State House leaders move to suspend lawmaker’s chairmanship

OLYMPIA – Washington state Democratic House leaders are moving to suspend a state lawmaker from his legislative committee chairmanship following accusations of inappropriate behavior.

House Democratic leaders said in a news release Friday evening that an independent investigator has found evidence supporting some allegations made against Democratic Rep. David Sawyer.

The Seattle Times reports leaders didn’t give specifics about which allegations were supported but leaders said they discussed the preliminary findings and decided that the caucus needs to take initial formal action.

They are recommending a suspension of Sawyer’s chairmanship of the House Commerce and Gaming Committee.

Lawmakers will consider that recommendation May 9.

Sawyer of Parkland has denied acting inappropriately.

He wrote in a text message to the newspaper Friday that the Legislature needs to set an example and not politicize the process and let the investigator finish her job.