to WSDCC events in other parts of the state, providing information about alternatives to driving to attendees along with encouragement to use said alternatives, considering ease of low-carbon transportation access when selecting meeting and convention locations, and organizing an electronic clearinghouse to help organize ridesharing from less-populated parts of the state to WSDCC events.
Submitted by the Eastern Washington Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 2/1/2014) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its February 1, 2014 meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS Washington State and the localities and counties within are dependent on intra- and interstate transportation systems;
WHEREAS these transportation systems include roadways (freeways, highways, and secondary roads with many bridges), railways with tracks and trestles, ferries, sea ports, and airports;
WHEREAS these systems are reaching or have exceeded their lifetime limits and are in need of critical and urgent attention before a major disaster occurs;
WHEREAS the impact of these systems with their failure or success touches citizens, industry and government at every level - local, county, state, nationally, and internationally; and
WHEREAS it is imperative that these transportation modalities be kept operating effectively, efficiently (economically) and safely with minimal negative environmental impact;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Party supports immediately identifying and prioritizing transportation problems in Washington State and establishing a viable funding plan to resolve them; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature, the Governor, the Washington State DOT and the Federal DOT.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 4/12/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS we currently spend about 2.5 percent of our national budget on infrastructure and China spends eight percent; and
WHEREAS our bridges, railroads, levees and highways are crumbling and in dire need of replacement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED to commit the U.S. government to spend a minimum of five percent of the national budget on rebuilding our nation's infrastructure; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS the roads in Eastern Washington deteriorate regularly with snow, ice, rain and other weather changes;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the roads in Eastern Washington be regularly maintained and improved; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee forward this resolution to the Washington State DOT.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/2/2008) The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS western Washington has frequent and successful Amtrak passenger rail service along the Cascade Corridor (primarily between Seattle and Portland, but also along the entire route from Vancouver, British Columbia to Eugene, Oregon);
WHEREAS eastern Washington has only a single train per day (actually mostly at night) between Spokane and Seattle via Ephrata and Wenatchee and between Spokane and Portland via Pasco;
WHEREAS even alternate regional bus and air service in eastern Washington is increasing difficult to find (Walla Walla, for example, is no longer connected to the Greyhound national network and most Horizon Air flights only go to Seattle);
WHEREAS passenger rail is the most fuel efficient form of transportation;
WHEREAS increased intra-state rail service will provide a convenient alternate for reducing automobile usage, the least energy efficient method of transportation;
WHEREAS additional rail service will increase tourism within eastern Washington by providing additional transportation options in an era of steadily increasing fuel costs; and
WHEREAS Amtrak service in the Cascade Corridor, is primarily supported by state funding;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support reinstituting passenger rail service between Spokane and Seattle via Pasco, Yakima, Ellensburg, Wenatchee and other South Central and North Central communities;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats forward this resolution to the President, the Washington State Delegation to the US Congress, the Washington State Legislature and Governor, and those municipalities through which the rail service passes; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that all of the above promote funding and legislation to enable to passenger rail service to begin within ten years.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 14 convention in Spokane. (Date Submitted 5/6/2008) 2008SCRES - 439 - 080614 - PASS - TRAN - Rail Service in Eastern Washington The Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its May 31, 2008 meeting in Ellensburg. The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 14, meeting in Spokane.
WHEREAS US Highway 395 from Spokane north to the Canadian boarder is seeing increasing amounts of traffic, and has become a vital truck transport route;
WHEREAS the condition of the highway has not kept up with the increases in traffic; and
WHEREAS the result is traffic congestion and several areas of increased risk to all motorists on the highway;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge elected Democratic officials of Eastern Washington to enthusiastically support completion of US Hwy 395 improvements; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS US Highway 395 from Spokane north to the Canadian boarder is seeing increasing amounts of traffic, and has become a vital truck transport route;
WHEREAS the condition of the highway has not kept up with the increases in traffic; and
WHEREAS the result is traffic congestion and several areas of increased risk to all motorists on the highway;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge elected Democratic officials of Eastern Washington to enthusiastically support completion of US Hwy 395 improvements; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Spokane County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the New York Times recently reported on the national air pollution crisis facing our nation's ports, caused in part by the underground economy of port trucking;
WHEREAS port trucking operations are cogs in our local economy, moving millions of cargo containers each year;
WHEREAS many of the men and women driving trucks at our ports, including the Port of Seattle, are exploited immigrants who drive polluting, poorly maintained diesel trucks in unsafe conditions and have no collective bargaining power;
WHEREAS dangerous diesel pollution emitted by old port trucks directly impacts the health and safety of port neighborhoods;
WHEREAS legal challenges by the American Trucking Association prevent local ports, such as the Port of Seattle, from setting environmental, safety, and labor standards for their own port trucking operations, like those adopted by the Port of Los Angeles;
WHEREAS Congress is currently considering introducing legislation to address these lawsuits and empower ports to set environmental, safety and labor standards for port trucking operations; and
WHEREAS empowering ports to set environmental, safety and labor standards is supported by a wide range of organizations and leaders including: Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Steelworkers of America, Mayor of Seattle Mike McGinn and members of the Seattle City Council;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we support empowering ports to set their own environmental, safety and labor standards for port trucking operations that are at least as stringent as those of the Port of Los Angeles;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge our elected Representatives and Senators to pass legislation to accomplish this goal;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that an electronic copy of this resolution be sent to the Washington State Congressional Delegation, the Mayor of Seattle, members of the Seattle City Council, and to the Port of Seattle Commission along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported. 2010SCRES - 147 - 100626 - PASS - TRAN - Port Trucking Standards (King)
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/21/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the Interstate 5 Highway is critical to the economy and security of the west coast of the United States and for the Nation;
WHEREAS the Interstate 5 Highway supports transportation and commerce over its 2,223 mile length from Mexico to Canada, including Fort Lewis, McCord Air Force Base, Bremerton Naval Shipyards, the Ports of Washington, Oregon, California and the shipyards thereof, Boeing in Seattle and in Gresham, and civilian commerce including trucking and freight, among other uses. Thus the Interstate 5 Highway is a critical asset for our domestic economic security and national security;
WHEREAS the Interstate 5 Bridges are very old and are supported on pilings that do not reach down to bedrock. The Interstate 5 Bridges are the most vulnerable part of the Interstate 5 Highway system. Damage or loss of use of the bridges due to earthquake, or other natural disaster, or human caused disruption will have severe negative consequences for the region and for the nation;
WHEREAS there have been numerous studies since 1995 concerning the need for and feasibility of replacing the current Interstate 5 Bridges;
WHEREAS more than $87 Million has been spent studying the project thus far;
WHEREAS agencies participating include, City of Vancouver, City of Portland, the Port of Portland, the Port of Vancouver, ODOT, WADOT, C-TRAN, TriMet, Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council, Oregon Metro Regional Government, Transportation Commissions of Oregon and Washington, the Washington Regional Transportation Council and all county governments in the five-county area;
WHEREAS the project has been endorsed by the Federal Highway Administration, the congressional delegations in both Oregon and Washington, city, county and port commissioners, local business associations, chambers of commerce, labor unions, regional transportation councils, the Portland Business Alliance, Identity Clark County, the Columbian, the Oregonian, Willamette Week, the Reflector, Northwest Labor Press, Portland Business Journal, and Vancouver Business Journal; and
