WA Lege Day 30: Real debate starts

OLYMPIA —First up is a Republican amendment that limits the suspension for just this session.

Sen. Mike Carrell, R, warns that if Democrats repeal the provisions of Initiative 960, “there will be another referendum in November” on them.

Sen. Pam Roach, R: “There will probably be a new initative on the ballot, too.”

Sen. Val Stevens, R, quotes Abraham Lincoln in warning against “thwarting the will of the people. You are telling the people…we know better than you, we are a monarchy.”

Sen. Tim Sheldon, D, says initiatives are special because they can’t be vetoed by the governor, and are in the state constitution ahead of legislative powers.

Sen. Mike Carrell, R: “These are serious times. These are not times we should look at further burdening the people. Let’s just do it for one year, if you feel you must do it.”

Amendment fails 21-27, with Republicans, plus Sheldon and Sen. Chris Marr, D-Spokane, voting yes.