Rep. Smith appointed lead Republican on House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee
Rep. Smith appointed lead Republican on House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee
Rep. Norma Smith was selected by her colleagues to serve as the lead Republican on the House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee. The 2009 legislative session began Jan. 12.
“I'm thrilled to take on this role for our state and the Tenth District. Economic development at the local level will be the catalyst to moving the state economy forward,” Smith, R-Clinton, said. It is essential that as a state we create a climate that encourages business growth and retention, and job creation. It is vital to the economic prosperity of the Tenth District and the state of Washington that we increase our job base, and encourage business entrepreneurship and innovation. I remain committed to finding solutions to achieve this goal. We cannot regulate our way out of the current budget deficit and rising unemployment, but we can find ways to stimulate local business development.”
The House Community and Economic Development and Trade Committee considers issues relating to local and state economic development, small business, business assistance and financing, tourism, and other business-related concerns. Community development issues include revitalizing and building self-sufficiency for low-income communities and preserving communities with distinct cultural identities. The committee also considers legislation addressing domestic and international trade.
Smith will also be serving as the assistant ranking Republican on the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, in addition to her continued role on the House Capital Budget Committee.
“Agriculture remains a vital piece of Washington's economy, and I am proud to represent the hard-working and skilled farmers of the Tenth District,” Smith said. “I look forward to working with the agricultural community to find creative solutions to the issues we face. My committee assignments for the session will allow me to represent the district well and be a strong advocate for our constituents, local businesses, farmers and communities. I encourage constituents to contact me with thoughts and ideas as we address the challenges ahead.”
Smith can be reached at her legislative office at (360) 786-7884 or via e-mail at smith.norma@leg.wa.gov.
The 2009 legislative session is scheduled to run 105 consecutive days.