WHEREAS the application for federal funding must be completed in 2010, else the opportunity will be lost for at least eight to twelve years according to advice from US Senators Murray and Cantwell; 2010SCRES - 150 - 100626 - PASS - TRAN - Replacing the I-5 Bridge
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Washington State Democrats call upon all agencies and elected officials to unite behind the project, and be united in recognition of the urgency that the project must go forward in this transportation funding cycle;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT no more studies are needed and all responsible elected officials should move rapidly to complete and submit the applications for funding to the governors of Oregon and Washington, to the legislatures of Oregon and Washington, and to the federal government; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution, or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the 18th LD Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 5/1/2010) Recommended Pass by the Subcommittee on Education, Health Care, and Transportation. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS most of rural WA has roads without pedestrian pathways, making them unsafe for walking and bicycling;
WHEREAS Skamania County Democrats support economic development through tourism;
WHEREAS safer road pathways would increase tourism; and
WHEREAS public health is a major issue in the U.S, and bicycling and hiking are useful exercises;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats support a resolution to build safe roadside bicycle and pedestrian pathways where appropriate, and include consideration of bicycle and hiking pathways routinely in planning for new road and road improvement projects.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Western Washington has frequent and successful Amtrak passenger rail service along the Cascade Corridor (primarily between Seattle and Portland, but also along the entire route from Vancouver, British Columbia to Eugene, Oregon);
WHEREAS Eastern Washington has only a single train per day (actually mostly at night) between Spokane and Seattle via Ephrata and Wenatchee and between Spokane and Portland via Pasco;
WHEREAS even alternate regional bus and air service in eastern Washington is increasing difficult to find (Walla Walla, for example, is no longer connected to the Greyhound national network and most Horizon Air flights only go to Seattle);
WHEREAS passenger rail is the most fuel efficient form of transportation;
WHEREAS increased intra-state rail service will provide a convenient alternate for reducing automobile usage, the least energy efficient method of transportation;
WHEREAS additional rail service will increase tourism within eastern Washington by providing additional transportation options in an era of steadily increasing fuel costs; and
WHEREAS Amtrak service in the Cascade Corridor, is primarily supported by state funding;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support reinstituting passenger rail service between Spokane and Seattle via Pasco, Yakima, Ellensburg, Wenatchee and other South Central and North Central communities.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SC - 110 - 120602 - PASS - TRA - Rail Service in Eastern WA 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Thomas Stephen "Tom" Foley, a native of Spokane, Washington, served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 30 years representing the 5th Congressional District from 1965-1995;
WHEREAS he became the 57th Speaker of the House from 1989-1995, and has the distinction of being the first Speaker from a state west of the Rocky Mountains;
WHEREAS following Congress, Foley served as our Ambassador to Japan 1997-2001 under President Bill Clinton;
WHEREAS in 2003, Foley was awarded the state's highest honor by Washington's Governor Gary Locke, the Washington State Medal of Merit;
WHEREAS it was in Tom Foley's time of elected office, and with his support, that Highway 395 between the Tri-Cities and Ritzville was expanded to 4-lane; and
WHEREAS this has greatly increased safety and eased intra-state travel;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State Legislature Department of Transportation is urged to dedicate this portion of the state highway to the honor of Tom Foley.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS most of rural WA has roads without pedestrian pathways, making them unsafe for walking and bicycling;
WHEREAS Skamania County Democrats support economic development through tourism;
WHEREAS safer road pathways would increase tourism; and
WHEREAS public health is a major issue in the U.S, and bicycling and hiking are useful exercises;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democrats support a resolution to build safe roadside bicycle and pedestrian pathways where appropriate, and include consideration of bicycle and hiking pathways routinely in planning for new road and road improvement projects.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/3/2012) Recommended 'PASS WITH AMENDMENTS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Western Washington has frequent and successful Amtrak passenger rail service along the Cascade Corridor (primarily between Seattle and Portland, but also along the entire route from Vancouver, British Columbia to Eugene, Oregon);
WHEREAS Eastern Washington has only a single train per day (actually mostly at night) between Spokane and Seattle via Ephrata and Wenatchee and between Spokane and Portland via Pasco;
WHEREAS even alternate regional bus and air service in eastern Washington is increasing difficult to find (Walla Walla, for example, is no longer connected to the Greyhound national network and most Horizon Air flights only go to Seattle);
WHEREAS passenger rail is the most fuel efficient form of transportation;
WHEREAS increased intra-state rail service will provide a convenient alternate for reducing automobile usage, the least energy efficient method of transportation;
WHEREAS additional rail service will increase tourism within eastern Washington by providing additional transportation options in an era of steadily increasing fuel costs; and
WHEREAS Amtrak service in the Cascade Corridor, is primarily supported by state funding;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support reinstituting passenger rail service between Spokane and Seattle via Pasco, Yakima, Ellensburg, Wenatchee and other South Central and North Central communities.
Submitted by the Franklin County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 2012SCRES - 110 - 120602 - PASS - TRA - Rail Service in Eastern WA.doc 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS Thomas Stephen "Tom" Foley, a native of Spokane, Washington, served in the U.S. House of Representatives for 30 years representing the 5th Congressional District from 1965-1995;
WHEREAS he became the 57th Speaker of the House from 1989-1995, and has the distinction of being the first Speaker from a state west of the Rocky Mountains;
WHEREAS following Congress, Foley served as our Ambassador to Japan 1997-2001 under President Bill Clinton;
WHEREAS in 2003, Foley was awarded the state's highest honor by Washington's Governor Gary Locke, the Washington State Medal of Merit;
WHEREAS it was in Tom Foley's time of elected office, and with his support, that Highway 395 between the Tri-Cities and Ritzville was expanded to 4-lane; and
WHEREAS this has greatly increased safety and eased intra-state travel;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the State Legislature Department of Transportation is urged to dedicate this portion of the state highway to the honor of Tom Foley.
Submitted by the Skamania County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 2, 2012 Convention. (Date Submitted 5/2/2012) Recommended 'PASS' by the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Economic Justice and Development, Energy and the Environment, and Transportation at its May 12th meeting in Ellensburg. Recommended 'PASS' by the Platform Committee at its June 1st meeting in Seattle. 'PASSED' by the Washington State Democratic Convention at its June 2nd meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS traffic in all metropolitan areas of the State of Washington is increasing;
WHEREAS truck that have more than two axles are being found traveling in all lanes;
WHEREAS trucks are either speeding or impeding traffic which causes automobile traffic to either pass on the left or right of the trucks;
WHEREAS there are trucks that travel in all lanes of traffic; and
WHEREAS Washington State currently has laws restricting trucks from left lane travel on highways with more than two lanes, but there is infrequent enforcement of these laws;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that this resolution to be presented to the Washington State Legislature and Governor, encouraging them to pass legislation to increase the penalty for and enforcement of violations of truck lane restrictions and differential speed limit.
Submitted by the Platform Committee to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 3/9/2014) The Subcommittee on Transportation recommended that this resolution be passed as amended on at their May 18th meeting. The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Transportation at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the State has resorted to implementing tolls, and have increased gas taxes and other fees to underwrite those tax breaks for the rich;
WHEREAS such taxes are particularly burdensome to low-income households and small businesses;
WHEREAS toll roads are elitist in nature in that they allow more affluent residents to "buy" their way into lanes that are designed to shorten commute times;
WHEREAS low-income people who cannot afford to pay the tolls are relegated to slower-moving lanes that lengthen commute times;
WHEREAS the Democratic Party advocates economic and social equity, therefore; and
WHEREAS the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, the Washington State Labor Council, the Economic Policy Institute, and other organization have determined that Washington has one of the most regressive tax systems in the nation;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call on the Washington State Department of Transportation and the State Legislature to end discriminatory toll roads, lanes, and bridges.
