The Washington State charter Schools Association has formed a political action committee in hopes of influencing charter school legislation. The WA Charters PAC has given more than $20,000 to campaign accounts.

“We comment these leaders for refusing to bow to political pressure and instead stand up for children in our state. The reality is that the future of these public schools remain in limbo. Our legislators must act to keep doors open,” said Washington Charters CEO Thomas Franta in a news release.

The PAC gave $1,000 checks to 13 house members and 11 senators, according to the release.

Once the next legislative session begins in January, public elected officials won’t be allowed to accept contributions until the session ends. The PAC plans to raise more than $500,000 by the end of the session, the release said.

"Are legislators going to close schools, or are they going to be heroes?" said Cynara Lilly, spokesperson for Act Now for Washington Students. "There is a real commitment to keeping public charter schools in Washington State open in the long term."

Politicians receiving money from the WA Charters PAC:

Last	First	Chamber
Pettigrew	Eric	House
Springer	Larry	House
Clibborn	Judy	House
Sawyer	David	House
Gregerson	Mia	House
Senn	Tanna	House
Lytton	Kris	House
Magendanz	Chad	House
Wilcox	J.T.	House
Smith	Norma	House
Chandler	Bruce	House
Stambuagh	Melanie	House
Stokesbary	Drew	House
Mullet	Mark	Senate
Hobbs	Steve	Senate
Hargrove	Jim	Senate
Billig	Andy	Senate
Rolfes	Christine	Senate
Litzow	Steve	Senate
Fain	Joe	Senate
Hill	Andy	Senate
Braun	John	Senate
Rivers	Ann	Senate
Dammeier	Bruce	Senate

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly identified the PAC's name. It has been updated with the correct name.

---

---