Rep. Kelly Chambers named ranking Republican on the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee
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Rep. Kelly Chambers named ranking Republican on the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee
In addition to her two other committee assignments for the 2023-24 biennium, including serving as an assistant ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee, 25th District Rep. Kelly Chambers has been named ranking Republican on the House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee.
The Puyallup lawmaker will be serving in a leadership role on two committees for the second consecutive biennium, as well as in a leadership role for the House Republican Caucus. She was named one of two Vice-Caucus Chairs over the interim.
The House Regulated Substances and Gaming Committee has a new name, but shares the same responsibilities the House Commerce and Gaming Committee had previously. It considers issues and legislation relating to the regulation and taxation of alcohol, tobacco, vapor products and cannabis, as well as product safety and access, and issues relating to the regulation and oversight of gaming, including tribal compacts.
Tens of thousands of liquor, cannabis, tobacco and vapor licenses have been issued and are currently in use across the state. Taxes generated by the sale of these products provide billions in state revenue annually.
“The industries that fall under this committee's purview are incredibly important to our state's job market and economy,” said Chambers, R-Puyallup. “In my view, our job as committee members is to let the free market work in these industries, but there may also be times when it is necessary for us to implement specific regulations to protect the citizens of Washington state. As ranking member, I will be looking to bring committee members together to find the proper balance when it comes to regulation and ensure we are doing everything we can to boost a strong economy and serve Washingtonians well.”
In addition to her new committee assignment, Chambers will again serve as assistant ranking member on the House Appropriations Committee and will also serve on the House Innovation, Community Economic Development and Veterans Committee. Finally, she will continue to co-chair the Joint Committee on Veterans' and Military Affairs.
The 2023 legislative session began Monday, Jan. 9, and is schedule to run for 105 consecutive days.