Submitted by the Skagit County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the existing toll bridge crossing the Columbia River between Hood River Oregon and White Salmon Washington is an economic lifeline for most residents in E. Skamania County and W. Klickitat County;
WHEREAS 60% of the bridge crossing are by Klickitat County Washington residents;
WHEREAS the bridge is nearly 100 years old and need of replacement;
WHEREAS currently the Port of Hood River Oregon is the only decision making authority for the existing bridge while Washington State Residents are excluded; and
WHEREAS the Port of Hood River Oregon is moving forward quickly on a new Hood River-White Salmon WA bridge replacement;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for the Washington State Legislature to form a Bi-State Bridge Commission consisting of elected citizens of Klickitat County, Skamania County and Hood River County, Oregon - two from Klickitat, one from Skamania and two from Hood River; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recommend the Bi-State Bridge Commission be the final authority on the replacement bridge, including tolls, placement and design.
Submitted by the Klickitat County Convention held on Saturday, March 24, 2018. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, 2018 meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the system for traffic fines is not fair as demanded in the Washington State Democratic platform;
WHEREAS traffic fines have a huge impact on the lives of the young and poor;
WHEREAS the same traffic fines have little or no impact on the life style for people of means;
WHEREAS it is a function of government to issue citations and collect fines and fees, this process is not set up to enrich private firms;
WHEREAS many poor people with small incomes are unable to pay the fines or to pay them on time, they are assessed further fines and fees that negatively impact their lives;
WHEREAS people with small incomes have difficulty meeting daily living expenses including the possession of and upkeep of transportation for work and other responsibilities, many are forced to operate a vehicle without insurance or a driver's license which has been forfeited due to unpaid fines and fees, they become criminals subject to the criminal justice system; and
WHEREAS this vicious cycle does not have the same impact on those with an adequate incomes;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats recommend that legislators remedy this situation by implementing a progressive traffic fine system, based upon income such as that in existence in Finland; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats encourage state cease and desist from selling the paper on unpaid or delinquent fines or employing collection agencies to collect the fines imposed on people.
Submitted by the 19th Legislative District Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the Seattle Metropolitan Area has more than half of the population of Washington State, making mobility within said area critical for the entire state;
WHEREAS in 2014 Sounder commuter rail served an average of 11,594 passengers per day between Lakewood and Seattle;
WHEREAS travel from Puyallup, Sumner, or Auburn to downtown Seattle is respectively at least 21, 15, and 11 minutes faster by Sounder than by the express busses that serve the same trip during off-peak times;
WHEREAS travel from Kent to downtown Seattle is more than 30 minutes faster by Sounder than by the King County Metro bus that serves the same trip;
WHEREAS all trips on South Sounder, including from Lakewood or Tacoma to Seattle, are more likely than the busses that serve the same trips to arrive on time;
WHEREAS Sound Transit has found that transit demand on the corridor served by South Sounder warrants an additional trip, the first Sounder trip that is truly off-peak;
WHEREAS the majority of the Sound Transit board is committed to "completing the spine", by which they mean Link light rail that runs from Tacoma to Everett;
WHEREAS such a light rail line, while improving mobility within the Pierce-South King area, will not have travel times competitive with the existing express busses for travel between Pierce County or South King County and Seattle;
WHEREAS a proposal for Sounder infrastructure improvements has been developed that would allow for increases in frequency and span-of-service and a significant decrease to the already-low travel times;
WHEREAS the current list of candidate projects for the Sound Transit 3 ballot measure (ST3) includes certain investments in Sounder service that would improve these qualities; and
WHEREAS the intent of this resolution is to support Sound Transit, and not to facilitate further traffic in coal and oil trains; WSDCCRES - 767 - 160130 - PASS - TRA - Improving the Sounder
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee endorses making the necessary infrastructure investments to improve frequency, travel times, and span-of-service for Sounder;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports beginning these infrastructure investments with ST3 if possible, and with the next state budget cycle if inclusion in ST3 is not possible;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that copies of the resolution shall be transmitted to each member of the Sound Transit Board.
Submitted by the 25th LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/14/2015)
Submitted by the Pierce County Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/15/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the I-5 bridge is designated as part of a national defense interstate highway system serving the west coast from Canada to Mexico, including Washington, Oregon and California and is the primary corridor serving the Vancouver, WA/Portland, OR metropolitan area;
WHEREAS this critical component of the I-5 corridor recently turned 100 years old and is rated as being functionally obsolete, distressed and seismically inadequate;
WHEREAS the I-5 bridge replacement project, will involve collaboration of both states, regional agencies, and public and private actors within each state;
WHEREAS travel time conditions along the I-5 corridor in Vancouver continue to deteriorate and total traffic crossings of the Columbia River bridges on I-5 hit an all-15 time high, as measured and reported by the Regional Transportation Council's Congestion Monitoring Report (2016);
WHEREAS existing traffic congestion in the I-5 bridge corridor is negatively impacting the economies of Southwest Washington and the Vancouver/Portland metropolitan area, including businesses and industries that are designated industries of regional and statewide significance;
WHEREAS lack of project planning and funding for an I-5 bridge replacement project means increasing congestion and delays in the corridor for general traffic, freight mobility and emergency responders for the forthcoming future;
WHEREAS an I-5 bridge replacement project is necessary and critical to the economies and quality of life for the residents of Clark County, Southwest Washington and the Vancouver/Portland Metropolitan area;
WHEREAS there is not a feasible third bridge and corridor alternative and the discussion of such an alternative simply distracts and diverts attention from the critical and necessary nature of the I-5 bridge replacement project; and
WHEREAS the WSDCC believes that an efficient, well planned, multimodal transportation system promotes a healthy economy, environment and community;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee (WSDCC), ask that the I-5 bridge replacement project be determined to be a project that is necessary and critical to the citizens and businesses of Washington State; and WSDCCRES - 819 - 170422 - PASS - TRA - I-5 Replacement Bridge
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the WSDCC, respectfully urge the Governor and the Legislature and those concerned with mobility along the I-5 corridor, to support the expeditious replacement of the I-5 bridge and to discontinue consideration of a third bridge and corridor alternative.
Submitted by the 18th LD Democrats on 3/28/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS the conditions on Washington State Route 26 annually result in a significant number of injuries and fatalities;
WHEREAS Washington State Route 26 lacks adequate reflective markers, updated center lines, rumble strips on the shoulders of lanes, passing lanes, slow traffic pullouts, traffic update signage, and well-lit and maintained rest stops;
WHEREAS the seasonal increases in traffic on Washington State Route 26 owe mostly to residents of every county in Washington state going to or departing from Washington State University (Pullman); and
WHEREAS the inadequately maintained infrastructure of Washington State Route 26 fails to efficiently and safely accommodate traffic during departures from and returns to Washington State University (Pullman) by the students, faculty, alumni, and related patrons during school breaks and weekends dedicated to graduation, sporting events, and parent-dedicated activities;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Legislature recognize, as a collective state-wide issue, the vital need to improve the safety conditions of Washington State Route 26 by means of financial allocation to address the repair, updating, and maintenance of this highway; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Governor and the Legislature to support immediate action regarding modernizing Washington State Route 26 to safely accommodate traffic.
Submitted by the Whitman County Democrats on 4/6/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
WHEREAS, Southwest Airlines proposed plan to move their Sea-Tac based operation to Boeing Field from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport would include a new terminal with 85 daily fights, up from the 38 currently departing SeaTac each day;
WHEREAS, the proposal is harmful to Seattle and the King County Metropolitan area as it would impede and diminish the capacity of the Port of Seattle, the City of Seattle, and the County of King to move forward with existing transportation projects;
WHEREAS, the impact to the surrounding business and neighborhoods is more than significant in that 85 daily flights and the accompanying traffic around Boeing Field would affect the livelihood and quality of life of thousands;
WHEREAS, there would be a negative impact on the environment; and
WHEREAS, this is a bad precedent in that others will want to follow suit and the proper planning and infrastructure are not in effect;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee oppose the proposal to move the operations of Southwest Airlines from the Seattle-Tacoma Airport to the King County International Airport; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on our elected representatives to require a comprehensive statewide study of the need for another airport and the possible location of such before any tax funds are expended to assist in the relocation of any airline.
