For the Reporter

Three bills sponsored by Rep. Drew Stokesbary, R-Auburn, have been signed into law by Gov. Jay Inslee.

House Bills 1263, 1637 and 1940 passed the House and Senate with strong bipartisan support.

“I am pleased the governor signed these bills into law and believe they will strengthen public safety, improve government efficiency and protect those who live in flood-prone areas like the Auburn and Sumner valleys,” Stokesbary said. “I came to Olympia committed to getting things done on behalf of my constituents, and to promote efficient and accountable government. I believe having three bills signed into law during my first term is a step in that direction. I look forward to continuing work on these and other important issues facing our state.”

House Bill 1263 removes duplicative regulations that would have caused many accountants to face regulation by two separate state agencies. House Bill 1637 grants tribal police and prosecutors access to a prescription-drug monitoring database for use during criminal investigations. Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies already have such access, and now tribal police will be able to use this tool to combat prescription drug abuse in their communities as well.

House Bill 1940 ensures critical flood control infrastructure can continue being built in King and Pierce counties. Flood control districts in the 31st District are responsible for constructing and maintaining levees along the Green, White, and Puyallup rivers. Due to the complex method of allocating property tax dollars in Washington state, the King County Flood Control District would have lost all of its revenue to other agencies beginning in 2018.

Bills go into effect 90 days following the adjournment of the regular legislative session.