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett by the King County Democrats (8/23/2005) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett. Passed by the WSDCC at its September 17, 2005 meeting in Everett.
WHEREAS, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, with the agreement of the legislature, instituted day-use parking fees in all Washington State Parks, and
WHEREAS, those fees have not produced the promised revenue, and
WHEREAS, the costs of raising the fees and revenue have been higher than anticipated, and
WHEREAS, attendance at Washington State Parks has dropped significantly and not recovered as anticipated, and
WHEREAS, cost benefits to the State of Washington, to parks employees and to the citizens and taxpayers from this trial program are highly questionable, and
WHEREAS, most Washington State Parks are in rural areas and accessible mainly by personal vehicle, and
WHEREAS, rural economic development depends heavily on parks and recreation for the tourism component of rural economic diversification, and
WHEREAS, counties and cities of the State of Washington have been negatively impacted by the shift of many recreation services from state parks with parking fees to free county and city parks with resulting commensurate UNFUNDED costs to local governments, and
WHEREAS, we believe that the people should have free access to the recreation and parks properties they own,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the WSDCC strongly urges that Governor Christine Gregoire, the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission end the failed experiment in parking fees at all Washington State Parks, GIVE THE PARKS BACK TO THE PEOPLE and fund parks and parks' maintenance through regular legislative budget and appropriations and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the WSDCC strongly urges that Governor Christine Gregoire, the Washington State Legislature and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission seriously consider adopting a similar fund raising plan to that of the state of Montana (see attachment A). WSDCCRES - 075 - 051112 - PASS - TRAN - End Park Fees
Submitted to the WSDCC for consideration at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores by the Jefferson County Democrats and Central Committee (Date Submitted 10/25/2005) Referred to the WSDCC with a recommendation of "Pass" by the Resolutions Committee at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores. Passed by the WSDCC at its November 12, 2005 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS, transportation services are minimal or nonexistent throughout North central and Eastern Washington; and
WHEREAS, Washington State Drivers Licensing offices are being closed in several sites in the region, thus requiring hours of driving time to reach the nearest open office;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that more state funding be made available for public transportation to underserved rural communities in Eastern Washington.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. (Date
Submitted 4/15/2009) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 24, 2009 meeting in Tacoma. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 25, 2009 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS unemployment in the construction industry is over 20%; and
WHEREAS the 520 "A-PLUS" replacement project will create over 1500 living wage jobs;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats support the WSDOT workgroup recommendation of the "A-PLUS" design for the 520 replacement; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Chairman Dwight Pelz will convey this message to the Seattle City Council and Mayor's Office, the Speaker of the House, the Senate Majority leader, and the Governor no later than 05 February 2010.
Submitted by the Labor Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle. (Date Submitted 1/30/2010) The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2010 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the Keller Ferry situated on Route 21 in Eastern Washington crossing the Columbia River, and also known as the Martha S, is a critical link for first responders for medical and fire emergencies;
WHEREAS the ferry is utilized by school buses, vehicles supporting agriculture, and individuals enjoying the recreational areas of Lake Roosevelt;
WHEREAS the Keller Ferry provides egress into land of a historic nature to several Native American tribes; and
WHEREAS funding has been approved in the 2011 Transportation Budget, and signed by the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports funding for the Keller Ferry; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee vigorously urges Governor Christine Gregoire to sign the Transportation Budget for 2011 with full-funding for the Keller Ferry.
Submitted by the Agriculture and Rural Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/30/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS King County's Metro Transit as well as the Pierce County and Snohomish County transit systems have and will experience severe cuts in night and weekend services and less-2 used routes; and
WHEREAS due to the Great Recession, transit use has grown by double digits and many people are now forced to stand for the entirety of their trips, and elderly and disabled people in particular rely on transit because many can no longer drive; and
WHEREAS the Legislature two years ago passed a temporary local-option $20 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (MVET) for King County only and is now considering an MVET of up to 1.5% of the vehicle purchase price of which 60% would be dedicated to transit and 40% to local roads; and
WHEREAS transit users have relieved the state economy, including state and local jurisdictions, of hundreds of millions of dollars annually in congestion costs, and while increasing freight mobility from every county in the state through the Port of Seattle; and
WHEREAS congestion harms local economies and reduces jobs and the tax base; and
WHEREAS reduction in transit may harm low-income people both directly and secondarily by reducing county services; and
WHEREAS what transit systems as well as the state ferry system need is a permanent and sustainable funding system that would assure maintenance as well as bonding capacity for the ferry replacement; and
WHEREAS an excise tax on vehicle purchases is a progressive solution to this funding problem that taxes purchasers of expensive and inexpensive vehicles equitably; and
WHEREAS voters in populous counties and their elected councils have often proved responsive to these needs to provide these funds based on local decision-making; now
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, support a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax, properly administered, as a sustainable solution to inadequate funding to support the growing needs for transit and local roads maintenance both in King County and elsewhere in Washington State, both as a local option and as the responsibility of the Legislature to adequately fund transit, ferry and local roads; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHUR RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our representatives in the Legislature to support a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax as sustainable funding as part of the 2013 transportation package; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges our County Councils to support and to implement such local options as the Legislature may permit without a vote of the people due to the dire consequences in service cuts to not taking immediate action in the current fiscal year. WSDCCRES - 623 - 130427 - PASS - TRAN - Transit Funding
Submitted by the 30th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted 4/19/2013)
Submitted by the 32nd Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted 4/19/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan.
WHEREAS leaders of the Washington State Democrats are familiar with the activities of the Chinook Nation and aware of their continuous presence along the Lower Columbia River and around Willapa Bay since and long prior to the founding of the United States of America and Washington statehood;
WHEREAS the Chinook Tribe was federally recognized by the United States through negotiation of the 1851 Treaty of Tansy Point, and by the United States taking allotments in trust for many members of the Tribe, and by a pattern of government-to-11 government dealing lasting into the 1960s;
WHEREAS the Tribe was found by the Department of the Interior under Secretary Bruce Babbitt to satisfy the requirements for federal recognition in the year 2000, only to have the Department under Secretary Gale Norton take away federal tribal status;
WHEREAS the failed federal tribal termination experiment was not extended to the State of Washington but jumped the Columbia River when the Congress passed the Western Oregon Termination Act of 1954, including most of the tribes in the Chinook Nation;
WHEREAS Congressman Brian Baird has been laboring for restoration of the Chinook Nation, first via H.R. 6689 in 2008, and now via H.R. 3084, the Chinook Tribe Restoration Act, to provide basic justice for the Chinook Nation;
WHEREAS the Democratic state legislators representing Pacific and Wahkiakum Counties and many other community leaders support H.R. 3084; and
WHEREAS the Chinook Tribal Council has requested the support of the Washington State Democrats for H.R. 3084 and the restoration of their federal status by the Congress of the United States;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats hereby expresses its support for H.R. 3084 and the Restoration of the Chinook Nation to federal tribal status;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats urge the Washington State Congressional delegation to make every effort to secure passage of H.R. 3084, the Chinook Tribe Restoration Act in the 111th Congress; and 2010SCRES - 127 - 100626 - PASS - TRIB - Resotoration of Tribal Recognition
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to relevant officials along with a request for response within thirty days, listing the actions they are willing to take to support this resolution or a list of the reasons explaining why it cannot be supported.
Submitted by the Pacific County Democrats to the Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its June 26 convention in Vancouver. (Date Submitted 4/25/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the Subcommittee on Human Rights, Civil Rights and Human Services, Immigration, Indian Tribes and Sovereignty, and Law and Justice. (Date Considered 5/2/2010) Recommended Pass with amendments by the State Convention Platform Committee. (Date Considered 6/5/2010) The Washington State Democratic Convention "PASSED" this resolution at its June 26, meeting in Vancouver.
WHEREAS the National Health Service Corp supplied health care professionals before 1980;
WHEREAS the Reagan administration drastically reduced NHSC new scholarship awards in 1980;
WHEREAS the National Health Service Corp did supply health care professionals for a variety of government agencies (CDC, BOP, Indian Health Service, NOAA, etc.);
WHEREAS the government agencies now have to compete with other community organization in recruiting health care professionals;
WHEREAS the number of physicians provided to Indian Health Services from NHSC was sharply reduced after 1988 and were eliminated after 1991;
WHEREAS volunteer recruiting of physicians for Indian Health service alone is not likely to fill all the health care professional vacancies in Indian Health Service;
WHEREAS Indian Health Services have a disadvantage in competing for health care professionals because their facilities are located in the most isolated areas in the United States exacerbated by the associated problems of inadequate housing and lack of other community services; and
WHEREAS at present, the Indian Health Service probably is operating with a 10 to 20 percent shortage of clinical staff;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, urge our elected federal officials to pursue increasing the number of NHSC scholarships to levels held prior to 1980, to provide funding in the short term for immediate relief to Indian Health Services and to fully fund the Indian Health Service to a level to meet all of the medical services that are provided by other community health organizations.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention. (Date Submitted 4/12/2014) The Subcommittee on Tribal Relations and Sovereignty recommended that this resolution be passed as amended at their May 4th meeting. 2014SC - 103 - 140621 - PASS - TRS - National Health Service Corps Scholarships The Platform Committee affirmed the recommendation of the Subcommittee on Tribal Relations and Sovereignty at their May 31st meeting. The 2014 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 21, 2014.
WHEREAS the Colville Indian Reservation is divided East and West by the 4th and 5th Congressional Districts;
WHEREAS the Colville Indian Reservation is divided North and South by the 7th and 12th Legislative Districts; and
WHEREAS the Colville Indian Reservation is divided East and West by Okanogan and Ferry Counties, and tribal members are not represented proportionally by county commissioners;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats call for the Colville Indian Reservation, and any other similarly affected Reservation, to become a single voting bloc areas within the State of Washington, Congressional District, and Legislative District; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that any further redistricting on Reservation lands will require approval of the governing body of the Colville Confederated Tribes, or that of other affected tribal nations, by a vote of the majority of Indigenous citizens before said action can take place.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS Indian Health Services and related health and wellness programs, established for all American Indian and Alaska Native citizens of the United States under signed treaties or executed executive orders entered into by good faith by the American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and the U.S. Government for loss of Indigenous habitat is underfunded and understaffed;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats continue to support the full funding and staffing of Indian Health Services and programs; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that if any federal funding reductions are to take place in the Indian Health Services Program funding budget cycle, other methods will be enacted by the United States Government to replace these reduced dollars to counter the downgraded services that would be experienced at the Indian Health Service program level, until such time as the reduced amounts can be replenished.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats. The Platform Committee recommended that this resolution be passed at their June 15, meeting. The 2018 Washington State Democratic Convention passed this resolution on June 16, 2018.
WHEREAS the Whatcom County Council appointed Timothy Ballew II to fill the position and complete the term of Council member until Washington State election to be held November 7, 2018; and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports Native people running for and participating in Democratic Party at every level;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee supports the appointment of Timothy Ballew II as a Whatcom County Council member.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its January 28, 2018 meeting in Bellingham. (Date
Submitted 1/26/2018) The Resolutions Committee recommended the resolution be sent to the floor. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution unanimously on 1/28/18.
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus (NAC) are enrolled members of United States and Canada and we advocate for local, regional, national and international tribal specific concerns and priorities;
WHEREAS the health, safety, welfare, education, economic and employment opportunity, and preservation of cultural and natural resources are primary goals and objectives of the NAC;
WHEREAS since the early beginnings of NAC history, northwest tribes have been blessed with visionary, bold and decisive tribal leaders who were staunch supporters of the inherent rights and sovereignty of Indian people and tribes;
WHEREAS Billy Frank, Jr. was blessed with the gift of recalling his childhood teachings of his parents and elders who transmitted the oral history, knowledge and respect of the salmon, environment and life cycle of mother earth and supported the development of a Northwest Indian College Scholarship in his name for Native College Students;
WHEREAS in recognition of the life of Billy Frank, Jr., the Native American Caucus will honor his legacy in Washington State with a special Billy Frank Honor Gathering & recognition of his services for Indian Tribes; and
WHEREAS the Northwest Indian College Foundation have has established a "Billy Frank Jr., Scholarship" fund and has agreed to host a special gathering with other Indian Organizations from the State of Washington to honor his legacy and raise scholarship funds for Native students in the area of Environmental Sciences and Native Studies Leadership;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Washington State Democratic Central Committee does hereby urge its members to support in whatever way they feel appropriate the development of a Billy Frank, Jr. Scholarship Fund to recognize & honor students who embody the vision, values & mission of this honored leader in Indian Country; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC urges its members to support and attend a special event co-hosted by the Native American Caucus with the Northwest Indian College Foundation, Northwest Indian Fish Commission, ATNI Tribes, and other organizations to honor the legacy of Billy Frank, Jr."
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Native American Caucus co-host a special event with the Northwest Indian College Foundation, Northwest Indian Fish WSDCCRES - 736 - 150418 - PASS - TRS - Billy Frank Scholarship Fund Commission, ATNI Tribes, and other organizations to honor the legacy of Billy Frank, Jr. and welcome all guests who have appreciated services and dedication of Billy Frank to save our environment, habitat, cultural values and tribal rights.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 4/9/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 18, 2015 meeting in Pasco.
WHEREAS the Spokane Tribe Economic Project (STEP) in the West Plains of Spokane County has been approved by the Department of the Interior;
WHEREAS the Interior Department has determined that the STEP proposal is in the best interest of the Spokane Tribe and its members and is not detrimental to the surrounding community;
WHEREAS the Interior Department has worked with the Spokane Tribe and the Air Force to establish procedures to mitigate any potential encroachment and to ensure the Fairchild Air Force Base will operate undisturbed;
WHEREAS more than 5,000 construction-related and permanent jobs will be created by STEP in Spokane County and substantial revenues will be generated for a variety of businesses as a result of the economic development attributable to the project;
WHEREAS STEP's economic benefits will increase tribal public service programs on the Spokane Reservation; and
WHEREAS STEP is within the aboriginal area of the Spokane Tribe and the Spokane Tribe should not be denied the opportunity to use its own aboriginal lands for the purpose of establishing a casino and related business operations;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee, endorse the approval of STEP by the Department of the Interior and call upon Governor Jay Inslee to approve the Spokane Tribe's STEP project pursuant to the compact between the State of Washington and the Spokane Tribe.
Submitted by the 3rd LD Democrats to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 8/28/2015) The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 19, 2015 meeting in Wenatchee.
WHEREAS quality dental care is essential to overall health, and American Indians suffer greater health disparities than the population at large - a DHHS Indian Health Service (IHS) Oral Health survey shows that nearly 25% of adults over 65 completely lack teeth;
WHEREAS there is a shortage of qualified dental health care professionals in the Northwest and Indian Country; by developing training programs for underserved American Indian areas, the possibility exists for improved health for citizens of all 29 Tribes in Washington State and Urban Indian Healthcare Clinics; a model Dental Therapist program has been in existence, has been thoroughly evaluated for safety, quality, and appropriate scope of practice in Alaska, and has received high results and accolades from patients, health care professionals and community leaders in the U.S., and in over 50 other countries;
WHEREAS 35 of 39 Washington counties do not have enough dental providers, and this program could easily be adapted for those living in Washington State who suffer from lack of adequate dental care and could potentially help many underserved populations;
WHEREAS the tribes have rights to self-determination, and under self-governance the Swinomish Indian Community in Washington State is choosing to exercise its sovereign right to improve the dental care of its citizens by employing a dental therapist;
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus is supportive of the Swinomish Indian Community, and any other tribe, choosing to exercise their sovereign rights to improve their dental care; and
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Party supports HB 1441 and SB 5159 before the Washington State Legislature to authorize dental health aide therapy programs in tribal communities to increase access to dental care;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee does hereby support the current resolutions approved by the National Congress of American Indians, the oldest and largest Indian Organization in the United States, established in 1944 and the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Tribes established in representing 58 Tribes in the Northwest; WSDCCRES - 769 - 160130 - PASS - TRI - Dental Therapy
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the adoption by Washington state of a two year training model as demonstrated by the implementation of the Alaska Dental Health Aides Therapists program; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urges the Washington State Legislature to immediately enact HB and SB 5159 in the 2016 Legislative Session to help prevent another generation of children with tooth decay when tribal solutions can be readily available to treat oral health disease under these measures.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the WSDCC. (Date Submitted 1/29/2015) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended that it be "PASSED" at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its January 30, 2016 meeting in Lynnwood.
WHEREAS the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation was originally established as part of the Great Sioux Reservation in the Treaty of Fort Laramie of 1851 and in Article 2 of the Treaty of Fort Laramie of April 29, 1868;
WHEREAS, through the Treaties of Fort Laramie, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe views the ancestral lands and water sources as sacred entities;
WHEREAS, having signed treaties as equals with the United States Government in 1851 and 1868, which established the original boundaries of the Great Sioux Nation, the tribe staunchly asserts these treaty rights to remain steadfast, and just as applicable today as on the day they were made;
WHEREAS the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe stands by its right to self-government as a sovereign nation, which includes taking a government-to-government stance with the states and federal government entities;
WHEREAS Article 19 of the United Nations Declarations on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which was endorsed by the United States in 2010, states "States shall consult and cooperate in good faith with the indigenous peoples concerned in order to obtain their free, prior and informed consent before adopting and implementing legislative or administrative measures that may affect them";
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus is composed of tribal representatives from the Tribes of Washington State, 568 Federal Recognized Tribes and Native Indians living in the United States;
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus was formed to promote the common interests of the Native people living in the United States;
WHEREAS the United States has obligated itself both through the Constitution of the United States as stated in Article VI "This Constitution and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land";
WHEREAS the Dakota Access Pipeline LLC has proposed to construct a 1,100 mile pipeline with a capacity of 570,000 barrels of crude oil per day, to cross the Missouri River immediately above the mouth of the Cannon Ball River on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation; WSDCCRES - 793 - 160917 - PASS - TRI - North Dakota Pipeline
WHEREAS recent oil spills, including the release of 840,000 gallons of oil near Tioga, N.D.in October, 2013; 51,000 gallons of oil released into the Yellowstone River upstream from Glendive, Montana, resulting in the shutdown of the community water system for 6,000 residents in January, 2015; as well as the release of 1,000,000 gallons of tar sands crude in Michigan's Kalamazoo River in July, 2010, demonstrate the danger to downstream communities and fish and wildlife from oil and gas pipelines such as Dakota Access;
WHEREAS the Tribes and Nations of the Great Plains rely on the waters of the life-51 giving Missouri River for our continued existence, and the Dakota Access Pipeline poses a serious risk to Mni Sose and to the very survival of our Tribes and Nations;
WHEREAS the Dakota Access Pipeline poses a threat to water intake systems on the Standing Rock and Cheyenne River Indian Reservations and the Mni Wiconi intake serving the Oglala, Rosebud and Lower Brule Sioux Tribes;
WHEREAS the Dakota Access Pipeline threatens the integrity of sacred sites and historic and archaeological resources;
WHEREAS the potential for an oil spill from the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline poses unacceptable risk to the waters of the Great Plains Sovereign Tribes and Nations, and to fish and wildlife critical to the survival of our way of life;
WHEREAS the approval of the Dakota Access Pipeline Missouri River crossing is a significant action requiring consultation with all the Great Plains Sovereign Tribes and Nations under our Treaties and under Executive Order 13175 on Government-to-68 Government Consultation, however, the Army Corps of Engineers has failed to engage in the requisite consultation on this destructive project; and
WHEREAS the Army Corps of Engineers is responsible for the environmental review of the Missouri River crossing of the Dakota Access Pipeline under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and the Corps has not indicated an intention to comply with NEPA or the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) in its oversight of the Missouri River crossing Dakota Access Pipeline;
WHEREAS the federal agencies responsible for the requisite environmental review under NEPA and the evaluation of adverse effects on cultural resources under section of the NHPA have improperly segmented the project, in order to contravene the comprehensive environmental and cultural reviews that are required under federal law, thereby jeopardizing the land and waters of the Sovereign Tribes and Nations of the Great Plains Region; WSDCCRES - 793 - 160917 - PASS - TRI - North Dakota Pipeline
WHEREAS the Tribal Historic Preservation Officers of the Sovereign Tribes and Nations of the Great Plains Region are authorized to develop a common strategy to protect cultural resources from the Dakota Access Pipeline;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby strongly opposes the Dakota Access Pipeline;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Army Corps of Engineers to fully comply with the National Environmental Policy Act, through the preparation of an environmental impact statement on the entire Dakota Access Pipeline, including a comprehensive risk assessment from a potential oil spill at the crossing of the Missouri River and all other waterways;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Army Corps of Engineers to fully comply with section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act for the entire length of the Dakota Access Pipeline;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the Army Corps of Engineers to reject the river crossing permit for the Dakota Access Pipeline, under section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs to conduct an oversight hearing on the failure of the Department of the Interior and the Army Corps of Engineers to respect Tribal sovereignty and comply with the National Environmental Policy Act, National Historic Preservation Act, Executive Order 13175 and other Treaties, laws and executive orders that apply to the development of oil and gas pipelines on and near Indian land in the Great Plains Region;
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee requests an Oversight Hearing be held by the Senate Environment & Public Works Committee for the purpose of requiring the US Army Corps of Engineers to adhere to the Treaties, to provide meaningful consultation with American Indian Tribes and to adhere to the NAGPRA, and preservation of Tribal Spiritual and historic Sites of American Indian Tribes; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee fully supports the rights of all Americans to both assemble and speak freely, and to work without feeling threatened or unsafe, and we urge everyone involved in pipeline activities, including the water protectors, to adhere to the principles of non-violence. WSDCCRES - 793 - 160917 - PASS - TRI - North Dakota Pipeline
Submitted by the Native American Caucus. (Date Submitted 9/16/2016) The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and included it in the "DO PASS" slate at its September 17, 2016 meeting. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution as amended at its September 17, 2016 meeting in Yakima.
WHEREAS the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) is a 1,168-mile, 30-inch diameter pipeline being developed by of Energy Transfer Partners and its affiliates, which would carry as much as 570,000 barrels per day of Bakken crude from western North Dakota to Illinois;
WHEREAS the DAPL would run across or beneath 209 rivers, creeks and tributaries, including the Missouri River, which provides drinking water and irrigates agricultural land in communities across the Midwest, serving nearly 10 million people;
WHEREAS the DAPL would also run through the ancestral lands and waters reserved for the traditional use of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe by the Treaty of Ft. Laramie, including the Missouri River, burial grounds and gravesites, and other sacred sites of cultural, religious, and historical significance;
WHEREAS Indian Treaties such as the Treaty of Ft. Laramie are recognized by the U.S. Constitution as "the supreme law of the land," and require consultation and cooperation by the United States with its Indian Treaty partner before any federal action is taken that affects Treaty lands, territories, waters or other resources;
WHEREAS the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978 affirms the need to "protect and preserve for American Indians their inherent right of freedom to believe, express, and exercise the traditional religions," particularly in American Indian sacred places;
WHEREAS Washington State recognizes that American Indian burial grounds and historic graves are "a finite, irreplaceable, and nonrenewable cultural resource, and are an intrinsic part of the cultural heritage of the people of Washington" (RCW 27.44.030);
WHEREAS Articles, 11, 12, and 25 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP), as endorsed by the United States in 2010, affirms that indigenous peoples like the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe possess the right to maintain and protect their culture, religion, practices, and relationship with their "traditionally owned or otherwise occupied and used lands, territories [and] waters";
WHEREAS the UNDRIP Article 32 further provides that governments shall consult with indigenous peoples "in order to obtain their free and informed consent prior to the approval of any project affecting their lands or territories and other resources, particularly in connection with the development, utilization or exploitation of mineral, water or other resources"; WSDCCRES - 802 - 170128 - PASS - TRI - Standing Rock Sioux Tribes
WHEREAS the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers failed to consult with or obtain the free, prior and informed consent of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe as required by the Treaty of Fort Laramie, Executive Order 13175, the UNDRIP Article 10, and other federal and international laws, before issuing a "Mitigated Finding of No Significant Impact" that would result in an easement for horizontal directional drilling for the DAPL;
WHEREAS any spill of oil into the Missouri River would irreparably harm the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's Treaty reserved lands, territories, waters and other resources; burial grounds, grave sites and other sacred sites of cultural, religious, and historical significance; and spiritual relationships and indigenous ways of life;
WHEREAS the Mayor of the City of Seattle, City Councils of Portland, Oregon, St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians comprised of 59 Indian Nations in the Northwest, and nearly 200 Indian Nations, are among the governmental bodies that have taken formal action to support the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and oppose the DAPL; and
WHEREAS on January 24, 2017 President Trump took steps that potentially advance the Dakota Access Pipeline as originally proposed;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, continue to stand in support of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's opposition to construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) across the Tribe's ancestral lands, water and sacred sites; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we call on our U.S. Government and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to obtain prior and informed consent from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe preceding any action by or on behalf of the U.S. Federal Government that would harm, alter or destroy the Tribe's ancestral lands, water or sacred sites.
Submitted by the 41st LD Democrats on 10/4/2016. The Resolutions Committee amended this resolution on 1/28/2017, and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democrats passed this resolution on 1/28/2017.
WHEREAS the United States has obligated itself through the Constitution of the United States as stated in Article VI "This Constitution and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, under the Authority of the United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land;"
WHEREAS the Native American Caucus of the Washington State Democratic Party supports the proclamation establishing the Bears Ears National Monument of 1.35 million acres of public lands surrounding San Juan County's Cedar Mesa known as Bears Ears National Monument, located in the state of Utah and southwest region, and named after the pair of buttes protruding from a ridge joining the mesa and the Abajo Mountains to the north in 2016;
WHEREAS the Bears Ears National Monument is considered a sacred site to Native American Tribes with its ancient cliff dwellings, abundant rock art, ceremonial sites and countless artifacts which provide an extraordinary archaeological and cultural record of our Native life, our culture, our history, and the protection sacred lands and the natural resources of the Ute Mountain Tribe, Navajo Nation, Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah Ouray, Hopi Nation, and the Zuni Tribe;
WHEREAS these tribal members are the survivors of the land that was once covered by water where coral reefs grew, and where paleontological resources in the Bear Ears area are among the richest and most significant in the United States. From earth to sky, the region is unsurpassed in wonders with the verbal history of Natives creation stories and scientific documentation of artistry and architecture has withstood thousands of seasons in harsh climates and where today Natives still hunt and forage for food and medicine throughout the Bears Ears region; and
WHEREAS the United States Antiquities Act authorizes the President of the United States to declare by public proclamation historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other landmarks, objects of historic or scientific interest that are situated upon lands owned or controlled by the Federal Government to be a national monument;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democrats stand with the five tribes of the Utah area as they fight to protect the Bear Ears Monument to preserve this prehistoric site, this sacred land, this ceremony site, this cultural legacy, and maintain its diverse array of natural and scientific resources for the tribes and all future generations; and WSDCCRES - 824 - 170422 - PASS - TRB - Bears Ear National Monument
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Washington State Democratic Party supports the proclamation establishing the Bears Ears National Monument and supported by the five tribes and oppose any further congressional action to reverse the presidential proclamation by the Republicans; and
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution be transmitted to the members of the Washington State Congressional delegation and to President Trump.
Submitted by the Agriculture/Rural Caucus on 4/22/2017. The Resolutions Committee reviewed and amended this resolution and recommended that it be passed. The Washington State Democratic Central Committee approved this resolution on 4/22/2017.
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee urge the passage of HB 1713 Improving law enforcement response to missing and murdered Native American women; and
THEREFORE, BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Washington State Democratic Central Committee calls upon local, city, state and county law enforcement agencies to increase transparency and reporting of missing persons through mandatory data entry of all missing or unidentified persons found within their jurisdiction into NaMUS within thirty days.
Submitted by the 6th Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for its consideration at its January 27, 2019 meeting in Olympia. (Date Submitted 1/27/2019) The Washington State Democratic Central Committee passed this resolution on January, 27, 2019.
WHEREAS, there are great needs for services to the United States citizens of Native Descent;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that congresspersons of Washington State restore adequate funding for the following programs intended to be of benefit to the Native Americans both on and off the reservations: Indian trust fund reform, Indian health services, Indian education programs, Indian child welfare programs, alcohol tax services, and monies for infrastructure.
Submitted by the Okanogan County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Party for consideration at its June 3, 2006 convention in Yakima (Date Submitted 04/08/2006) The Washington State Democratic Party at its State Convention on June 3, 2006 in Yakima referred this resolution to the WSDCC Resolutions Committee for review at its September 9 - 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The WSDCC Resolutions Committee amended this resolution and recommended a "Pass" at its September 10, 2006 meeting in Ellensburg. The resolution will be forwarded to the WSDCC at its next meeting on September 29 - 30, 2006 in Tacoma. The WSDCC passed this resolution as amended at its September 30, 2006 meeting in Tacoma.
WHEREAS place names where often assigned to achieve self-aggrandizement of Spanish, English and settlers from the early nation of the United States of America;
WHEREAS these place names were assigned as part of a campaign to eradicate the people and their traditions who had lived in these places since time immemorial;
WHEREAS Mount Rainier was named by George Vancouver after a British naval officer who never visited Washington State;
WHEREAS George Vancouver never consulted with the neighboring American Indian tribes regarding the naming of the mountain;
WHEREAS the neighboring tribes such as the Puyallup, Muckleshoot, Duwamish, Chehalis, Nisqually, Yakama, and Tulalip did not call the mountain Mt. Rainier;
WHEREAS Puyallup tribal member Robert Satiacum has launched a regional effort to restore the name of Mt. Rainier to Ti'Swaq in honor of a local tribe that lived by the mountain;
WHEREAS many Native American people and tribes support this effort; and
WHEREAS the Pierce County Democrats have worked harmoniously and respectfully with the regional Native American tribes and residents;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on each and every elected representative to support the revision of legal place names to those of the indigenous communities who resided here before those of European heritage arrived, and also
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, support the necessary expenditures of public and private funds to make new road and highway signs as well as other public signage concerning the name of Mt Rainier to Ti'Swaq, and also
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats support the renaming of other spiritual and traditional places throughout Washington state so as to conform to the place names give those localities according to the people who resided in each specific place prior to the statehood of Washington State, and also WSDCCRES - 504 - 101009 - PASS - TRIB - Native American Place Names
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that we, the Washington State Democrats, call on the Washington State Board on Geographic Names and the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to make the aforementioned restorations.
Submitted by the Pierce County to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. (Date Submitted 9/20/2010) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its October 8, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its October 9, 2010 meeting in Moses Lake.
WHEREAS the ancestral lands of the Duwamish Tribe include the current boundaries of the City of Seattle, and members of the Duwamish Tribe continue to reside on those lands;
WHEREAS the Duwamish Tribe, represented by Chief Si'ahl (Seattle), was the first signatory of the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855, guaranteeing the Tribe rights and federal recognition, but the government of the United States of America has not honored the provisions of that treaty with respect to the Duwamish Tribe;
WHEREAS the Duwamish Tribe received federal recognition by Executive Order of President Bill Clinton on January 19, 2001;
WHEREAS that Executive Order was rescinded by the Bush Administration on January 21, 2001;
WHEREAS four bills to extend federal recognition to the Duwamish Tribe have been submitted by Representative Jim McDermott (HR 477 - Jan. 29, 2003; HR 852 - Feb. 16, 2005; HR 949 - Feb. 8, 2007; HR 2678 - June 3, 2009), which Congress has failed to act upon; and
WHEREAS the State Democratic platform calls for "[r]estoration of federal recognition for formerly recognized Tribes"; the King County Democratic Platform states specifically that "[f]ederal recognition of the Duwamish tribe must be restored"; and the 46th District platform declares support for "[r]einstating federal recognition of the Duwamish tribe";
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we affirm our support for federal recognition of the Duwamish Tribe as provided by President Clinton's Executive Order; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we urge all members of Washington State's Congressional delegation to sponsor and support legislation to accomplish such recognition, and to notify us of their actions toward rectification of this unfortunate miscarriage of justice.
Submitted by the King County Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/16/2011) WSDCCRES - 537 - 110917 - PASS - TRIB - Recognizing the Duwamish Tribe
Submitted by the 46h Legislative District Democrats to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. (Date
Submitted 4/22/2011) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "TABLED" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. THE WSDCC "AFFIRMED THE RESOLUTION COMMITTEE'S DECISION TO TABLE" this resolution at its April 30, 2011 meeting in Wenatchee. The Resolutions Committee recommended that this resolution be "PASSED" at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 17, 2011 Meeting in Bellingham.
WHEREAS a primary purpose of the Native American Caucus of the Washington State Democrats is "to advocate and promote issues important to Native Americans in Washington State and in the Democratic Party" (By-Laws Article II); and
WHEREAS the Washington State Democratic Party's 2012 Platform states that "Local, state, and federal governments must respect Native American nations" and calls upon those governments to "reaffirm rights derived from sovereign treaties and state compacts and oppose attempts to diminish sovereignty and cultures" (Plank 18); and
WHEREAS on April 16, 2013 the United States Supreme Court heard oral arguments in, Adoptive Couple v. Baby Girl, Birth Father, and Cherokee Nation, commonly known as the "Baby Veronica" case and will rule on the importance of tribal interests in custody disputes by the end of June 2013; and
WHEREAS the Court may choose to rule against tribal interests by adopting the so-15 called existing family doctrine which would severely undermine the 1978 Indian Child Welfare Act; and
WHEREAS Congress passed the Indian Child Welfare Act to stop the large-scale removal of Indian children from their homes and communities who were then placed in foster care and adoptive homes that were primarily non-Indian; and
WHEREAS, Congress found in enacting the Indian Child Welfare Act "that there is no resource that is more vital to the continued existence and integrity of Indian tribes than their children"; and
WHEREAS the placement of Indian children in non-Indian homes is still a pervasive issue; and
WHEREAS at the request of Indian tribes many States, including Washington, filed an amicus curiae brief with the Court in support of the Respondent urging the Court to affirm the decision of the South Carolina Supreme Court which rejected the existing family doctrine,
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we request the State of Washington through its Attorney General and with the support of its Governor to monitor the actions of the United States Supreme Court in the Baby Veronica case and, if the decision of the Court limits the sovereignty of tribes or the scope of the Indian Child Welfare Act, to immediately consult with tribes and tribal advocates in formulating an appropriate course of action; and WSDCCRES - 624 - 130427 - PASS - TRIB - Support Indian Tribes BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we thank the Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Governor Jay Inslee, and other State officials for signing the States' amicus brief supporting tribal interests in the Baby Veronica case.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Chelan. (Date Submitted 4/24/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "RECOMMENDED A PASS" on this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Seattle. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its April 27, 2013 meeting in Seattle.
WHEREAS the United States Congress passed legislation to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) in March 2013;
WHEREAS the legislation included a special provision for Alaska Native tribes and a disclaimer provision related to the law and the status of Alaska Natives (Section 910);
WHEREAS VAWA treats Alaska Native women and families differently than Continental United States tribes;
WHEREAS VAWA denies Alaska Native Women equal protection where a native woman is married to a non-native person and an incident of violence occurs;
WHEREAS VAWA limits Alaska Tribal Courts and their court orders from adjudication, and issuing court orders in criminal cases where violence against women and families has occurred; and
WHEREAS, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee hereby finds that the Violence Against Women Act of 2013: 1. Diminishes and violates the sovereignty and inherent rights of the Alaska Native Tribes to protect their women, children and families. 2. In an integrated society where tribal members are married to non tribal members, violence and abuse against native women is no less impacting to the family and community and is not different than within the American community at large - no person whether a tribal member or not should be able to violate another person and escape prosecution because of race. The United States Constitution assures equal protection for all citizens, the VAWA Denies equal protection rights to Alaska Native women and clearly discriminates and creates a separate class of tribal citizens. 3. Perpetuates policy that does not recognize all federally recognized Indian Tribes with the same governance authority jurisdiction, and their own courts.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Washington State Democratic Central Committee encourages our federal delegation in Washington D.C. to support repeal of Section 910 of engrossed S. 47 of the 133rd Congress.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/21/2013) WSDCCRES - 647 - 130921 - PASS - TRS - Support of Tribal Equality The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.
WHEREAS tribes are distinct inherently sovereign governments that fully govern within their jurisdiction including the provision of essential services;
WHEREAS tribes are important economic drivers in the state and their counties, tribes are the fourth largest employers in the state, providing well paying and stable employment to thousands of Washington State citizens;
WHEREAS Governor Inslee's priorities include creating jobs, renewable energy and economic development in the state, specifically his goals are to rebuild the Washington State economy; and
WHEREAS tribal priorities mirror that of the Governor and include job creation and economic development
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Washington State Democratic Party supports efforts by the State to form a state and tribal economic development workgroup to identify barriers to job creation, suggest suggestions to eliminate barriers and identify opportunities to partner in order to create more jobs and economic development opportunities in the state; and
THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the WSDCC supports efforts in Washington State to increase the diversity in the state government, including hiring full time Tribal Liaisons in cabinet agencies and fully including Native Americans in both exempt and non exempt senior positions.
Submitted by the Native American Caucus to the Washington State Democratic Central Committee for consideration at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. (Date Submitted 9/21/2013) The WSDCC Resolutions Committee "AMENDED THIS RESOLUTION AND RECOMMENDED A PASS" at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores. The WSDCC "PASSED" this resolution at its September 21, 2013 meeting in Ocean Shores.